In those times, a powerful eagle and a fast horse were valued as highly as wealth and represented status, strength, and respect. Today this remarkable heritage has become one of the most fascinating attractions of tourism in Kyrgyzstan, drawing travelers from around the world.
Despite the rapid development of the modern world, traditional eagle hunting has survived in remote regions of Kyrgyzstan and Kazakhstan. For visitors from Europe and the United States, falconry may seem exotic, yet true eagle hunters consider it only a small part of their real mastery.
In traditional eagle hunting, three elements are essential: the hunter, the bird of prey, and a specially trained horse.
The Art of Hunting with a Golden Eagle
The eagle hunter rides on horseback while holding the bird on his arm using a special wooden support called a baldak, attached to the saddle. The primary prey includes foxes, hares, badgers, young deer, and sometimes even wolves.
During the attack, the eagle dives from a great height and strikes its prey with powerful talons, often killing it instantly. In harsh winter conditions, a strong eagle can even defeat a wolf trapped in deep snow.
Experienced hunters during one hunting season — from October to February — may catch up to 50–60 foxes, several badgers and lynxes, and sometimes 4–5 wolves. The speed and precision of the attack make the golden eagle one of the most effective predators in nature.
A Ritual and Philosophy of Respect for Nature
However, eagle hunting is not only a skill but also a ritual filled with philosophy and deep respect for nature.
Kyrgyz and Kazakh eagle hunters — known as berkutchi — are recognized masters of this ancient tradition. They train their birds to hunt in such a way that the fur of the prey remains almost untouched, which is considered a sign of true professionalism and aesthetic mastery.
Training an Eagle — A Process That Takes Years
Training a hunting eagle can take up to four years and requires enormous patience. During this time, a unique bond of trust and understanding forms between the hunter and the bird.
Only the strongest and most loyal birds are selected for training. Eagles are usually taken as chicks and raised in special conditions. A traditional leather hood called tomogo is placed on the bird’s head.
The hunter constantly communicates with the eagle — talking to it, singing, and training it to recognize his voice. Eventually the bird learns to respond exclusively to its owner.
Later the eagle is introduced to the smell and fur of future prey through special commands and exercises. Practical training includes dragging fox fur along the ground, practicing on mountain slopes, and hunting exercises from horseback.
When the hood is removed, the eagle quickly surveys the landscape, soars into the sky, and begins searching for its target.
After a successful hunt, the bird is never tied — it returns to the hunter voluntarily, which demonstrates the strength of their connection.
In rare cases, eagles are trained to hunt in pairs for larger animals such as wolves, ibex, and young deer.
Eagle Hunting as a Tourist Attraction in Kyrgyzstan
Today eagle hunting is considered a national sport and one of the most iconic cultural traditions of the country.
Tours across Kyrgyzstan organized by VISIT-KG allow visitors not only to watch this spectacular tradition but also to meet legendary eagle hunters, hold a golden eagle on their arm, feel the strength of its wings, and witness a real hunting demonstration.
Tourists can see eagle hunting shows in regions such as Issyk-Kul Region, Naryn Region, and in the surroundings of Bishkek.
The best time to observe eagle hunting is from October to February. During summer, large eagles molt and temporarily lose their ability to fly, so in the tourist season some demonstrations may involve falcons instead.
A Unique Cultural Experience in Central Asia
Eagle hunting is an unforgettable adventure that makes travel in Kyrgyzstan truly unique.
By traveling with VISIT-KG, visitors can discover authentic nomadic traditions, wild mountain landscapes, and one of the most impressive cultural arts of Central Asia.