The Nomads of Mongolia: Life in the Frozen Taiga

❄️The Tsaatan are a small community of reindeer herders, living in the remote and icy taiga of northern Mongolia.

🌲The Tsaatan's lifestyle revolves around following their reindeer herds, seeking food and shelter in the vast taiga forests.

👨‍👨‍👧‍👦During the winter, Tsaatan families are forced to split up, with the children attending school in nearby villages while the men stay in the taiga.

🌨️Winter brings extreme weather conditions, making it difficult for the Tsaatan to move their camps and find food for the reindeer.

🤝Despite the challenges, the Tsaatan feel a deep connection to their land and cherish their nomadic way of life.

How many Tsaatan people are there?

—There are only around 200 Tsaatan people living in the frozen taiga of Mongolia.

What do the Tsaatan rely on for their survival?

—The Tsaatan rely on their reindeer for transportation, food, and materials for shelter and clothing.

Do the Tsaatan children go to school?

—Yes, Tsaatan children attend school in nearby villages during the winter months.

What are the main challenges the Tsaatan face?

—The Tsaatan face challenges such as extreme weather conditions, the need to adapt to modern education systems, and the preservation of their traditional way of life.

How do the Tsaatan adapt to the changing seasons?

—The Tsaatan migrate with their reindeer herds, following food sources and moving to different camps according to the changing seasons.

00:21Introduction to the Tsaatan, a nomadic reindeer herding community in the icy taiga of northern Mongolia.

04:03Challenges of finding and reaching the Tsaatan's remote camp in the taiga.

06:31Revisiting the Tsaatan community after four years to document their disappearing traditional lifestyle.

10:37The deep connection the Tsaatan feel with their land and nomadic way of life.

15:30Impact of modern changes, such as mandatory education for Tsaatan children.

20:11The dilemma of separating families during the winter months when children attend school in villages.

23:51Sugara's perspective on living in the taiga and going to school.

29:11The emotional farewell and departure of the Tsaatan families as they split up for the winter.