The role of Mongolia's nomads in sustainable eco-tourism
Mongolia is a country of undeniable great beauty. Epic landscspes capped by intense blue skies; rugged mountains, forests, lakes, vast steppes and the awesome Gobi Desert. Tourists and travel writers alike praise these and its many other attractions including outstandingly its great culture, steeped in colourful history since Genghis Khan and still visibly present, celebrated not only on special occasions but in the everyday lives of many citizens.
This culture descended through countless generations of nomadic pastoralists, with still some 700,000 - around 25% of the population - scattered thinly across those landscapes. They live by herding goats, sheep, yak and camels, skilfully managed with superb horsemanship.
But herding has its limitations and hardships. Climate extremes are bringing their own misfortunes; many herders give up and migrate to towns only to find an equally - if not more - uncertain world of urban existence. Younger family members find it hardest, lured by the superficial attractions of urban life but lacking the skills to take advantage of what few jobs there are to be had.
The Mongolian Government has long recognised that in spite of its country's rich potential wealth in mining, its benefits are too distant (and too vulnerable to global market fluctuations) to alone provide economic growth. It sees eco-tourism as a viable means of boosting the economy and directly benefiting nomadic communities who will otherwise continue to migrate to already over-populated and overstretched urban settlements.
Many of Mongolia's attractions and rich culture lie beyond city boundaries, so how better than to tour the natural way, by river, by horse, camel or ox-cart. Tourists learn of the unique culture by staying in traditional gers in the company of true nomads, visiting places of historical or cultural attraction, experiencing at first hand the friendly nomadic lifestyle, in unspoiled natural settings, often of outstanding beauty or grandeur.
This growth in tourism creates need for guides, drivers, cooks, translators, horse-handlers, and other staff to suit the nature of different locations. They will be drawn from herding communities, be given appropriate training ensuring that their holiday guests get the greatest satisfaction from their Mongolian experience
There are increasing numbers of tour operators now offering responsible, sustainable, eco-friendly holidays, providing visitors with experience of the rich culture that.is to be found throughout the country. The operators involve local people, who share with the visitors their culture and natural lifestyle so much so that, instead of going as tourists they find themselves being treated more as guests. It has much to be recommended.
