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In a vast and barren landscape, where horses run wild and nomadic herding is a regular way of life, lives the only tribe on the planet that ride reindeer — the Tsataan.
Found in Mongolia near the Russian boarder, the Tsataan spend their summer in a remote valley in the mountains of the West Taiga. I visited the Tsataan last summer and had the chance to learn about some of the gear they use to live the nomadic herding lifestyle.
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The Tsataan are uniquely equipped to live in this rugged and harsh environment, relying on their reindeer for survival as both transportation and food. In my visit, I learned that less is more and toughness is key for survival.
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With a sturdy, versatile jacket, a useful multipurpose tool, and proper footwear, I felt that I had everything I needed. Read on to learn about the gear and techniques these reindeer herders use, and the modern equivalents that I used on my trip.