The Tsaatan — Last Reindeer Nomads of the World

In the far north of Mongolia, near the Russian border in the endless taiga, live the Tsaatan (Dukha) — the last reindeer nomads in the world. Only about 200–400 people lead this millennia-old life: They live in tipis (Urts) instead of yurts, migrate with their reindeer herds through the taiga forests, and live off reindeer milk, hunting, and — for some years now — a bit of tourism. Their language (Tuvan) is fundamentally different from Mongolian, and their shamanistic religion has survived what Buddhism and Communism could not erase.

Visiting the Tsaatan — an Expedition

A visit to the Tsaatan is not a comfortable day trip. It is a real expedition into one of the most remote regions of Central Asia:

• Route: From Mörön by jeep to Tsagaannuur (8 hours on a track that barely deserves the name). From there: 6–8 hours on horseback through dense taiga, over rivers and swamps, to a Tsaatan camp.
• Duration: At least 4–5 days (1 day travel, 1 day ride, 1–2 days in the camp, 1 day return ride, 1 day return travel).
• Cost: From 400–700€ for the entire expedition (guide, horses, accommodation, food).
• What to expect: Overnight in a tipi next to the reindeer, reindeer milk tea, rides through the taiga, stories by the campfire, and — if you're lucky — a shamanistic ceremony. Plus: a starry sky without any light pollution, so intense it seems unreal.

Ethics & Responsibility

The Tsaatan community is tiny and fragile. Their way of life is threatened by climate change, mining, and uncontrolled tourism. Respectful tourism is vital for their survival:

• Visit only with a local, ethically working guide who works directly with the families.
• Bring practical gifts (flour, tea, batteries, warm clothing — ask your guide beforehand what is needed).
• Photograph only with explicit permission — especially during ceremonies.
• Leave no waste. Take everything back with you.