Zavkhan Trekking

Howdy folks,

I was on last year’s trek and it was a fantastic experience. My photos are here:
http://molly.honjyo.reccs.akita-pu.ac.jp/styled-2/index.html

There was so much that happened on the trek that I wouldn’t know where to start, so better if I just reply to any questions or threads that come up.

The one thing to note was that, though the trek itself was great fun, the Eagle Festival wasn’t all that it could have been. A bit commercialized and touristy compared to weeks on end riding and camping through the remote Altai mountains.

But that could just be me.

Happy Trails,

Steve

2010 - despite 10 hours in the saddle in zero degrees (that day included a snowy Pass of Death) I just loved it so much I bought a Ger camp outside Olgii.

Highlights were staying with a Kazakh family overnight as their guest in the Ger, eating the local food (including sheep’s eyes - kinda chewy) and the explorative nature of the trip.

On the overnighter with pack horses it must have been very much like it was in the days of Genghis Khan, with horses dotted in and about the tents munching grass all night.

Too bad the sweetest grass lay right under me - i was nudged off my mattress more than once!

The fact you could gallop or canter for kilometres unhindered was novel.

The 2010 Eagle festival in Sagsai was unique for me, but I look forward to next winter when I go hunting with a Golden Eagle for real…

Image Attachments

Click thumbnail to see full-size image

I also did the trip last year (Hi Steve!) and absolutely loved it!!

My photos are all posted on facebook and would be happy to share them with anyone who wants to have a look, just send me an email and I will link you into the Eagle Festival 2011 facebook group.

I also have a link to the brief review posted on tripadvsior http://www.tripadvisor.com.au/ShowTopic-g293955-i9382-k4888877-Zhavkhan_Trekking_experiences-Mongolia.html

Have attached a photo of the pass of death below - it was scary but such a rush when you finally got down.

Image Attachments

Click thumbnail to see full-size image

Another one from 2010 here (hi Rick!)

Happy to answer any questions…