Olgiy is the westernmost provincial capital of Mongolia, a high-altitude town in the far west of the country. It is home to the Kazakh eagle hunters, whose tradition of hunting with golden eagles is closely tied to the life of the region. For visitors, Olgiy works well as a base from which to explore the surrounding landscape and to learn about this living craft.
What the town offers
- Eagle hunting culture: The Kazakh eagle hunters are the heart of Olgiy. Their ancient practice of hunting with golden eagles is one of the most distinctive traditions of western Mongolia.
- The Golden Eagle Festival: Olgiy is best known for this event, which brings the hunters together and gives visitors the chance to see the eagle-hunting tradition on display.
- The Altai Mountains: The dramatic mountains rise around the town, making it a natural starting point for walks, drives and wider exploration of the area.
Planning a visit
Because Olgiy sits at high altitude, it is worth allowing time to settle in before setting out into the hills. The town suits travellers who want a visit rooted in people and place rather than in a list of sights. Going during the Golden Eagle Festival gives the most direct view of the hunters at work, while visits at other times of year offer a quieter look at everyday life in this remote corner of Mongolia.
Olgiy rewards those who arrive curious about its traditions and its surroundings. It is less a town of set attractions than a gateway to the mountains and to a culture that has carried on in this part of the country for generations.
