Going Tribal Season 1 Episode 3 Horse Masters of Mongolia: The Darhad

Going Tribal Season 1 Episode 3: Horse Masters of Mongolia: The Darhad

In this episode of Going Tribal, explorer Bruce Parry travels to Mongolia to immerse himself in the way of life of the Darhad people, who are known for their expertise in horse-riding and horse-handling. The Darhad are a predominantly nomadic tribe of Mongolians who rely on their horses to survive in the rugged terrain of the Mongolian steppe.

Parry starts his journey by visiting a Darhad family who live in a traditional yurt, or ger. He observes as they carry out their daily chores such as milking their yaks and tending to their horses. The Darhads have a deep respect for their animals, whom they treat as part of their family. They believe that by building a close relationship with their horses, they can become better horsemen and women.

Parry is taken by the Darhads to a horse festival where they showcase their equestrian skills. The festival is a colorful celebration of Mongolian culture and is attended by people from all around the region. Parry is amazed by the feats of the Darhad riders who can control their horses with ease and perform acrobatic stunts while on horseback.

Next, Parry accompanies a group of Darhad horsemen on a hunting trip. The Darhads have a long history of hunting with eagles, and Parry gets to witness this ancient tradition first-hand. The hunters release their eagles to catch prey such as foxes and hares. The Darhads have a close bond with their eagles, whom they raise from chicks and train to be skilled hunters.

Parry also learns about the harsh realities of life in the Mongolian steppe. The Darhads face many challenges, including extreme weather conditions, limited access to healthcare, and a lack of basic amenities. Despite these difficulties, the Darhads have managed to maintain their traditional way of life and their unique culture.

In the final part of the episode, Parry meets a group of young Darhad horse riders who are training to become skilled horsemen and women. They show him the different types of horses they use for different purposes, such as racing, herding, and hunting. Parry is impressed by their agility and confidence on horseback. He observes as they practice their skills, which include galloping up and down steep slopes, jumping over obstacles, and performing tight turns.

Going Tribal season 1 episode 3, "Horse Masters of Mongolia: The Darhad," is a fascinating insight into the lives of the Darhad people and their close relationship with horses. Parry's journey showcases the beauty and challenges of life in the Mongolian steppe, and the resilience of the Darhad people who have managed to preserve their ancient traditions in the face of adversity.