Mongols do not overuse meat in summer, and feed mainly on dairy products, but it is hardly possible to survive the fierce local winters without meat. So in autumn, when wild animals are getting fat preparing for the cold, nomads get out their hunting armour and stunning fur hunting garments and set off for a hunting adventure. They hunt mainly for argali, a large wild sheep with huge horns, or for ibex, a wild goat. But the most desirable catch is the marmot, later on cooked with hot stones placed into its abdomen, a dish known as boodog—Mongolian barbeque. Marmot hunting season falls on September and October, but the season of argali and ibex starts earlier, mainly in July. In winter nomads often go hunting with eagles.
The videos below contain violent content.
Practical info
What is the hunting season for wild animals in Mongolia?
Mongolia's hunting seasons vary across animals and regions, but generally, the best time for hunting is between July and October. During the end of summer until autumn, wild animals are getting fat, preparing for the cold winter, which makes hunting easier. Nomads go on a hunting adventure to catch marmots, ibex, and argali – large wild sheep with huge horns and wild goats. During winters, eagle hunting is a popular activity. Show more
What is the best way to join nomads for hunting in Mongolia?
To join Mongolia's nomads for a hunting adventure, communication with locals is essential. A tour guide or hunting agency can help to connect with nomads as they usually go hunting across the countryside. Nomads are known for their significant hunting skills and techniques, and they would be happy to welcome any tourists to join them. Joining the locals on a hunting venture would be an excellent way to experience Mongolia's hunting culture. Show more
What is the traditional and unique way of cooking Mongolian marmot?
To cook a Mongolian marmot, the nomads follow an unusual technique called boodog – a Mongolian barbecue. The marmot is cleaned and washed thoroughly, and hot stones are placed in its abdomen. The meat is then roasted inside the animal while maintaining its juices and adding aroma, taking about an hour to cook thoroughly. The cooked marmot meat is then eaten alongside bread, vodka, and beer. Show more
Is hunting allowed year-round in Mongolia?
No, hunting is not allowed throughout the year in Mongolia. The hunting seasons for different animals vary across the different regions. The argali and ibex hunting season usually lasts from July to October, while marmot hunting season is between September and October. The hunting season is set by the government to protect the wildlife, and it is vital for hunters to follow these regulations strictly. Show more
Is eagle hunting a popular activity in Mongolia during winters?
Yes, eagle hunting is one of the famous activities in Mongolia during winters. Golden eagles are trained for hunting small animals such as rabbits and foxes. Many tourists hire tour guides or connect with local nomads to experience their hunting culture. Eagle hunting is a thrilling, delightful, and must-try adventure activity that adventurous individuals should not miss when they visit Mongolia during winters. Show more
