Western Altai

The Altai range forms Mongolia's western border with Russia, China and Kazakhstan. The five sacred peaks of Tavan Bogd ("Five Saints") rise above 4,000 m, with the glacier Potanin pouring down between them — the largest glacier in Mongolia.

This is the home of Mongolia's Kazakh minority, who keep the ancient tradition of hunting with golden eagles. Every October the Eagle Festival in Ölgii draws hunters from across Bayan-Ölgii province to compete in falconry, horseback games and traditional music.

Treks here are serious — you carry your own gear or use packhorses, sleep at altitude, and cross passes only locals know.