Thousand Camel Festival – A Celebration of Mongolia’s Iconic Animal. Held in the vast expanses of Mongolia’s southern Umnugovi Province, the "Thousand Camel Festival" is a truly unique winter spectacle that celebrates the resilient and majestic Bactrian camel—an animal that has long been central to the lives of Mongolian nomads. This thrilling festival was first initiated in 1997 by local herders and communities in partnership with a non-governmental organization. Its goal was to raise awareness about the declining camel population, preserve the age-old camel breeding traditions, and pass this cultural heritage on to future generations. The festival has since grown into a national and international attraction, drawing visitors from around the world to witness this extraordinary gathering of camels and camel herders. Set against the stark beauty of the Gobi Desert’s winter landscape, the event typically features hundreds of Bactrian camels—strong, woolly, and well-adapted to Mongolia’s harsh climate. Festival highlights include thrilling camel races across the snow-dusted steppe and exciting camel polo matches that showcase remarkable skill and coordination. Visitors can also enjoy the "best camel" competition, which celebrates the finest breeding stock, along with folk concerts, traditional dance, and throat singing performed in colorful deels. Local markets and stalls offer camel wool products, handmade crafts, and delicious Gobi delicacies. Families gather warmly around the festivities, dressed in their best winter deels, while children ride camels or enjoy traditional games. The atmosphere is festive, yet also rooted in the seriousness of conservation and cultural pride. For travelers, the Thousand Camel Festival offers a rare window into the lives of Gobi nomads, where camels are not only vital means of transport but also companions and a source of livelihood. This is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to connect with Mongolia’s living traditions, support community-based conservation, and celebrate the enduring spirit of nomadic life in one of the world’s most remote and remarkable regions. Contact us to make this unforgettable experience a reality!