Pascal Mannaerts travelled to the wilds of Mongolia to capture the reindeer herders of Mongolia

The Tsaatan reindeer herders have lived for thousands of years in the remote region of Ulaan Taiga. Moving their reindeer between five and 10 times each year, the hardy people search for cool plains upon which to feed their reindeer. They use the hair from the reindeer for their clothes, their milk for cheese and their dung for their fuel. Though due to interbreeding and illness, the reindeer-herding community has now dwindled to around 40 families. National Geographic writer Pascal Mannaerts decided to capture their way of life before it is lost forever

Reindeer The Tsaatan people originated from across the border in the Tuva republic of Russia.Herders Of Mongolia

The Tsaatan people were granted Mongolian citizenship in 1956 after many attempts at deportation

Reindeer Herders Of Mongolia

Reindeer Herders OTsaatan people have made their home in yurts made with birch wood. They will use the bark from 30 trees to create one yurtf Mongolia

Bolorma is getting ready to turn the milk ration into cheese the family

Just one of the Tsaatan families. From left, Bolorma, Ulziitsetseg, Tuvshinbayar, Ulziichimig, Narahuu and Ulziisaihan

Suggested Itineraries

Alaskan Wildlife Adventure

Alaska United States of America North America

  • Jetboat into the wilds of Alaska

  • Hike and take photographs on Spencer Glacier

  • Take a flight to Tukta Lodge while spotting moose, bears and eagles

  • Visit Katmai National Park, home to the largest population concentration of brown bears in the world

  • Go on a kayak tour of Tukta bay

ideal length 9 nights

Classic Uganda

Uganda Africa

  • Observe the antics of wild chimpanzees in Kibale National Park, Uganda

  • Take a boat cruise down the Kazinga Channel in search of hippos

  • Spot rare black-maned, tree-climbing lions in Ishasha

  • Be humbled by a gorilla encounter in Bwindi Impenetrable NP

  • Enjoy unbelievable birdwatching opportunities in Africa

ideal length 8 nights

The Parks of Madagascar

Madagascar Africa

  • Experience Madagascar’s unique wildlife, including lemurs
  • Marvel at the UNESCO-listed limestone peaks in the Tsingy de Bemaraha National Park
  • Witness sunset at the famous Avenue of the Baobabs
  • Spot rare, endemic bird species including Appert’s greenbul, found only in the Zombitse National Park
ideal length 15 nights
Choose Lightfoot Travel
  • Knowledge
  • Expertly Crafted
  • Value
  • Peace of Mind