Reindeer Herders: Frequently Asked Questions

Mongolian reindeer herders, known as the Tsaatan tribe, live in the remote northern part of Khuvsgul province. Nowadays, only about 50 families of reindeer herders are left in the Mongolian taiga. They call themselves a Dukha people, and ethnically they are Tuvans. The Tsaatan people are shamans who pray to their Motherland and regularly perform their rituals. The language is of Turkic origin and is about to disappear. At the moment, only 500 people speak their native language, and their number is getting less and less.

Reindeer herder migrates 4-5 times a year to graze their livestock in suitable places. The reindeer is a majestic animal that grows stronger in winter when it is cold and snowy, but not when it is warm and green.

HOW TSAATAN PEOPLE USE THE REINDEERS?

First of all, this is transport and they ride reindeers like a horses. They are not that strong, and the maximum weight they can carry on a short journey is around 80 kg / 176 lbs, while during migration no more than 40 kg / 88 lbs.

And secondly, they use deer to milk them. They use milk in their daily life as drinks and make dairy products such as cheese and kefir. And finally, they use reindeer for meat. But this is less desirable, and they try to keep their animals to increase their numbers.

The reindeer herders live in their traditional teepee all year round. Back in day, they used to cover their teepee with animals skin, but nowadays they use a canvas. It is quite small inside but it has everything you need.

A stove is placed in the middle of the teepee, and the right side is used as a kitchen part. In the warm season, living in a teepee seems to be normal, but in winter you always need to heat the stove, and next to the teepee you need a lot of prepared firewood.

WHEN TO VISIT REINDEER HERDER’S TRIBE?

You can visit the reindeer herding tribe all year round. But it is less recommended to visit them in the spring. This is the time when the deer are giving birth and the tribe is very busy. Summer is a good time to visit the Tsaatan people. But at this time of the year, they live in their summer place that is very far from the destination where the car can take you.

You need to ride a horse for more than 10 hours, or else two days of horseback on one side. But it’s worth it. Autumn is more colorful but not as beautiful as summer. Winter in the taiga is great and you can visit the reindeer herder’s tribe and take part in a unique expedition. But it is highly recommended to dress very warmly

REINDEER HERDERS NOWADAYS!

Even, they are the last tribe of reindeer herders and a very ancient tribe. In fact, there is some modern civilization in their life. Nowadays they have phone service and they use solar power to light. Khuvsugul is one of the most beautiful places in Mongolia, and nomadic reindeer herders are the most interesting place to visit.

The Tsaatan people are used to having quests from all over the world. And they are very friendly and always open to communication. As a sign of respect for their hospitality, you can present them with some gifts. It could be a useful item for everyday life, like a light, a multi-tool, or maybe a cigarette.

HOW TO VISIT REINDEER HERDER’S TRIBE?

The Discover Altai team can offer you a unique expedition to a reindeer herder’s place. This requires at least ten days and good preparation for the wild. It can be a fully guided tour with maximum activities included or else a winter adventure with visiting frozen Khuvsgul lake and horse sledding. For further information please contact us. A unique experience awaits you!