The last reindeer nomads of Mongolia | DW Documentary

They are known as the “reindeer people”. The Tsaatan live with their families and animals under extreme conditions in the north of Mongolia. This film is a spectacular journey into a timeless universe that miraculously still exists.

Long isolated from the outside world, the nomadic reindeer herders have preserved all the traditions of their ancestors. They practice shamanism and live in simple tents in winter temperatures as low as minus 40 degrees. They say they are happy to live like this. Free, in the midst of sublime and protected nature.

Their way of life is in stark contrast to western life. But the modern world has caught up with them. A few years ago, compulsory education was introduced for all children in the region. This raises questions for the Tsaatan. Should they protect their children from progress they consider harmful? Or educate them and give them the opportunity to integrate into today’s world? The nomads know that they have to choose between their traditions and contemporary civilization, between freedom and comfort. The “reindeer people” are at a turning point in their history. Will the Tsaatan manage to preserve their traditions and way of life, even in the face of change?

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29 comments
  1. Good for watching on TV, but too cold and full of ice for the tropical Brazilian taste. When the winter temperature here reaches 10°C we Brazilians freeze. I can't even imagine what life is like at -40°C. That's an insane temperature.

  2. The modern dilemma has even affected this society. The gradual disappearance of this wonderful culture deeply frustrates me. The traditional way of life has almost entirely disappeared from Kazakhstan, where I am from. Which in turn has raised a lot of doubts about who I am.

  3. I've seen the same video broadcast by 'Best Documentary' 2 months ago on YouTube. Kind of boring. They are passing videos around and pretend it's their own work ?

  4. I love watching how different people and culture at then other end of the world live, however i dont think i can even imagine living like that.

  5. That was nice. 😊 sure beats the headlines of TRUMP and ELON. If they had their way they would probably steal their land and mine it for resources..Hide your way deep in your heart ❤️ may the SPIRIT continue to bless your way of life. Thank you for sharing your thoughts with us over stimulated Americans😊

  6. Well it's kinda cruel how they don't let the reindeer shed their antlers naturally. And I'm pretty sure the reindeer ain't horses to be ridden!!!!

  7. I grew up in a poor family in Cameroon. This reminded me of my childhood and by age 5 I was already doing dishes and mopping the floor and sweeping the compound and making my bed and I even start fire for cooking so my aunt will use. I was forced to grow up fast at age 5 and being raised by relatives. Now age 28 everything I did in childhood to survive came along with me in adulthood and as a mother with my own children I am teaching my kids some of the things I learnt growing up in Africa.

  8. When herder said the reindeer stubborn like women his mindset are still misogynst!! ;( but children's are lovely
    I hope new generations get more educational and should be preserve the cultural that still worth it.
    The DW Documentary are amazing as always

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