Literally translated as "people who live with reindeer," the Tsaatans are one of the minority ethnic groups of Mongolie. They live in perfect harmony with nature, to which they devote an unwavering spiritual reverence, possess shamanic traditions and rituals dating back to time immemorial, and inhabit one of the most remote places on Earth from the oceans—surrounded by breathtaking landscapes. Reasons enough to venture out and meet them… Here's more about this nomadic people who intrigue and inspire us!

A bit of history…

Of Turkish origin, the Tsaatans (also called Doukhas) are a minority ethnic group living in a remote region of the Taiga in the far north of Mongolie. This community takes its name from reindeer herding, their primary activity: "Tsaa" meaning reindeer and "Tan" meaning people. In other words, a people who live with reindeer.

For a long time, the northern taiga region was governed under the Qing dynasty. But when Mongolie gained independence in 1911, the northern taiga region was incorporated into the Tuvan Republic. The result? Many Tsaatans and other ethnic peoples attempted to flee. The Mongolian government continually sent them back. It was not until 1956 that Mongolie granted them Mongolian citizenship. Today, there are barely more than 220 Tsaatan individuals and fewer than 50 families in the taiga!

Reindeer herders in harmony with nature

The Tsaatans' primary resources are animals, particularly reindeer. They use them for food, but also for making clothing, improving their dwellings, and as currency for trade. They also serve as a widely used means of transport. To survive, they have no choice but to practice transhumance to provide fresh pastures for their herds. Renowned for its moist grass rich in lichens, the taiga is an ideal region to nourish their animals despite its remote location far from any civilization.

Beyond being sources of income, animals are considered sacred by the Tsaatans. They hold boundless admiration for the Earth's natural resources, making Mother Nature their spiritual guide. Numerous traditional songs dedicated to natural elements such as water and earth are found throughout their culture.

A people of shamanic traditions

Another distinctive feature of the Tsaatans is shamanism. Their social and material traditions have scarcely changed since time immemorial, and numerous totemic rituals remain at the heart of their social organization. It is said that shamans are guides and messengers whose objective is to bridge the gap between humans and spirits. Should you venture to meet the Tsaatans, you will have the opportunity to learn more about this form of medicine unlike any other…

Sleeping with the Tsaatans

In a world that continues to develop, the Tsaatans strive, as best they can, to preserve their way of life. Because their living conditions are precarious, they are a people facing harsh challenges. To help them preserve their culture and earn income, the Tsaatans have opened their doors to tourists and now welcome many visitors seeking authenticity.

So if you're planning a trip to Mongolie, why not include a brief visit to the Taiga? You can stay in a traditional tipi and discover the daily life of these sedentary men and women. Reindeer herding, meal preparation and other household tasks, initiation into shamanism, discovery of legends and myths, evenings around the fire with a family… This is what you can experience during a stay with the Tsaatans. Not to mention the sumptuous landscapes you'll discover throughout your journey to reach this remote taiga region.

Share these experiences by joining us on our Nomads of Mongolie, from yurts to tipis and Heart of the Shaman itineraries.

Florine Dergelet