Female Eagle Hunters of Mongolia – A Unique Cultural Experience

Mongolia’s western region, especially Bayan-Ulgii Province, is famous for its golden eagle hunters, or “berkutchi”, a tradition passed down through generations. While eagle hunting has historically been dominated by men, a new generation of female eagle hunters is preserving and reshaping this ancient practice.

For travelers, meeting these women provides a rare glimpse into nomadic life, cultural heritage, and the incredible bond between humans and eagles.

The Tradition of Eagle Hunting in Mongolia

Eagle hunting has been practiced for over 4,000 years by Kazakh nomads in western Mongolia. It involves:

• Training golden eagles to hunt foxes, rabbits, and other prey

• Traveling across snow-capped mountains and steppe

• Participating in seasonal festivals and competitions

Female eagle hunters are now gaining recognition for their skills and dedication, breaking cultural stereotypes while honoring tradition.

Where to Meet Female Eagle Hunters

Most female eagle hunters can be found in Bayan-Ulgii Province, particularly near:

• Ulgii town – Gateway to Altai Tavan Bogd National Park

• Nomadic winter and summer camps – Remote areas where families migrate

• Annual Golden Eagle Festival – Celebrates eagle hunting skills and tradition

This festival is a perfect opportunity for travelers to see female hunters in action and learn about their techniques.

What Makes Female Eagle Hunters Unique

• Skill & Precision: They train and hunt with golden eagles just like male hunters.

• Cultural Ambassadors: Many women share their experiences with tourists and media, promoting Kazakh culture.

• Inspiring Stories: Their dedication reflects both resilience and a deep respect for nature.

Meeting a female eagle hunter is not just a tourist experience — it’s an opportunity to connect with the evolving face of Mongolian tradition.

Photography Opportunities

Female eagle hunters provide incredible subjects for photography:

• Portraits with golden eagles perched on their arms

• Action shots during hunting demonstrations

• Winter landscapes with snowy mountains and steppe

• Traditional Kazakh clothing, furs, and eagle gear

Tips for photographers:

• Always ask permission before taking photos

• Respect the eagle and the hunter’s space

• Capture both the human and natural elements for storytelling

Experiencing Eagle Hunting with Female Hunters

Many tour operators in Bayan-Ulgii now offer short-term experiences or homestays with female eagle hunters:

• Participate in daily routines at the nomad camp

• Learn how eagles are trained and cared for

• Ride horses or travel by camel/4×4 to hunting grounds

• Taste traditional Kazakh meals in a ger (yurt)

These experiences are immersive, educational, and respectful of local culture.

When to Visit

Season	Best Activities
October	Golden Eagle Festival, autumn hunting prep
November–February	Winter hunting practice, snowy landscapes
June–August	Nomadic migration, lush valleys, horse trekking

Tip: Visit during the Golden Eagle Festival for the best chance to see female hunters competing.

Responsible Travel Tips

• Respect private property and family life

• Avoid touching eagles or equipment without guidance

• Support local guides and women-led cultural initiatives

• Take care to leave no trace in wilderness areas

• Engage respectfully in photography and storytelling

Why Meeting Female Eagle Hunters is a Must

• Experience a rare cultural practice

• Witness the strength and skill of women in traditional Kazakh society

• Enjoy breathtaking landscapes of western Mongolia

• Create authentic memories and photographs

• Support cultural preservation and women-led initiatives

For travelers seeking a unique cultural and adventure experience, meeting female eagle hunters is an unforgettable highlight of any western Mongolia journey.