Golden eagles and yurt building

This morning’s outing from our yurt camp on Issyk-Kul Lake was extraordinary. We went to an eagle hunting demonstration. Kyrgyzstan is one of a few countries where the nomads historically trained golden eagles to hunt for them. You can read more about it here:
https://central-asia.guide/eagle-hunting/

It’s a generational skill passed on from father to son (though there are girls and women now participating) and the eagles and trainers build phenomenal relationships. Brad and I experienced a similar falcon hunting demonstration a couple of years ago in Dubai but this felt far more authentic.

Next, we visited a yurt builder. This is also a generational skill, but involves the whole family. The males build the structure and the women create the furnishings and decorations. This particular family builds about 15 yurts a year that they sell for about $4,000 US each.

The frame is made from elm, the ties are made from cow hide and wool, and the walls and roofs are made of thick batted wool. In nomad times, a fully outfitted yurt weighed about 500 kilograms and was transported on horseback. It was fascinating to learn how they’re made and help put one up.

We then had lunch at the family’s home.Read more