The Gobi Desert is a vast desert territory located in the northern part of the Republic of China and the southern part of Mongolia. The word Gobi means desert in Mongolian. It is the fifth largest desert in the world and its sands were first explored and described by a Westerner in the year 1275, on Marco Polo’s famous journey to Beijing.

After a short stop in Ulan Bator, our journey will take us to the western part of Mongolia, in the Altai massif. This beautiful wilderness is home to several tribes of nomadic hunters. The famous Kazakh eagle festival is celebrated once a year in the village of Olgii. All the hunters of the province come together and take part in a great hunt in the form of games, with the aim of proving the skill of their beast and their control over it.

We will witness the start of the hunt. Many activities are planned: falconers will present their hunting eagles; Khazakh horsemen will demonstrate their agility and speed during the Bushkashi; and the majestic eagles will perform hunting feats.

Horse races continue, as well as archery events and traditional games of the region, such as kyz kuar. This festival represents the identity of the Mongolian people, with all their traditions, emotions and ancestral way of life. We will have the great opportunity to take beautiful photos of the eagles, horses and people in traditional costumes.

During a considerable part of this expedition to Gobi and Altai, we will stay in the traditional homes of Mongolian people, experiencing their daily lives and local habits.

Suggested photographic equipment*:

• camera, wide-angle to telephoto lenses, tripod, ND filter, polarizing filter, cable release and flash.
• Head torch or Hand torch.
• Hiking boot.
• Cap or hat.
• Warm clothes for nights and early mornings.
• Raincoat
• Sunscreen.
• Trail snacks (cereal or protein bars).
• Water bottle.

*Please contact me if there are any doubts.

• Practical information about our accommodation: The yurt, a traditional dwelling of Mongolian nomads, is a circular construction supported by a removable wooden frame and covered with wool felt. Yurts will be our homes for much of the journey. They offer comfort, with good heating and space to sleep in individual beds. The organization and furnishing of the interior space reflect family roles and spiritual concepts of the local culture. Each cardinal direction is significant, and the door always faces south. The herders use the position of the sun on the crown of the yurt as a sundial.
• In this trip, we consider the immersion in the culture and nature of the places fundamental for the creative process. Participants will be surprised by the beauty and multiplicity of the scenarios.
• A valid passport is needed.
• Brazilians do not need a visa to enter Mongolia. If you are not Brazilian, please check if your passaport requires a visa to enter Mongolia.
• In this trip, we consider the immersion in the culture and nature of the places fundamental for the creative process. Participants will be surprised by the beauty and multiplicity of the scenarios.
• The trip is intended for all those interested in photography and learning to see differently. The orientations, teachings and directions will be given according to the level and interest of each participant.
• The trip includes some hiking, therefore hiking boots are advised.
• Every trip that involves nature exploration needs an analysis of the climate and local conditions and this can change the day-to-day planning. The intention is to guarantee the best conditions and safety for the group.
• Accommodation in a double apartment depends on the availability of another participant opting for the same service. If there is no other person opting for the double room, the participant will stay in a single room, paying the supplement described in the item “Values”.
• Health protocols will be applied in accordance with the legislation in force at the place and at the time of the trip, aiming at the well-being and safety of all.

For pricing information, please fill the form at the bottom of this page.

If you would like to receive information about the detailed roadmap of the expedition, please fill the form at the bottom of this page.