MONGOLIA SAGSAI EAGLE FESTIVAL

September 7 - 21, 2026

Mongolia: Land of the Eternal Blue Sky

A Once-in-a-Lifetime Adventure
for Just 12 Women

Vast. Untamed. Unforgettable. Welcome to Mongolia, where the wild beauty of the steppe meets ancient traditions and heart-stirring cultural encounters. This once-in-a-lifetime women-only journey is limited to just 12 extraordinary travelers, offering you the chance to explore this breathtaking land in a deeply personal and exclusive way.

This isn’t your typical tour. You’ll stand among the soaring Flaming Cliffs where dinosaur eggs were first discovered, watch golden eagles dive from the skies during the awe-inspiring Sagsai Eagle Festival, and ride through the Gobi Desert on camelback, guided by local herders. You’ll be welcomed into the homes of nomadic families, learn how to build a traditional Mongolian ger, and stay in your own private ger, complete with hand-painted furniture and authentic touches. One of the most unforgettable moments? Saddling up for a horseback ride with a Kazakh Eagle Hunter, witnessing the powerful bond between human and raptor as he demonstrates this ancient and revered tradition.

mongolia sagsai eagle hunter

Every day offers a new, soul-stirring encounter—whether you’re photographing the Milky Way from the desert, trekking through the Orkhon Valley, or witnessing centuries-old spiritual rituals led by a Mongolian shaman.

This journey is about more than just travel—it’s about stepping into a story few will ever experience and forming powerful bonds with the women who share it with you.

Trip Highlights

THREE CAMEL LODGE & GER CAMP

Sheltered under a volcanic outcrop where ancient people carved their petroglyphs, Three Camel Lodge offers an authentic Mongolian experience. Mongolia’s premier eco-lodge, Three Camel makes use of Mongolia’s most abundant resources – wind and sun. Local artisans followed the canons of Mongolian Buddhist architecture in constructing the main lodge, without a single nail.

Travelers sleep in traditional felt gers, each with shower and WC, and an unobstructed view of the Gobi and the heights of the Gobi-Altai Mountains beyond. Meals are served in a large ger, modeled after the ceremonial tents of the great khans.

OUR ITINERARY

September 7, 2026

Our Mongolian adventure begins as you arrive in Ulaanbaatar, the country’s capital. After clearing immigration, you’ll be greeted by your driver and escorted to our hotel. The city, a blend of modern structures and remnants of its Soviet past, is home to nearly half of Mongolia’s population. The rest of the day is yours to rest, relax, and rejuvenate. You may want to venture out and take a short walk around Sukhbaatar Square, the city’s central hub. Tonight, join us for an informal dinner to meet your Group Leader and new Sisters. (Dinner included)

Hotel: Best Western Premier Tuushin Hotel

ulaanbaatar city

September 8, 2026

After breakfast, we’ll embark on an exploration of the rich history and cultural heritage of Mongolia’s capital. We’ll start the day at the Genghis Khan Museum, where exhibits spanning over 2,000 years provide insight into Mongolia’s legendary empire. Next, we’ll visit the National Gallery of Mongolia, where traditional and modern artworks tell the story of the Mongolian people. After lunch together, we’ll explore the Zanabazar Museum of Fine Art, featuring Buddhist sculptures, delicate thangkas, and the famous painting One Day in Mongolia. Tonight, we’ll enjoy a Welcome Dinner at a local restaurant to toast our adventure together. (Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner included)

Hotel: Best Western Premier Tuushin Hotel

September 9, 2026

This morning, we’ll depart Ulaanbaatar for Hustaiin Nuruu National Park, home to the last truly wild horses in the world—the Przewalski horses, known locally as takhi. These rare creatures were reintroduced to Mongolia in 1994 after becoming extinct in the wild. After lunch, we’ll continue to Karakorum, the former capital of the Mongol Empire, where we’ll settle into a traditional ger camp for a once-in-a-lifetime experience. (Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner included)

Hotel: Secret of the Silk Road Ger Camp

September 10, 2026

Today we’ll visit the UNESCO-listed ruins of Karakorum, once the thriving heart of Genghis Khan’s empire, to see the remains of the city’s legendary silver fountain and explore the Erdene Zuu Monastery, built in 1586 with stones from the ancient capital. Later, we’ll travel to the Orkhon Valley, where the Orkhon Inscriptions, the oldest known examples of Turkish writing, offer a glimpse into Mongolia’s past. Then, we’ll have the unique opportunity to spend time with a nomadic herding family, learning about their daily life and customs. (Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner included)

Hotel: Secret of the Silk Road Ger Camp

September 11, 2026

After breakfast, we’ll embark on a long but rewarding drive into the South Gobi Desert, passing through ever-changing landscapes. Along the way, we’ll stop at Ongiin Khiid, a once-grand monastery that was destroyed during Mongolia’s communist purges and is now being painstakingly rebuilt. By evening, we’ll arrive at our home for the next few nights, the Three Camel Lodge, a luxury eco-lodge designed to offer comfort in the remote wilderness. (Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner included)

Hotel: Three Camel Lodge

three camel lodge

September 12, 2026

Today, we’ll experience the vast beauty of the Gobi Desert with a visit to Moltsog Els Sand Dunes, one of the few true dune formations in the region, where you’ll enjoy a camel ride led by local herders. Later, we’ll travel to Khavsgait Valley, home to Bronze Age petroglyphs etched into ancient rock faces. After dinner, we’ll end the evening with a special night sky photography session, capturing the dazzling stars in one of the world’s least light-polluted environments. (Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner included).

Hotel: Three Camel Lodge

south gobi desert khavsgait valley

September 13, 2026

This morning, we’ll head to the legendary Flaming Cliffs (Bayanzag), named for their striking red-gold color at sunset. It was here that explorer Roy Chapman Andrews discovered the world’s first dinosaur eggs in 1922. In the afternoon, we’ll return to camp for a ger-building activity, where you’ll learn how traditional Mongolian dwellings are constructed. Tonight, spend the evening horseback riding through the vast steppe. (Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner included)

Hotel: Three Camel Lodge

September 14, 2026

Today, we fly back to Ulaanbaatar on our group flight and continue by road to Terelj National Park, a landscape of rolling hills and dramatic rock formations. We’ll visit Turtle Rock, a unique granite structure, and if you’re so inclined, you can climb to the Aryapala Meditation Temple, a secluded retreat offering stunning views. (Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner included)

Hotel: Terelj Hotel and Spa

September 15, 2026

We’ll start our day with a demonstration of Mongolian archery, an ancient skill honed by the warriors of Genghis Khan. Later, we’ll meet a Mongolian shaman, who will explain the spiritual beliefs that still shape life on the steppe. We will conclude our day at the Genghis Khan Monument, a towering equestrian statue that offers panoramic views from the horse’s head. (Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner included)

Hotel: Terelj Hotel and Spa

September 16, 2026

This morning after breakfast, we’ll board our group flight to Ulgii, the westernmost province of Mongolia and home to the Kazakh nomads. The rest of the day is yours to rest, rejuvenate and spend some leisure time with your Sisters as we prepare for the exciting festival ahead. (Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner included)

Hotel: Mediana Hotel

ulgii

September 17, 2026

It’s Sagsai Eagle Festival Opening Day! The day begins with the grand opening ceremony as berkutchi (eagle hunters) dressed in elaborate, hand-stitched attire parade into the festival grounds, displaying their powerful golden eagles perched on their arms. The day’s competitions test the eagles’ obedience and agility as they are released from a high mountain perch, soaring down to land on their owner’s arm as swiftly as possible. (Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner included)

Hotel: Mediana Hotel

sagsai eagle festival

September 18, 2026

Today we’ll attend Day Two of the festival and explore more traditional activities such as kokpar (a traditional horseback tug-of-war game), archery contests, and shagai (an ankle bone shooting game). Later we’ll experience firsthand the ancient tradition of eagle hunting. You’ll have the exclusive opportunity to join a Kazakh hunter on horseback as he takes you into the mountains to demonstrate the skill and deep trust involved in training these magnificent birds. Watch as the eagle is released into the mountains and swoops down onto a moving lure, mimicking a real hunt. (Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner included)

Hotel: Mediana Hotel

September 19, 2026

The last day of the festival concludes today. After the awards ceremony, we’ll take a guided tour of Ulgii Bazaar, a lively market filled with intricately embroidered textiles, handwoven carpets, and local delicacies. Next, we’ll visit the Ulgii Mosque, reflecting the region’s rich Islamic heritage, and end the day at Tolbo Lake, where the tranquil waters mirror the dramatic peaks of the Altai Mountains. (Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner included)

Hotel: Mediana Hotel

ulgii tolbo lake

September 20, 2026

Today, we’ll fly back to Ulaanbaatar on our group flight. Tonight, enjoy a Farewell Dinner, followed by an exclusive performance of traditional Mongolian throat-singing, a mesmerizing vocal art that mimics the sounds of nature. We’ll spend our final night together reflecting on the incredible experiences of our journey. (Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner included)

Hotel: Best Western Premier Tuushin Hotel

ulaanbaatar

September 21, 2026

After breakfast, we’ll transfer to the airport for our departures home, carrying with you unforgettable memories of Mongolia’s landscapes, traditions, warm-hearted people, and of course, each other. (Breakfast included)

Trip Inclusions

DEPOSITS & PAYMENTS

PRICING

Double Occupancy
$ 13,370 per person
  • MONGOLIA SAGSAI EAGLE FESTIVAL 2026

PRICING

Single Occupancy
$ 15,415 per person
  • MONGOLIA SAGSAI EAGLE FESTIVAL 2026

important information

PLEASE READ THIS INFORMATION CAREFULLY

  • There will be a maximum of 12 Sisters including your Sisterhood Travels Group Leader. Roommate matching is available.
  • International airfare is not included in your pricing. You will fly roundtrip Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia (UBN).
  • You can arrive at any time on September 7, 2026, and depart at any time on September 21, 2026.
  • Check-in time at our arrival hotel is at 3:00 pm.
  • All international flight arrangements must be submitted to Sisterhood Travels on or before May 7, 2026. If you need help making flight arrangements, or to submit your independent flight arrangements, please click here for Airfare Information.
  • Complete valid passport information is required on or before March 31, 2026. Your passport must be valid for at least 6 months beyond the dates of your travel. Failure to provide this information by the due date may result in our inability to secure your group flights and any penalties incurred will be at your expense.
  • Arrival transfers are provided only on September 7th from the Ulaanbaatar airport to our hotel. Departure transfers are only provided on September 21st from our hotel to the Ulaanbaatar airport. If you arrive or depart outside these days and times, or you’re needing transfers or hotels elsewhere, you are responsible for making your own arrangements at your own expense.
  • Group flights are not included in your price as it is too early to have an accurate price. Based on current pricing, you can anticipate approximately $1100 – $1200 for these flights which will be due and payable in the spring of 2026. Flights are as follows: Ulaanbaatar – Altaii region (roundtrip) and South Gobi – Ulaanbaatar (one-way) and will be in economy-class with no opportunity for upgrades.
  • At this time, U.S. citizens with a U.S. passport do not need a visa to travel to Mongolia.
  • Please don’t schedule any optional excursions on your own for this trip, as we cannot promise that you will arrive in time at any location to make your independent excursion. Sisterhood Travels won’t be liable for any expense you incur because of this.
  • Individual gratuities for your Tour Director, local guides, and drivers are not included in your pricing. We will provide you with tipping guidelines for your trip.
  • Travel Insurance is strongly recommended for this trip and is not included in your pricing. We will send you a quote via email.
  • We cannot accommodate wheelchairs, assistive devices, scooters, walkers or rollators, or Zimmer-frames. You must be able to ambulate independently with no assistance from devices or others on the trip. It is imperative that you read the activity level description below.
  • There are no refunds for unused portions of this tour.
  • Dates and times of itinerary as well as hotels listed are subject to change without notice due to operational, weather, or logistical reasons.
  • Any optional expenses or expenses related to anything not specifically listed in this itinerary are not included.
  • You will receive an invitation soon after you book your trip for our travel app, “Trip Plans.” You will need to download this app to your smart phone as this is where you will find the most up-to-date, accurate information regarding your itinerary in addition to all of the critical information you need to know.

Need a Roommate?

Cancellation & Refunds

Activity Level 4

Activity Level:

Busy

This epic adventure through Mongolia’s vast steppes, deserts, and highlands is ideal for women who are comfortable walking and standing for extended periods, navigating uneven terrain, and spending multiple days in remote regions. The itinerary includes a combination of city touring, light hiking, off-the-beaten-path experiences, and cultural immersion with options to customize your level of participation. You’ll also experience some long travel days, including overland drives and internal flights—but the rewards are breathtaking.

Walking & Standing

Daily sightseeing includes moderate walking in museums, national parks, and cultural sites such as Genghis Khan Museum, Erdene Zuu Monastery, and the Flaming Cliffs. Terrain varies and includes paved city streets, dirt trails, desert sand, steppe grasses, and rocky paths. Expect walking on uneven or natural ground at several historical and outdoor sites. Some experiences, like visits to nomadic families, outdoor festivals, or the Aryapala Meditation Temple, may require climbing stairs or hills and standing for extended periods. Participation in more physically demanding experiences—such as hiking to view petroglyphs or riding horseback—is optional.

Terrain, Transport & Accommodations

Ger camps and eco-lodges are comfortable and beautifully authentic, but not all will offer Western-style conveniences. Some walking may be required between your ger to access shared facilities. Travel days include several long drives (5–7 hours) across Mongolia’s rugged landscapes, which are scenic but may involve bumpy or unpaved roads. The itinerary includes three domestic flights, which require basic agility for boarding small aircraft and managing your own carry-on luggage.

Cultural Experiences & Optional Activities

Camel and horseback rides are included and led by local herders—these are optional and beginner-friendly. You’ll have opportunities to engage in interactive cultural activities like ger-building, archery demonstrations, and eagle hunting excursions, which may require light physical exertion or outdoor walking. During the Sagsai Eagle Festival, activities take place on open grasslands with provided, portable seating, and some walking over uneven ground is necessary.

Altitude Overview

Our journey through Mongolia includes travel across steppes, deserts, valleys, and mountains. While most of the trip takes place at moderate elevations, we will experience the highest altitude in the Ulgii region (5610 – 6560 feet) for the Sagsai Eagle Festival. Thinner air may be noticeable to some travelers. Light symptoms such as shortness of breath during exertion can occur but are generally mild.