mongolia travel now

Mongolia Travel Restrictions

Traveler's COVID-19 vaccination status

Traveling from the United States to Mongolia

Open for vaccinated visitors

COVID-19 testing

Not required

Not required for vaccinated visitors

Restaurants

Not required in public spaces, enclosed environments and public transportation.

Mongolia entry details and exceptions

Ready to travel, find flights to mongolia, find stays in mongolia, explore more countries on travel restrictions map, destinations you can travel to now, dominican republic, netherlands, philippines, puerto rico, switzerland, united arab emirates, united kingdom, know when to go.

Sign up for email alerts as countries begin to open - choose the destinations you're interested in so you're in the know.

Can I travel to Mongolia from the United States?

Most visitors from the United States, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Mongolia.

Can I travel to Mongolia if I am vaccinated?

Fully vaccinated visitors from the United States can enter Mongolia without restrictions.

Can I travel to Mongolia without being vaccinated?

Unvaccinated visitors from the United States can enter Mongolia without restrictions.

Do I need a COVID test to enter Mongolia?

Visitors from the United States are not required to present a negative COVID-19 PCR test or antigen result upon entering Mongolia.

Can I travel to Mongolia without quarantine?

Travelers from the United States are not required to quarantine.

Do I need to wear a mask in Mongolia?

Mask usage in Mongolia is not required in public spaces, enclosed environments and public transportation.

Are the restaurants and bars open in Mongolia?

Restaurants in Mongolia are open. Bars in Mongolia are .

Update April 12, 2024

Information for u.s. citizens in the middle east.

Travel Advisories |
Contact Us |
MyTravelGov |

Find U.S. Embassies & Consulates

Travel.state.gov, congressional liaison, special issuance agency, u.s. passports, international travel, intercountry adoption, international parental child abduction, records and authentications, popular links, travel advisories, mytravelgov, stay connected, legal resources, legal information, info for u.s. law enforcement, replace or certify documents.

Before You Go

Learn About Your Destination

While Abroad

Emergencies

Share this page:

Travel Advisory July 24, 2023

Mongolia - level 1: exercise normal precautions.

Reissued with obsolete COVID-19 page links removed.

Exercise normal precautions in Mongolia.

Read the country information page for additional information on travel to Mongolia.

If you travel to Mongolia, you should:

Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to receive Alerts and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.
Monitor local media for breaking events and adjust your plans based on new information.
Follow the Department of State on Facebook and Twitter .
Review the Country Security Report for Mongolia.
Visit the CDC page for the latest Travel Health Information related to your travel.
Prepare a contingency plan for emergency situations. Review the Traveler’s Checklist .

Embassy Messages

View Alerts and Messages Archive

Quick Facts

Six months from date of entry.

One page per stamp.

Not required for stays of fewer than 90 days. All visitors must register with Mongolian Immigration within 48 hours of arrival.

Mongolian law requires travelers to declare any cash, financial instruments, and cryptocurrency equal to or greater than 15 million Mongolian tugrik (MNT), approximately 5,250 USD as of September 2020, in value to a customs official upon entry into Mongolia.

Embassies and Consulates

U.s. embassy ulaanbaatar.

Denver Street #3 11th Micro-District Ulaanbaatar 14190 Mongolia Telephone: +976-7007-6001 Emergency after-hours telephone: Please call the main Embassy switchboard at +976-7007-6001 Fax: +976-7007-6016 Email: [email protected]

Destination Description

Learn about the U.S. relationship to countries around the world.

Entry, Exit and Visa Requirements

Visit the Mongolian Immigration Agency’s website or the website of the Mongolian Embassy in Washington, DC for the most current information on entry, exit, and visa requirements.

Tourism & Business Travel: You do not need a visa if visiting for fewer than 90 days, but your passport must be valid for at least six months beyond your date of arrival. All foreign nationals, no matter their duration of stay, must register with the Immigration Agency of Mongolia within 48 hours of their arrival in country. This can be done by the individual themselves or by the individual or entity providing housing for the foreign national. Registration can be done online through the Immigration Agency of Mongolia’s website . Failure to register may result in fines upon departure and you may not be allowed to depart the country until the fine is paid in full to the Mongolian Immigration Agency.

You will also be fined if you stay beyond your 90-day admission, even if due to circumstances beyond your control. This fine, which accumulates daily for every day beyond 90 days, must be paid in full before Mongolian authorities will allow you to depart.

Work, Study, Reside: If you plan to visit, work, study, or reside in Mongolia for more than 90 days you must apply for a visa at the Mongolian Embassy in Washington, DC , the Mongolian Consulate General in San Francisco , or the Mongolian Mission to the United Nations in New York before you depart the United States.

Overland Travel to/from China or Russia: Only the Zamiin Uud border crossing in the south with China and the Sukhbaatar/Altanbulag border crossing in the north with Russia, are always open to foreign travelers. Other overland ports of entry are open sporadically. The status of border crossings is available in Mongolian.

See the Country Specific Information pages on China and Russia for additional information on the entry, exit, and transit requirements for those countries.

Other Entry and Exit Requirements: The U.S. Department of State is unaware of any HIV/AIDS entry restrictions for visitors to or foreign residents of Mongolia.

Minors traveling with guardians who are not their parents must travel with a signed, notarized letter from at least one parent authorizing the minor’s travel. Minors traveling alone by air must present a signed, notarized letter from at least one parent attesting that the minor will utilize the services of the airline to ensure the child is accompanied throughout the trip.

Additional Information:

The Embassy of Mongolia is located at: 2833 M Street NW, Washington, DC 20007; telephone (202) 333-7117 and 202 333-7017; email [email protected] .
The Consulate General of Mongolia is located at: 465 California Street Suite 200, San Francisco, CA 94104; telephone (415) 622-4000; email [email protected] .
The Permanent Mission of Mongolia to the United Nations is located at: 6 East 77 th Street, New York, NY 10075; telephone (212) 861-9460; email [email protected] .

Find information on dual nationality , prevention of international child abduction and customs regulations on our websites.

Safety and Security

Travelers are urged to review the Mongolia Travel Advisory , which provides information about safety and security concerns affecting the country.

The phone number to report crimes to the local police in Mongolia is 102 . The number to call an ambulance or fire truck in an emergency is 103 . Please note that local authorities, including the operators responding to these emergency numbers, do not commonly speak English.

Crime: Mongolia is a relatively safe country for foreigners. However, both street crime and violent crime are on the rise, especially in the larger towns and cities. Crime typically peaks during the Naadam summer festival in July and during the Tsagaan Sar (Lunar New Year) festival in January or February. Most street crime occurs late at night, often outside bars and nightclubs.

Theft: Pickpocketing and bag-snatching can occur at any time, especially in crowded places like markets, train stations, and popular tourist attractions. You should take precautions to protect your personal effects when in public. The Embassy has also received reports of visitors’ accommodations being burgled while occupied. These burglaries most often occurred when travelers were staying in yurt (known in Mongolia as ger) camps where locking the door to the accommodation may be impossible.

Robbery: The most common form of robbery experienced by visitors to Mongolia is mugging. You are most likely to be mugged if you are alone in unfamiliar urban neighborhoods after dark, or in unregistered private vehicles operating as taxis. Stick to well-lit and well-established tourist areas and use registered taxis whenever possible.

Sexual assault: Though infrequent, the Embassy does receive reports of sexual assaults perpetrated against travelers. These reports indicate that perpetrators are most often familiar with the victim in some way such as tour guides or employees of locations frequented by tourists, like ger camps and monasteries. If you are a victim of sexual assault contact the Mongolian police immediately and seek assistance from the Embassy by calling +976 7007-6001. Female travelers are encouraged to avoid traveling alone in Mongolia and all travelers should research and hire only reputable tour agencies with established safety and security records, especially when visiting remote areas far from the capital.

The police will instruct victims of sexual assault to obtain an examination at the criminal forensic institute, which is in Ulaanbaatar city or in provincial centers. A medical check from any other clinic/hospital will not be admitted into evidence at any judicial proceeding. The Embassy can assist in helping you locate these centers.

Domestic Violence: U.S. citizen victims of domestic violence are encouraged to contact the U.S. Embassy for assistance.

Street harassment: Street harassment is especially prevalent at night and in areas outside the capital. The most common targets of street harassment are unaccompanied women and foreign men accompanying Mongolian or other Asian women. Street harassment may range from verbal abuse to physical assault. Certain nationalist groups also perpetrate premeditated attacks against foreigners. Most street harassment occurs in or near bars and nightclubs, and alcohol is often involved. All travelers should avoid walking alone after dark, avoid using unregistered taxi cabs, and moderate their use of alcohol in order to avoid becoming an easy target for harassment in public.

Drug offenses: Mongolian police are particularly keen on combatting the use of drugs, a problem they generally see as imported by foreigners. Penalties for drug possession and or trafficking in Mongolia range from one to twelve years imprisonment.

Smuggling of contraband goods, antiquities, and wildlife: Smuggling of these items is prevalent across both the Russian and Chinese borders. Travelers have been known to be duped into transporting contraband goods or controlled antiquities from Mongolia. Be wary of other passengers requesting help with their luggage, as it could contain illicit articles. Penalties for smuggling in Mongolia vary based on the items smuggled and range from one month of electronic monitoring to eight years imprisonment and fines from 450,000 MNT to 40,000,000 MNT equivalent to 160 USD to 14,000 USD as of September 2020.

Demonstrations: Demonstrations are common in many parts of Mongolia but are most prominent in the capital Ulaanbaatar. Even demonstrations intended to be peaceful can become confrontational and escalate into violence. Protesters may block traffic on roads, including major thoroughfares. U.S. citizens should avoid demonstration areas and exercise caution if near any protests. Some demonstrations by Mongolian ultra-nationalists take a xenophobic turn and may place foreigners at heightened risk should they encounter these events. U.S. citizens should avoid participating in demonstrations and other activities that might be deemed political by Mongolian authorities.

Alcohol: If you choose to drink alcohol, it is important to do so in moderation and to stop and seek medical attention if you begin to feel ill. Alcohol is an important aspect of Mongolian social culture and strangers may offer to drink with travelers as a welcoming gesture. While most of these offers are innocuous and truly a friendly gesture, travelers should be wary of accepting beverages offered on the street by strangers who approach them late at night as these are often the precursor to a robbery. The prevalent use of alcohol is also connected to a high frequency of physical altercations sometimes resulting in injury. U.S. citizen travelers are known to have become wittingly or unwittingly involved in such altercations and injured.

Driving under the influence: Mongolian police take driving under the influence very seriously and enforcement is vigorous in urban areas. Penalties for driving under the influence in Mongolia include a one-year suspension of driving privileges and a 400,000 MNT fine, roughly 140 USD as of September 2020. Travelers should exercise the same precautions as they would in the United States, use of a designated driver or a taxi, to avoid operating a motor vehicle while under the influence of alcohol.

Victims of Crime:

Local authorities are responsible for investigating and prosecuting crimes. If you are the victim of a crime you should contact the local authorities to file a Mongolian police report. You should also inform the U.S. Embassy. A crime may only be reported in person at the local police district having jurisdiction over the location where the crime occurred. Before reporting a crime, you may wish to consult an attorney. The U.S. Embassy maintains a list of English-speaking lawyers that you may access online. You must have your passport or residency permit with you.

Once you report a crime to the police Mongolian law requires that you remain in the country for the duration of both the investigation and any subsequent trial. In some instances, the law provides for a victim to appoint a legal representative to take their place.

The police will instruct victims of assault or sexual assault to undergo an examination by the criminal forensic institute which is located in Ulaanbaatar or in provincial centers. No other medical examination will be accepted as evidence by Mongolian authorities. The Embassy can assist in helping you locate these centers.

It is important to note that, if a victim does not file a complaint, police may refuse to investigate the crime--even if they have probable cause to suspect that a crime took place.

Please see our webpage on help for U.S. victims of crime overseas .

If you are the victim of a crime the U.S. Embassy can:

help you find appropriate medical care and provide a list of doctors and hospitals
assist you in reporting a crime to the police
contact relatives or friends with your written consent
explain the local criminal justice process in general terms
provide a list of local attorneys
provide our information on victim’s compensation programs in the U.S. as well as local resources
provide an emergency loan for repatriation, which includes accommodation and flights back to the United States and/or limited medical support in cases of destitution
replace a stolen, lost, or damaged passport

Tourism: The tourism industry is unevenly regulated. Mongolia’s vast area and limited road and communications infrastructure make emergency response challenging for local and national authorities. Mongolia’s severe weather—desert conditions in the summer in many tourist areas and dangerously cold in the winter (-40° F) across the country—exacerbates the potential for urgent situations, especially in the event of injury or becoming lost or disoriented outside of city centers. The Embassy recommends travelers not drive outside of Ulaanbaatar or other city centers after sunset. In winter visitors should always keep high-quality cold-weather clothing in vehicles, even for short trips, to protect oneself in the event of delay or becoming stranded. Routine safety inspections for emergency and medical equipment and facilities do not commonly occur. Hazardous areas/activities are not always identified with appropriate signage, and tour guides and tourist attraction staff may not be adequately trained or certified by the host government or recognized authorities in the field. In the event of an injury, basic medical treatment is typically available only in/near major cities, with significant limitations on the availability of medication and quality of health care. First responders are generally unable to quickly access areas outside of major cities to provide urgent medical treatment. U.S. citizens are encouraged to purchase medical evacuation insurance .

Local Laws & Special Circumstances

Criminal Penalties: You are subject to local laws. If you violate local laws, even unknowingly, then you may be expelled, arrested, or imprisoned.

Furthermore, some laws are prosecutable in the United States, even if violated abroad. For examples, see the Department of Justice website and our website on crimes against minors abroad .

Arrest Notification: If you are arrested or detained, ask police or prison officials to notify the U.S. Embassy immediately. See our webpage for further information.

Customs: Mongolian customs authorities strictly enforce laws regulating the import and export of firearms, ammunition, precious metals, antiquities and drugs. Importation of firearms or ammunition requires prior government approval. All precious metals should be declared on arrival. Exporting antiquities requires a special customs clearance certificate issued by an authorized antique dealer at the time of purchase. Importing medicines is not allowed. Medicines for personal use must have doctor’s prescription. Vitamins are limited only for personal use. Quantity of more than 2 packages will result in taxation. For additional information, contact the Embassy of Mongolia .

Faith-Based Travelers: See our following webpages for details:

Faith-Based Travel Information
International Religious Freedom Report – see country reports
Human Rights Report – see country reports
Hajj Fact Sheet for Travelers
Best Practices for Volunteering Abroad

LGBTI Travelers: Mongolia’s criminal code prohibits discrimination based on sexual orientation, gender identity, nationality, language, race, age, gender, social status, professional position, religion, education, or medical status. There are no laws or legal provisions that criminalize being LGBTI or that specifically target the LGBTI community. However, NGOs continue to report that LGBTI individuals face violence and discrimination both in public and at home based on their sexual orientation or gender identity. There were also reports that LGBTI persons face greater discrimination and fear in rural areas than in Ulaanbaatar. The Government of Mongolia does not recognize same-sex spouses for visa and residency purposes.

See our LGBTI Travel Information and section 6 of our Human Rights report for further details.

Travelers Who Require Accessibility Assistance: Major streets in Ulaanbaatar feature textured sidewalks to aid visually impaired pedestrians, but numerous obstacles prevent persons with disabilities from moving freely. Government buildings and public transportation remain largely inaccessible to persons with disabilities. Mongolian elevators are often too small to accommodate a standard-sized wheelchair. Service animals are rare and are often barred from entering public buildings.

Students: See our Students Abroad page and FBI travel tips .

Women Travelers: Domestic violence and sexual assault are serious problems in Mongolia. See the Safety & Security section above, as well as our travel tips for Women Travelers .

With few exceptions, Mongolian hospitals do not meet Western standards. Although most doctors and emergency responders are dedicated professionals, their training and equipment are sub-standard. Most modern medical facilities are in Ulaanbaatar, though some public and private hospitals in larger provincial cities offer medical services on par with those in the capital. Medical services may be completely unavailable in remote areas. Mongolia does not have helicopter medical evacuation and those who require medical assistance in remote areas must drive to the nearest major town. Medical evacuation to Ulaanbaatar is conducted by commercial air carriers. Some pharmacies in Ulaanbaatar carry European or U.S. pharmaceuticals, but quantity and variety is limited. Most pharmaceuticals are made in China or Russia, and lack English labels. See our list of medical facilities in Ulaanbaatar .

Air Pollution: Due to the pervasiveness of coal-burning for domestic heating, Ulaanbaatar and most other Mongolian cities suffer severe air pollution during winter. The U.S. Embassy’s air quality monitor registers Air Quality Indices (AQIs) in excess of 300 most days from December through February. The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency describes AQIs above 300 as “hazardous.” Air pollution can cause both short- and long-term health effects and poses an especially high risk to children, pregnant women, the elderly, outdoor enthusiasts, and people with heart or lung disease. Travelers planning to visit Ulaanbaatar during winter should consult a medical professional and should, at the very least, consider carrying an N95 mask to help filter out harmful particulates. For reliable and timely air pollution readings, check the U.S. Embassy’s live air quality monitor .

Water Quality: The quality of drinking water varies throughout Mongolia and it is likely not up to U.S. standards for potability. Most Mongolians do not drink tap water and instead prefer to consume bottled water for their domestic use.

Medical Insurance: Make sure your health insurance plan provides coverage overseas. Most care providers overseas only accept cash payments. See our webpage for more information on insurance coverage.

We strongly recommend supplemental insurance to cover medical evacuation. The U.S. Embassy does not provide medical evacuation, but will contact the insurance company on your behalf to arrange medical evacuation if necessary.

If traveling with prescription medication, check with the Mongolian Embassy to ensure the medication is legal in Mongolia. Always carry your prescription medication in original packaging with your doctor’s prescription.

The following diseases are prevalent:

Meningococcal meningitis
Tuberculosis

Vaccinations: Be up-to-date on all vaccinations recommended by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

Further health information:

World Health Organization
U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)

Travel and Transportation

Road Conditions and Safety:

Operating a vehicle outside of Ulaanbaatar is unsafe , particularly after dark. Outside of Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia has few paved roads and even fewer street lights. Most roads have only two lanes and no shoulders and most sealed roads need resurfacing. Trucks commonly carry overloaded cargo. Livestock crossing roads, even high traffic ones, is common. Pedestrians also cross all types of roads at undesignated locations. Passing is difficult and dangerous due to the narrow, highly-trafficked nature of the roads.

Mongolian motorists are sometimes aggressive, commonly cutting each other off, performing illegal turns, driving through red lights, and/or suddenly stopping in the middle of the road. Moreover, driving while intoxicated is common. Although Mongolia is a right-hand traffic country, more than half of all vehicles have the steering wheel on the right-hand side. Most motorcycle and moped drivers have limited experience sharing the road. Motorists rarely respect pedestrian right-of-way, even in crosswalks.

Driving off-road in Mongolia can be dangerous, especially without a knowledgeable Mongolian guide. Those contemplating off-road driving in Mongolia should bring standard vehicle maintenance equipment, a good GPS unit, and a reliable satellite phone. Exercise particular caution when driving off-road during winter. Mongolia’s National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) regularly assists stuck vehicles. However, off-road rescue can take days given the remoteness and rough terrain, and few NEMA rescue crews speak English. Foreign motorists may face life-threatening situations after becoming stranded in remote locations without sufficient sources of food, water, and heat.

Traffic Laws:

To help reduce traffic and air pollution, police actively restrict certain license plate numbers from driving into downtown Ulaanbaatar on certain days of the week, usually alternating odd/even numbers.
All foreign residents must carry a Mongolian driving permit. It is not legal to drive in Mongolia with a U.S. driver’s license. U.S. citizen tourists may legally drive in Mongolia for up to six months with a valid international driver’s license, but must have a Mongolian license thereafter. Automobile insurance is mandatory. For information concerning Mongolian driver’s licenses, vehicle inspection, road taxes, and vehicle insurance, contact the Embassy of Mongolia in Washington, DC.
If you are involved in a collision, never move your vehicle until after the police arrive to assess the scene--even if your vehicle is blocking traffic. Moving your vehicle will incur a fine. Be prepared to wait because it can take hours before police arrive at the scene of the collision.

Public Transportation:

Ulaanbaatar has a fairly reliable bus system. Bus maps are not posted in English and buses can become extremely crowded--be alert against pickpocketing. Unofficial, unregistered, un-metered taxis are rampant in Ulaanbaatar, however registered taxis are also available. Registered taxis may refuse service during rush hour, however.

The safety and maintenance standards of rental car companies vary. Local tour companies can provide cars with drivers, but the drivers’ experience, knowledge, and English-speaking abilities will vary.

For more information, please visit our Road Safety page.

Aviation Safety Oversight: As there is no direct commercial air service to the United States by carriers registered in Mongolia, the U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has not assessed the government of Mongolia’s Civil Aviation Authority for compliance with International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) aviation safety standards. Further information may be found on the FAA’s safety assessment page .

For additional travel information

Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to receive security messages and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.
Call us in Washington, D.C. at 1-888-407-4747 (toll-free in the United States and Canada) or 1-202-501-4444 (from all other countries) from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m., Eastern Standard Time, Monday through Friday (except U.S. federal holidays).
See the State Department’s travel website for the Worldwide Caution and Travel Advisories .
Follow us on Twitter and Facebook .
See traveling safely abroad for useful travel tips.

For additional IPCA-related information, please see the International Child Abduction Prevention and Return Act ( ICAPRA ) report.

Travel Advisory Levels

Assistance for u.s. citizens, mongolia map, learn about your destination, enroll in step.

Subscribe to get up-to-date safety and security information and help us reach you in an emergency abroad.

Recommended Web Browsers: Microsoft Edge or Google Chrome.

Check passport expiration dates carefully for all travelers! Children’s passports are issued for 5 years, adult passports for 10 years.

Afghanistan

Antigua and Barbuda

Bonaire, Sint Eustatius, and Saba

Bosnia and Herzegovina

British Virgin Islands

Burkina Faso

Burma (Myanmar)

Cayman Islands

Central African Republic

Cote d Ivoire

Curaçao

Czech Republic

Democratic Republic of the Congo

Dominican Republic

El Salvador

Equatorial Guinea

Eswatini (Swaziland)

Falkland Islands

France (includes Monaco)

French Guiana

French Polynesia

French West Indies

Guadeloupe, Martinique, Saint Martin, and Saint Barthélemy (French West Indies)

Guinea-Bissau

Isle of Man

Israel, The West Bank and Gaza

Liechtenstein

Marshall Islands

Netherlands

New Caledonia

New Zealand

North Korea (Democratic People's Republic of Korea)

Papua New Guinea

Philippines

Republic of North Macedonia

Republic of the Congo

Saint Kitts and Nevis

Saint Lucia

Saint Vincent and the Grenadines

Sao Tome and Principe

Saudi Arabia

Sierra Leone

Sint Maarten

Solomon Islands

South Africa

South Korea

South Sudan

Switzerland

The Bahamas

Timor-Leste

Trinidad and Tobago

Turkmenistan

Turks and Caicos Islands

United Arab Emirates

United Kingdom

Vatican City (Holy See)

External Link

You are about to leave travel.state.gov for an external website that is not maintained by the U.S. Department of State.

Links to external websites are provided as a convenience and should not be construed as an endorsement by the U.S. Department of State of the views or products contained therein. If you wish to remain on travel.state.gov, click the "cancel" message.

You are about to visit:

Skip to main content
Skip to "About this site"

Language selection

Search travel.gc.ca.

Help us to improve our website. Take our survey !

COVID-19: travel health notice for all travellers

Mongolia travel advice

Latest updates: The Need help? section was updated.

Last updated: April 8, 2024 07:45 ET

Demonstrations

Demonstrations may occur. Even peaceful demonstrations can turn violent at any time. They can also lead to disruptions to traffic and public transportation.

Mass gatherings (large-scale events)

2SLGBTQI+ travellers

2SLGBTQI+ travellers have experienced harassment, verbal abuse and threats of violence.

Travel and your sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression and sex characteristics

Adventure tourism

Tour operators may not adhere to international standards.

If engaging in adventure tourism:

never do so alone and always hire an experienced guide from a reputable company
buy travel insurance that includes helicopter rescue and medical evacuation
ensure that the recreational activities you choose are covered by your travel insurance.
ensure that your physical condition is good enough to meet the challenges of your activity
ensure that you’re properly equipped and well informed about weather and other conditions that may pose a hazard
inform a family member or friend of your itinerary
obtain detailed information on each activity before setting out and do not venture off marked trails
do not use installation or equipment if you have any doubt about their safety

Road travel

Road conditions .

Roads between the capital city and provinces are poor. Driving can be hazardous, especially in rural areas where paved roads are limited. In Ulaanbaatar the number of vehicles and current transportation infrastructure produce chronic traffic jams.

Access to rural areas can be hampered by heavy snowfalls during the winter months.

If travelling to remote areas:

Plan your journey
Travel in a four-wheel-drive vehicle that is well-equipped with provisions, fuel and water
Avoid driving after dark

Road safety

Traffic drives on the right but many cars have right-side steering. This can lead to collisions on two-lane roads when drivers attempt to pass slower vehicles.

Drivers do not respect traffic laws and do not practice safe driving.
Exercise caution while driving and anticipate potential hazards.

Accidents are common.

Traffic laws are not consistently enforced.
Drivers are sometimes aggressive and drinking and driving is prevalent.
Use a GPS navigation system, if possible.

Public transportation

Taxi drivers have robbed passengers, sometimes violently. The use of “shared taxis” is discouraged because they are not reliable.

Only use licensed taxis equipped with meters.
When possible, book taxis through your hotel.

Pickpocketing is common on public buses. Overcrowding is common and women have reported inappropriate physical contact on buses.

The rail network in is limited. Thefts occur frequently on trains between Mongolia and Russia.

We do not make assessments on the compliance of foreign domestic airlines with international safety standards.

Information about foreign domestic airlines

Every country or territory decides who can enter or exit through its borders. The Government of Canada cannot intervene on your behalf if you do not meet your destination’s entry or exit requirements.

We have obtained the information on this page from the Mongolian authorities. It can, however, change at any time.

Verify this information with the Foreign Representatives in Canada .

Entry requirements vary depending on the type of passport you use for travel.

Before you travel, check with your transportation company about passport requirements. Its rules on passport validity may be more stringent than the country’s entry rules.

Regular Canadian passport

Your passport must be valid for at least 6 months beyond the date you expect to leave Mongolia.

Passport for official travel

Different entry rules may apply.

Official travel

Passport with “X” gender identifier

While the Government of Canada issues passports with an “X” gender identifier, it cannot guarantee your entry or transit through other countries. You might face entry restrictions in countries that do not recognize the “X” gender identifier. Before you leave, check with the closest foreign representative for your destination.

Useful links

Foreign Representatives in Canada
Canadian passports

Tourist visa: not required for stays of up to 30 days Business visa: required Student visa: required

Registration

Visitors who plan to stay for more than 30 days in Mongolia must register with the Office of Immigration, Naturalization and Foreign Citizens within 48 hours upon arrival.

Travel to and from China

If you travel to Mongolia through China, or plan to transit through or travel to China from Mongolia, you must meet China’s entry and exit requirements.

Travellers arriving in or departing from Mongolia through China should be aware of Chinese visa regulations. The Chinese embassy in Ulaanbaatar does not always grant visas to foreigners in Mongolia. If you plan to travel to Mongolia and then onward to China, obtain your Chinese visa before the start of your trip.

China’s entry and exit requirements

Travel to and from Russia

If you travel to Mongolia through Russia, or plan to transit through or travel to Russia from Mongolia, you must meet Russia’s entry and exit requirements.

Russia’s entry and exit requirements

Children and travel

Learn more about travelling with children .

Yellow fever

Learn about potential entry requirements related to yellow fever (vaccines section).

Relevant Travel Health Notices

Global Measles Notice - 13 March, 2024
COVID-19 and International Travel - 13 March, 2024

This section contains information on possible health risks and restrictions regularly found or ongoing in the destination. Follow this advice to lower your risk of becoming ill while travelling. Not all risks are listed below.

Consult a health care professional or visit a travel health clinic preferably 6 weeks before you travel to get personalized health advice and recommendations.

Routine vaccines

Be sure that your routine vaccinations , as per your province or territory , are up-to-date before travelling, regardless of your destination.

Some of these vaccinations include measles-mumps-rubella (MMR), diphtheria, tetanus, pertussis, polio, varicella (chickenpox), influenza and others.

Pre-travel vaccines and medications

You may be at risk for preventable diseases while travelling in this destination. Talk to a travel health professional about which medications or vaccines may be right for you, based on your destination and itinerary.

Yellow fever is a disease caused by a flavivirus from the bite of an infected mosquito.

Travellers get vaccinated either because it is required to enter a country or because it is recommended for their protection.

There is no risk of yellow fever in this country.

Country Entry Requirement*

Proof of vaccination is not required to enter this country.

Recommendation

Vaccination is not recommended.

* It is important to note that country entry requirements may not reflect your risk of yellow fever at your destination. It is recommended that you contact the nearest diplomatic or consular office of the destination(s) you will be visiting to verify any additional entry requirements.

About Yellow Fever

Yellow Fever Vaccination Centres in Canada

There is a risk of hepatitis A in this destination. It is a disease of the liver. People can get hepatitis A if they ingest contaminated food or water, eat foods prepared by an infectious person, or if they have close physical contact (such as oral-anal sex) with an infectious person, although casual contact among people does not spread the virus.

Practise safe food and water precautions and wash your hands often. Vaccination is recommended for all travellers to areas where hepatitis A is present.

Tick-borne encephalitis (TBE) is a risk in some areas of this destination. It is a viral disease that affects the central nervous system (brain and spinal cord). It is spread to humans by the bite of infected ticks or occasionally when unpasteurized milk products are consumed.

Travellers to areas where TBE is found may be at higher risk during April to November, and the risk is highest for people who hike or camp in forested areas.

Protect yourself from tick bites . The vaccine is not available in Canada. It may be available in the destination you are travelling to.

Measles is a highly contagious viral disease. It can spread quickly from person to person by direct contact and through droplets in the air.

Anyone who is not protected against measles is at risk of being infected with it when travelling internationally.

Regardless of where you are going, talk to a health care professional before travelling to make sure you are fully protected against measles.

Hepatitis B is a risk in every destination. It is a viral liver disease that is easily transmitted from one person to another through exposure to blood and body fluids containing the hepatitis B virus. Travellers who may be exposed to blood or other bodily fluids (e.g., through sexual contact, medical treatment, sharing needles, tattooing, acupuncture or occupational exposure) are at higher risk of getting hepatitis B.

Hepatitis B vaccination is recommended for all travellers. Prevent hepatitis B infection by practicing safe sex, only using new and sterile drug equipment, and only getting tattoos and piercings in settings that follow public health regulations and standards.

Coronavirus disease (COVID-19) is an infectious viral disease. It can spread from person to person by direct contact and through droplets in the air.

It is recommended that all eligible travellers complete a COVID-19 vaccine series along with any additional recommended doses in Canada before travelling. Evidence shows that vaccines are very effective at preventing severe illness, hospitalization and death from COVID-19. While vaccination provides better protection against serious illness, you may still be at risk of infection from the virus that causes COVID-19. Anyone who has not completed a vaccine series is at increased risk of being infected with the virus that causes COVID-19 and is at greater risk for severe disease when travelling internationally.

Before travelling, verify your destination’s COVID-19 vaccination entry/exit requirements. Regardless of where you are going, talk to a health care professional before travelling to make sure you are adequately protected against COVID-19.

The best way to protect yourself from seasonal influenza (flu) is to get vaccinated every year. Get the flu shot at least 2 weeks before travelling.

The flu occurs worldwide.

In the Northern Hemisphere, the flu season usually runs from November to April.
In the Southern Hemisphere, the flu season usually runs between April and October.
In the tropics, there is flu activity year round.

The flu vaccine available in one hemisphere may only offer partial protection against the flu in the other hemisphere.

The flu virus spreads from person to person when they cough or sneeze or by touching objects and surfaces that have been contaminated with the virus. Clean your hands often and wear a mask if you have a fever or respiratory symptoms.

In this destination, rabies is commonly carried by dogs and some wildlife, including bats. Rabies is a deadly disease that spreads to humans primarily through bites or scratches from an infected animal. While travelling, take precautions , including keeping your distance from animals (including free-roaming dogs), and closely supervising children.

If you are bitten or scratched by a dog or other animal while travelling, immediately wash the wound with soap and clean water and see a health care professional. In this destination, rabies treatment may be limited or may not be available, therefore you may need to return to Canada for treatment.

Before travel, discuss rabies vaccination with a health care professional. It may be recommended for travellers who are at high risk of exposure (e.g., occupational risk such as veterinarians and wildlife workers, children, adventure travellers and spelunkers, and others in close contact with animals).

Safe food and water precautions

Many illnesses can be caused by eating food or drinking beverages contaminated by bacteria, parasites, toxins, or viruses, or by swimming or bathing in contaminated water.

Learn more about food and water precautions to take to avoid getting sick by visiting our eat and drink safely abroad page. Remember: Boil it, cook it, peel it, or leave it!
Avoid getting water into your eyes, mouth or nose when swimming or participating in activities in freshwater (streams, canals, lakes), particularly after flooding or heavy rain. Water may look clean but could still be polluted or contaminated.
Avoid inhaling or swallowing water while bathing, showering, or swimming in pools or hot tubs.

Travellers' diarrhea is the most common illness affecting travellers. It is spread from eating or drinking contaminated food or water.

Risk of developing travellers' diarrhea increases when travelling in regions with poor standards of hygiene and sanitation. Practise safe food and water precautions.

The most important treatment for travellers' diarrhea is rehydration (drinking lots of fluids). Carry oral rehydration salts when travelling.

Typhoid is a bacterial infection spread by contaminated food or water. Risk is higher among children, travellers going to rural areas, travellers visiting friends and relatives or those travelling for a long period of time.

Travellers visiting regions with a risk of typhoid, especially those exposed to places with poor sanitation, should speak to a health care professional about vaccination.

Insect bite prevention

Many diseases are spread by the bites of infected insects such as mosquitoes, ticks, fleas or flies. When travelling to areas where infected insects may be present:

Use insect repellent (bug spray) on exposed skin
Cover up with light-coloured, loose clothes made of tightly woven materials such as nylon or polyester
Minimize exposure to insects
Use mosquito netting when sleeping outdoors or in buildings that are not fully enclosed

To learn more about how you can reduce your risk of infection and disease caused by bites, both at home and abroad, visit our insect bite prevention page.

Find out what types of insects are present where you’re travelling, when they’re most active, and the symptoms of the diseases they spread.

Animal precautions

Some infections, such as rabies and influenza, can be shared between humans and animals. Certain types of activities may increase your chance of contact with animals, such as travelling in rural or forested areas, camping, hiking, and visiting wet markets (places where live animals are slaughtered and sold) or caves.

Travellers are cautioned to avoid contact with animals, including dogs, livestock (pigs, cows), monkeys, snakes, rodents, birds, and bats, and to avoid eating undercooked wild game.

Closely supervise children, as they are more likely to come in contact with animals.

Person-to-person infections

Stay home if you’re sick and practise proper cough and sneeze etiquette , which includes coughing or sneezing into a tissue or the bend of your arm, not your hand. Reduce your risk of colds, the flu and other illnesses by:

washing your hands often
avoiding or limiting the amount of time spent in closed spaces, crowded places, or at large-scale events (concerts, sporting events, rallies)
avoiding close physical contact with people who may be showing symptoms of illness

Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) , HIV , and mpox are spread through blood and bodily fluids; use condoms, practise safe sex, and limit your number of sexual partners. Check with your local public health authority pre-travel to determine your eligibility for mpox vaccine.

Tuberculosis is an infection caused by bacteria and usually affects the lungs.

For most travellers the risk of tuberculosis is low.

Travellers who may be at high risk while travelling in regions with risk of tuberculosis should discuss pre- and post-travel options with a health care professional.

High-risk travellers include those visiting or working in prisons, refugee camps, homeless shelters, or hospitals, or travellers visiting friends and relatives.

Medical services and facilities

Health care is inadequate.

A few hospitals in Ulaanbaatar are suitable for foreigners, but there is often a shortage of safe medicine and reliable medical staff.

You will likely need medical evacuation in case of serious illness or injury. The number of medical evacuation service providers is limited. Medical evacuation is very expensive.

Make sure you get travel insurance that includes coverage for medical evacuation and hospital stays.

Travel health and safety

Keep in Mind...

The decision to travel is the sole responsibility of the traveller. The traveller is also responsible for his or her own personal safety.

Be prepared. Do not expect medical services to be the same as in Canada. Pack a travel health kit , especially if you will be travelling away from major city centres.

You must abide by local laws.

Learn about what you should do and how we can help if you are arrested or detained abroad .

Identification

Carry adequate identification at all times, such as your passport and registration documents. Keep a photocopy of your passport in case it is lost.

Penalties for possession, use or trafficking of illegal drugs are severe. Convicted offenders can expect jail sentences and heavy fines.

Drugs, alcohol and travel

Mongolian law does not criminalize sexual acts or relationships between individuals of the same sex.

However, 2SLGBTQI+ travellers could be discriminated against based on their sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, or sex characteristics. Same-sex marriage and civil unions are not legally recognized by Mongolian law.

According to the Mongolian National Human Rights Commission, 2SLGBTQI+ individuals have faced police harassment and surveillance.

2SLGBTQI+ travellers should carefully consider the risks of travelling to Mongolia.

Dual citizenship

Dual citizenship is not legally recognized in Mongolia.

If local authorities consider you a citizen of Mongolia, they may refuse to grant you access to Canadian consular services. This will prevent us from providing you with those services.

Travellers with dual citizenship

International Child Abduction

The Hague Convention on the Civil Aspects of International Child Abduction is an international treaty. It can help parents with the return of children who have been removed to or retained in certain countries in violation of custody rights. It does not apply between Canada and Mongolia.

If your child was wrongfully taken to, or is being held in Mongolia by an abducting parent:

act as quickly as you can
consult a lawyer in Canada and in Mongolia to explore all the legal options for the return of your child
report the situation to the nearest Canadian government office abroad or to the Vulnerable Children’s Consular Unit at Global Affairs Canada by calling the Emergency Watch and Response Centre.

If your child was removed from a country other than Canada, consult a lawyer to determine if The Hague Convention applies.

Be aware that Canadian consular officials cannot interfere in private legal matters or in another country’s judicial affairs.

International Child Abduction: A Guidebook for Left-Behind Parents
Travelling with children
Canadian embassies and consulates by destination
Emergency Watch and Response Centre

You must carry an international driving permit.

International Driving Permit

Train travel to and from Russia

If you travel to Mongolia by train from Russia, you may experience difficulties with border and customs agents. Make sure you declare all goods and cash, and complete all required paperwork.

The currency in Mongolia is the tugrik (MNT). U.S. dollars and credit cards are accepted in hotels and some restaurants, mainly in Ulaanbaatar. U.S. dollar traveller’s cheques are accepted at some hotels and can be converted at several banks.

Carry local currency, especially in rural areas.

Seismic activity

Mongolia is located in an active seismic zone. Earthquakes and landslides occur.

Earthquakes - What to Do?

Flooding and landslides

Heavy rains, particularly from mid-July to mid-September, can cause severe flooding and landslides. Roads may become impassable and infrastructure damaged.

Exercise caution, particularly in areas around major rivers
Stay informed of the latest regional weather forecasts
Follow the advice of local authorities, including evacuation orders

Large-scale emergencies abroad

Dust storms

Dust storms occur in May and June.

If you decide to travel to the Gobi Desert region of Mongolia during the dust storm season:

know that you may expose yourself to serious safety risks
be prepared to change your travel plans on short notice, including cutting short or cancelling your trip
stay informed of the latest regional weather forecasts
follow the advice and instructions of local authorities

Extreme temperatures

Mongolia is subject to extreme temperatures (from minus 35° to 40° Celsius in the winter to plus 35° Celsius in the summer).

Air quality

Air pollution in Ulaanbaatar is at its peak during the winter months.

During periods of high pollution:

limit outdoor activities
monitor local media and air pollution levels
follow the instructions of local authorities

Consult your doctor before booking your trip if you have lung, heart or respiratory problems

Air pollution in Ulaanbaatar - World Air Quality Index

Local services

In case of emergency, dial:

police: 102
medical assistance: 103
firefighters: 101

Consular assistance

For emergency consular assistance, call the Embassy of Canada in Mongolia and follow the instructions. At any time, you may also contact the Emergency Watch and Response Centre in Ottawa.

The decision to travel is your choice and you are responsible for your personal safety abroad. We take the safety and security of Canadians abroad very seriously and provide credible and timely information in our Travel Advice to enable you to make well-informed decisions regarding your travel abroad.

The content on this page is provided for information only. While we make every effort to give you correct information, it is provided on an "as is" basis without warranty of any kind, expressed or implied. The Government of Canada does not assume responsibility and will not be liable for any damages in connection to the information provided.

If you need consular assistance while abroad, we will make every effort to help you. However, there may be constraints that will limit the ability of the Government of Canada to provide services.

Learn more about consular services .

Risk Levels

take normal security precautions.

Take similar precautions to those you would take in Canada.

Exercise a high degree of caution

There are certain safety and security concerns or the situation could change quickly. Be very cautious at all times, monitor local media and follow the instructions of local authorities.

IMPORTANT: The two levels below are official Government of Canada Travel Advisories and are issued when the safety and security of Canadians travelling or living in the country or region may be at risk.

Avoid non-essential travel

Your safety and security could be at risk. You should think about your need to travel to this country, territory or region based on family or business requirements, knowledge of or familiarity with the region, and other factors. If you are already there, think about whether you really need to be there. If you do not need to be there, you should think about leaving.

Avoid all travel

You should not travel to this country, territory or region. Your personal safety and security are at great risk. If you are already there, you should think about leaving if it is safe to do so.

The Ultimate Mongolia Travel Guide 2024

From the best time of year to visit to how to get a SIM card and where to register with immigration , these are the important things to know as you plan your trip to Mongolia.

April 9, 2020
Updated: January 24, 2024

Live with an Eagle Hunter Family During this Eagle Festival Tour 2024

What is Mongolian Traditional Mounted Archery?

Mongolian Lunar New Year and Shambala Winter Tour 2025

Table of contents.

When I say I love living in Mongolia, I mean it with every part of my heart and soul. It was after coming here in 2018 as a tourist to join a Mongolia tour and experience the local culture that I remember thinking, this place can’t be real.

It turned out to be the best way to experience Mongolia I could have asked for. That short trip made me realize the Mongolian steppe is one of the last truly untouched places in the world for nature lovers and true adventure seekers.

Nomadic families really did still live of the land, and their herds, the same way they have for thousands of years. Talk about sustainable.

In fact, 25% of the Mongolian population still lives this way. That’s a huge percentage in a country of just over 3.2 million.

However, it wasn’t just the Mongolian countryside that I fell in love with. After coming back and living a summer in Ulaanbaatar (also written as Ulan Bator), Mongolia’s capital city, I knew this was the country, and the place for me.

It’s by no means easy living here. This is not the United States, where everything runs smoothly. Language barriers are a thing, credit cards always have issues (especially Mastercard), and you really need to get used to Mongolian time. Whether you want to or not.

In the end, I’ve learned it’s better not to resist this style of living and just go with the flow. It’s probably the only reason I’ve made it this long here. Living here has taught me a lot about patience, compassion, and myself. Things living in Los Angeles, New York, and growing up in Pittsburgh couldn’t do in 32 years.

Because, when it comes down to it, Mongolia is a tough place to be as a foreigner among the local people. When I moved here, there was no information on how to navigate the the city, let alone rural Mongolia. I’m talking, nothing! I had to become my own local guide.

Not just for people crazy enough to move here like me, but for travelers, too. The type of people willing to travel more than 24 hours to a place where they usually have no idea about the chaos they are about to encounter. The kind of people who book a tour but the tour company could be real and you could have the adventure of the lifetime, or it could be a complete scam. The people who just go for it with fearlessness without ever looking back. Those are my people. You are my people.

So, I hope this Mongolia travel guide, along with the other guides on this Mongolia travel blog give you the insight and information that wasn’t available to me when I first came here. That these articles will help you navigate Ulaanbaatar like a local and Mongolia like a travel pro.

As always, if you need help planning an itinerary or have more specific travel questions, you can always book a 30-minute travel consultation with me. There’s nothing I love more than talking about Mongolia and getting people excited about visiting.

When is the Best Time of Year to Visit Mongolia?

Summer is the best time of year to visit Mongolia and is considered peak season. June, July, and August are beautiful months with a great deal of things to see and experience. This is when most tourists visit Mongolia, so you can expect peak rates, sometimes crowded natural landmarks and museums, and full flights.

The average summer temperature in Mongolia is between 25° and 32° C, with cold nights. You can comfortably wear t-shirts during the day and a light jacket when it gets dark. Dust storms are common in the summer season, especially when you’re on the wide-open plains.

Keep in mind that if you visit areas in the north or west, at higher elevations, temperatures will be lower than this. If you visit places in the south, particularly the Gobi Desert, temperatures will be much higher. Temperatures in the Gobi Desert average 40° C, and higher, in June, July, and August.

If you plan to visit Mongolia in the summer, especially in July, book your tours, hotels, and flights no later than March. July is the busiest month for tourism in Mongolia thanks to the Naadam festival. Hotel rates in Ulaanbaatar are even known to double in price between July 10 and 12, when the Opening Ceremony takes place in the city.

Naadam is the biggest and most important festival of the year and visiting Mongolia during Naadam gives you the best of Mongolia, and Mongolian culture, in just a few short days. The festival always takes place in July, with the National Opening Ceremony always being held in Ulaanbaatar on July 11. Thus, the high hotel rates in the city.

It’s during Naadam when you can watch wrestling, horse racing, and archery competitions big and small across the country.

Here are some other great things to see and experience when visiting Mongolia in June, July, and August:

Annual Naadam Festival
PlayTime Music Festival
Spirit of Gobi Music Festival
Tenger World Shaman Festival
Mongol Derby
Monkey Run Mongolia
Free Daily Cultural Shows in Ulaanbaatar
Polo Matches at the Genghis Khan Retreat and Polo Club

What to Expect When You Visit Mongolia in Fall, Winter, or Spring

While summer is the most popular, and best time to visit Mongolia for many reasons, fall, winter, and spring shouldn’t be immediately ruled out. Here are a few reasons why.

Personally, fall is my favorite time to be in Mongolia .

Tourism starts to die down at the end of August as school starts and the weather starts to get a bit chillier and days shorter. This is the time when most nomadic families begin to prepare for the cold winter months ahead, which makes it an especially interesting time to visit. You can help families move to their winter camps, either by truck, camel, or yak, and help tear down and build their gers (homes) with them. It’s a special time to bond with families and feel like you’re being useful. The worst is when you go somewhere and feel like they’re just putting on a “show” for tourism reasons. This isn’t that. I can promise.

September is also the time when the landscape turns a beautiful golden hue. Trees turn bright shades of yellow, orange, and red, and snow starts to cover the mountain tops.

Because of all these things, traditional ger camps begin closing up for the season at this time. This is usually to traveler’s benefits because it means you can find great deals on nightly rates before they do.

Then, when October hits, it’s time for the famous Golden Eagle Festival .

The festival is extremely popular with tourists, so be sure to make your arrangements if you want to attend as far in advance as possible. I would recommend making your arrangements before June. Especially since securing flights from Ulaanbaatar to Ulgii can be tricky and confusing. For this I also recommend hiring a local tour company to make all your arrangements.

The annual Golden Eagle Festival is always held the first weekend in October .

Here are some other great things to see and experience when visiting Mongolia in September, October, and November:

Sagsai Eagle Festival
Golden Eagle Festival
Ulaanbaatar Jazz Week

Don’t let the idea winter in Mongolia intimidate you. Yes, temperatures do reach -30° C. And yes, Ulaanbaatar is officially the coldest capital city in the world . But it’s because of these things Ulaanbaatar, and Mongolia, are something special to see and experience during December, January, and February.

While temperatures do drop to around -30° C, you can still do things like visit and spend the night in a yurt with a nomadic family out in Gorkhi-Terelj National Park. Out there, you can go horseback riding on Mongolia’s famously wild horses, and even dog sledding through the winter wonderland that has become the snow-covered countryside.

Or, better yet, head down to the Gobi Desert, one of the only deserts in the world where snow can lay across the dunes covering them in a sea of white. This is the perfect time to experience the natural beauty of the Mongolian desert, but with fewer crowds.

Alternatively, Tsagaan Sar , or Mongolian Lunar New Year, happens in February and is a unique way to experience a Mongolia relatively free of other tourists.

The holiday marks the first day of spring and a time when Mongolians take the time to visit each of the elders in their family, bringing gifts and sharing a meal. This is a special time for Mongolians to celebrate with family and look forward to new beginnings.

Here are some other great things to see and experience when visiting Mongolia in December, January, and February:

Ulaanbaatar’s Christmas Markets
New Year’s Eve Celebrations
Tsagaan Sar (Lunar New Year)
See the Gobi Desert Covered in Snow
Dog sledding on Lake Khusvgul
Ice Fishing

While most people think of spring as a time when temperatures start to warm up, flowers begin to bloom, and life returns to nature, spring in Mongolia isn’t quite that. In fact, spring is still uncomfortably cold and you should probably just think of spring in Mongolia as winter-lite.

Blizzards can still occur in May, which locals refer to as dzud (or zud, a natural phenomenon that kills off a large portion of herds from starvation since they aren’t able to graze), and it’s still a harsh time in the country as locals start to run out of winter rations and look forward to warmer summer months.

However, as is usually the case in Mongolia, the brave are rewarded with two very cool festivals that make a trip to Mongolia in the spring worth it.

The annual Camel Festival is held each March in the Gobi Desert.

During the festival, there are camel polo matches, camel races, and friendly competitions among the local camel breeders. Mongolia is one of the few places in the world where you find Bactrian (two-hump) camels, and the Gobi Desert one of the only deserts in the world where snow accumulates. Making a trip down to the desert during this time is actually quite a magical experience.

Also in March, the annual Ice Festival is held on Lake Khuvsgul, the world’s second-largest freshwater lake. The lake is completely frozen over and is strong enough to drive cars over and host an entire festival on.

And yes, this region bordering Siberia will be every bit as cold as you’d expect it would be, so don’t come unprepared. A fur-lined winter deel (traditional Mongolian robe) probably wouldn’t be a bad investment. You can have one custom-made in Ulaanbaatar as soon as you land.

Here are some other great things to see and experience when visiting Mongolia in March, April, and May:

Camel Festival
Ice Festival
Ulaanbaatar Eagle Festival

Finding a Cheap Flight to Mongolia

Check the cheapest rates to Ulaanbaatar on CheapOair.com below.

The best direct flights to Mongolia are on the following airlines:

Mongolian National Airline (MIAT)
Turkish Airlines

If you’re traveling from the U.S., your two best options are via Istanbul on Turkish Airlines or via Seoul on Korean Air. I usually recommend traveling via Istanbul if you’re departing from the east coast and via Seoul if you’re departing from the west coast.

Turkish Airlines is my personal preference and I’ve never had an issue with them. I particularly like Turkish Airlines right now because they have a layover program that includes a free 4-star hotel in Istanbul . Besides helping break up your jetlag, it’s also an excuse to cross another country off your list. Two birds, one stone!

From Europe, flying via Frankfurt on MIAT, Mongolia’s national airline, is another good option. As an airline, MIAT is safe, but they don’t always have the best track record for being on time, having a smooth check-in process, and cancellations do happen with them more often than other airlines. I have flown MIAT, but they usually aren’t my first choice.

Internal domestic flights can be booked through MIAT, Aero Mongolia, or Hunnu Air. Domestic roundtrip flights are not cheap, usually costing at least a few hundred U.S. dollars. It’s also extremely confusing to book these flights on your own, especially without a local Mongolian bank account. If you plan to book a domestic flight in Mongolia, I recommend getting a local tour guide or agency to help you through the process.

Once you land in Ulaanbaatar at Chinggis Khaan International Airport, here are the best ways to get from the airport into the city center .

Taking the Trans-Siberian Railway

Taking the Trans-Siberian Railway from Moscow to Beijing is one of the most iconic train journeys in the world. It’s high on my list of things to do, and I’m hoping to do it sooner rather than later.

Conveniently, the Trans-Siberian Railway stops in Ulaanbaatar, giving travelers an excuse to explore the city and surrounding countryside for a few days. The train station is located in the heart of Ulaanbaatar and most hostels and guesthouses offer free transfers from the train station.

Tips for Taking Taxis, Public Transportation, and Hiring a Driving

When it comes to hailing a taxi, finding the bus schedule, or hiring a private driver, there are a few things to know. Use these travel tips for getting around Mongolia cost-efficiently and with less hassle than if you were to have to figure it out on your own.

Finding a Taxi in Ulaanbaatar

You can hail a taxi in Ulaanbaatar simply putting out your hand to your side, signaling you’re looking for a ride.

These are not official taxis, but they are the most common way to get around the city. It’s how I get around almost every day. It’s safe and reliable, but you do need to explain where you’re going. I usually tell the driver a major landmark that’s close enough to where I’m going or I show them on Google Maps. On occasion, the driver will ask for your destination before allowing you in their car, just in case they aren’t going that way. Both male and female drivers stop and do this, sometimes with kids and other family members in the car. It’s all normal here.

When it comes time to pay your driver, expect to pay 1,500 MNT per kilometer . It’s helpful to have small bills and exact change, most drivers don’t carry cash.

If the thought of getting into a strange Mongolian’s car freaks you out, apps like UBCab are the Mongolian equivalent of Uber, which don’t exist in Mongolia. You’ll need a local Mongolian number to register within the app and begin requesting rides. The app is okay from a user perspective and the driver usually calls when they’re on their way to your pickup location.

You’ll still need cash if using UBCab, the app doesn’t accept credit cards. At the end of the ride you’ll see your total in the app, which also helps you get a gauge on the average taxi price to get around the city.

Scooters and Bikes

Ulaanbaatar is now home to both scooter and bike sharing apps.

Jet scooters are hard to miss scattered around town. To use one, download the Jet app ( Apple , Android ), scan the scooter’s QR code, and then pay by the minute. You can use the app to find a nearby scooter and while they are a convenient way to beat rush hour traffic, Ulaanbaatar’s sidewalks and drivers don’t make it the safest option. Ride with caution!

Hi Sainuu ( Apple , Android ) is the bikesharing app that’s taken over the city. It works much the same way as Jet and, again, should be used with caution.

Public Transportation in Ulaanbaatar

Buses within Ulaanbaatar are often crowded, especially around rush hour thanks to a lack of routes and other public transportation options. Ulaanbaatar does not have a subway system.

Cash is not accepted once you step on the bus so you’ll need a refillable U Money Smart Card (3,600 MNT to purchase) to take the bus. The price per ride is 500 MNT. You can purchase and refill a U Money Smart Card at bus kiosks around town or inside CU convenience stores. Note that routes and bus numbers will appear in Cyrillic.

You can find information on bus stops, waiting time, routes, and U Money kiosks on the UB Smart Bus app ( Apple , Android ).

Additionally, it’s possible to take buses from Ulaanbaatar to different cities throughout the country. Bus tickets and schedules are found at the Dragon Center Bus Station, on the outskirts of Ulaanbaatar. You can now purchase bus tickets to destinations outside of Ulaanbaatar online , but be warned the system doesn’t always work as promised. I recommend going to the bus station a day before you plan to depart Ulaanbaatar to get the most up-to-date schedule and purchase your ticket in-person then.

A bus ride to Moron, for example, will be relatively inexpensive, costing 32,000 MNT for the 14-hour ride.

Renting a Car in Ulaanbaatar

Renting a car in Mongolia these days isn’t as cheap as it used to be. In fact, it’s downright expensive. With only two major rental companies to choose from, Avis and Sixt, there’s a monopoly on the car rental market. When you rent from either company, expect to pay a deposit on the rental around $2,000 USD, not including any of your rental costs, which will also need paid up front. If there’s no damage done to the car, you’ll get the deposit money back after returning the rental at the end of your trip.

One hack to that is renting a car through a company like Follow the Tracks . The company offers self-driving tours of Mongolia and these cars are equipped with rooftop tents and they even give you a route to follow.

Another reason I really like Follow the Tracks is because it can be very difficult to navigate Mongolia on your own. Once you leave the city the roads conditions start to worsen, and fast.

Unless you’re a driver who’s really comfortable driving off-roading, and in extreme conditions, I don’t recommend renting a car in Mongolia.

Instead, hire a driver.

Hiring a Driver in Mongolia

There are a few benefits to hiring a driver in Mongolia.

First, like I mentioned above, unless you are really comfortable driving off-road, driving in Mongolia is not easy.

Second, you can’t beat the cost. The cost per day to hire a driver with a car in Mongolia is currently 200,000 MNT per day. You are responsible for the driver’s meals, making sure they have a place to sleep, and you’ll pay for your own gas along the way. Your gas costs will depend on your route, and the type of car you’re in, but expect to fill up at least three to four times during your trip at 300,000 to 400,000 MNT per tank.

Your driver will need to be paid in cash at the end of your trip. Gas can usually be paid for by credit card at gas stations like Petrovis, but you should also carry emergency cash on you for at least two tanks of gas, just in case.

I recommend hiring a driver with either a Toyota Land Cruiser 200, Toyota Delica, or Russian UAZ furgon. These will be the most reliable cars that will get you across the steppe. UAZ furgons are the least comfortable of the three options, and usually also the cheapest.

Drivers are always flexible, easy going, and ready to fix their own car when something goes wrong. Something I can almost guarantee will happen. Usually drivers don’t speak English, but you’ll quickly learn the key words you need to get through your journey. Never underestimate the power of sign language and Google Translate. Take the time to get to know your driver, they’re funny characters that start to become like family in no time.

Popular Mongolia Guides:

11 Traditional Mongolian Foods To Know
Gift Ideas for Visiting a Nomadic Family
Best Books About Mongolia
What to Budget and Travel Costs (2023)
How to Get From Ulaanbaatar Airport to the City Center

Itinerary Ideas & Packing Lists:

Chinggis Khaan Equestrian Statue & Gorkhi-Terelj National Park Day Trip
How to Attend Naadam, Mongolia’s Biggest National Festival
Mongolia Packing List: The Essentials

Plugs and Voltage

Sockets in Mongolia work with both U.S. (type B plugs with two flat prongs and a grounding pin) and European plugs (type C plugs with two round pins). Each socket has one type of each plug.

So, if you’re coming from the U.S., your device will work in most wall sockets in Mongolia. However, it is important to note that there will be a voltage difference. In Mongolia the sockets are 230 volts, compared to the typical 120 volt sockets we use in the U.S.

Most computer chargers, phone chargers, and other electronics have power converters built into the device to account for these types of voltage differences.

For example, I use my U.S. computer charger without any issue. I plug it right into the socket in my apartment, in coffee shops, in hotels – everywhere – and I’ve never had an issue. The same goes with my phone charger, camera battery charger, drone charger, hair straightener, and just about any other electronic you can think of.

If you’d like to bring a wall charger that will allow you to charge via USB-A and USB-C, I recommend this travel adapter . This two pack also gives you the most charging power out of the shortest available charging time.

When packing for Mongolia, be sure to bring travel adapters, power banks, extra C charging cables, and a solar powered charger, if you have one. Electricity is not reliable or regularly available once you leave Ulaanbaatar, so you need to be prepared if you plan to travel around the country for several days. Especially if you plan to do a homestay or spend time in the more remote corners of the country.

As I mentioned above, be aware that the voltage is much higher in Mongolia than it is in the U.S. (230 V vs 120 V). If you plan to plug directly into the wall socket make sure your device has a built-in power converter, or you have a power adapter that allows for dual voltage.

Getting a SIM Card

The best place to get a physical SIM card in Ulaanbaatar is at the State Department Store on the 5th floor. There you’ll find Unitel , MobiCom , Skytel , and gmobile kiosks next to each other. Since they are all located next to each other, it’s easy to browse and compare each company’s service plans and choose the right one for your trip.

Most locals use Unitel, myself included, which offers some of the best service coverage across the country.

Getting a SIM card is quick and easy, but you will need to bring your passport with you to get one issued. You can use a credit card or cash to purchase your car and plan, which should cost less than 40,000 tugrik all together.

If you have an iPhone 15 that doesn’t have a SIM card holder , you can ask for your SIM to be converted to an eSIM . From experience, I know that Unitel offers eSIM cards .

eSIMS are also available in Mongolia and can be purchased through apps like Airalo. Purchasing an eSIM this way is more expensive ($35 USD compared to $10 USD), but it is more convenient and works just as well as using a physical SIM. If you’re short on time and won’t have time to make it to the State Department Store before leaving the city, this is a great option.

Before you purchase a SIM card of any kind, be sure to ask yourself if you really need or want one. Service in the countryside is hit and miss, so even if you purchase a SIM you may not have any data or service.

Only purchase one if it’s absolutely necessary for you to stay connected. Otherwise, enjoy being disconnected, that’s one of the best things about traveling in Mongolia.

If you do decide to purchase a SIM, the two most reliable service providers in Mongolia are MobiCom and Unitel. Tourist plans start as low as 20,000 tugrik and include international call rates, SMS messaging, and different levels of data. No service provider will be able to offer unlimited data, we just don’t have that in Mongolia yet.

Exchanging Cash in Ulaanbaatar

The local currency in Mongolia is Tugriks , also spelled togrog or used as the abbreviation MNT.

As of December 2023, one USD = about 3,455 Tugrik .

You will always need to have cash on hand in Mongolia. Even in Ulaanbaatar where credit cards are becoming more widely accepted. But, you can’t always rely on them to work. It’s especially known that there are issues with Mastercard credit cards and American Express. If you have a Visa credit card, that is your best option for using around the city.

Cash will always be needed if you hail a taxi off the street, and be sure to carry smaller bills on you at all times. Expecting exact change isn’t always possible. I recommend carrying at least ten 1,000 MNT bills, four 5,000 MNT bills, and two 10,000 MNT bills with you at all times. This is still a country where cash is king.

The easiest way to exchange USD or Euros for Tugriks is at one of the currency exchange offices off of Sambuu Street, near the Holiday Inn , where this Google Maps pin is.

There is also a cash exchange stand in the State Department Store, on the third floor, near the kitchen electronics.

ATM’s are more available than cash exchanges in the city, so you can pull out money that way as well. ATM’s typically have a withdraw limit of 500,000 MNT, 800,000 MNT at very select terminals.

Prepare to have what will seem like a large amount of cash on you and note that Mongolia does not use coins.

While most tour operators, guides and private drivers are happy to accept cash in USD or Euros, taxi drivers and local businesses will only accept MNT.

Take my advice and take care of this before you leave Ulaanbaatar for the countryside. Finding working ATMs and currency exchange counters isn’t so easy in the country’s small towns and remote areas.

Visa-Free Countries and How to Get an E-Visa

Citizens from more than 60 countries, including the U.S., Canada, Australia, New Zealand, Germany, Italy, Spain, and the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland can enter Mongolia without needing a visa.

U.S. citizens do not need a visa to enter Mongolia. If you are a U.S. passport holder, and you plan to stay more than 30 days, you will need to register with the immigration office within 7 days of arriving in the country. Then, you can stay up to 90 days without issue. If you fail to register with immigration, you’ll be fined a few hundred dollars at the airport when leaving the country.

Citizens of Canada, Denmark, Belgium, Germany, Iceland, Israel, Italy, France, Spain, Greece, Norway, Sweden, and Switzerland can stay visa-free for up to 30 days .

Citizens from 98 countries, including India, China, Mexico, Saudi Arabia, South Africa, and Armenia can now apply for an electronic visa before departing for Ulaanbaatar.

See the full list of visa-free countries here.

Registering with the Immigration Office

When I first started coming to Mongolia this process had to be done in person at the Immigration Office, which is nowhere near the center of town. Today the process is automated and takes only minutes to complete.

U.S. citizens who plan to stay in Mongolia for more than 30 days need to register with the Immigration Office within 48 hours of arrival.

This has nothing to do with being allowed to stay for up to 90 days visa free. This is absolutely mandatory. I can’t stress this enough. If you fail to register at the Immigration Office you will be stopped at passport control on your way out of the country and not allowed to board your flight until you pay the fine for violating this law. Even worse, you could be banned from entering the country ever again.

Luckily, you can now register with the Immigration Office online.

To register online with immigration you will need to do the following. You will need the information for the person responsible for your stay in the country, including their ID number, email, local phone number, and address . You should have this information before you begin filling out the form.

Go to https://immigration.gov.mn/en/
Click “Registration of a Foreign National”
Follow the steps on the form
Click submit and you’re all set. The form may not look like it’s been submitted, but it has.
You won’t receive a confirmation email so I recommend taking a picture of the screen or a screenshot in case there is an issue or dispute when you go to leave the country.

Language and Religion

Mongolian is the official language spoken in Mongolia. It’s written using the Cyrillic alphabet. Although it’s becoming more common to see it written using Latin letters.

Russian and English are the second and third most spoken languages by Mongolians. However, don’t expect most people in Ulaanbaatar to speak English. Most Mongolians don’t.

It will be more likely to find English-speakers in Ulaanbaatar. Once you leave the capital, don’t expect English to be a common language to use for communicating. (You can always use my Mongolian Language Cheat Sheet for help.)

Buddhism is the main “religion” practiced in Mongolia. About 80% of the population considers themselves Buddhist.

Mongolians also believe in respecting the earth and its inhabitants above all else. This is called Tengerism and it was primary religion in Mongolia centuries ago. Today Tengerism and Shamanism still play an important role in the core beliefs of most Mongolians, but they’ll still call themselves Buddhists.

While most of the country’s monasteries were destroyed during Soviet times, a handful can still be found across the country and are worth taking the time to seek out and visit.

Eating and Drinking in Mongolia

There are many amazing traditional Mongolian dishes to taste during your travels. From homemade buuz (dumplings) to tsuvian (friend noodles with dried meat and vegetables) and khuushuur (think: Mongolian hot pocket meets an empanada), you’ll have plenty of opportunities to taste them all. Especially if you’re planning to spend time with a nomadic family in their home.

There are a few important things to remember about eating and drinking in Mongolia.

First, it’s rude to accept food and not finish it. Food is a scarce and sacred resource on the steppe and it should be treated that way.

Second, always accept a plate, cup of tea, or anything else from your host with your right hand or two hands.

Finally, drinking is very common in Mongolian culture. A bottle of vodka for your nomadic host will always go a long way but be warned that (like many post-Soviet countries), alcoholism can be a problem. Always drink with caution and be aware of your surroundings and never drink and drive. Mongolia has a zero tolerance policy.

Besides vodka, airag , or fermented mare’s milk, is another common alcoholic beverage. It’s most commonly consumed in the countryside, where nomadic families make their own brew. Be cautious when drinking airag, your stomach won’t be used to the bacteria and it’s been known to make people run to the toilet. I’m speaking here from experience!

I recommend keeping your drinking to a minimum when you’re staying with a host family. Especially if you’re female or traveling alone.

Travel Insurance and Emergency Healthcare

Getting medical treatment is cheap compared to other countries. I paid about $3,000 all in for surgery in Ulaanbaatar at a private hospital when I broke my collarbone. If I was in the U.S. that same surgery would have probably been $30,000.

The downside of cheap medical treatments is that they aren’t always the most reliable or consistent. While I had a great experience, I can’t say that other foreigners have had the same.

This is why I always recommend purchasing travel insurance for your trip to Mongolia.

Should something terrible happen to you during your trip, such as a horse riding or car accident, your travel insurance policy should cover medical emergencies and evacuation. Be sure to do your research when looking at policies and choose the best one for you, your travels, and your budget.

Look for a policy that also covers trip cancellation in case you need to unexpectedly cancel your travel plans. Trip cancellation policies cover unforeseen events, like an illness, injury, jury duty, or an airline strike. Reimbursable costs in these instances could include transportation, accommodations, and tour costs, up to 100% depending on your policy.

If you experience a medical emergency while in Ulaanbaatar, the phone number is +976 103.

If you experience a medical emergency while outside of Ulaanbaatar, the best thing to do is get to the city as quickly as possible. If you don’t need to, don’t go to one of the local towns for medical treatment.

Hospitals I can vouch for in Ulaanbaatar are:

UB Songdo Private Hospital

You can find more information, including each hospital’s location and contact information, on our what to do in case of emergency page.

Author: Breanna Wilson

Hi! Sain uu! I’m Breanna, an American travel writer and adventurer living in Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia for more than 5 years. I’ve written for and been featured in Condé Nast Traveler, CNN, Forbes, and the New York Times, among others. Read more of my Mongolia travel articles here .

Train Like a Mongol Warrior During this 6-Day Mounted Archery Trip

AFFILIATE NOTICE

This website contains links to products and services where I may make a commission when you purchase. This supports the continued upkeep and development of this website. For an explanation on this policy, read my Advertising Policy page .

Tour packages
Tailor Made
Trip Calendar
How to get to Mongolia
Book train ticket
Book cheap air ticket to Mongolia
Best time to travel
Tourist Sim card
Mongolia Visa information
What to pack
Travel Insurance
List of Mongolian Embassy
Company profile
Clients Feedback
Job Vacancy
Terms & conditions
Privacy Policy
Practical Information
Destinations
Things To Do
Culture, Art & History
Nature & Geography
People & Society

Practical information
Gobi Desert
Western Mongolia
Eastern Mongolia
Central Mongolia
Northern Mongolia
Ulaanbaatar
Around Ulaanbaatar
Weather Forecast

How it began

Latest blogs

Mongolia is the place to visit in 2024

Do you crave a one-off kind adventure? Do you want to escape the tourist trail and truly get off the beaten track? Do you want a dynamic mix of culture, nature and history? Then Mongolia is the destination for you.

Whether you want to explore the capital of Ulaanbaatar, trek across the Gobi Desert on camels, ride on horseback through grassland or experience a homestay with a nomadic family, this country is an adventure lover’s dream. If you want an unplugged vacation and to explore a fascinating country, begin planning your trip to Mongolia today with Discover Mongolia.

We are dedicated to providing unforgettable experiences. We understand that joining small groups and receiving personal attention is very important to your enjoyment. All our tours are designed with the utmost consideration given to what travelers like you want most out of their trip. Book a trip to Mongolia today!

Enjoy 3 ways to Discover Mongolia

Looking for a trip that meets your interest and schedule?

Choose your own dates
Get exclusive use of a private guide, driver and vehicle
Personalised care, dedicated to you and your group
Flexibility towards time, allowing you to dictate when to stop and how long for
You select the level of your service
Great for families with children and groups of friends

Select and customize one of our existing tour. Or create your own itinerary
Get PAX based price. More people join? You will save more money.
Promote your tour together to find you buddy! We will promote your trip for people who is looking for similar tours.
Enjoy your dream tour with your new friends

Discover the best that Mongolia has to offer.
Have fun and save money too.
It’s made easier and safer in a group
No stress of planning itineraries
Make friends from all over the world
Perfect for individual travelers and friends
Small group size with maximum 16 pax.
Departure is guaranteed even with a group of only two people.

Take a look at our most popular tours

Enter the former capital city of Mongolia
Visit the historic Erdene Zuu monastery
Ride to the Elsen Tasarkhai Oasis
See the fabulous Great Gobi Desert
Visit historic Kharkhorin and Erdene Zuu
Understand the nomadic lifestyle
Mongolian top attractions
Enjoy Bactrian camel ride
The nomadic lifestyle, culture, and tradition
More cultural and more historical
Orkhon Valley - UNESCO World Natural Heritage
Visits to 2 Beautiful National Parks
Amazing 130-foot Chinggis Khaan Statue.
Gracious and flowing natural scenery.
Hike the famous Turtle Rock and Aryabal Monastery.
Naadam - UNESCO World Cultural Heritage
Visit Great Gobi Desert & Terelj NP
Best time to experience Mongolia
See the fabulous Khongor Sand Dunes
Visit the amazing Vulture (Eagle) Gorge
Stop at Bayanzag, the home of dinosaurs
Visit the highest Mongolian mountain range
Trek across the Potanin glacier
Mingle with the local Kazakh and Tuvan people
Mongolian top attractions
Local Naadam Festival
Explore nomadic lifestyle, culture, and tradition

Why travel with us

Here are reasons you should plan with Discover Mongolia.

Our highly professional team provide exceptional service and strive to make our home your ‘home from home’, with tasty food, comfortable accommodation and hygienic facilities.

Your tour will be a truly immersive experience of Mongolian culture, heritage and history, providing a fascinating insight into our world-renowned nomadic way of life.

With fun, exciting activities set against the backdrop of our breathtaking scenery, your trip will be truly unforgettable!

We pride ourselves on making your tour an amazing adventure and an opportunity to try new experiences, all delivered with your safety as a priority.

We're passionate about ensuring you enjoy your tour, and hope you leave Mongolia feeling like we're more than just a travel company, that we're your friends.

Established in 2004, we have 15 years’ experience and are highly skilled at helping people enjoy adventures in our homeland.

Feedback from our beloved customers

Your Mongolia Travel Guide

Articles & Tips: Explore some of the best tips about Mongolia

Since 2004, we have been helping people the world over to enjoy unforgettable adventures to our homeland, and we do it all with expertise and passion.

Best seller tours
Tailor made tour
A day tours
Join in tours
Private tours
Best Time to Travel
Mongolian Visa Information
Hotel booking
Flight ticket booking
Train ticket booking

Cookies on GOV.UK

We use some essential cookies to make this website work.

We’d like to set additional cookies to understand how you use GOV.UK, remember your settings and improve government services.

We also use cookies set by other sites to help us deliver content from their services.

You have accepted additional cookies. You can change your cookie settings at any time.

You have rejected additional cookies. You can change your cookie settings at any time.

Passports, travel and living abroad
Travel abroad
Foreign travel advice

Entry requirements

This advice reflects the UK government’s understanding of current rules for people travelling on a full ‘British citizen’ passport from the UK, for the most common types of travel.

The authorities in Mongolia set and enforce entry rules. If you’re not sure how these requirements apply to you, contact the Mongolian Embassy in the UK .

COVID-19 rules

There are no COVID-19 testing or vaccination requirements for travellers entering Mongolia.

Passport validity requirements

To enter Mongolia, your passport must have an ‘expiry date’ at least 6 months after the date you arrive.

Check with your travel provider that your passport and other travel documents meet requirements. Renew your passport if you need to.

You will be denied entry if you do not have a valid travel document or try to use a passport that has been reported lost or stolen.

Visa requirements

You do not need a visa to visit Mongolia as a tourist for up to 30 days within a 6-month period.

For longer stays, or for business, work or residency, you must apply for the type of visa you need . For more details, contact the Mongolian Embassy in the UK .

Registering with the authorities

Your hotel or landlord will register you using an app. If you are travelling independently or staying with friends, you must register yourself with the Mongolian Immigration Agency . You do not need to go in person.

The agency will issue you with a digital residence permit that shows your passport number, address, photograph and fingerprints. Always carry it when you are in Mongolia.

Borders with Mongolia

Mongolia takes border security very seriously and foreign nationals are not routinely allowed access to border areas. The authorities can regard zones of up to 100km inside the border as a border area. If you wish to travel in these areas, you must get permission from the State Frontier Guard Authority. Only a few specified land border crossings are open to foreigners.

Border points open to British citizens

There are normally 8 border points open to British passport holders:

Chinggis Khaan International Airport in Ulaanbaatar
Zamin Uud – road and train crossing to China
Bulgan – road crossing to China in the west
Bichigt – road crossing to China in the south-east
Tsagaannuur – road crossing to Russia in the far west
Sukhbaatar – train crossing to Russia
Altanbulag – road crossing to Russia
Ereen-Tsav – road crossing to Russia

You may not cross into China or Russia at other border points, as they are only open to Mongolians, Chinese or Russians.

If you travel by train across the China-Mongolia border, expect a delay of a few hours as the railways use different gauges.

It is difficult to get visas for China or Russia in Mongolia. Ask the Chinese and Russian embassies in London about their visa requirements before travelling to Mongolia.

Mongolia-Russia border

You can only enter Mongolia from Russia on public buses, trains, taxis or private vehicles. All international flights are suspended.

Russian border officials will carefully examine your travel documents.

If you have arrived in Mongolia from Russia and need assistance, call +976 (11) 458 133 and select the option ‘consular services for British nationals’.

Vaccination requirements

At least 8 weeks before your trip, check the vaccinations and certificates you need in TravelHealthPro’s Mongolia guide .

Travelling with children

Adults accompanying children other than their own should have a notarised letter from the parents or legal guardian to confirm the arrangement.

Customs rules

There are strict rules about goods you can take into or out of Mongolia. You must declare anything that may be prohibited or subject to tax or duty.

If you become involved in a commercial dispute or a criminal investigation about a customs matter, you may be held in Mongolia until it is resolved. Ask to speak to the British Embassy, especially if the authorities say you must accept a travel ban.

Bringing your vehicle to Mongolia

If you plan to enter Mongolia at a land border crossing in your own vehicle, inform the tax authorities and border troops in advance – contact Mongolian Customs (in Mongolian). You must complete a customs declaration form – you can do this at the border or at Ulaanbaatar City Customs Office, next to the train station. Make sure you have all the vehicle documents, including your driving licence, ownership records and insurance.

If you do not leave Mongolia in the vehicle you used to enter the country, you must pay customs tax. The amount of tax depends on the vehicle’s engine size and value. For information, see Mongolian Customs (in Mongolian).

If your vehicle breaks down and cannot be fixed, you must pay for it to be transported out of Mongolia or sell it to a local mechanic.

If you sell your broken-down vehicle to a mechanic, you must still pay customs tax when you leave. You must show the customs office evidence you sold the vehicle (proof of sale document, photos, a letter from the mechanic and a police report).

You must not leave your vehicle unattended or abandon it. If you do, Mongolian Customs will contact the British Embassy and send you a fine. If you leave your vehicle in Mongolia, you must pay to store it with a mechanic or at an official customs warehouse. When you leave the country, you must submit a customs declaration form and show your driving licence, car ownership records and evidence of valid insurance.

Help us improve GOV.UK

Don’t include personal or financial information like your National Insurance number or credit card details.

To help us improve GOV.UK, we’d like to know more about your visit today. We’ll send you a link to a feedback form. It will take only 2 minutes to fill in. Don’t worry we won’t send you spam or share your email address with anyone.

Philippines
South Korea
National Parks
Travel Stories
How Much Does It Actually Cost to Travel the World?
What’s In My Backpack: The Ultimate Long-Term Travel Packing List
My Favorite Non-Fiction Travel Books
All Budget Travel Resources
Writing Portfolio

Mongolia Travel Tips: Everything You Need to Know

This post may contain affiliate links. This just means I may receive a small commission at no extra cost to you for helping them promote their product or service. I don’t endorse any services I don’t personally use or recommend.

“Serene lakes, abundant wildlife, high snow-capped Altai peaks, vast verdant landscapes, and hot dusty desert. You can expect all this in Mongolia. Travel here isn’t luxurious and it’s rarely easy. But it offers adventure that will likely change the way you view the world.”

This guide is filled with Mongolia travel tips and contains *everything* you need to know to travel in Mongolia. How to stay in a real local Ger (what is a ger?), where/how to rent your own vehicle, reputable tours for those that want them, invaluable items you should definitely bring with you, and which ATMs will actually give you cash. Think of it as a “before you go” informative guide. It doesn’t matter how you plan to visit the country — this guide is good for everyone.

I’ve written a slew of blog posts on travel in Mongolia following our heavily researched 3-week overlanding adventure in the country.

Can You Road Trip Mongolia Independently? (Tips for Self-Drivers & Car Rentals)

Routes. Off-road rules. Where to rent your car. Everything you need to know to…

Mongolia Packing List & What to Bring on a Mongolia Road Trip

No frills on this packing list. These are the things you NEED to bring…

18 Best Things to Do in Mongolia: Your Mongolia Bucketlist

The best things to do in Mongolia and HOW to experience them for yourself.

All Our Mongolia Travel Tips + Mongolia Travel Advice

Mongolian man riding on a horse in the open grass.

What to Expect in Mongolia

Mongolia is a rugged adventure travel destination no matter which way you tackle it. Most of the roads are unpaved and pot-holed while the environment ping-pongs from scorching hot to freezing cold.

You’ll most likely spend your nights camping in the remote wilderness or sleeping on a very thin “mattress” inside a Ger. Amenities like hot showers are not commonly available. You should be prepared to do your business in the outdoors if need be.

Ger is a traditional Mongolian nomad house. It’s like a yert, but made from canvas or yak hide. It usually contains several beds, a table w/ sitting area, and a wood stove.

You’ll also probably spend a lot of time driving or sitting in a vehicle because sights in Mongolia are very spread out. We often spent 10 hours a day in the car. On rough roads. If that sounds miserable to you this might not be your destination.

Mongolia is also not a foodie haven. It’s mostly survival food like flavorless boiled lamb and packets of instant noodles.

Towns outside the capital of UB are rarely more than a handful of homes, a Ger camp or hotel, one mini-market for groceries, a restaurant or two, and a basketball hoop. Mongolians love basketball.

You can also expect stunning scenery, fuzzy yaks and Bactrian camels, rolling sand dunes, and reindeer herders.

Mongolia doesn’t get a ton of tourists but those that do come are mostly South Korean and Chinese. They almost always travel in large group tours and you’ll see lots of these in the Gobi.

Toilets in Mongolia

I feel this deserved its own little section. Be sure to bring your own toilet paper and hand sanitizer. These are some of the toilets you should expect in Mongolia.

Sometimes they are more enclosed! But outside of cities and fancy ger camps, you should expect this kind of natural squat toilet.

Planning Your Trip

I’ve written some sample itineraries that I recommend for a 1-week , 2-week , or 3 to 4-week Mongolia trip.

Keep in mind you will ALWAYS need more time than you think you do in the country. Especially if you are traveling independently— leave yourself time for misadventure.

Best Time to Visit Mongolia

Full Travel Season: Late May-September

Peak: Late June-August

This is not a year-round destination for most people. Ulaanbaatar is actually the coldest capital in the world with an average temp of -1 degrees C. Up north, temperatures drop to -45 C in winter. If you plan to travel around the country plan your visit for the travel season. Peak season if you can.

Note: Many remote attractions, businesses, and museums close outside the tourist season. But the few open hotels are usually 1/2 or 1/4 of the price they sell for in July/August. Especially the more luxurious places.

Mongolia Travel Tips for Before You Go…

Things you should definitely pack (or purchase on arrival) for mongolia .

Warm Layers. Lots of them. It gets cold at night even in the summer months.
A good pillow. For camping and Gers.
A hat and sunglasses for the desert.
Lifestraw water bottle .
Sunscreen & Bug Spray.

I wrote a huge post about what to pack in Mongolia if you plan on driving the country yourself.

If you’ve forgotten anything essential UB can probably help. There are camping and outdoor stores literally all over the city.

3 Apps to Download for Mongolia

1. Google Translate

English is not widely spoken and menus will rarely be in English. The offline version of this app will help you communicate in a pinch.

2. Maps.Me

For getting around the country without the internet.

3. UBCab

This is Ulaanbaatar’s version of Uber and without a doubt the best way to get around the city.

Mongolia Maps & Guidebooks

For most travel, I think blogs have replaced guidebooks. But Mongolia is a very complicated and difficult destination to travel independently. It’s good to have a hard copy map or guidebook on hand. I thumbed through the LP Mongolia guide and found it rather helpful.

Lonely Planet Guidebook

Wifi & Internet in Mongolia

Wifi is a no-go pretty much anywhere outside of Ulaanbaatar. Even then it’s not the best. Many of the fancier Gers we stayed at had power and hot water but no wifi. This is why most travelers get a SIM card in the country. Or use this time to really disconnect. We almost NEVER get a SIM while we travel but we did here.

Mongolia has a surprisingly good network of coverage…we had service in the Gobi desert!

The gobi desert rolling sand dunes with camels in the foreground and mountains in the back

Getting a Mongolian SIM Card

If you plan on traveling in Mongolia independently at all you’ll benefit from a SIM card.

The most popular brands with good coverage are Unitell & Mobiphone.

Note: If you’re road tripping it’s best to have one of each among your group. Maximize your coverage.

Unlike most countries where you get your SIM at the airport— this isn’t the case for Mongolia. You can get your SIM easily at State Department Store right in the city center instead. Or just head to any of your desired provider’s offices throughout the city.

Outside of UB, you’ll have to get a “local SIM”. This means you need a kind local with an ID card to purchase the plan for you. This is possible but more difficult and why you should get this sorted in UB right away.

Cash or Card: Money in Mongolia

Mongolia is a mostly cash economy. You’ll want a lot of it before you head out of Ulaanbaatar. ATMs in rural areas are not usable with a foreign card.

Mastercard is not accepted everywhere. Have a backup.
Gas stations *typically* take cards but don’t count on them.
Basically, everything in Ulaanbaatar accepts card but don’t expect that anywhere else.
You might have to try several ATMs in a city to find one with cash in it.

Note: Most ATMs only allow you to take out 800,000 tugriks at one time.

Getting Around Mongolia

Travelers have essentially 4 options when visiting the country.

1. Take a Tour.

There is no shortage of tour companies operating in Mongolia. Every single hostel/hotel in Mongolia offers them. There are also hundreds online ready to book long before your trip. You can expect to pay anywhere from $1,500-$3,000 per person for a 7-day tour. This is the most popular and expensive option.

Tips for Choosing a Tour

It will always be cheaper to book your tour in Ulaanbaatar from your hostel or other budget accommodation than online.
Tours in Mongolia are super structured and all visit basically the same places.
If you plan to visit the nomadic reindeer herders DO NOT book with a guide from Ulaanbaatar. There are lots of reasons for this that I outline in my full post about our visit with the Tsataan Tribe.

Tour Companies I Recommend

Get Your Guide Tours

This is my favorite search engine to find tours led by local guides.

Zaya (Gateway to the Reindeer Herders)

Zaya is the only reindeer herder who speaks fluent English. She can organize your entire visit to the Tsaaganuur area. You can contact her on WhatsApp or via email to organize your visit. She doesn’t always have service because she lives in the Taiga but give her time and she will get back to you. This is important to arrange in advance if you can.

Whatsapp: +976 9977 0480

Email: [email protected]

Note: It’s important you go through her because this is the only way your money actually makes it to the tribe you’re visiting. Read more about it here.

2. Overland or Drive Yourself

I may be biased but I’ll just come out and say it, this is the best way to experience the country. Mongolia’s sights are impressive but it’s the camping and vast nature in between them that make the country unique. This gives you the most control over your trip. You can expect to pay around $200 per day for a 4×4 vehicle with camping gear and rescue supplies through Drive Mongolia . Be sure to secure your car as far in advance as you can (6 months is recommended).

Note: This is NOT the route for everyone. Before you commit to driving the country independently please read my blog post “Can You Drive Mongolia on Your Own?”

Where to Rent Your Car

While several major car rental companies operate in Mongolia, we chose to use Drive Mongolia for the customer service, the included gear, and the local knowledge. It was also cheaper. So really, there’s no better option.

Mongolian Road Conditions

This is something worth considering before you opt to rent your own car. Our group of four managed to navigate across the country on the rough (non-existent) roads but you should prepare for the worst. This is only for people looking to have a “roughing it” style adventure. Read all my blog posts on road-tripping the country to get a better idea of what it’s actually like out there.

3. Rely on Public Transportation

Despite the lack of paved (or sometimes even designated roads), Mongolia has public buses. Or more likely public Russian Vans. Utilizing these will get you to all major towns in Mongolia (even Tsagaannuur!). It won’t however, get you to all the sights and it will not be comfortable.

This is the super budget-friendly option for travelers to Mongolia. Expect a 12-hour ride to cost about $20.

Mongolia Travel Tips for Super Budget Travelers

When you reach a major city like UB, Murun, or Tsagaannuur you can reach out to local guides via your homestay. This way you can see all the sights in the area.
Stick to cooking your own meals and small local restaurants for food. Plates at these kinds of places are usually $2.50.

4. Hire a Driver

If you don’t want to drive yourself in Mongolia THIS is the next best option. Rather than a structured group tour you can simply hire a driver to take you everywhere you want to go. Funnily enough, this is typically cheaper than hiring your own vehicle (due to Mongolian insurance purposes). Expect about $120 per day for driver and car.

Where to Hire a Driver?

Drive Mongolia . He can also hook you up with a driver, not just a car.
Facebook Group. This is a great option for solo travelers looking for Mongolia Travel Tips or couples because you can link up with fellow travelers and split the costs.

Note: Mongolians are insane drivers. Hiring a driver does not mean your car won’t break down, crash, or be extraordinarily bumpy— it just means you’ll have a local there to help you solve the problem.

Accommodation in Mongolia

When in Mongolia you’ll likely be utilizing 3 types of accommodation.

1. Tent Camping (if independently traveling)

This is totally free. In Mongolia, you can essentially set up your tent anywhere in nature and wild camp 100% for free. You should do this at least once on your trip.

Camping in the wide open landscape of Mongolia

The Central and Southern areas of the country centered around the Gobi are difficult to camp in because of the lack of grass and rocky soil. Keep this in mind when planning to camp.

Note: I scoured the Internet for epic campsites recommended by other overlanders but truthfully, it’s all beautiful. Don’t bother looking online and just judge the landscape for yourself.

2. Gers

This is one of the big attractions in Mongolia. Sleeping in a local Ger camp. These yerts are scattered all over the country and are still the main housing for farmers and nomads today.

Camps range from small family-run single Ger to sprawling tourist camps with 30+ Gers and extra facilities like showers and toilet blocks. They are priced per person and obviously the basic ones run by families are cheaper. Expect to pay from $8 per person to $20 per person.

A mongolian ger with the moon in the background

Amenities varied wildly with the Gobi desert camps being most expensive. Occasionally, a basic breakfast would be included in this price.

Eating at the Gers

I read a lot about Ger camps offering meals and having restaurants— and while some did, it was not super common in my experience. About 50/50. This is probably because we turned up unannounced and didn’t speak Mongolian. Plan on cooking for yourself UNLESS you are on a tour in which case the Gers always prepared them food.

Some areas had super luxurious gers that cost up to $200 per night. Obviously, these are not the real nomad Gers. We tried to stick to small ger camps and were always very happy with the experience. Here are some of our favorites.

Do you need a reservation?

Typically, no. The one exception was in Terelj where many owners actually live in UB so a heads-up would be nice. Just give them a call at the phone number listed on Google.

We did run into a few instances where camps were full because of arriving tours (high season) but there was always another one just down the road.

You will always find Ger camps near any attraction or any place you might visit in Mongolia.

3. Guesthouse/Hostel/Hotel

You will most likely only use these in major cities like UB.

If you’re traveling in peak season (you should) you will want to book your accommodation in Ulaanbaatar as far in advance as you can. The cheap city center hostels and hotels book quickly. I recommend a week in advance if possible.

Ulaanbaatar Accommodation Recs

The budget-friendly option is in the best neighborhood BUT with a full buffet, excellent wifi, and an incredible shower that can hose off all the dirt after all your cross-country exploring the Ibis is worth an end-of-trip splurge for some.

Budget: Mongolia Vision Tours

Luxury: Ibis Polaris

Food in Mongolia

Boiled lamb. It’s what’s for dinner.

And lunch and sometimes even breakfast. This is the staple of Mongolian cuisine. You’ll get so tired of boiled lamb you’ll never want to even look at it again.

The most popular dishes are fried meat pockets called Huushuur, Tsuivan; a fried noodle dish, and Lavsha; a wheat noodle soup. There are also delicious dumplings.

Food in UB was alright, but overall unimpressive. This is not a country to come to for the food alone. Instead, all my foodies should go to Vietnam (specifically, Ho Chi Minh City ).

Vegans or Vegetarians in Mongolia?

Expect to cook your own meals. Often small local restaurants had no veg options.

Mongolia (especially the rural area) is still sustenance farming and eating whatever is available to survive. Vegetarian and veganism is not prominent here.

As it’s seen as incredibly rude to refuse a cup of tea (which is made with local milk) I would strongly reevaluate why you want to visit this country if you’re strictly vegan.

For a full list of Mongolian etiquette & superstitions check out this blog post. *coming soon*

General Mongolia Travel Tips

Here are the odds and ends to wrap up what you need to know for Mongolia travel.

Large statue of Ghenggis Khan in Mongolia

Medical care is pretty good in the cities and very good in UB. But outside major cities, you’ll likely be days away from any hospital.
Days are long in Mongolia’s peak season! The sun doesn’t set until 8 or 9 PM in August. But obviously, the opposite can be said about traveling in the off-season.

I’m thoroughly impressed if you’re still with me. Mongolia is an incredible destination and one that requires quite a bit of pre-planning but it is so worth it. I hope this guide helps you feel more prepared to land in the country and excited to explore all the natural wonders it has to offer!

Save Mongolia Travel Tips for Later!

Mongolia’s Flaming Cliffs: What You Need to Know

Yolyn Am Valley, Mongolia: Ibex, Snow Leopards, and Granite Walls

Erdene Zu Monastery: The Oldest Buddhist Site in Mongolia

No comments, leave a reply cancel reply.

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Notify me of new posts by email.

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

Mongolia's Flaming Cliffs: What You Need to Know

How to visit the tsaatan: mongolia's nomadic reindeer tribe, beyond_the_bucketlist.

You are using an outdated browser. Upgrade your browser today or install Google Chrome Frame to better experience this site.

Mongolia Traveler View

Travel health notices, vaccines and medicines, non-vaccine-preventable diseases, stay healthy and safe.

Packing List

After Your Trip

There are no notices currently in effect for Mongolia.

⇧ Top

Check the vaccines and medicines list and visit your doctor at least a month before your trip to get vaccines or medicines you may need. If you or your doctor need help finding a location that provides certain vaccines or medicines, visit the Find a Clinic page.

Routine vaccines

Recommendations.

Make sure you are up-to-date on all routine vaccines before every trip. Some of these vaccines include

Chickenpox (Varicella)
Diphtheria-Tetanus-Pertussis
Flu (influenza)
Measles-Mumps-Rubella (MMR)

Immunization schedules

All eligible travelers should be up to date with their COVID-19 vaccines. Please see Your COVID-19 Vaccination for more information.

COVID-19 vaccine

Hepatitis A

Recommended for unvaccinated travelers one year old or older going to Mongolia.

Infants 6 to 11 months old should also be vaccinated against Hepatitis A. The dose does not count toward the routine 2-dose series.

Travelers allergic to a vaccine component or who are younger than 6 months should receive a single dose of immune globulin, which provides effective protection for up to 2 months depending on dosage given.

Unvaccinated travelers who are over 40 years old, immunocompromised, or have chronic medical conditions planning to depart to a risk area in less than 2 weeks should get the initial dose of vaccine and at the same appointment receive immune globulin.

Hepatitis A - CDC Yellow Book

Dosing info - Hep A

Hepatitis B

Recommended for unvaccinated travelers of all ages traveling to Mongolia.

Hepatitis B - CDC Yellow Book

Dosing info - Hep B

Cases of measles are on the rise worldwide. Travelers are at risk of measles if they have not been fully vaccinated at least two weeks prior to departure, or have not had measles in the past, and travel internationally to areas where measles is spreading.

All international travelers should be fully vaccinated against measles with the measles-mumps-rubella (MMR) vaccine, including an early dose for infants 6–11 months, according to CDC’s measles vaccination recommendations for international travel .

Measles (Rubeola) - CDC Yellow Book

Rabid dogs are commonly found in Mongolia. If you are bitten or scratched by a dog or other mammal while in Mongolia, there may be limited or no rabies treatment available.

Consider rabies vaccination before your trip if your activities mean you will be around dogs or wildlife.

Travelers more likely to encounter rabid animals include

Campers, adventure travelers, or cave explorers (spelunkers)
Veterinarians, animal handlers, field biologists, or laboratory workers handling animal specimens
Visitors to rural areas

Since children are more likely to be bitten or scratched by a dog or other animals, consider rabies vaccination for children traveling to Mongolia.

Rabies - CDC Yellow Book

Tick-borne Encephalitis

For travelers moving or traveling to TBE-endemic areas

TBE vaccine is recommended for persons who will have extensive exposure to ticks based on their planned outdoor activities and itinerary.

TBE vaccine may be considered for persons who might engage in outdoor activities in areas ticks are likely to be found.

Tick-borne Encephalitis - CDC Yellow Book

Recommended for most travelers, especially those staying with friends or relatives or visiting smaller cities or rural areas.

Typhoid - CDC Yellow Book

Dosing info - Typhoid

Avoid contaminated water

Leptospirosis

How most people get sick (most common modes of transmission)

Touching urine or other body fluids from an animal infected with leptospirosis
Swimming or wading in urine-contaminated fresh water, or contact with urine-contaminated mud
Drinking water or eating food contaminated with animal urine
Avoid contaminated water and soil

Clinical Guidance

Airborne & droplet.

Breathing in air or accidentally eating food contaminated with the urine, droppings, or saliva of infected rodents
Bite from an infected rodent
Less commonly, being around someone sick with hantavirus (only occurs with Andes virus)
Avoid rodents and areas where they live
Avoid sick people

Tuberculosis (TB)

Breathe in TB bacteria that is in the air from an infected and contagious person coughing, speaking, or singing.

Learn actions you can take to stay healthy and safe on your trip. Vaccines cannot protect you from many diseases in Mongolia, so your behaviors are important.

Eat and drink safely

Food and water standards around the world vary based on the destination. Standards may also differ within a country and risk may change depending on activity type (e.g., hiking versus business trip). You can learn more about safe food and drink choices when traveling by accessing the resources below.

Choose Safe Food and Drinks When Traveling
Water Treatment Options When Hiking, Camping or Traveling
Global Water, Sanitation and Hygiene | Healthy Water
Avoid Contaminated Water During Travel

You can also visit the Department of State Country Information Pages for additional information about food and water safety.

Prevent bug bites

Bugs (like mosquitoes, ticks, and fleas) can spread a number of diseases in Mongolia. Many of these diseases cannot be prevented with a vaccine or medicine. You can reduce your risk by taking steps to prevent bug bites.

What can I do to prevent bug bites?

Cover exposed skin by wearing long-sleeved shirts, long pants, and hats.
Use an appropriate insect repellent (see below).
Use permethrin-treated clothing and gear (such as boots, pants, socks, and tents). Do not use permethrin directly on skin.
Stay and sleep in air-conditioned or screened rooms.
Use a bed net if the area where you are sleeping is exposed to the outdoors.

What type of insect repellent should I use?

FOR PROTECTION AGAINST TICKS AND MOSQUITOES: Use a repellent that contains 20% or more DEET for protection that lasts up to several hours.
Picaridin (also known as KBR 3023, Bayrepel, and icaridin)
Oil of lemon eucalyptus (OLE) or para-menthane-diol (PMD)
2-undecanone
Always use insect repellent as directed.

What should I do if I am bitten by bugs?

Avoid scratching bug bites, and apply hydrocortisone cream or calamine lotion to reduce the itching.
Check your entire body for ticks after outdoor activity. Be sure to remove ticks properly.

What can I do to avoid bed bugs?

Although bed bugs do not carry disease, they are an annoyance. See our information page about avoiding bug bites for some easy tips to avoid them. For more information on bed bugs, see Bed Bugs .

For more detailed information on avoiding bug bites, see Avoid Bug Bites .

Stay safe outdoors

If your travel plans in Mongolia include outdoor activities, take these steps to stay safe and healthy during your trip.

Stay alert to changing weather conditions and adjust your plans if conditions become unsafe.
Prepare for activities by wearing the right clothes and packing protective items, such as bug spray, sunscreen, and a basic first aid kit.
Consider learning basic first aid and CPR before travel. Bring a travel health kit with items appropriate for your activities.
If you are outside for many hours in heat, eat salty snacks and drink water to stay hydrated and replace salt lost through sweating.
Protect yourself from UV radiation : use sunscreen with an SPF of at least 15, wear protective clothing, and seek shade during the hottest time of day (10 a.m.–4 p.m.).
Be especially careful during summer months and at high elevation. Because sunlight reflects off snow, sand, and water, sun exposure may be increased during activities like skiing, swimming, and sailing.
Very cold temperatures can be dangerous. Dress in layers and cover heads, hands, and feet properly if you are visiting a cold location.

Stay safe around water

Swim only in designated swimming areas. Obey lifeguards and warning flags on beaches.
Practice safe boating—follow all boating safety laws, do not drink alcohol if driving a boat, and always wear a life jacket.
Do not dive into shallow water.
Do not swim in freshwater in developing areas or where sanitation is poor.
Avoid swallowing water when swimming. Untreated water can carry germs that make you sick.
To prevent infections, wear shoes on beaches where there may be animal waste.

Keep away from animals

Most animals avoid people, but they may attack if they feel threatened, are protecting their young or territory, or if they are injured or ill. Animal bites and scratches can lead to serious diseases such as rabies.

Follow these tips to protect yourself:

Do not touch or feed any animals you do not know.
Do not allow animals to lick open wounds, and do not get animal saliva in your eyes or mouth.
Avoid rodents and their urine and feces.
Traveling pets should be supervised closely and not allowed to come in contact with local animals.
If you wake in a room with a bat, seek medical care immediately. Bat bites may be hard to see.

All animals can pose a threat, but be extra careful around dogs, bats, monkeys, sea animals such as jellyfish, and snakes. If you are bitten or scratched by an animal, immediately:

Wash the wound with soap and clean water.
Go to a doctor right away.
Tell your doctor about your injury when you get back to the United States.

Consider buying medical evacuation insurance. Rabies is a deadly disease that must be treated quickly, and treatment may not be available in some countries.

Reduce your exposure to germs

Follow these tips to avoid getting sick or spreading illness to others while traveling:

Wash your hands often, especially before eating.
If soap and water aren’t available, clean hands with hand sanitizer (containing at least 60% alcohol).
Don’t touch your eyes, nose, or mouth. If you need to touch your face, make sure your hands are clean.
Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue or your sleeve (not your hands) when coughing or sneezing.
Try to avoid contact with people who are sick.
If you are sick, stay home or in your hotel room, unless you need medical care.

Avoid sharing body fluids

Diseases can be spread through body fluids, such as saliva, blood, vomit, and semen.

Protect yourself:

Use latex condoms correctly.
Do not inject drugs.
Limit alcohol consumption. People take more risks when intoxicated.
Do not share needles or any devices that can break the skin. That includes needles for tattoos, piercings, and acupuncture.
If you receive medical or dental care, make sure the equipment is disinfected or sanitized.

Know how to get medical care while traveling

Plan for how you will get health care during your trip, should the need arise:

Carry a list of local doctors and hospitals at your destination.
Review your health insurance plan to determine what medical services it would cover during your trip. Consider purchasing travel health and medical evacuation insurance.
Carry a card that identifies, in the local language, your blood type, chronic conditions or serious allergies, and the generic names of any medications you take.
Some prescription drugs may be illegal in other countries. Call Mongolia’s embassy to verify that all of your prescription(s) are legal to bring with you.
Bring all the medicines (including over-the-counter medicines) you think you might need during your trip, including extra in case of travel delays. Ask your doctor to help you get prescriptions filled early if you need to.

Many foreign hospitals and clinics are accredited by the Joint Commission International. A list of accredited facilities is available at their website ( www.jointcommissioninternational.org ).

In some countries, medicine (prescription and over-the-counter) may be substandard or counterfeit. Bring the medicines you will need from the United States to avoid having to buy them at your destination.

Select safe transportation

Motor vehicle crashes are the #1 killer of healthy US citizens in foreign countries.

In many places cars, buses, large trucks, rickshaws, bikes, people on foot, and even animals share the same lanes of traffic, increasing the risk for crashes.

Be smart when you are traveling on foot.

Use sidewalks and marked crosswalks.
Pay attention to the traffic around you, especially in crowded areas.
Remember, people on foot do not always have the right of way in other countries.

Riding/Driving

Choose a safe vehicle.

Choose official taxis or public transportation, such as trains and buses.
Ride only in cars that have seatbelts.
Avoid overcrowded, overloaded, top-heavy buses and minivans.
Avoid riding on motorcycles or motorbikes, especially motorbike taxis. (Many crashes are caused by inexperienced motorbike drivers.)
Choose newer vehicles—they may have more safety features, such as airbags, and be more reliable.
Choose larger vehicles, which may provide more protection in crashes.

Think about the driver.

Do not drive after drinking alcohol or ride with someone who has been drinking.
Consider hiring a licensed, trained driver familiar with the area.
Arrange payment before departing.

Follow basic safety tips.

Wear a seatbelt at all times.
Sit in the back seat of cars and taxis.
When on motorbikes or bicycles, always wear a helmet. (Bring a helmet from home, if needed.)
Avoid driving at night; street lighting in certain parts of Mongolia may be poor.
Do not use a cell phone or text while driving (illegal in many countries).
Travel during daylight hours only, especially in rural areas.
If you choose to drive a vehicle in Mongolia, learn the local traffic laws and have the proper paperwork.
Get any driving permits and insurance you may need. Get an International Driving Permit (IDP). Carry the IDP and a US-issued driver's license at all times.
Check with your auto insurance policy's international coverage, and get more coverage if needed. Make sure you have liability insurance.
Avoid using local, unscheduled aircraft.
If possible, fly on larger planes (more than 30 seats); larger airplanes are more likely to have regular safety inspections.
Try to schedule flights during daylight hours and in good weather.

Medical Evacuation Insurance

If you are seriously injured, emergency care may not be available or may not meet US standards. Trauma care centers are uncommon outside urban areas. Having medical evacuation insurance can be helpful for these reasons.

Helpful Resources

Road Safety Overseas (Information from the US Department of State): Includes tips on driving in other countries, International Driving Permits, auto insurance, and other resources.

The Association for International Road Travel has country-specific Road Travel Reports available for most countries for a minimal fee.

Maintain personal security

Use the same common sense traveling overseas that you would at home, and always stay alert and aware of your surroundings.

Before you leave

Research your destination(s), including local laws, customs, and culture.
Monitor travel advisories and alerts and read travel tips from the US Department of State.
Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) .
Leave a copy of your itinerary, contact information, credit cards, and passport with someone at home.
Pack as light as possible, and leave at home any item you could not replace.

While at your destination(s)

Carry contact information for the nearest US embassy or consulate .
Carry a photocopy of your passport and entry stamp; leave the actual passport securely in your hotel.
Follow all local laws and social customs.
Do not wear expensive clothing or jewelry.
Always keep hotel doors locked, and store valuables in secure areas.
If possible, choose hotel rooms between the 2nd and 6th floors.

Healthy Travel Packing List

Use the Healthy Travel Packing List for Mongolia for a list of health-related items to consider packing for your trip. Talk to your doctor about which items are most important for you.

Why does CDC recommend packing these health-related items?

It’s best to be prepared to prevent and treat common illnesses and injuries. Some supplies and medicines may be difficult to find at your destination, may have different names, or may have different ingredients than what you normally use.

If you are not feeling well after your trip, you may need to see a doctor. If you need help finding a travel medicine specialist, see Find a Clinic . Be sure to tell your doctor about your travel, including where you went and what you did on your trip. Also tell your doctor if you were bitten or scratched by an animal while traveling.

For more information on what to do if you are sick after your trip, see Getting Sick after Travel .

Map Disclaimer - The boundaries and names shown and the designations used on maps do not imply the expression of any opinion whatsoever on the part of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention concerning the legal status of any country, territory, city or area or of its authorities, or concerning the delimitation of its frontiers or boundaries. Approximate border lines for which there may not yet be full agreement are generally marked.

Other Destinations

If you need help finding travel information:

Message & data rates may apply. CDC Privacy Policy

File Formats Help:

Adobe PDF file
Microsoft PowerPoint file
Microsoft Word file
Microsoft Excel file
Audio/Video file
Apple Quicktime file
RealPlayer file
Zip Archive file

Exit Notification / Disclaimer Policy

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) cannot attest to the accuracy of a non-federal website.
Linking to a non-federal website does not constitute an endorsement by CDC or any of its employees of the sponsors or the information and products presented on the website.
You will be subject to the destination website's privacy policy when you follow the link.
CDC is not responsible for Section 508 compliance (accessibility) on other federal or private website.

Borders Of Adventure

Leading Culture and Adventure Travel Blog by Becki Enright. Looking at the world with a different angle to change perceptions of misunderstood places, for the best in travel.

An orange overland truck and rows of green tents besides the wide Ugii Lake in Mongolia

Adventure Travel , Mongolia

This is How to Travel to Mongolia – Overlanding the Least Densely Populated Country in the World

Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links to handpicked partners, including tours, gear and booking sites. If you click through or buy something via one of them, I may receive a small commission. This is at no extra cost to you and allows this site to keep running.

Want to get to somewhere lesser-known and travel differently? This Mongolia travel guide shows how to go overlanding in the world’s least densely populated country.

Travel to Mongolia means tackling a land of extremes. Both in the landscape, from its vast desert lands and towering dunes to its lush green mountainous national parks, and in its lack of infrastructure, where you become just as frustrated as you are in awe by the country’s areas of extreme isolation.

Visiting Mongolia is to find a canvas of rugged beauty capped by a sky so blue that pollution isn’t even a word that exists here. Passing only wild horses, herds of cattle, an isolated ger in the distance, and the odd truck also on its way to the city, life here is at its purest and most beautiful.

Outside of its unkempt capital, Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia exists with limited facilities, but that’s what makes it attractive. On the road, it can take hours of driving before you pass a small ger community, a Mongolian on horseback or another vehicle, and in between blessed with the most stunning views of a country so desolate that you know you’ve reached the real heart of it.

Overlanding through Mongolia, rather than flying or taking the train, is one of the best decisions I have ever made. This guide will show you how to travel Mongolia from China by land, in a vast loop that takes in some of the country’s most treasured hotspots and wilderness hideaways.

A blue house with a red roof and a white Ger sit isolated in Mongolia's Orkhon Valley

Visit the Least Densely Populated Country in the World

Off the beaten track adventure, when is the best time to go to mongolia, it pays to know a local, classic nomadic mongolia, local living mongolia, discover mongolia – national geographic journeys, experience the naadam festival in mongolia, is mongolia expensive to travel, mongolia visa on arrival, visa-free access to mongolia, day 1: visiting ulaanbaatar, day 2: getting from ulaanbaatar to the gobi desert, day 3: visit the baga gazryn chuluu rock formations, day 4: sleep at a ger camp in the gobi desert, day 5: dalanzagad to gobi discovery ger camp, day 6: hiking in yolin am – mongolia’s ice valley, day 7: a trip to the gobi desert khongoryn els sand dunes, day 8: visiting the bayanzag flaming cliffs, day 9: seeing ongii monastery and driving to arvaikhee, day 10: stuck in mongolia, day 11: hiking in orkhon valley, day 12: seeing the orkhon valley waterfalls, day 13: visiting a mongolian family in a ger, day 14: erdene zuu monastery in kharkhorin, day 15: camping at ugii lake, day 16: visiting hustain national park and seeing przewalski’s horses, day 17: driving to ulaanbaatar and visiting terelj national park, day 18: hiking terelj national park and seeing turtle rock, day 19: a trip to the ghengis khan statue on the tuul river, day 20: back to ulaanbaatar, how to overland in mongolia, building a road in mongolia, getting stuck in the mud, the unexpected river crossing, what to pack for mongolia, planning mongolia travel pin it, why travel to mongolia .

Mongolia travel changes you and makes you appreciate the beautiful patches on the earth’s surface not ruined by extreme modernisation, pollution and overpopulation.

My time in Mongolia meant experiencing everything from bush camping to ger camps, being at one with nature (and not care who sees you squatting in the process) and realising that animals like to roam and Mongolians love to chat – right outside your Ger from 5 am.

I saw a night sky so clear that I didn’t think you could ever see so many stars. I traversed a land so serene in isolation and culture so welcoming that I hope it never, ever becomes ruined by tourist traps or the tight grips of mass capitalism (currently contained to Ulaanbaatar).

Wild horses in the Mongolian flat, barren landscape drinking from a small pool of water

Wild horses in the vast Mongolian landscape

If you want to get off the beaten track, not be on any set grid and take each day as it comes, you will love Mongolia. But this also comes with its frustrations where you need droves of patience and a good chunk of travel time to spare.

There are hardly any roads. Roads are dirt tracks or pre-made grooves in the land pointing the way, and paved highroads are very few and far between.

Mongolia is prone to unpredictable weather conditions. That means random onslaughts of rain and the likelihood that you are likely to get bogged at some point. There were countless numbers of times where we had to dig out and push the truck or find locals to come to the rescue – tractors are a saving grace here.

It’s a vast country that you could get lost in for weeks on end, and when you accept the setbacks, you start to see them as part of the big adventure – travel at its most raw. Back to basics, getting dirty and struggling with the lack of modern amenities we too often take for granted is part of what travelling in Mongolia is all about.

The orange and white overlanding truck used to travel to Mongolia and its rural landscape like the muddy one shown

The Overlanding vehicle used to travel to Mongolia and around.

The summer season between May to September is said to be the best time to go to Mongolia. July and August are the hottest months, with temperatures in the Gobi Desert reaching 40°C. Rainfall is at its highest between June and September, balancing out the heat while keeping the forest and valley lands, in particular, lush and fertile. I travelled to Mongolia in July and experienced a lot of rainfall alongside high temperatures.

Mongolia’s winter season is from November to February. While some people like to experience the landscape in this snowy season, temperatures can drop to below minus 20°C – a harsh and challenging environment to travel in. You’ll find that not many companies run tours during this time.

Is it Safe to Travel to Mongolia Safe?

While petty crime and pickpocketing are common in the capital, Ulaanbataar, Mongolia is a relatively safe place to travel, and I never encountered any significant problems. It pays to be more streetwise and alert in the city, as you would in any other. As the landing and departure point for tourists, opportunism poses a higher risk.

Despite the lack of infrastructure and the relative isolation when travelling through the country, the only minor issue we encountered was related to the high levels of alcoholism in the country. We saw drunk drivers on our long drives and an occasion or two when inebriated locals came to our makeshift camp out of curiosity. Even then, it never felt threatening, and we were always within the safety of our group.

On the whole, we rarely saw other people, and when we did, we were met with kindness, invited into homes and welcomed into common spaces such as markets and small-town social spaces.

I also travelled alongside a Mongolian guide – someone who could speak the language when we got stuck, who could walk to a nearby home and explain the need for assistance and who understood the land’s general navigation. Therefore, in Mongolia, it pays to get yourself a local guide, join a small group tour, formulate a small group of your own in Ulaanbataar or be equipped with general wilderness survival skills if going out there entirely on your own.

Mongolia Tours

When I was planning my trip to Mongolia, Dragoman was the only company offering Mongolia tours that lasted from ten days to two weeks. The 21-day overland journey was the first trip itinerary of its kind they were running here, which included Inner Mongolia. Today the 21-day trip, called Nomads & Wilds of Mongolia, is on a loop from Ulaanbaatar and includes Khovsgol Lake in the north. Although Dragoman suspended operations during the pandemic, they are back in 2024.

Adventure travel experts G Adventures, offer Mongolia tours that all start and end in Ulaanbaatar.

A 14-day trip, including all the highlights at an affordable price (from €1999), this Mongolia trip includes a Gobi Desert and Mongolian Grasslands stay, alongside packing in the major historical must-sees and cultural experiences that make Mongolia an unforgettable adventure.

This 10-day local living trip includes staying with three different families in Gers to experience life as a nomad. Mix historical monuments with cultural moments, exploring pastures, forests, lakes and national parks by foot and horseback while helping your host families prepare traditional dinners and learn the skills of their nomadic trades.

G Adventures, in partnership with National Geographic Journeys, offers a two-week comfort adventure through Mongolia . You get to visit Khustai National Park, Karakorum (the ancient capital of Mongolia), Tsenkher Hot Springs, the Orkhon Valley and more. You will also see a nomadic camel-herding family and dive deeper into Mongolia’s culture, as well as support the local community where tourists pass through.

Want to experience the Naadam Festival’s horseracing, archery and wrestling tournaments? This mini adventure takes you to it and throws you right into the buzz of traditional Mongolian festivities.

Mongolia is expensive to travel in and around due to the very nature that it is not overly touristic. Due to the lack of infrastructure, a tour with a local guide and appropriate transport can often be necessary to cover more ground.

You will need to budget between $2400-$3600 for an extensive trip around the country.
An average meal (if not making your own on the trip) costs around $5.
Entrance fees to historic sites and museums average around $2 per ticket.

For those on a budget, day trips can be taken from Ulaanbaatar, or you can try and plan some shorter 3-5 day trips from the city. However, this can often depend on having a minimum amount of people signed up for the trip to run and isn’t always guaranteed.

Do you need a Visa for Mongolia?

If you are not a national of one of the visa-exempt countries listed below, you will need a Mongolia visa.

A single-entry visa (valid for three months from the date of issue) for up to 30 days – £40/$50
A double-entry visa (valid for three months from the date of issue) for up to 30 days – £55/$65

It is cheaper to apply directly at a Mongolian Embassy (either at home before you leave or in the country you are travelling in prior). You will need a valid passport, passport photos and supporting trip documents alongside a completed application.

Allow one working week for processing. Some Embassies provide a one-day service for an extra charge.

A 30-day tourist visa on arrival is available for tourists coming from European and other countries where there are no Mongolian Embassies present, obtained at Ulanbataar Airport or the Mongolian land borders. I got my visa in London months before my trip.

The following countries are granted visa-free entry to Mongolia.

Visa-free entry for 90 days: Argentina, Belarus, Brazil, Chile, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Serbia, United States (US). Those from Ukraine require a form of invitation.

Visa-free entry for 30 days: Canada, Cuba, Germany, Israel, Japan, Laos, Malaysia, Russia, Singapore, Turkey, Thailand, Uruguay.

Visa-free entry for 21 days: Philippines.

Visa-free entry for 14 days: Hong Kong.

You can find further information on the Embassy of Mongolia website .

Where to Go in Mongolia – Itinerary

I spent 20 days Overlanding in and across the central and western Mongolian plains. We travelled in a big clockwise circle from Ulaanbaatar, through the scorching Gobi Desert to beautiful lakes, forests, canyons and waterfalls, all the while passing vast herds of wild horses, camels, goats, yaks and cows.

Overlanding in Mongolia for Three Weeks:

Kilometres travelled: 2492

Number of significant times the truck got stuck: 2

Number of minor times the truck got stuck: 12

Number of incredible driving days: 15

We spent a full day in Ulaanbaatar exploring outside of the stark Soviet communist-style architecture and moving past the city’s general dodgy feeling. There’s plenty to see and do here, including a walk through the modern Sukhbaatar (Parliament) Square, the Gandan Monastery, the National History Museum and the shopping paradise of the Black Market . In the evening, check out the singing, dancing and contortion talent at the Cultural Show before hitting a few bars and pubs. There’s so many you won’t know where to start.

Gandan Monastery in Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia

Three people photographing a pair of giant Golden statue feet outside the Gandan Monastery Ulaanbaatar Mongolia

The golden feet outside the Gandan Monastery Ulaanbaatar

We set off in the truck from Ulaanbaatar to drive to the Baga Gazryn Chuluu rock formations in the Gobi desert. Due to heavy traffic when getting out of the city and general road conditions we got delayed and so decided to set up bush camp for the evening. Be prepared for delays in Mongolia but delight in being the only people in the area. All the space is yours.

We got to Baga Gazryn Chuluu – rock formations worshipped by locals who make pilgrimages here partly because legend states that Ghengis Khan camped here – before journeying to the Gobi Desert.

Layers of of Baga Gazryn Chuluu rock formations in Mongolia poke out of the grassy slope

Layers of Baga Gazryn Chuluu rock formations in Mongolia

A woman sits crosslegged on top of a large rock in the middle of a grassy area, part of the Baga Gazryn Chuluu rock formations Mongolia

A hike to Baga Gazryn Chuluu as part of a Mongolia travel itinerary

On the way, we got to experience the famous Nadaam Festival when we passed through the local town of Mandal Govi . It was full of wrestling, horse racing, archery and fairground style fun. Nadaam means ‘games’, and the buzz was all around us as the only Westerners there. It was great to be a part of a traditional Mongolian community celebration, even if the afternoon was marred by a bogging, which resulted in the truck not being released from the soft mud until midnight.

Two wrestlers talks to five judges at the Nadaam Festival in Mongolia

Watching the wrestling at the Nadaam Festival in Mongolia

Mongolians in local dress gathered outside a white ger with their horses at the Nadaam Festival in Mongolia

Mongolian locals enjoy the Nadaam Festival.

The plan was to get to our first ger camp, but after approximately 30 kilometres, we encountered a large ditch of water on the road. It resulted in us having to drain the water by hand and build a road and a dam for most of the afternoon to help us get across. Although this sounds horrendous, it created a great sense of camaraderie and, ultimately, an immense sense of achievement. We got to camp on a high point of the Gobi Desert instead near the town of Tsogoovi .

A dozen white gers line a hilltop in the Gobi Desert Mongolia

A Ger Camp on a hilltop in the Gobi Desert, Mongolia

We began our journey without a hitch to the ger Camp called Gobi Discovery, stopping at the town of Dalanzagad on the way. Mongolian towns are typically tiny and compact settlements that are reasonably large but without the ruin of a city like Ulaanbaatar.

People gather in a courtyard surrounded by colourful buildings in the town of Dalanzagad, Mongolia

Market time in the town of Dalanzagad, Mongolia

We hiked in Yolin Am , a beautiful canyon in the Gobi, an ice valley, which hosts a colossal glacier all year round. The hike was spectacular, but, unfortunately for us, little of the iceberg remained, although we had lots of fun playing with what little ice there was regardless.

Two men travel by horseback in the Yolin Am valley in Mongolia

Hike or horseback in the Yolin Am Valley in Mongolia

Many sandy riverbed crossings eventually led us to our second Ger camp, Khongoryn Els Ger Camp. Here, you only have to open your ger door to be greeted with a breathtaking view of the Gobi and the Khongoryn Els Sand Dunes , which I later climbed, drank beer on and ran down. That was after a camel ride, of course.

A man and woman walk through the Gobi Desert Mongolia towards the Khongoryn Els Sand Dunes in the distance

The glorious Gobi Desert Khongoryn Els Sand Dunes

Bumpy mountain roads took us to the spectacular Bayanzag Flaming Cliffs , which are a Mongolian version of the Grand Canyon, but smaller. It’s a significant site that unearthed many dinosaur fossils and eggs, and it is also a stunning backdrop for bush camping.

The firey orange rocky layers of the Bayanzag Flaming Cliffs, which you can visit when you travel to Mongolia

The blazing ochre colours of Mongolia’s Bayanzag Flaming Cliffs

A woman sits if a rocky ledge overlooking the orange mars like landscape of Mongolia's Bayanzag Flaming Cliffs

Marvel the mars-like landscape of Bayanzag Flaming Cliffs when you travel to Mongolia

When the communists invaded Mongolia in the 1930s (known as the Purges), nearly all Monasteries were destroyed. Ongii Monastery was one of them, and we visited the ruins here before driving to Arvaikheer, where heavy rain forced us into a hotel for the night. At times, random bad weather makes bush camping in Mongolia impossible, so it is essential to prepare for a budget recount at any given time.

The site of the Ongii Monastery in Mongolia

The scattered stone ruins of Ongii Monastery in Mongolia

We began our journey to the third ger camp but got badly bogged around midday after the truck had to swerve slightly, of course, to miss a drunk driver who came in our path (sadly, a lot of people drink and drive here). It took over five hours to get out, with the help of a small local tractor, and during that time, a few of us who remained to help with the truck (local jeeps rescued a few) lost our minds. It was a hilarious few hours that would have made an excellent documentary, probably how a Lord of the Flies scenario starts.

Tractors help pull the Overlanding truck out of the sticky mud in Mongolia’s rural landscape.

The roads were not rigid and stable enough for the truck to continue, especially with all the hills. After setting up tents and cooking dinner, two small vans came to the rescue to take us on our two-hour journey to the Ger Camp. It was a scary ride in the dark, where we stopped at the driver’s backyard and where a small boy jumped into the hold of the van for the rest of the journey.

I highly recommend staying in a ger camp in the beautiful Orkhon Valley . There’s nothing like a pleasant hike through the beautiful forest to reach the Tuvkhon Monastery and see the surrounding area. Pure bliss.

A light path cuts through the green grass, towards the soft peaks in the Orkhon Valley Mongolia

The lush green leading to the soft peaks in the Orkhon Valley Mongolia

A small group set up camp from their overland truck in Orkhon Valley Mongolia

A rest stop in the scenic Orkhon Valley landscape

a small groups of travellers hike in the forest of Orkhon Valley Mongolia

Hiking the forest trails of Mongolia’s Orkhon Valley

The rocky plateau that surrounds the Tövkhön Monastery in Mongolia

A red door with mint green roof marks the Entrance to the Tövkhön Monastery Mongolia

The colourful entrance to the Tövkhön Monastery

The Orkhon Valley waterfall was the next stop on our five-hour drive to the next ger camp. This camp plays host to the famous hot springs in the region, where we went skinny dipping and enjoyed a few refreshing beers.

A Mongolian man sits in a chair peacefully enjoying the backdrop of the Orkhon Valley Waterfalls in Mongolia.

Fully clothed, of course, we took a short hike through the lush green forest to visit the source of the hot springs. When you come across your first sighting of trees after two weeks of barren land, you begin to appreciate such incredible surroundings.

A small group of tourists visit a local nomadic family in their ger in Mongolia

Visiting a local nomadic family in their ger in Mongolia

As we had two Mongolian guides with us (invaluable support in a country where very little or no English is spoken or understood), we could visit a Mongolian ger and a local family to learn about nomadic life.

It wasn’t a tourist set up, but a traditional, local family who lived on an isolated patch of land in the valley. We tried their dairy products (their source of income), including fermented mare’s milk, curd and butter, before learning about ger rules and traditions and asking each other many questions!

READ MORE: Visiting a Mongolian Ger – Understanding the Nomadic Culture of Mongolia

We needed a quick stop in the nearby town of Tsetserleg to stock up on food supplies. It was a market day with an electric atmosphere. I get a high from moments when you don’t know where you are and what to do, and where you have to work hard to communicate and negotiate.

We later visited the most important Monastery in the country, Erdene Zuu Monastery in Kharkhorin – the first Buddhist monastery in Mongolia that had up to 100 temples and 1,000 monks before the purges in 1937. Only three temples remained, alongside several statues and other items.

Layers roofed temple structures in a row line the wall of the exterior of the Erdene Zuu Monastery Mongolia

The exterior walls of the Erdene Zuu Monastery, Mongolia

The white temple complex inside Erdene Zuu Monastery Mongolia

Part of the temple complex inside Mongolia’s Erdene Zuu Monastery

The red and gold temple structures with green roofs at Erdene Zuu Monastery Mongolia

The red, gold and green temple structures at Erdene Zuu Monastery

A visit to the museum we camped next to – the Kultigen Monument, housing artefacts from the Turkish empire – set us on the way to the nearby Ugii Lake, where we would relax all day and camp for one night.

Ugii lake emits a calming atmosphere and invites you to traverse it slowly. While it would take almost a day to walk around, it’s a great place to unwind and reflect. I count this as one of my most favourite spots in all of Mongolia.

Our camping set-up beside Ugii Lake in Mongolia

We arrived at Hustain National Park in the afternoon to settle into a ger camp. This National Park is known for the rare Przewalski’s horse, unique to Mongolia. When you finally track down a small group, it’s still hard to see their beauty up close as you can’t get that close to them.

Still, we got to meet the ‘Best Mongolian Folk Band in Mongolia’ called Domog in the evening after a fantastic show where they performed rock-style tunes via the famed throat singing. I guess it is the equivalent of meeting Westlife in Ireland. Seriously.

Meeting Damog, the Best Mongolian Folk Band in Mongolia

We had to journey back through the crazy, construction-overloaded, traffic-ridden Ulaanbaatar to get to Terelj National Park and the last ger camp of the trip (we were due to bush camp the weather put a stop to that).

It’s incredible how a few hours down the road from the capital brings you to some of the country’s most spectacular landscapes.

Visiting the mountain backed Terelj National Park Mongolia

The road that leads to the heart of Terelj National Park, Mongolia

If you love walking and hiking, you will love Terelj National Park. Here you can wander for hours, hike to a Monastery and horse ride through the forests and rocky hilltops. Make sure you check out ‘Turtle Rock’ too. You may think it looks like something else from a certain angle!

One of the layered rock formations in Terelj National Park Mongolia

One of the layered rock formations in Terelj National Park in Mongolia

the famous Turtle Rock in Terelj National Park Mongolia, named for its shape similar to the animal

Visiting Turtle Rock in Terelj National Park Mongolia, named for its shape similar to the animal

Nothing beats the end of the wilderness journey than a visit to the giant 40-metre tall silver Ghengis Khan statue just outside of Ulaanbaatar on the banks of the Tuul River. Legend has it that it was at this spot that Ghengis Khan found his golden whip. Anyhow, a bit of a pilgrimage spot for locals, it was fascinating (if not a bit odd and imposing in the same way a colossal silver statue of Hitler in Germany would probably evoke the same feeling).

the giant, silver Genghis Khan Equestrian Statue in Mongolia

40-metre tall silver Ghengis Khan statue just outside of Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia

Back in Ulaanbaatar, I turned my hostel room into an office and distracted myself with a pizza slice, cake and coffee at Wendy’s Bakery – worth a visit alongside the State Department Store, which is right next to the hostel area. It’s an excellent chance to rest up after adventure through the vast landscapes of Mongolia.

The Dragoman overland truck is what we called home, except we didn’t sleep on it overnight. Instead, we went wild camping and every night, checking into a hotel once when the rains were too much to settle a tent comfortably.

The Outside

The truck’s exterior has lots of compartments – storage for luggage and tents and a clean water supply, mealtime equipment and food supplies. It’s a travelling transformer, and everyone has to lend a hand setting up and packing down for breakfast, lunch and dinner.

If you have no sense of camaraderie or hate getting dirty, then this isn’t the kind of adventure trip for you. I embraced it and loved every minute of ‘roughing it’.

The outside of the overlanding truck travelling in Mongolia which opened out into camping facilities and storage space

Travel in Mongolia was mostly about camping.

Twenty-three seats, a fridge, a safe, a bookshelf, prominent speakers and a place to recharge equipment, this is where we spend hours at a time, or what could end up being an entire day, traversing the landscape. We filled it with our belongings like a messy bedroom and made it cosy.

Inside the Overlanding truck on the journey travelling Mongolia

Along the Way

The two drivers are the mechanics, the navigators and the troubleshooters. Everything about the truck, from where it goes and how it gets there, hangs on their decision making, alongside our Mongolian guide who knew the land better than anyone else and could speak the language when we needed to call upon locals for help.

A truck drives through deep water, Overlanding in Mongolia nature

Overlanding in Mongolia was a real adventure.

Although the drivers would jump out to check the road, walking far ahead to determine the best track to take or check waterlogged areas (often by getting in the water) to limit the truck’s chances of getting bogged. We often stopped to help locals whose cars were stuck, knowing that karma would need to be returned one day.

The Realities of Rural Travel in Mongolia

“Ok, guys, you have to get off. It’s not looking good.” This phrase, accompanied by the engine’s low hum and strain as it finally gave up, became a regular occurrence during the three weeks I spent in Mongolia. Getting dirty in Mongolia is a given, but I never thought on my travels that I would push a truck out of thick, stodgy mud, build a road complete with a dam or wade knee-deep through a river to get to the other side.

In Mongolia, aside from the small handful of roads available, you will take the path less travelled, one that hasn’t been used for days or worn in by other vehicles for an easy pass. You could call it bad luck, or you could call it a reality, but travel comes with its challenges and getting stuck in Mongolia is by far the most common. While I wasn’t expecting substantial bogging incidents on this trip, I began to embrace them when they did happen. After all, the locals have to face these situations regularly. It became a part of what Mongolia is and what it means to cross her lands.

The drivers of the truck were responsible for assessing each situation when it arose. They were the first to get dirty, walk through the water and determine the outcome. At times it put you on edge, wondering how long you would be stuck somewhere with no one passing by for hours. At other times it merely meant us having to walk a short distance to lighten the truck.

Either way, the result was a massive whoop and roar for our truck, Archie, when he made it through. It felt good, and we then knew the next stage of the journey could begin. These are the times I’ll always remember.

A group helps find a track in the water for the truck to pass in Mongolia

Our group helps find a track in the water for the truck to pass in Mongolia.

It had been raining on and off for a few days, mainly in short spurts in the evenings, and we were bumping along the wet dirt tracks just fine. When the truck stopped, and we saw that two pools of water had filled two road tracks, we knew a bogging incident was imminent. The drivers walked, pondered and walked through the water. Could we drive through it without getting stuck?

The usual scenario rested on two possibilities – drive through it or find hard enough ground around it. Except that this time it was different. We were told: “We need to empty this road of water and then let the ground dry out so we can cross over it.”

Cue the mad dash to empty our camping gear to find our plastic washing-up bowls and any other form of a plastic container to begin the removal process. The ladies rolled up their shorts to get right in there and scoop out the water as the men started digging to create a road. Everyone built a dam by hand on each side of the tyre track grooves so that the emptied water wouldn’t flow back in.

It was hard work, but we became a team, a great team. The sun was shining that day which meant we only had to wait a couple of hours while the heat dried out our creation. We ate, we played, we sang, and we marvelled at what resourceful people we were. It was a scary moment when Archie made his move to cross our road (our beautifully crafted highway that could be crushed in seconds and need rebuilding), but he made it in one unbeaten run, and our handmade route was left to the land and in nature’s control.

Happening upon grassy, muddy areas is sporadic. You can never tell exactly how hard the ground is beneath it. After bouts of rain, the ground softens, and even though there were times when the truck had to work a little harder, it made it through.

We had just had a fantastic afternoon checking out a local Nadaam festival and were in high spirits, which we needed knowing that we would be driving for the rest of the day. Except we didn’t – we were soon stuck in thick, sticky mud, and no amount of pushing and revving was going to change it.

Teo men dig out a truck wheel from deep, wet mud while overlanding in Mongolia

Digging out the truck wheels from the deep, wet mud in Mongolia

Our Mongolian guide walked to the nearest ger to get help, and the locals later returned on a motorbike to check out the situation. The whole family came out – we regularly became a source of fascination or amusement en route through the country. However, they kindly decided to use their big, industrial tractor to help pull the truck out of the mud – that too got stuck.

With two vehicles out of action and night starting to fall, we decided to set up camp on a drier patch of land nearby, and the drivers worked relentlessly with the locals throughout the evening. We got bogged at 5 pm, and it took until midnight for the truck to be pulled from sludge. It was a day wasted, but another example of how unpredictable travelling here can be.

When the truck stops dead at a deep area of water, you know the situation isn’t going to be resolved quickly. Can a truck this size pass through a river without sinking or getting stuck? Although we enjoyed paddling in the freshwater, we didn’t know whether we could have to completely re-route to get around it and lose more time.

The conclusion was that there was a distinct lack of knowledge about alternative roads around the river, and somehow we would have to find a way to get through it. With a small truck already stuck right in the middle, it was a scary prospect.

The drivers identified the most shallow and hard ground area in the water to pass, although we couldn’t be on the truck, unfortunately. You can imagine the chaos – a group of locals trying to rescue their vehicle and 20 non-locals trying to navigate through the water, knee-deep and screeching, scared of falling in.

My heart skipped a beat watching our truck splash through the water and wondering whether it would stop dead in its tracks and slowly swim in a sea of mud, taking all our belongings with it. But Archie made it, and this time, he got the biggest cheer. And a giant sigh of relief.

A blue truck is stuck in a pool of water in Mongolia as a group of people try to help

Typical river crossings in Mongolia and helping out locals who were also stuck

With unpredictable weather conditions, a challenging landscape to navigate and a trip mostly comprised of wild camping, packing for Mongolia requires some planning. In short, you need to factor in the following:

Items of clothing that you don’t mind getting dirty and wholly ruined.
Clothing layers for the constant switch of hot and cold climates – thermals to moisture-wicking and waterproof items.
Sun protection and bug spray for mosquitos and sandflies.
All medications you need as you’ll often be far from any significant stores or aid.
Snacks from home as the food variation can get very repetitive.

For a more extensive overview, read my full Mongolia Packing List .

Mongolians in traditional dress with their horses, outside a Ger at a cultural festival

About Becki

Becki Enright is a British Travel Press Award-winning writer whose work focuses on changing perceptions about misunderstood aspects of destinations. Her writing combines storytelling with insight into the social, historical, political and economic factors that shape the country or place in relation to tourism. Becki has appeared live on Sky News and CNN and has contributed to high profile media including National Geographic, Time.com, Guardian online, New York Times, Grazia and Buzzfeed.

Article Archives
Work with me
Privacy Policy

The best times to visit Mongolia

Aug 27, 2023 • 5 min read

Whether you're visiting for eagle festivals or to explore the Gobi Desert, we can help you choose when to go to Mongolia © isarescheewin / Shutterstock

Famed for endless steppe vistas, fascinating nomadic culture, its thriving modern capital and stunningly diverse landscapes, Mongolia is a lot to take in. Before you decide on where to go, you’ll need to decide when to go – as the time of the year you visit will largely shape your trip.

When you weigh up those all-important variables of weather, big calendar events and peak season crowds versus low season savings, picking the optimum time to come is by no means an easy task – that’s why we’re here to help!

Ultimately, the best time to visit Mongolia is an answer that lies with you, the traveler, and what your interests are. Are you here to tick off bucket-list cultural events such as the world-renowned Naadam festival or the country’s fascinating golden eagle hunting festivals? Maybe you’re an outdoor enthusiast, here to trek on horseback or bike Mongolia’s wide-open lands in sublime weather? Or perhaps you’re more into snow sports and Mongolia’s unique winter festivals ?

Given the temperature extremes in Mongolia – peaking at 45°C (113°F) and plummeting to -40°C (-40°F) – the weather is obviously a big factor in deciding the best months for a visit. But truth be told, anytime is a good time to visit Mongolia, with each season bringing unique, memorable experiences. But if you’re looking for ideas, here are some of our favorite times to visit.

A woman in traditional Mongolian dress takes aim with a bow and arrow during an archery contest

June to August brings glorious weather and the Naadam Festival

The summer is the peak season, and rightly so. This is when the weather really turns it on, making it adundantly clear why they call Mongolia “the Land of Blue Skies.” June, July and August are Mongolia’s warmest months, so this is the optimal time to hit the countryside. Under clear skies, you can experience nomadic hospitality as you traverse the grassy steppe by horse, foot, bike or 4WD before spending nights in ger (yurt) camps.

June is a particularly good time to visit, right before the main tourist season ramps up, meaning you’ll get to enjoy the landscapes with smaller crowds, and get a taster for Naadam with several smaller mini festivals. But the main event happens in mid-July, when travelers flock here en masse from around the world for the Unesco Intangible Cultural Heritage–listed Nadaam Festival – a colorful three-day spectacle of traditional Mongolian games.

These include distinctively local versions of horseracing, wrestling and archery – all traditions that date back centuries in Mongolia – set against a backdrop of much merrymaking. But this is also the time when things get really busy, so be sure to book accommodations and transport months in advance.

Also held in July is the Altai Nomad Festival in Altai Tavan Bogd National Park , featuring traditional Kazakh horse games such as kokbar , involving a tug of war with the carcass of a goat. August sees more wonderful weather, but things quieten down as the tail end of the high season approaches. At this time you can attend the low-key Danshig Naadam festival, which combines all the expected traditional sports with religious ceremonies and cultural events.

Three round tents in a field of wildflowers at first light

Come from April to May or September to October for eagle hunting, budget travel and fewer crowds

We’re big fans of traveling in the shoulder season, not just for the chance to experience Mongolia through a less touristy lens, but also for a more relaxed pace and lower prices. Sure, the weather can be a mixed bag (come prepared for four seasons in one hour) but in a land famed for 250 sunny days a year, you’ll still get plenty of clear weather.

Around April and May, Mongolia begins to thaw out from its winter deep freeze, as spring wildflowers bloom to color landscapes that turn progressively greener as time progresses. Many ger camps open up for the season, allowing you to enjoy Mongolia’s far-flung, empty wildernesses before tourists sweep in for Nadaam.

Late May is a good time to visit the Gobi Desert , when the storms and vicious airborne sand have subsided. You’ll also avoid the desert’s notorious freezing nighttime temperatures and scorching daytime heat. September sneaks in some warmer weather, but by October, winter is very much on the march.

But this is the time to visit if you’re here for one of Mongolia’s spectacular eagle festivals. Held in the first weekend of October, the Eagle Festival in Bayan-Ölgii is the big-ticket attraction, and you’ll be treated to dazzling displays of falconry by master Kazak eagle hunters, putting their prized birds of prey to the test in a number of competitions, from fashion parades to catching wild prey.

In late September there’s the more low-key Altai Kazakh Eagle Festival, an equally exciting event held over two days, combining eagle hunting demonstrations with horse and camel racing.

A team of husky dogs pull a sled through a snowy landscape

November to March brings winter festivals, snow sports and extreme cold

November is when things start to get really cold! But don’t let that stop you; instead our advice is to wrap up warm and dive in. There are plenty of highlights to take in, including cultural festivals and snow sports, and winter can bring price reductions for flights and accommodation, but not massive savings.

February is particularly good for traditional winter events, with both the Khatgal Ice Festival and Ulaanbaatar Winter Festival showcasing unique sports such as ice ankle-bone shooting (a fascinating game of skill played with animal bones), ice archery, and horse sledding competitions, alongside more familiar winter activities such as ice skating, ice fishing and dog sledding.

Tsagaan Sar, the Lunar New Year, is also in February, when you may be lucky enough to celebrate the festivities with local families. There’s also the Bulgan Camel Festival, the Gobi’s biggest event, when crowds flock to Ömnögovi for camel polo, camel races, camel shearing and other activities involving these prized beasts of burden.

November to March is also the time to get involved in snow sports, including downhill skiing at Ulaanbaatar’s Sky Resort . Dog sledding tours can easily be arranged, along with long-distance skating on Khövsgöl Nuur lake.

One word of warning, however. December and January can bring not only bitterly cold temperatures to Ulaanbaatar , but also horrendous pollution. If there are any months to avoid, we would single out January, unless you’re particularly hardy.

Explore related stories

Wildlife & Nature

Dec 1, 2023 • 6 min read

How about chilling out – truly – on your next big trip? These are the coldest, most beautiful places to visit in the world.

Aug 30, 2023 • 9 min read

Aug 25, 2023 • 7 min read

Aug 20, 2023 • 7 min read

Sep 30, 2023 • 6 min read

A woman with a backpack looking at the sunset on a mountain lake in Mongolia.

Sep 28, 2023 • 4 min read

Aug 12, 2023 • 6 min read

Oct 24, 2021 • 4 min read

Oct 21, 2019 • 4 min read

Sep 23, 2019 • 7 min read

South Korea
United Arab Emirates
New Zealand
Travel Tips
travel resources
Get In Touch
Start A Blog

Destinations

Ultimate 9-Day Mongolia Travel Itinerary & What To Expect

July 7, 2023
19 minute read

Psst, FYI – this post may contain affiliate links, which means I earn a small commission (at absolutely no extra cost to you) and ads keep this blog free for you to enjoy. Thanks for supporting the free content on this site (and for sponsoring more doggy treats for little Albus!)

Are you ready to embark on a journey to the wild and untamed beauty of Mongolia? Trust me, it’s an experience like no other. And if you’re still unsure about this offbeat destination, let me share my experience so you’ll know why Mongolia should be on your bucket list, and what to expect along the way.

Mongolia was a travel destination my friend and I picked a few years ago before the blip in time we all know as COVID-19 happened. We were throwing out ideas like Bhutan and Nepal… basically, anywhere we could seemingly go off the grid and experience a place at its rawest. No bustling cities or tourist traps. We wanted to go somewhere we could be alone with nature. Finally, we settled on Mongolia. Once the borders opened, we booked our tickets and we were in for the ride of our lives.

Now, Mongolia is no walk in the park. Here, you have to surrender yourself to Mongolia’s embrace. Forget about schedules, let go of control, and open your eyes to the unexpected. Trust me, once you do, you’ll discover sides of yourself you never knew existed. Leave the comforts of home behind and just— experience . Mongolia will push you to your limits, challenge your preconceptions, and force you to let go of control. But hey, that’s what makes it so thrilling!

In this itinerary, we will be spending 7 days out in the Gobi Desert, a region that will test your spirit of adventure. Mother Mongolia doesn’t mess around; just when you think you’ve got it all figured out, she throws a wild card your way.

So, why should Mongolia be on everyone’s bucket list? It’s simple – you have to experience it for yourself. And when you do, get ready for an epic adventure. With so much to explore, it can be difficult to decide where to start and what to include in an itinerary. In this blog post, I’ll outline an 11-day Mongolia travel itinerary that covers some of the rawest highlights of the country which includes Central Mongolia and the Gobi Desert. But don’t worry, I’ve got you covered. Here’s everything you need to know about embarking on your first journey to Mongolia.

Get ready to embrace the wild, discover your true self, and create memories that will last a lifetime. Mongolia awaits, my fellow adventurers!

1 Why Mongolia Should Be at the Top of Your Bucket List
2 Where is Mongolia?
3 How do I get to Mongolia?
4 How do you get around Mongolia?
5 Is Mongolia safe?
6 What’s the best month to visit Mongolia?
7 How many days do you need in Mongolia?
8 Do you need a visa in Mongolia?
9 Can you go to Mongolia without a tour?
10 Money in Mongolia
11 SIM Cards in Mongolia
12 Drinking water in Mongolia
13 The Ultimate Mongolia Itinerary
14 Day 5: Visit Mongolia’s ancient capital, Kharkhorin
15 MY TOP TRAVEL TIPS & RESOURCES

Why Mongolia Should Be at the Top of Your Bucket List

Prepare for an adventure that will kick your wanderlust into high gear! In Mongolia, you can ride reindeer, join the ranks of eagle hunters, or hop on a camel for a wild ride across the magnificent Gobi Desert. It’s a thrill-seeker’s paradise where every moment is packed with excitement and wonder. It’s no wonder CNN is naming Mongolia the country to visit in 2023.

Jaw-Dropping Landscapes : Get ready to have your mind blown by the epic beauty of Mongolia’s vast steppe, rugged mountains, and mind-boggling deserts. Seriously, your Instagram feed will thank you!
Nomadic Vibes : This might have been my favorite part of my entire Mongolian adventure (if picking a favorite was even possible). It was the most precious experience getting to immerse myself in the nomadic culture of Mongolia and learn about their culture and traditions. It’s like stepping into a whole new world!
Adventure Awaits : Mongolia is a paradise for adventure junkies. From galloping on horseback across the open plains to riding camels through the desert, it’s a thrill-seeker’s dream come true. Definitely unlocked a core memory for me!
Soul-Stirring Moments: Get ready for those “pinch-me” moments that touch your soul. The serene landscapes, the simplicity of life, and the genuine connections you’ll make will leave an indelible mark on your heart. Mongolia has a way of changing you for the better.
Animal-lovers Paradise: Mongolia’s five jewels are its animals, namely horses, goats, camels, cows, and sheep. We got to meet and interact with all five which was an absolute dream come true for me. Here you’ll get up close and personal with these animals in their natural habitat. No fences, no ticket prices, no barbed wires. Just you and these glorious creatures. It was heaven for an animal-lover like me. I got to ride horses and camels, and even cuddle baby goats!

So, pack your sense of adventure, a camera with lots of storage space, and an open mind. Mongolia is calling, and it’s time to answer that call.

Where is Mongolia?

Mongolia is a landlocked country located in East and Central Asia. It is bordered by Russia to the north and China to the south, east, and west. The capital city, Ulaanbaatar, is situated in the north-central part of the country.

How do I get to Mongolia?

Mongolia is a relatively remote country, but it is possible to reach it by air or overland. Here are some of the most common ways to get to Mongolia:

Chinggis Khaan International Airport in Ulaanbaatar is the main gateway to Mongolia and is served by several airlines from various countries, including Korean Air, Air China, Turkish Airlines, and MIAT Mongolian Airlines.
From Russia: The Trans-Siberian Railway connects Moscow to Ulaanbaatar, with a journey time of around 4 days. It is also possible to cross the border by road.
From China: There are several border crossings between China and Mongolia, with regular buses and trains connecting major cities in China to Ulaanbaatar.

It is important to note that visa requirements vary depending on your nationality and the purpose of your visit. Be sure to check the current visa requirements and regulations before traveling to Mongolia.

How do you get around Mongolia?

Getting around Mongolia can be an adventure in itself, as the country is vast and its infrastructure is still developing. A lot of the time we found ourselves driving through the desert on unmarked roads. And we were left wondering how our driver even knew where he was headed to, but we always made it to our destination safely.

With that said, I highly discourage first-time travelers from renting a car and driving on their own. You might be able to do that in Ulaanbaatar, but if you’re venturing any further than that, I highly recommend going with a reputable tour company that’ll arrange a professional guide and driver for you.

It is important to note that road conditions and transportation options may vary depending on the season and weather conditions. Be sure to research and plan ahead to ensure a safe and enjoyable journey in Mongolia.

Is Mongolia safe?

Mongolia is generally considered a safe country for travelers. The crime rate is relatively low, and violent crime is rare. However, as with any travel destination, there are some risks to be aware of.

One potential risk in Mongolia is the harsh and unpredictable weather, particularly in the winter months when temperatures can drop below -40°C (-40°F) and blizzards can occur. Travelers should be prepared for extreme weather conditions and follow the advice of local authorities.

Another potential risk is the condition of the roads and transportation infrastructure. Many roads in Mongolia are unpaved and can be difficult to navigate, especially in rural areas. Travelers should exercise caution when driving or riding in vehicles and ensure that their chosen mode of transportation is safe and reliable.

Finally, as with any travel destination, it is important to take precautions to protect your personal belongings and avoid scams or tourist traps. It is also recommended to avoid political demonstrations or protests, as these can sometimes turn violent.

Overall, with proper planning and precautions, Mongolia can be a safe and enjoyable travel destination.

What’s the best month to visit Mongolia?

The best time to visit Mongolia is during the summer months from June to August when the weather is warm and dry, and the countryside is in full bloom. This is the peak tourist season, and the days are long, providing ample time to explore the vast landscapes and experience the rich cultural traditions of the nomadic herders. Tourist ger camps are open during this time so those seeking a little more comfort while traveling in the desert can opt for this period.

During the summer months, temperatures can range from 20°C to 30°C (68°F to 86°F) during the day, but can drop significantly at night, so it is important to bring warm layers for evenings and early mornings. Mongolia is notorious for experiencing 4 seasons in a day. While we were there in April, we experienced 15°C days and subzero nights, so a good layering strategy is essential when traveling in Mongolia. I’ll be posting a Mongolia packing guide soon to share my packing list tips and tricks.

If you are interested in attending the Naadam Festival, a traditional Mongolian festival featuring sports competitions, music, and dance, it takes place every year from July 11th to 13th in Ulaanbaatar and other parts of the country. I highly recommend visiting during this time. I plan to revisit Mongolia just for this festival in the future!

While the summer months are the most popular time to visit Mongolia, it is worth noting that the shoulder seasons of April, May and September can also be good times to visit, with fewer crowds, cooler temperatures, and beautiful autumn foliage in September.

We visited in late April, one week before the tourist camps open, and we had almost if not all the tourist attractions to ourselves. Weather was great, and we could take everything at a leisurely pace. If you can, I highly recommend coming during this time!

How many days do you need in Mongolia?

The number of days you need in Mongolia depends on your travel preferences and what you want to do and see during your trip. However, for a general Mongolia itinerary, a minimum of 7-10 days is recommended to fully experience the country’s unique culture, stunning landscapes, and traditional nomadic way of life.

With a 7-10 day itinerary, you can explore the capital city of Ulaanbaatar, visit the famous Terelj National Park, hike in the Altai Mountains, ride horses or camels with nomadic herders, and experience the Naadam Festival if your trip coincides with it.

Of course, if you have more time, you can explore additional regions and activities in Mongolia, such as visiting the Gobi Desert, Khovsgol Lake, or the ancient city of Karakorum, the former capital of the Mongol Empire.

It is worth noting that Mongolia is a vast country, and travel times can be long and sometimes challenging, especially in rural areas. On some days, we were on the road for 5-8 hours. It is important to plan your itinerary carefully and factor in travel time between destinations to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable trip. But if you go with a tour company, they will plan everything out for you according to how much time you have.

Do you need a visa in Mongolia?

Whether or not you need a visa to enter Mongolia depends on your nationality and the purpose and length of your visit.

Visa-free entry:

Citizens of 26 countries, including the United States, Canada, the United Kingdom, and many European countries, can enter Mongolia visa-free for up to 30 days for tourism and non-work-related purposes.

Visa-on-arrival:

Citizens of several other countries, including Australia, New Zealand, Japan, and South Korea, can obtain a visa on arrival at the airport in Ulaanbaatar for a fee. The visa is valid for up to 30 days for tourism and non-work-related purposes.

Visa required:

Citizens of some countries, including India and China, are required to obtain a visa in advance from a Mongolian embassy or consulate before traveling to Mongolia.

It is important to check with the Mongolian embassy or consulate in your home country to confirm the visa requirements for your specific situation and plan accordingly.

Can you go to Mongolia without a tour?

The answer is yes and no. If you’re just planning to travel around Mongolia’s capital city, Ulaanbaatar, then yes it is possible. However, if you’re planning to venture out of the capital city, independent travel can be challenging, especially if you are not familiar with the local language, customs, and geography.

If you decide to travel independently, you will need to arrange your own transportation, accommodation, and activities. While there are some public transportation options available in Mongolia, they can be infrequent and unreliable, especially in rural areas.

Additionally, the nomadic way of life in Mongolia means that many attractions, such as traditional ger camps and horseback riding experiences, are often owned and operated by local families rather than large tourist companies, which can make it more difficult to book directly without local connections.

We personally booked a tour with Sunpath Mongolia , and it was the best decision we made on the trip. Although I ordinarily prefer to travel independently and take the less touristy route, traveling through the Gobi and the more remote areas in Mongolia required the help of a tour guide and driver. But Sunpath managed to let us experience Mongolia as authentically as possible while still making it as comfortable as possible for us.

Money in Mongolia

The official currency of Mongolia is the Mongolian Tugrik (MNT). Cash is the most commonly used form of payment in Mongolia, especially in rural areas, so it is recommended to carry cash with you during your trip. However, some larger businesses, hotels, and restaurants in urban areas also accept credit cards.

Here are some tips and information regarding money in Mongolia:

ATMs: ATMs are available in Ulaanbaatar and other major cities in Mongolia, but they may not be as widely available in more remote areas. Some ATMs may only dispense Mongolian Tugrik, so make sure you have a currency conversion calculator or app to ensure you withdraw the correct amount.
Currency exchange: It is recommended to exchange money at banks or exchange offices in Ulaanbaatar or major cities. Avoid exchanging money on the street, as this can be unsafe and unreliable.
US Dollars: US Dollars are widely accepted in Mongolia, and some hotels and tour operators may also accept payment in USD.
Tipping: Tipping is not expected in Mongolia, but it is becoming more common in tourist areas. If you feel that the service was exceptional, a small tip is appreciated.
Budget: The cost of travel in Mongolia can vary widely depending on your travel style and itinerary. Budget accommodation and food can be found for around $20-30 per day, while mid-range hotels and restaurants can cost around $50-80 per day. Tours and activities can range from $50-100 per day and up.

Overall, it is recommended to have a mix of cash and credit cards with you during your trip to Mongolia, and to plan your budget carefully to ensure you have enough funds for your entire trip.

SIM Cards in Mongolia

Getting a local SIM card is a good option for travelers to Mongolia who want to stay connected and have internet access on their phones during their trip.

The three main mobile network operators in Mongolia are Mobicom, G-Mobile, and Unitel. They all have booths at the airport and in Ulaanbaatar, and SIM cards can also be purchased at some convenience stores and supermarkets. We picked up a Mobicom SIM card for 15,500MNT (USD4.40) which gave us 15GB for the duration of our trip.

We were lucky to have picked Mobicom as our guide told us that Mobicom has the best coverage in the desert. However, coverage is still spotty regardless, and we had no service when we were traveling on the roads on certain days, and in certain ger guesthouses. In general, we had internet connection about 60% of the time, which is a lot more than I was expecting!

Alternatively, if you don’t want the hassle of changing SIM cards, you can download the Airalo app , purchase a package, and get connected instantly! This is my favorite way to stay connected as it saves all the hassle of buying a SIM card and messing about with these tiny SIMs. PLUS, you can purchase the package in advance and get connected instantly even when you’re still on the plane! Find out more about Airalo.

Drinking water in Mongolia

Access to safe drinking water can be a concern in Mongolia, especially in rural areas. Our guide bought us enough bottled water to last us throughout our trip, and we used this water for drinking and for brushing our teeth. There is no running water while we’re out in the desert!

The nomads usually get their water from nearby wells and filter them before drinking or cooking. To be safe, make sure to have bottled water with you or bring a filtered water bottle for travel that provides clean drinking water anywhere on Earth. It filters almost any type of water, including from river streams, and turns it into clean drinking water.

The Ultimate Mongolia Itinerary

When planning our Mongolia trip, we were spoilt for choice with all the beautiful sights the country has to offer. We ended up opting for a more authentic experience that focused on nature and nomadic living. In this Mongolia itinerary, we explore the Gobi Desert and Orkhon Valley where we got to walk on frozen rivers, go horseback riding, and experience the nomadic way of life.

Without further ado, here we go!

Day 1: Arrival in Ulaanbaatar

Start your Mongolian adventure in the capital city of Ulaanbaatar. Spend the day exploring the city, or if you’re arriving late just like us, get lots of rest and enjoy a good shower as you won’t be having one for a while! It’s also a good opportunity you’ll need for the next 9 days away from civilization.

Day 2: Journey into the Mongolia desert

Today we met up with our tour guide and driver from Sunpath Mongolia who were going to be with us for the next 9 days. Once we leave Ulaanabatar, most of the journey will be off-road so hiring a local company to take you will be your best bet as roads are unmarked and you’ll literally be driving through the desert!

Our journey begins with a thrilling 450km (279 miles) drive to the iconic White Stupa, also known as Tsagaan Suvarga.

We stopped for lunch in a town called Mandalgovi where we tried local food for the first time! Mongolian dishes mostly consist of meat. Meat, meat and lots more meat. You’d be hardpressed to find much vegetables here. Most of the time, you’ll only find carrots and potatoes. Sometimes , you’ll find cabbage. But remember, out in the desert, it’s hard to grow leafy vegetables so say goodbye to your spinach and kale for a couple of days.

Located in the Middle Gobi Province, the White Stupa is a geological formation that stands out with its towering cliffs of white and orange limestone, resembling ancient ruins. As we explore the area, we learn that the White Stupa holds significant geological importance, with its layers of sediment representing millions of years of natural history. The unique colors and shapes of the cliffs create a surreal and magical atmosphere, making it a photographer’s dream. It is a popular tourist attraction due to its stunning white and orange cliffs that resemble a massive stupa or temple.

Visitors to the White Stupa can explore the area and hike around the cliffs to admire the natural beauty of the landscape. The cliffs offer a fantastic opportunity for photography, especially during sunrise or sunset when the colors become even more vibrant.

Aside from the visual appeal, the White Stupa holds significance for the local nomadic herders who consider it a sacred place. It is believed to have spiritual and healing properties, and visitors are encouraged to show respect and be mindful of the cultural and natural significance of the site.

After we were done exploring the White Stupa, we headed to our ger for the night situated just a few minute’s drive away. Days in Mongolia are mostly like this as distances between sights can be quite long, so you’ll often be visiting one sightseeing spot per day while spending most of your time on the road.

We were very excited for our first night in our ger! Our host was a lovely Mongolian lady who made us dumplings for dinner! I met my first herd of sheep here which had me squealing in delight.

Our first night out in the ger was so surreal. Having to get used to no running water, no showers, and no toilets – living with the bare minimum but we still found it bearable. There also wasn’t any service there so it was a great opportunity for us to get to know each other better and actually talk!

Day 3: Walk on ice at the Yol Valley

Our journey continues as we make a stop in Dalanzadgad, the capital of the South Gobi Province. This small town serves as a gateway to the Gobi Desert so we were able to stock up on some amenities and… take a hot shower! There are public showers in the town where you can freshen up, and I was plesantly surprised by how clean and spacious these shower rooms were!

From Dalanzadgad, we head to the enchanting Yol Valley , also known as the Eagle Valley. This deep and narrow gorge is renowned for its dramatic rock formations, icy streams, and stunning wildlife. As we embark on a 5km walk through the valley, we are surrounded by towering cliffs that harbor rare and endangered species, such as the bearded vulture and Siberian ibex. The cool air and tranquil ambiance create a serene atmosphere, allowing us to connect with nature on a deeper level.

In the evening, we retreat to our gers nestled within the Yol Valley.

Day 3: Marvel at the Khongor Sand Dunes and ride camels into the sunset

Today promises a thrilling off-road adventure as we journey to the mesmerizing Khongor Sand Dunes , also known as the “Singing Sands.” These expansive sand dunes stretch across the southern part of Mongolia, covering an area of over 180 kilometers.

Upon arrival, we are immediately captivated by the grandeur of the sand dunes, with some reaching heights of up to 300 meters. The Khongor Sand Dunes are known for their shifting patterns, shimmering golden colors, and the melodic sound produced when the sand is disturbed by the wind, hence the name “Singing Sands.”

It is quite a climb, so make sure you’ve got your stamina in tow. I only managed to climb up to halfway point before giving up. I’d say you’d have to be relatively fit to reach all the way up to the peak. But it’s definitely worth a shot!

Once we reached our nomad family for the night at Ongi River, we embarked on an unforgettable camel riding experience through the sunset which was truly magical.

Tonight we rest, and for the first time, going a whole day with no showers! There was also no service in the area, so the experience was as authentic as it comes! The host family even taught us some local games using ankle bones (yes, goat bones!).

Day 4: Walk in the footsteps of the dinosaurs at the Flaming Cliffs

This morning we set off at 7 am to the Flaming Cliffs , also known as Bayanzag . These towering red and orange cliffs hold great significance, most famous for yielding the first discovery of dinosaur eggs . It was so fascinating imagining dinosaurs once roaming on the very ground we were walking on!

Continuing our journey, we make a stop in Bulgan for lunch. We were supposed to have another shower here but the public showers were closed. Accepting hiccups are all part and parcel of traveling in Mongolia! And in the nomadic spirit of flexibility, we trudge on and continue on our journey. At this point, we might even be getting used to this level of hygiene (or, maybe not)!

Next, we visit the historic Ongi Monastery , which once stood as one of Mongolia’s largest Buddhist monastic complexes. Sadly, it was destroyed during the communist era, leaving behind evocative ruins that still hold immense spiritual significance. As we wander through the remains, we gain a sense of the monastery’s former grandeur and the profound impact Buddhism had on Mongolian culture.

Day 5: Visit Mongolia’s ancient capital, Kharkhorin

Today’s drive is especially long, but it’s going to be a relaxing day. We set off for Kharkhorin , the ancient capital of the Mongol Empire and an important historical site. This historic city served as the political, economic, and cultural center during the reign of Chinggis Khan and his successors.

Upon reaching Kharkhorin, we satisfy our hunger with a delicious lunch before visiting the renowned Erdene Zuu Monastery . This architectural masterpiece stands as a testament to Mongolia’s spiritual heritage and is considered one of the country’s most important monasteries. As we explore the monastery’s grounds, we are hit by a surprise— an epic sandstorm ! More adventures to add to the book.

Despite the weather conditions, we were lucky that tonight we would be staying in a hotel ! That’s one of the great things about Sunpath —they knew to break up our itinerary of staying in the gers every night with a 1-night hotel stay! Awfully thoughtful of them and much needed by us.

We hugged our toilet bowls, marveled at the water faucets, and reveled at the rain shower—comforts we so often take for granted in our daily lives.

Day 6: Immerse yourself in Orkhon Valley’s breathtaking landscapes

Today’s adventure takes us on a leisurely drive to the enchanting Orkhon Valley, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its natural and cultural significance—and my personal favorite spot throughout our whole trip. The valley encompasses breathtaking landscapes, including rolling hills, lush meadows, and the Orkhon River, which meanders through the region.

Everywhere you turn was a postcard view waiting to be snapped. Rolling hills and frozen rivers with horses grazing nearby. I had to pinch myself to make sure I wasn’t dreaming.

In the Orkhon Valley, we had the privilege of visiting a nomadic family and experiencing their warm hospitality. Interacting with the nomads allowed us to gain insights into their traditional way of life, from milking animals to herding livestock. We learn about their customs, traditions, and the harmony they maintain with the land.

This was our favorite nomad ger of all too. I mean, look at that landscape! Waking up to that view does wonders for the soul.

Day 7: Orkhon Valley

Today was the day we had been excitedly anticipating. We get to ride horses! We embarked on a thrilling 20km horse riding journey to the magnificent Red Waterfall , also known as Ulaan Tsutgalan . The feeling of riding through the open plains like this is just simply indescribable . It felt so surreal; like something right out of a movie scene!

We were even lucky enough to capture a herd of yaks crossing the river!

Arriving at the Red Waterfall, we are greeted by the sight of cascading water against a backdrop of lush greenery. Here, we stopped for a nourishing picnic lunch which we absolutely enjoyed!

Continuing our exploration of Mongolian traditions, we engage in archery, a sport deeply rooted in the country’s nomadic heritage. Can’t say I got the hang of it, but at least I gave it a shot! Pun intended.

Day 8: Return to Ulaanbaatar

As our unforgettable journey draws to a close, we bid farewell to the stunning Mongolian landscapes and begin our return to Ulaanbaatar. It was a 10-hour drive back to the city, but it allowed us to reflect on the remarkable experiences we’ve had and the profound connections we’ve forged with the land and its people. The beauty and vastness of Mongolia will forever remain etched in our hearts.

Day 9: Chinggis Khan Statue and Ulaanbaatar City Tour

Before concluding our Mongolian adventure, we set aside a day to visit the magnificent Chinggis Khan Statue, a colossal tribute to Mongolia’s legendary leader. The statue stands at an impressive height of 40 meters and offers panoramic views of the surrounding countryside. It’s a sight worth seeing if you have the time!

In the afternoon, we take a walk around the city of Ulaanbaatar, the bustling capital of Mongolia. It definitely shot down many misconceptions I had about the city. It’s much more developed and modern than I imagined!

This 9-day Mongolia travel itinerary has been a journey of discovery, allowing us to connect with nature, immerse ourselves in nomadic culture, and witness the beauty and authenticity of Mongolia. Mongolia has enriched my life, and I hope I’ve inspired you to embark on your own unforgettable journey through this captivating country.

Has Mongolia been on your bucket list? Or have you been to Mongolia and have your own stories to share? Leave me a comment below!

MY TOP TRAVEL TIPS & RESOURCES

Here are my top travel tips and resources to help you save money and plan your trips effectively! If you're looking for more tips, head over to my travel tips resource page or my comprehensive guide on trip planning .

Booking Flights: When it comes to finding great flight deals, I always start my search on Google Flights or Skyscanner . To save some cash, consider flying mid-week or on the weekends, opt for carry-on only with budget airlines, and be open to red-eye or early morning flights. Check out my in-depth guide on how I find the cheapest flights .
Accommodations : I'm a stickler for finding the absolute best deals on my stays, so I will obsessively oscillate between a few booking sites: Booking . com (in general) and Agoda (for Asian destinations). When it comes to vacation rentals, there's Airbnb or VRBO .
Travel Insurance : It's always a wise decision to purchase travel insurance for international trips. I can't stress this enough - it's highly recommended! For international travel insurance, I suggest considering World Nomads or SafetyWing . SafetyWing , in particular, stands out as one of the few policies that cover Covid-19. They also offer excellent monthly policies that are perfect for digital nomads and long-term travelers!
Travel Credit Card : My go-to travel credit card for booking trips is the Wise travel card. I love that there are no foreign transaction fees, so I can pay like a local and never get any surprises at the end of my trip. You can also withdraw cash from the ATMs wherever you are. With Wise , you are always guaranteed the best exchange rate, and I have saved sooo much money just by using this card. Most of the time, I get charged the exchange rate I see on Google, plus or minus a few cents.
Tours: Most times, I prefer traveling independently but sometimes, getting a guide and a local's perspective makes the experience all the more enriching. When it comes to tour bookings, I trust Viator and GetYourGuide to provide me with excellent options. In Asia, I choose Klook as they are the biggest provider in the region. Plus, you can often get entrance tickets and discounted prices!
Transportation : To navigate through public transit options and plan my journeys from one place to another, I rely on Rome2Rio. When it comes to rental cars, I compare rental companies and find the best deals through DiscoverCars .
Connection : It's essential to me to have seamless connectivity wherever I go. I need it to navigate to new places, Google what's around me, and keep in touch with my loved ones. But fumbling around with multiple SIMs has always been a nightmare, which is why I choose Airalo when I travel. No more switching SIMs, just purchase a plan on your phone, on the go, anywhere, and stay connected.
Luggage Storage : Whenever I need to check out early or take advantage of a long layover, I securely store my luggage with LuggageHero . It's a reliable service that allows me to roam around freely. As a bonus, you can use this link to enjoy your first hour of FREE luggage storage on me!
What to Pack : I always have packing anxiety once I've left home— you know the phantom feeling that you've forgotten something even though you've checked 372836 times . So I made my own packing list and use it religiously before every trip, and by religious I mean I tick off that list at least 7 times before I zip up my bag. Check out my in-depth packing list here.

Hi! I’m Steph. You probably ended up here because just like me, you have an insatiable thirst for trotting the globe, or are just curious about travel. Get ready for brutally honest and in-depth travel guides that will be your trusty companions on global adventures. No fluff, just real talk and practical tips to make your journeys smooth. Join me as we conquer the globe, one epic destination at a time! Together, we’ll uncover hidden gems, laugh at mishaps, and create unforgettable memories. So grab your passport, pack your sense of adventure, and let’s embark on this thrilling journey!

North America

The Ultimate 3-Day Toronto Itinerary for First-Timers

June 5, 2023

SafetyWing vs. World Nomads: The Ultimate Guide to Choosing the Best Travel Insurance for Digital Nomads

July 13, 2023

36 Best Cafes in Johor Bahru For the Serious Coffee Lover (A No-Nonsense Guide)

April 11, 2024

Where to See Cherry Blossoms in Vancouver 2024 (map included!)

March 21, 2024

The Ultimate Guide to the Best Things to Do in Luang Prabang, Laos

March 18, 2024

best coffee shops edinburgh old town - the milkman

Best Cafes and Coffee Shops in Edinburgh Old Town

March 15, 2024

Everything You Need To Know About Egypt: The Ultimate Egypt Itinerary for 7, 10, or 12 Days

The Ultimate DIY Tour Of Stockholm’s Subway Art (Maps included!)

February 29, 2024

Hiking Little Adam’s Peak for the Best Sunset in Ella, Sri Lanka

The Ultimate 10-Day New Zealand South Island Self-Drive Itinerary

Hi there, I really enjoyed your Mongolia travel itinerary ! May I know which travel agent did you use for your trip? Thanks!

Hi Rose, I went with Sunpath Mongolia and only have good things to say about them! Please go, I promise you will have the trip of a lifetime!

Discover more from The Atlas Edit.

Subscribe now to keep reading and get access to the full archive.

Type your email…

Deutschland

Mongolia Tours
Tailor My Trip
Tour Calendar
Travel Guide
Mongolia MICE Tour
Car Rental & Transfer
Mongolia Train Ticket
Hotel Booking

Mongolia Travel Restrictions – Updated

Mongolia Travel Restrictions 2023

-Last updated 2023 MAR 21

” Mongolia fully opened its air borders to international travel from February 14, 2022.

– No negative PCR or rapid test results are required to enter Mongolia before departure. – No testing is required upon arrival at the border points. – No quarantine or self-isolation. * These provisions apply to all ages, and both vaccinated and non-vaccinated.

– When in Mongolia – traveling within the country, between provinces, or getting on domestic flights – No additional requirements. – Free vaccinations and treatments are available for travelers.

– If COVID PCR test result is required in English when you depart from Mongolia, Click here to find clinics in Ulaanbaatar!

FAQ - Mongolia Entry Requirements

1: is mongolia's border open to the international arrivals.

Tourists are allowed to enter Mongolia from the 14th of February 2022 without quarantine and have no additional requirements from the 14th of March.
The period of temporary suspension of passengers at land border crossings of Mongolia/China extended until January 09, 2023.

2: From which countries are there regular scheduled flights to Mongolia?

South Korea-Seoul, Japan-Tokyo, Thailand-Bangkok, Germany-Frankfurt- (via Moscow)
MIAT and AERO MONGOLIA /UB – Tokyo, Japan – UB/
MIAT /UB – Seoul, South Korea – UB/
KOREAN AIR and ASIANA AIRLINES /Seoul, South Korea – UB – Seoul/
MIAT /UB – Frankfurt, Germany – UB/
TURKISH AIRLINES /Istanbul, Turkey – UB – Istanbul/
HUNNU AIRLINES /UB – Almaty, Kazakhstan – UB also UB – NurSultan, Kazakhstan – UB/

3: Is it necessary to take Covid PCR test on arrival and departure?

No “negative” PCR or rapid test results are required to enter Mongolia before departure. Also, No testing is required upon arrival at the border points.

4: Should infants and babies be tested for PCR?

“Negative” PCR test result is not required for all ages, both vaccinated and non-vaccinated, and effective as of March 14, 2022.

5: Is it necessary to be vaccinated when visiting Mongolia?

Mongolians and foreign nationals traveling to Mongolia are Not required to be vaccinated against coronavirus infection (Covid-19).

7: Is it necessary to install any mobile phone application for entry to Mongolia?

It is not required.

10: Is it necessary to have Covid insurance when visiting Mongolia?

COVID Insurance is not required when visiting Mongolia. But if you want to get insured, it is better to get the insurance in your home country voluntarily.

11: What are the requirements for attractions and entertainments such as restaurants and museums that are frequented by tourists?

All service organizations are working normally according to their schedules.
The advisories being issued are wearing face masks, practicing social distancing, hand sanitizing, and being actively involved in COVID-19 vaccinations.

12: Where and to which hospital should I go if I have symptoms while traveling in the countryside? Will all the traveling crew and staff be separated? Or only if it is positive?

Contact a local health center. Those who test positive will be isolated for treatment.
Other members of the tour group shall not be isolated in the event of a negative test result.

13: What will you do if you get COVID during your stay in Mongolia?

Treatment is provided in accordance with the regulations in force in that country.
If you tested positive, you will be isolated in the nearest health center and get treated. Usually, the period of isolation is around 5-7 days.
Free vaccinations and treatments are available for travelers.

14: Do I need a PCR test when I departure from Mongolia?

For example, Turkish Airlines does not require a PCR test for passengers with 2 doses of vaccine.

15: How much does PCR test cost in Mongolia?

PCR test is around 30-40USD (85000-115000 MNT)
Rapid test is around 7-10USD (20000-30000 MNT)

16: Can I have a PCR test at my hotel prior to my departure from Mongolia?

You can book mobile medical services with an additional fee in advance at your hotel.

17: COVID-19 PCR test clinics in Ulaanbaatar

Click here to see laboratories which provide you test result in English

Source: Operational headquarters of the State Special Commission Ministry of Health Mongolia

Covid-19 vaccination in Mongolia:

Mongolia tours 2023 / 2024.

How it works?

Let's plan your trip

Enquire now and a Travel expert will get back to you within 24 hours.

WE ARE MEMBER OF

Tour category.

MONGOLIA TOURS
PRIVATE TOURS
GROUP GROUPS
LUXURY TOURS
TAILOR MY TRIP
TRIP CALENDAR

DESTINATIONS

ULAANBAATAR
CENTRAL MONGOLIA
SOUTHERN MONGOLIA
NORTHERN MONGOLIA
EASTERN MONGOLIA
WESTERN MONGOLIA

TRAVEL GUIDE

TRAVEL PLANNING
BEST TIME TO VISIT
TRAVEL TO MONGOLIA
MONGOLIA VISA
MONGOLIA TRAVEL FAQ

AMICUS TRAVEL

TRAVELERS’ REVIEWS
PARTNERS LOGIN
HOW TO BOOK A TRIP
TERMS & CONDITIONS

You are using an outdated browser. Please upgrade your browser to improve your experience.

Things To Do in Mongolia
Travel Blogs & Articles
Tours & Activities
Follow The Tracks
Interactive Map
Hotel, Flight and Car Booking
Car & Gear Rental
Activities & Tours

Discover the most fascinating routes to explore Mongolia

Request now

Enjoy the feeling of freedom and adventure in a road trip around Mongolia

Discover routes

We are your digital concierge to inspire you, to guide you and to experience the finest Mongolia has to offer

Create Your Own Itinerary

Join Max Muench's Off-Road Adventure In Mongolia

Explore The Routes

Your guide to Mongolia's best places to visit with this interactive map

See Interactive Map

Escape To Mongolia Travel Articles

Mongolia offers a unique getaway for adventure seekers, with abundance of nature to explore, rich in culture and history, there is something for every traveller to fall in love with Mongolia.

Mongolia in Spring

Mongolia in spring is very interesting to travel to. After the harsh winter the …

Vaccinations for Mongolia

Which vaccinations do you need for Mongolia? …

Mongolia Horse Racing

Mongolia horse racing is unique, rough, long and in the open steppes of Mongolia. …

Legacy of Genghis Khan

Learn about the legacy of Genghis Khan, the ruler of the Mongol Empire defining …

Travel insurance for Mongolia

Travel Insurance for Mongolia is important for any traveler who wants to tour Mongolia. …

Mongolia Visa

How to get a Mongolia Visa? Where to apply for a Mongolia Visa? Learn …

Interactive Travel Guide

Our interactive travel guide has 100s of places you can visit in Mongolia, including popular destinations, sightseeing attractions and the less touristy places for the adventure seekers.

Featured Travel Guides

See more featured travel guides

Top Offers From Our Partners

Make the most of your trip to Mongolia with our selected partner. You will find great deals and offers for accommodation, activities and getting around.

Car Rentals in Mongolia with SIXT

Enjoy the freedom to go anywhere in Mongolia with SIXT

Relax with Kempinski Ulaanbaatar

Relax and re-energise at luxury Kempinski Hotel Khan Place

Go Off-roading with Liqui Moly Extreme

Explore Mongolia in a fun guided and fully supported tour with 4x4s Expedition cars

Tours & Travel Offers

LIQUI MOLY Extreme: Best Vacation in Mongolia to Explore Mongolia's Off-Road Tracks

Travel around Mongolia in a fun selfdrive trip on and

Best two weeks Mongolia Trip

Travel to Mongolia for two weeks in 2024! This is

Best One Week Mongolia Tour

Traveling to Mongolia for one week? This is the best

Mongolia Winter Tour

Embark on an epic Mongolia winter tour. Explore Lake Khuvsgul's

Grand Tour Mongolia

Drive Mongolia with this Mongolia 4x4 tour unlike any other.

LIQUI MOLY Extreme - Gobi desert 1 week

Travel around Mongolia one week with the best guided self

Follow The Tracks Camel Route Tour

A private 2 weeks Mongolia Tour Self drive Travel Experience

Toyota Landcruiser 4x4 Car Rental

Toyota Landcruiser car rental in Ulaanbaatar Mongolia for your road

Three to Four Weeks Ultimate Mongolian Road Trip

Three to four weeks ultimate Mongolian road trip. From the

View more tours & offers

Explore The 5 Regions

From the Sand Dunes of Gobi in Southern Mongolia to Taiga Forest areas in Northern Mongolia. Each of the 5 regions vary in landscape and nature, and there are many great tour and attractions you can experience.

Northern Mongolia

Taiga Forest, Largest Lake, Raindeer Herders

Southern Mongolia

Sand Dunes & Desert, Flaming Cliffs, Dinosaur Fossils

Central Mongolia

Capital City, Museums & Monasteries, Rock Mountains

Western Mongolia

Eagle Hunters, Lakes, Forests, Sand Dunes

Eastern Mongolia

Chinggis Khan Birtplace,Steppe, Rivers and Lakes

#ESCAPETOMONGOLIA

Share your adventure photos of Mongolia with the hashtag #escapetomongolia.

Plan Your Mongolia Trip

Explore Mongolia

Discover the 5 varied regions of Mongolia.

Must See & Do in Mongolia

Be Inspired with our must see attractions, tours and destination.

Getting Around Mongolia

Definitive guide to visiting and getting around Mongolia.

Tours, Hotels, Flights and Care Hire

Find the best deals and offers from our partners.

Follow the adventure or share your experiences on our social networks

Destinations
Things To Do
Experiences

Top Destinations

Ulaanbaatar

Top Experiences

Attractions
Self Drive Roadtrip

Travel Information

Essential Tourist Info
Visting Mongolia
Partners & Sponsors
Accommodation

Getting to Mongolia

Direct flights are available from countries such as China, Russia, Germany, Korea, Hong Kong, and Turkey. You can also visit Mongolia by train via Trans-Mongolian Line, which is part of the Trans-Siberian Railway. If you’re looking for an adventure and depending on your nationality, you can even drive to Mongolia from Russia or China.

All visitors to Mongolia require a visa unless they come from one of the visa exempt countries. Visitors must hold passports that are valid for at least 6 months from the date of arrival.

Staying longer

If your intended stay in Mongolia is beyond that of the period allowed under the visa exemption arrangements, you must apply for an appropriate type of visa before you travel to Mongolia.

Mongolia has many famous festivals. Find out when and where you can emerge yourself in the festivities.

Family Activities

Families are important to us. Mongolians has strong family bonds and we welcome anyone regardless of age

Bird Watching

We are a paradise for birding. Find out why you should come to Mongolia to watch birds from all over the world.

Mongolia is nature. Nature is Mongolia. Come to the land of endless steppes, forests and mountains.

History & Culture

We are one of the oldest cultures in the region. Explore more about our story and come to see it for yourself.

Buddhist Tourism

With numerous temples and relicts, Mongolia is a spiritual place to visit and explore yourself.

Taste of Mongolia

We have dishes you have never tasted anywhere else. Find out more about Mongolian cuisine here.

Community Based Tourism

Our communities welcome you to Mongolia. Find out how you can experiences the nomadic way of life.

Ride through the wide country, take a road trip of your lifetime or hike through the mountains. Mongolia is a haven for adventures. Come and find yours.

Though the meetings, incentive, conference, and exhibition sector is still new for us. Mongolia offers a number of venues and activities that make your event outstanding.

Ulaanbaatar & Surrounding

Ulaanbaatar is the capital of Mongolia. It’s in the Tuul River valley, bordering the Bogd Khan Uul National Park. Originally a nomadic Buddhist center, it became a permanent site in the 18th century. Soviet control in the 20th century led to a religious purge. Soviet-era buildings, museums within surviving monasteries, and a vibrant conjunction of traditional and 21st-century lifestyles typify the modern city.

Work With Us

CURRENTLY IN: Canada

The Ultimate Mongolia Travel Itinerary

Planning an independent trip to Mongolia is a challenging task. The tourist trail is not well developed and lack of information makes it hard to figure out a great Mongolia travel itinerary for first-time visitors.

*This post may contain affiliate links, as a result, we may receive a small commission (at no extra cost to you) on any bookings/purchases you make through the links in this post. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases. Read our full disclosure

Unlike a lot of other places in Asia, you can’t just rock up in the country, pop into a travel agency and hop on a tour.

Our attempts to get information from our guest house resulted in an invitation to join their prepackaged tour. The set up didn’t sound like our cup of tea so we continued our search.

We wanted to pick our own route, set our own schedule, and explore the country on our own.

Traveling Soon? Here is a list of our favourite travel providers and accessories to help get you ready for your upcoming trip! Book Your Accommodation HERE Search for Great Tours HERE Get a Car Rental HERE Buy Travel Insurance HERE See our Favourite Camera Bag HERE Grab a Reusable Water Bottle HERE or a Filtration Straw HERE Order an eSim HERE

It took us 3 days and many calls, messages and meetings to find a car and a driver (renting your own car in Mongolia is HIGHLY INADVISABLE) and with the help of an ex-guide and all-around wonderful local (who has now started her own company, Explore Mongolia), we finally managed to work out our own Mongolia itinerary that allowed us to see the most of the country .

To spare others the time and effort it took to pull together our Mongolia travel itinerary, we are sharing it below for others to enjoy!

3-Week Mongolia Itinerary

Ulaanbaatar: 2 days.

Start your Mongolia travel adventure by flying into Ulaanbaatar. Mongolia’s capital is an enormous fume-filled city that will excite you and shock you all at once.

UB (as the locals refer to it), is a mixed bag of old and new, of traditional and modern, of hope and despair. It’s busy, it’s chaotic, and it’s not tourist-friendly , but it’s the first stop of anyone traveling to Mongolia .

Despite the obvious lack of appeal, UB is a great place to start your Mongolia travel. It’s where you’ll want to stock up on anything you might have forgotten back home, sort out your trip arrangement, find travel buddies, and have a few last delicious meals (there won’t be too many of those once you get out into the countryside).

Don’t Miss: A visit to Chinggis Khaan Square and a meal at Namaste (UB’s best vegan restaurant).

Gorkhi-Terelj National Park: 2 days

It’s hard to believe that you can find unspoiled nature with great opportunities for hiking, rock climbing, and horseback riding just an hour outside of UB, but that’s exactly what you’ll find in Gorkhi-Terelj National Park.

The park is a favourite weekend getaway for many locals from UB and thus get very busy on weekends and during the holidays.

But plan your visit outside of the busy days and enjoy plenty of trails, side valleys and your first peek at the beauty of the Mongolian countryside. Ger camps are plentiful, so you can plan to spend a night or two inside the park or enjoy it on a day trip from UB .

Don’t Miss: The park’s biggest attraction, Turtle Rock , and a visit to the Aryapala Initiation and Meditation Centre set on a hill overlooking the park.

Baga Gazriin Chuluu: lunch stop

The road from UB to South Gobi is long and bumpy and Baga Gazriin Chuluu , a giant rock formation that seems to appear out of nowhere makes for a perfect stopover. There is a handy picnic site and plenty of space to explore this unique geological wonder.

Admire the prayer flags and views from the top of the rock formations and take a break from a bumpy ride at a convenient spot just a few hours south of UB.

Mongolia Gobi Baga Gazriin Chuluu Oksana 0672

Don’t Miss: Usan Bolortiin Agui Cave and a tiny fresh water spring , hidden beneath a rock. There is a ladle inside the rock to help you scoop up some water to splash on your face.

Tsagaan Suvraga (White Stupas): Sunset Spot

Located some 300 km south of Baga Gazriin Chuluu, along the highway to Dalanzadgad, Tsagaan Suvraga is another great unknown natural wonder found in the Gobi and well worth a stop on your Mongolia itinerary.

The site, also known as White Stupas , is a unique sand pinnacle formation and is another popular stop in Middle Gobi. There isn’t much to see other than the stupas themselves, but you could easily spend a few hours exploring the area.

Don’t Miss: Sunset at the White Stupas is especially beautiful. If you are traveling in your own vehicle and aren’t on someone else’s schedule, hang back and wait for the tour companies to leave (which they do shortly before sunset) so you can have the place all to yourself.

Yolin Am Valley (Ice Field): 2-3 days

Yolin Am Valley was probably one of our favourite destinations on our Mongolia travel itinerary, which is why we suggest spending a few extra days in the area. This spot is famous for its dramatic rocky cliffs and shade clad canyons that prevent ice from melting well into the summer.

The valley remains lush and green despite being located in the heart of the Gobi Desert. Hikers and outdoor lovers from all over the world travel to Mongolia for this unique destination.

It’s possible to explore the gorge in a few hours but to walk the full length of the gorge (some 8-10kms), you’ll need to start at one end and get your driver to pick you up on the other side.

Don’t Miss: Keep your eyes peeled for ibexes that roam the gorge in the warmer months. They are tricky to spot and even harder to photograph!

Khongoryn Els Sand Dunes: 1-2 days

When you think of the Gobi Desert , you probably thinking of spectacular sand dunes and as you travel from UB to the Gobi, you’ll find yourself surprised to discover that the majority of the Gobi looks nothing like a sandy desert you have pictured.

Khongoryn Els, the largest and most well-known sand dunes in Mongolia, is the exception. At 300m high, 12 km wide and about 100km long, the sand dunes of Khongoryn Els are a force not to be reckoned with.

Climbing to the top of the dunes is possible, but the walk is not easy. The climb takes 45 minutes to 1 hour of an exhausting uphill battle.

Don’t Miss : Spectacular views of the desert from the sandy summit. Plan to start climbing the dunes 1.5-2 hours before sunset to give yourself plenty of time to reach the top before the sun kisses the horizon.

Bayanzag (Flaming Cliffs): Stopover

After a night in the Khongoryn Els, the most logical route will take you through Bayangzag, an area of flaming orange sand dunes famous for dinosaur bones and eggs. It’s worth adding a stop to your Mongolia itinerary even if you are not a dinosaur fan.

There is not much to do here other than explore the sand dunes on foot or hire a camel to take you around. A few souvenir shops and drink stands are set up on the edges of the cliff, but that’s about the extent of civilization in this part of the Gobi.

Don’t Miss: A chance to help out the local community by purchasing a few handmade souvenirs.

Ongiin Khiid Buddhist Monastery: Stopover

A few centuries ago, Ongiin Khiid was one of the largest monasteries in Mongolia , but the complex was destroyed back in 1937, leaving behind a set of ruins that can be seen in the area today.

The ruins aren’t very impressive, but the area around the monastery is nice and has a number of ger camps which makes it for a nice stopover en route from the Gobi to Central Mongolia.

Don’t Miss: A chance to stay in a nice tourist ger camp! Since there aren’t too many of them in the Gobi, make sure to enjoy a hot shower (you don’t know when you might get your next one).

CENTRAL MONGOLIA

Kharkhorin: 2-3 days.

Once the capital of the Chinggis Khaan empire , Kharkhorin was completely destroyed in 1388 and rebuilt a few centuries later into what now is known Erdene Zuu Khiid (Monastery). Today, the town itself is nothing exciting, but the monastery itself is impressive and definitely worth a visit.

Don’t Miss: Kharkhorin also has a great selection of ger camps and a big supermarket which is an ideal place to restock for the next leg. If you are lucky, your ger camp might also have wifi.

Tsenkher Hot Springs: 2-3 days

Located less than 30 kms from the town of Tsetseleg, Tesnkher Hot Springs is an up and coming Mongolia travel destination for both local and international tourists.

These natural hot springs are set between rolling hills clad with pine forests and green pastures, creating a beautiful natural setting for a few relaxing days.

And while the natural springs aren’t really set up for public enjoyment, there are four tourist ger camps surrounding the springs that pump water into their own hot spring pools allowing you to enjoy the health benefits of the springs just steps away from your ger.

Don’t Miss: The forested hills of the surrounding area offer lots of opportunities for hikes and nature walks, so make sure you warm up your muscles with a hike before jumping in those hot springs.

Terkhiin Tsagaan Lake (White Lake): 2 days

This freshwater lake spans 16 km and offers beautiful views from the numerous ger camps dotted along its shores.

There isn’t much to do at the lake other than exploring on foot, enjoying the peaceful beauty of the lake and sharing some yak milk with the families running the ger camps, but that’s part of the appeal.

Don’t Miss: A chance to climb to the top of Khorgo Uul , a 200m tall extinct volcano located just outside the town of Tariat en route to the lake.

Shine-Ider: 1 day

This tiny town has no reason to be a Mongolia travel highlight, but for us, the unmissable destination was a tourist ger camp , located some 5-10km outside of town.

Set in a small valley, the camp had the nicest gers and facilities we had come across on our Mongolia itinerary and the hospitality of the local family running the camp was unlike any other.

Don’t Miss: An opportunity to join the nomad family herding nearby for some early morning yak milking.

NORTHERN MONGOLIA

Khovsgol nuur (lake): 2-3 days.

Khovsgol Lake will be the most Northern stop on the Mongolian itinerary. This beautiful area is known for thick forests, rivers, mountains and a beautiful lake with crystal clear waters. While the lake never really gets warm enough for Khovsgol to become a beach destination, the area is perfect for hiking and horseback riding .

Most gers are located on the Western side of the lake, where hiking trails are limited and the only way to get around the beautiful forests is by horse, but travelers also report opportunities for a more off the beaten path hiking/horseback riding experience in the East.

Don’t Miss: A chance to explore the forest by horse , as the opportunities to hike on foot are limited.

Have More Time to Spare?

Adventurous travelers and those with lots of time on their hands may wish to continue their Mongolia travel by venturing further north, where pockets of remote ethnic communities still exist to this day.

The reindeer herders (the Tsaantan people) are gaining particular interest among those traveling to Mongolia , but an authentic low-impact trip to their region requires both time (at least 10 days), money ($1,000+/pp), and many days on horseback (there are simply no roads to get up there).

The never-ending pine forest in Northern Mongolia

The rest may choose to end their trip in Khovsgol, returning to UB via Bulgan or Erdenet in the North. These towns have no sights or attractions and serve as mere stopping points on your Mongolia itinerary to break up the long drive back to UB, although they do offer an insight into the life of smaller towns outside of the capital.

Short on Time?

It is possible to check out all the destinations on this Mongolia itinerary in just 2 weeks , by cutting out additional days and moving to a new destination every 1-2 days.

Unfortunately, this will make for a VERY exhausting trip as roads in the Mongolian countryside are bad (and in many cases, nonexistent) and distances are much longer than they appear to be on the map.

Essential Mongolia Travel Info

Traveling to mongolia.

Fly into Ulanbataar to start your trip and organize transport and provisions for the rest of your time in Mongolia. Direct flights to UB are available from Beijing, Seoul and Moscow and start at $150-200 each way.

Alternatively, you may consider taking a train from Beijing, which runs as a part of the Trans Mongolian Railway system. Tickets are $270USD per person and the journey from Beijing takes 36 hours.

Getting Around Mongolia

Assuming that you are looking to experience the above itinerary independently, we recommend hiring a driver to take you around the country and get you safely to all the stops on your Mongolia travel itinerary. Driving in Mongolia is tough. Very tough. The roads are bad and drives are exhausting, and even experienced drivers (like ours) can easily get lost in the vast steppe of Mongolian countryside.

A comfortable car and a driver that’s familiar with the route will make a huge difference in your Mongolia travel experience. Expect to pay anywhere between $50-75 per car, plus drivers allowance for meals/accommodation,and gas. Less experienced drivers or those that don’t speak any English will be willing to accept a lower rate and will save their accommodation allowance by sleeping in their cars.

Where to Stay

Unless you book your trip with a tour company (prepare to pay a LOT more for the convenience), you won’t be able to pre-book accommodation along the way. Most of the ger camps do not have websites or emails, and they don’t take reservations. It’s another reason why a local driver (who also speaks a bit of English) is essential for this type of trip. They’ll need to know where the ger camps are and be able to call ahead to reserve you a bed/ger on the day of your arrival.

What to Pack/Bring for your Mongolia Travel

Aside from the usual clothing, camera equipment and other travel accessories, it is advised to bring a sleeping bag (as some gers do not provide any bedding or blankets), a gas stove (which you can buy at a supermarket in UB along with propane canisters), a solar charger (electricity isn’t always available), and to always carry a supply of food to last you a few days (canned food, bread, peanut butter/jam, muesli and fruits/veggies work great and can be easily restocked in any small town along the way). Food will be available for sale at ger camps, but if you plan on staying at any family gers, it’s best not to rely on their provisions for meals .

Ready for 3 weeks in Mongolia? Let us know your thoughts on traveling to Mongolia in the comment section below!

About the author.

Oksana & Max St John

16 thoughts on “the ultimate mongolia travel itinerary”.

Thank you for your blog on Mongolia. I need your help since I am planning a 2 weeks in Mongolia in July this year. Since your iternary was for 3 weeks can you help me with places I can avoid and reduce it to 2 weeks. Please also let me know how did you make the booking for car and driver. Please provide me contact number if you have and also help provide me cost. Since I am backpacking and cost is major concern for me.

Thanks in advance

If you only have 2 weeks, we would suggest cutting out the North (Khovsgol Lake), as it takes a long time to get to the lake and back to the city. In terms of hiring a driver, we have yet to write a post about the process as it was a bit complicated, but in short, we suggest reaching out to our friend Shine ( https://www.facebook.com/ExploreMongolians/ ) who helped us organize the trip. We paid $35/person, which included a car with a driver and ger accommodation along the way. However, there was 4 of us in the car, so the cost will likely be higher if you are traveling on your own.

Thank you for this great post. Can you clarify the cost of $35 / person for 4 people was for how many days? Thank you in advance for your help!

It was $35/person per day for 4 people and a 2-week itinerary. You might find prices per car per day or if you are organizing a tour similar to ours, the price will be per person per day.

Thank you so much. Very helpful. Happy new year!

Hi, Great content! I was wondering if you can share more about the car rental and why it took so long (3 days)? Also, please share about the accommodations, you say it is impossible to book in advance? So does this mean your itinerary is somewhat a private tour? Also, if possible, the cost? Thank you so much Monch

The reason the planning took so long was because we wanted a very custom and budget-friendly tour. We met with a couple of drivers to discuss potential routes and prices. Some had unreliable cars, some asked for too much money, some didn’t want to take on the route. We eventually ended up with a private tour for 4 people (us another couple) and we paid $35/pp/day each. The budget included transport and accommodation. The gers were impossible to book in advance because we stayed in very local, small family run gers. They had no websites and often no phone number that could be used to reserve a stay. We simply drove up to the camp and stayed if they had room. If they didn’t have room, we would drive to the next camp and try there.

Hi Oksana and Max.

Thanks so much for your time and effort. You really have given me some great steps and things to think about.

I am researching for myself and 2 mates for next June to August -max 3 weeks. I’ve been talking to a few people with advise on when Nadaam is and yo decide whether that is a priorirty of if another less busy time of year woud be better. Ive been adbised Aug is a great time as well. What are yiur thoughts? I defo had plans to do alot of what is in your itinerary but a driver for the entire journey sounds like a plan – esp if between 3 of us. We were gonna get a driver for the Gobi but it makes more sense for the long term. Tganjs for your time and hope to speak soon.

Regards -Jeff

Traveling to Mongolia during Nadaam is meant to be a great experience. We missed it, unfortunately, so we can’t comment on how that would impact the trip, but do keep in mind that it is the busiest time in Mongolia and will bring its own challenges with accommodation. If you do end up going for Nadaam, we would strongly recommend booking your accommodation in advance.

Why is it ‘highly unrecommended’ to rent your own car in Mongolia?

Well, first of all, we didn’t come across an option to rent a car. And after seeing how much our local driver struggled with driving off road without any signs or directions, we wouldn’t even dare to try that ourselves.

Hello, thank you for your reply. I thought you’d write that your car would be broken into or stolen, or roadside criminals / robbers could hit on you. Have you heard any of such incidents? I looked on Priceline and there are many options to rent cars from Ulanbataar airport but that’s only how far I’ve gotten so far in looking into rentals. Prices are way better than renting in the US for sure so that didn’t scare me but if a guide would be recommended otherwise to be protected from criminal incidents that’s a different story… do you have any insights on that please?

Hi Bela, No, we have not heard of any incidents involving robberies or criminals. Mongolia is a very safe and friendly country and we did not experience locals treating visitors with anything but incredible hospitality and kindness. The reason why it is not a good idea to drive yourself in Mongolia is because navigating the Mongolian countryside is VERY VERY challenging. In the Gobi desert, there are literally no roads and even our local driver had a tough time navigating from one attraction to another. You would also want a local on board to help arrange your stays in ger camps along the way, as there is no way to book these online and no way for you to successfully communicate with local hosts in English. If you need help with arranging a tour or driver/car while in Mongolia, we recommend that you reach out to Shinechimeg from Explore Mongolia ( https://www.facebook.com/ExploreMongolians/ ). She helped us arrange our trip and will be able to help you with yours.

Hi Guys, Do you know the correct contact details for Explore Mongolia? There are two website operating with this name, so I am not sure which is the one you have referenced in the post above. Thankyou 🙂

Yes, you can contact Shinshemeg through https://www.facebook.com/ExploreMongolians/

yes, you did a great adventure travelling in Mongolia. I organize budget tours around Mongolia too.

Search Smartraveller

Latest update

Exercise normal safety precautions in Mongolia.

Mongolia (PDF 302.82 KB)

Asia (PDF 2.21 MB)

Local emergency contacts

Fire and rescue services, medical emergencies, advice levels.

Exercise normal safety precautions in Mongolia.

While uncommon, violent crime is present in Mongolia, particularly in Ulaanbaatar. Criminals have assaulted and sexually harassed foreigners during the day and in busy areas. Crime is more common during major festivals and the summer tourist season. Be aware of your surroundings.
Pickpocketing and bag snatching is common, especially on public transport and in crowded areas. Criminals posing as police have robbed travellers in the Sukhbaatar Square area of Ulaanbaatar. Be alert to thieves, especially on public transport.
Protests can turn violent. Avoid large public gatherings.
Mongolia's weather is extreme. Temperatures vary from 35°C in summer to minus 40°C in winter. Winter lasts from October to March. Snowstorms can also happen outside winter months. Make sure you have adequate clothing and footwear year-round. Weather conditions can change quickly.
Earthquakes, flooding and fires sometimes occur. Follow the advice of local officials.

Full travel advice: Safety

The standard of medical care is poor, particularly outside Ulaanbaatar. Bring basic medical supplies with you. You'll have to pay up-front, even in an emergency. If you're seriously ill or injured, you'll need medical evacuation. Ensure your travel insurance covers this.
Rabies is a risk. It's fatal without immediate treatment. Avoid dogs and other mammals. Get medical help straight away if an animal bites or scratches you.
Waterborne, foodborne and other infectious diseases are common. These include hand, foot and mouth disease (HFMD), hepatitis and measles. Drink only boiled or bottled water. Avoid raw or undercooked food.
During winter, the air in Ulaanbaatar is very polluted. If you have breathing problems, speak to your doctor before you travel.

Full travel advice: Health

Don't use or carry illegal drugs. Severe penalties include long jail terms.
Always carry your passport. If you live in Mongolia, also carry your residency card.
Mongolia doesn't recognise dual nationality. Always travel on your Australian passport. Dual nationals living in Mongolia may need to do national service. Contact the nearest Mongolian embassy for details.
Same-sex relationships are legal. However, LGBTI travellers may face violence, discrimination and harassment. Avoid public displays of affection.

Full travel advice: Local laws

Australian tourists can enter Mongolia for stays of up to 30 days without a visa.
Entry and exit conditions can change at short notice. You should contact the nearest embassy or consulate of Mongolia for the latest details.

Chinggis Khan International Airport is recommended for entry to and exit from Mongolia.

If you're staying longer than 30 days, register with the Office of Immigration in Ulaanbaatar. You must do this within seven days of arriving. If you're on a working visa, ensure your employer has registered for you. Working visa holders must de-register before leaving the country.
Speak to Mongolian authorities or the nearest Embassy of Mongolia if you plan to travel to regional areas.

Full travel advice: Travel

Local contacts

The Consular Services Charter details what we can and can't do to help you overseas.
For consular help, contact the Australian Embassy in Ulaanbaatar.
To stay up to date with local information, follow the Embassy's social media accounts.

Full travel advice: Local contacts

Full advice

Crimes against travellers are most common during the:

Tsagaan Sar Festival in January or February
Naadam Festival in July
summer tourist season

Violent crime

While uncommon, violent crime occurs in Mongolia, particularly in Ulaanbaatar.

Criminals have randomly assaulted foreigners, even during the day and in busy areas.

Criminal attacks have included:

physical assaults on foreign men in the company of local women
harassment and sexual assault of foreign women

Petty crime

Pickpocketing and bag snatching are also common.

Be alert to thieves on public transport and in crowded areas in Ulaanbaatar, such as:

Chinggis Khaan International Airport
the Gandan Monastery
the State Department Store
the Naran Tuul Covered Market ('Black Market')
the Central Post Office
the Ulaanbaatar Railway Station
when crossing a road in a pedestrian crowd

Travellers on trains between Mongolia and Russia are also a common target for thieves.

Pay close attention to your belongings, particularly in crowded areas and on public transport.

Criminals have targeted travellers using taxis to rob and harass them.

Only use licensed taxis, preferably booked through your accommodation.

Criminals posing as police officers have robbed travellers. This has happened in the Sukhbaatar Square area of Ulaanbaatar. Mongolian police officers are required to have name tags on their uniforms and carry ID. It is appropriate to ask to see their ID.

Cyber security

You may be at risk of cyber-based threats during overseas travel to any country. Digital identity theft is a growing concern. Your devices and personal data can be compromised, especially if you're connecting to Wi-Fi, using or connecting to shared or public computers, or to Bluetooth.

Social media can also be risky in destinations where there are social or political tensions or laws that may seem unreasonable by Australian standards. Travellers have been arrested for things they have said on social media. Don't comment on local or political events on your social media.

More information:

Cyber security when travelling overseas

Civil unrest and political tension

Public protests and events that draw large groups of people can turn violent.

Be alert in areas with large crowds.

More information:

Demonstrations and civil unrest

Terrorism is a threat worldwide.

Climate and natural disasters

Mongolia experiences natural disasters and severe weather , such as:

earthquakes
forest fires

Severe weather

Temperatures vary from 35°C in summer to minus 40°C in winter.

Winter is long and severe. It lasts from October to March.

Many accidents happen during winter due to black ice, especially in urban areas. Pedestrians are involved in these accidents too.

Snowstorms can happen outside winter months. Make sure you have adequate clothing and footwear at all times of year.

Weather conditions can change quickly, even in summer. This increases your risk of hypothermia.

The rainy season happens between July and September. Flooding may happen. Avoid flood areas, monitor local media reports and follow the instructions of local authorities.

Earthquakes and natural disasters

Mongolia experiences earthquakes.

Forest or grass fires can be a risk in the drier months.

If a natural disaster occurs:

follow the advice of local authorities
monitor the media for the latest information

Travel insurance

Get comprehensive travel insurance before you leave.

Your policy needs to cover all overseas medical costs, including medical evacuation. The Australian Government won't pay for these costs.

If you can't afford travel insurance, you can't afford to travel. This applies to everyone, no matter how healthy and fit you are.

If you're not insured, you may have to pay many thousands of dollars up-front for medical care.

what activities and care your policy covers
that your insurance covers you for the whole time you'll be away

Physical and mental health

Consider your physical and mental health before you travel, especially if you have an existing medical condition.

See your doctor or travel clinic to:

have a basic health check-up
ask if your travel plans may affect your health
plan any vaccinations you need

Do this at least eight weeks before you leave.

If you have immediate concerns for your welfare or the welfare of another Australian, call the 24-hour Consular Emergency Centre on +61 2 6261 3305 or contact your nearest Australian Embassy, High Commission or Consulate to discuss counselling hotlines and services available in your location.

General health advice
Healthy holiday tips (Healthdirect Australia)

Not all medication available over the counter or by prescription in Australia is available in other countries. Some may even be considered illegal or a controlled substance, even if prescribed by an Australian doctor.

If you plan to bring medication, check if it's legal in Mongolia. Take enough legal medicine for your trip.

The range of medicine available in Mongolia is limited.

Carry a copy of your prescription and a letter from your doctor stating:

what the medicine is
your required dosage
that it's for personal use

Authorities could refuse you entry or prosecute you if you arrive without a prescription for your medication.

Health risks

The standard of medical care is poor, particularly outside Ulaanbaatar. If you're in Mongolia, monitor your health closely.

Avoid contact with dogs and other animals as they may carry dangerous diseases, such as rabies .

If an animal bites or scratches you:

wash the wound thoroughly with soap and water for 10 to 15 minutes
get urgent medical help

Other health risks

Waterborne, foodborne and other infectious diseases are common. These include:

sexually transmitted infections
hand, foot and mouth disease
tuberculosis

Serious outbreaks sometimes occur.

To protect yourself from illness:

drink boiled water or bottled water with sealed lids
avoid ice cubes
avoid uncooked and undercooked food, such as salads

Get urgent medical help if you suspect food poisoning or have a fever or diarrhea.

Infectious diseases

Air pollution

During winter, from October to March, the air in Ulaanbaatar is dangerously polluted. This is because people burn coal and rubber for heating.

Speak to your doctor before travelling if you have breathing-related problems.

Medical care

Medical facilities.

The standard of medical care is poor, particularly outside Ulaanbaatar.

Bring basic medical supplies with you.

Doctors and hospitals require payment before treating you, even if it's an emergency.

If you become seriously ill or injured, you'll need to be evacuated to get proper care. Medical evacuation can be very expensive. You'll probably need to pay up-front. Delays are common while waiting for approvals.

Severe weather and snowfall can delay or stop medical evacuations from remote places.

You're subject to all local laws and penalties, including those that may appear harsh by Australian standards. Research local laws before travelling.

If you're arrested or jailed, the Australian Government will do what it can to help you under our Consular Services Charter . But we can't get you out of trouble or out of jail.

Arrested or jailed

Penalties for drug offences are severe and include long prison terms in local jails.

Carrying or using drugs

By law, you must always carry your passport when travelling in Mongolia.

If you live in Mongolia, you must also carry your residency card.

If you're involved in legal action, authorities might not let you leave. You may have to wait until the issue is resolved. This includes when criminal investigations have started after commercial disputes.

Australian laws

Some Australian criminal laws still apply when you're overseas. If you break these laws, you may face prosecution in Australia.

Staying within the law and respecting customs

Dual citizenship

Mongolia doesn't recognise dual nationality.

If you're a dual citizen, this limits the consular services we can give if you're arrested or detained.

Always travel on your Australian passport .

If you're a dual national who plans to live in Mongolia, you may need to complete national service. Contact the nearest embassy of Mongolia before travelling.

Dual nationals

Local customs

Same-sex relationships are legal.

However, the Mongolian National Human Rights Commission has reported LGBTI travellers can face violence and discrimination.

Members of the LGBTI community have also reported harassment.

Avoid public displays of affection.

LGBTI travellers

Visas and border measures

Every country or territory decides who can enter or leave through its borders. For specific information about the evidence you'll need to enter a foreign destination, check with the nearest embassy, consulate or immigration department of the destination you're entering.

Australian tourists can enter Mongolia for stays of up to 30 days without a visa.

Foreign nationals may apply for short-term (up to 60 days) diplomatic, official, or business visas on the condition they meet health-related entry requirements.

Entry and exit conditions can change at short notice. Contact the nearest embassy or consulate for details about visas, currency, customs and quarantine rules.

Border measures

You need to carry proof of your onward or return ticket to enter Mongolia.

Staying in Mongolia

All businesses and services remain open and available.

Departure from Mongolia

Monitor the Australian Embassy website and social media for major updates and follow the advice of local authorities.

Other formalities

You must show proof of a return airfare or onward travel to enter Mongolia.

If you're staying longer than 30 days, you must register with the Office of Immigration in Ulaanbaatar within 7 days of arriving.

This includes people on working visas. Confirm your employer has registered on your behalf.

If you don't register, authorities can fine you.

If you have a working visa, you must de-register before leaving Mongolia.

You may need an HIV/AIDS test if you:

plan to work, either paid or voluntary
marry a Mongolian national

Travel with children

If you're travelling with a child who isn't yours, you must show a notarised letter. The letter must be from the child's legal guardian granting you permission to travel with the child.

Advice for people travelling with children

Import rules

Authorities have strict rules about importing:

electrical equipment
some technological equipment

The Mongolian Border Protection Authority (Mongolian) will check the equipment. It will work out if tax applies.

These rules also cover items being donated, such as medical equipment.

They don't apply to common personal items, such as laptops and tablets.

Some countries won't let you enter unless your passport is valid for 6 months after you plan to leave that country. This can apply even if you're just transiting or stopping over.

Some foreign governments and airlines apply the rule inconsistently. Travellers can receive conflicting advice from different sources.

You can end up stranded if your passport is not valid for more than 6 months.

The Australian Government does not set these rules. Check your passport's expiry date before you travel. If you're not sure it'll be valid for long enough, consider getting a new passport .

Lost or stolen passport

Your passport is a valuable document. It's attractive to people who may try to use your identity to commit crimes.

Some people may try to trick you into giving them your passport. Always keep it in a safe place.

If your passport is lost or stolen, tell the Australian Government as soon as possible:

In Australia, contact the Australian Passport Information Service .
If you're overseas, contact the nearest Australian embassy or consulate

Passport with 'X' gender identifier

Although Australian passports comply with international standards for sex and gender, we can't guarantee that a passport showing 'X' in the sex field will be accepted for entry or transit by another country. Contact the nearest embassy, high commission or consulate of your destination before you arrive at the border to confirm if authorities will accept passports with 'X' gender markers.

LGBTI travellers

The local currency is Mongolian Tugrik (MNT).

Some banks in Ulaanbaatar buy Australian dollars. Check the banks' websites before you travel.

You can generally exchange:

Russian roubles
Chinese yuan

However, these currencies may not be accepted everywhere.

US currency dated before 2000 may not be accepted in Mongolia, even by banks.

Bank notes of different amounts are exchanged at different rates. Lower value notes receive a lower rate.

Outside Ulaanbaatar, carry cash.

There are few ATMs outside Ulaanbaatar.

Some smaller shops, supermarkets and restaurants don't accept credit cards.

Travel between Mongolia and Russia

If, despite our advice, you travel to Russia, you may experience border and customs difficulties when entering by train from Russia.

Declare all goods and cash when entering and leaving Russia.

The Embassy of Russia in Mongolia can issue tourist visas for Russia.

Travel advice for Russia

Travel between Mongolia and China

If you travel between Mongolia and China, you must follow China's entry and exit rules. This is the case even if you are only transiting through China.

The Embassy of China in Mongolia can only issue a visa for China to residents of Mongolia.

If you're going to China, you must get a visa before you travel.

Travel advice for China

Local travel

Driving permit.

You can't drive a vehicle or ride a motorbike with an Australian driver's licence or International Driving Permit (IDP) in Mongolia.

For short visits, use taxis or hire a car with a driver.

If you plan to stay more than 12 months, apply for a Mongolian licence.

National Police Agency

Travel by car

To travel to Mongolia by car, you must get approval from the Mongolian Customs Office before you enter.

For this, you'll need to provide:

copy of bio data page of passport;
copy of driver’s licence
car registration papers;
ownership certificate;
travel route and Mongolian contact numbers.

The Mongolian Customs Office will make a record on the foreign citizen’s visa stamp that the citizen has entered with a car, which will be checked when the citizen leaves the country.

Mongolian Border Protection checks the visa in addition to asking for car related documents and requires advance notice if a large number of foreign citizens enter the country by car at the same time.

Road travel

Driving in Mongolia can be dangerous, especially at night, due to poor:

road conditions
vehicle maintenance
local driving practices

There are few sealed roads outside of Ulaanbaatar.

You're 4 times more likely to die in a traffic accident in Mongolia than in Australia.

Many accidents happen during winter due to black ice, especially in urban areas. Right-hand drive vehicles cause many accidents on rural roads. Pedestrians are often injured.

Take care as a pedestrian. Drivers don't always give way, even at marked pedestrian crossings.

To protect yourself when driving beyond city limits, take:

a GPS or compass
communications equipment, such as a satellite phone
emergency medical supplies

Communication and medical facilities are often poor outside cities.

Driving or riding

Snowfall and dust storms

For most of the year, heavy snowfall can:

restrict access to many regional areas
greatly increase risks of car travel between towns

To drive safely while travelling during snowy periods:

allow for additional travel time
make sure your insurance policy covers delays and cancellations

Severe weather and snowfall can also restrict medical evacuations from remote places.

Take care as a pedestrian during severe weather. Heavy snow can cause black ice on footpaths and road crossings.

Dust storms during May and June can affect visibility when driving.

If you ride a motorcycle, always wear a helmet.

Road safety and driving

Taxis can be dangerous. Book a reliable, licensed taxi company through your accommodation, restaurant, or venue.

Public transport

Local transport providers may not carry accident liability insurance. This includes bus and private car operators.

Always use seatbelts, even if others don't.

If appropriate safety equipment isn't available, use another provider.

Transport and getting around safely

DFAT doesn't provide information on the safety of individual commercial airlines or flight paths.

Check Mongolia's air safety profile with the Aviation Safety Network.

Regional travel

Access to some regional districts is occasionally restricted for quarantine, including:

bird flu (avian influenza)
hand, foot and mouth disease (HFMD)
bubonic or pneumonic plague

Restrictions can change.

Speak to the Mongolian authorities or the nearest Embassy of Mongolia if you plan to travel to regional areas.

Emergencies

Depending on what you need, contact your:

family and friends
travel agent
insurance provider

Always get a police report when you report a crime.

Your insurer should have a 24-hour emergency number.

Consular contacts

Read the Consular Services Charter for what the Australian Government can and can't do to help you overseas.

You can get consular help from the Australian Embassy in Mongolia.

Australian Embassy, Ulaanbaatar

Australian Embassy

Shangri-La Centre, Level 20

Olympic St 19A, SB District

Ulaanbaatar 14241, Mongolia

Phone: (+976) 7013 3001

Email: [email protected]

Website: http://mongolia.embassy.gov.au/

Facebook: Australian Embassy in Mongolia

Twitter: @AusAmbMongolia

Check the Embassy website for details about opening hours and any temporary closures.

24-hour Consular Emergency Centre

In a consular emergency, if you can't contact an embassy, call the 24-hour Consular Emergency Centre on:

+61 2 6261 3305 from overseas
1300 555 135 in Australia

Travelling to Mongolia?

Be the first to know official government advice when travelling.

IMAGES

What to Do and See in Mongolia
Mongolia Travel Guide (updated 2021)
Your Mongolia Travel Guide: Where To Stay, Eat & Explore
Top Places To Visit in Mongolia
Why You Need to Go to Mongolia Now in 16 Stunning Photos
Top 5 Reasons to Travel to Mongolia in 2023: A Guide from a Mongolian

COMMENTS

17 things to know before traveling to Mongolia
5. Download podcasts and audiobooks for those long road trips. Mongolia is three times the size of France, and most roads are bumpy tracks, which translates to low average speeds even in a modern 4WD. Expect to spend hours bouncing along through vast, unchanging landscapes - beautiful but somewhat repetitive.
Mongolia Travel Restrictions
Find continuously updated travel restrictions for Mongolia such as border, vaccination, COVID-19 testing, and quarantine requirements. ... Destinations you can travel to now Popular destinations open to most visitors from the United States. Open. Australia. Most travelers can visit. Open. Canada. Most travelers can visit. Open.
Mongolia Travel Advisory
Reissued with obsolete COVID-19 page links removed. Exercise normal precautions in Mongolia. Read the country information page for additional information on travel to Mongolia.. If you travel to Mongolia, you should: Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to receive Alerts and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.; Monitor local media for breaking events and adjust your ...
Mongolia International Travel Information
Call us in Washington, D.C. at 1-888-407-4747 (toll-free in the United States and Canada) or 1-202-501-4444 (from all other countries) from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m., Eastern Standard Time, Monday through Friday (except U.S. federal holidays). See the State Department's travel website for the Worldwide Caution and Travel Advisories.
Mongolia travel
Explore Mongolia holidays and discover the best time and places to visit. Lonely Planet. Destinations. Planning. Inspiration. Shop. Search. Saves. Open main menu. Mongolia ... The area of Naiman Nuur, which was created by volcanic eruptions centuries ago, is now part of the 115-sq-km Khuisiin Naiman Nuur Nature Reserve. Despite…
MONGOLIA
In addition, any person traveling by air or land to Mongolia must present a negative COVID-19 test result taken within 72 hours before arrival. Thus, any person, regardless of nationality, including children who have reached the eligible age of taking COVID-19 PCR test, wishing to travel to Mongolia, must present a negative result at boarding.
12 best places to visit in Mongolia
Zanabazar, who was the first leader of Buddhism in Mongolia, founded the monastery and lived and meditated here, calling it the "Land of Happy Solitude.". There are several nearby temples and a meditation cave to explore. 7. Gobi Gurvansaikhan National Park. Best place for desert landscapes.
Travel advice and advisories for Mongolia
Visitors who plan to stay for more than 30 days in Mongolia must register with the Office of Immigration, Naturalization and Foreign Citizens within 48 hours upon arrival. Travel to and from China. If you travel to Mongolia through China, or plan to transit through or travel to China from Mongolia, you must meet China's entry and exit ...
The Ultimate Mongolia Travel Guide 2024
This is when most tourists visit Mongolia, so you can expect peak rates, sometimes crowded natural landmarks and museums, and full flights. The average summer temperature in Mongolia is between 25° and 32° C, with cold nights. You can comfortably wear t-shirts during the day and a light jacket when it gets dark.
Mongolia
Ulaanbaatar is the capital of Mongolia. It's in the Tuul River valley, bordering the Bogd Khan Uul National Park. Originally a nomadic Buddhist center, it became a permanent site in the 18th century. Soviet control in the 20th century led to a religious purge. Soviet-era buildings, museums within surviving monasteries, and a vibrant ...
Mongolia travel advice
Still current at: 22 April 2024 Updated: 18 December 2023 Latest update: This travel advice has been rewritten to make it easier to read and understand.
Mongolia travel
Take a look at our most popular tours. Kharkhorin and Elsen Tasarkhai Tour (3 days) Enter the former capital city of Mongolia. Visit the historic Erdene Zuu monastery. Ride to the Elsen Tasarkhai Oasis. 3 days. from: USD 560. Discover Mongolia Tour (14 days) See the fabulous Great Gobi Desert.
Entry requirements
Passport validity requirements. To enter Mongolia, your passport must have an 'expiry date' at least 6 months after the date you arrive. Check with your travel provider that your passport and ...
Mongolia Travel Tips: Everything You Need to Know
This is not a year-round destination for most people. Ulaanbaatar is actually the coldest capital in the world with an average temp of -1 degrees C. Up north, temperatures drop to -45 C in winter. If you plan to travel around the country plan your visit for the travel season. Peak season if you can.
Mongolia
If your travel plans in Mongolia include outdoor activities, take these steps to stay safe and healthy during your trip. Stay alert to changing weather conditions and adjust your plans if conditions become unsafe. Prepare for activities by wearing the right clothes and packing protective items, such as bug spray, sunscreen, and a basic first ...
This is How to Travel to Mongolia
Where to Go in Mongolia - Itinerary. Day 1: Visiting Ulaanbaatar. Day 2: Getting from Ulaanbaatar to the Gobi desert. Day 3: Visit the Baga Gazryn Chuluu Rock Formations. Day 4: Sleep at a Ger Camp in the Gobi Desert. Day 5: Dalanzagad to Gobi Discovery Ger Camp. Day 6: Hiking in Yolin Am - Mongolia's Ice Valley.
The best time to visit Mongolia
June, July and August are Mongolia's warmest months, so this is the optimal time to hit the countryside. Under clear skies, you can experience nomadic hospitality as you traverse the grassy steppe by horse, foot, bike or 4WD before spending nights in ger (yurt) camps. June is a particularly good time to visit, right before the main tourist ...
Ultimate 9-Day Mongolia Travel Itinerary & What To Expect
Budget: The cost of travel in Mongolia can vary widely depending on your travel style and itinerary. Budget accommodation and food can be found for around $20-30 per day, while mid-range hotels and restaurants can cost around $50-80 per day. Tours and activities can range from $50-100 per day and up.
Mongolia Travel Restrictions 2023
1: Is Mongolia's border open to the international arrivals? Tourists are allowed to enter Mongolia from the 14th of February 2022 without quarantine and have no additional requirements from the 14th of March. The period of temporary suspension of passengers at land border crossings of Mongolia/China extended until January 09, 2023.
Mongolia Travel Guides & Tours
Travel to Mongolia and enjoy the Gobi desert, steppes around Karakorum with nomads, Ulaanbaatar and Terelj or Altai mountains with its eagle hunter. ... Discover the most fascinating routes to explore Mongolia. Request now. 4x4 Self Drive trips around Mongolia. Enjoy the feeling of freedom and adventure in a road trip around Mongolia. Discover ...
Mongolia
Direct flights are available from countries such as China, Russia, Germany, Korea, Hong Kong, and Turkey. You can also visit Mongolia by train via Trans-Mongolian Line, which is part of the Trans-Siberian Railway. If you're looking for an adventure and depending on your nationality, you can even drive to Mongolia from Russia or China. Overland.
The Ultimate Mongolia Travel Itinerary
Check out our 3-week suggested Mongolia travel itinerary with all the essential information for an unforgettable trip. ... Kharkhorin was completely destroyed in 1388 and rebuilt a few centuries later into what now is known Erdene Zuu Khiid (Monastery). Today, the town itself is nothing exciting, but the monastery itself is impressive and ...
Mongolia Travel Advice & Safety
If you travel between Mongolia and China, you must follow China's entry and exit rules. This is the case even if you are only transiting through China. The Embassy of China in Mongolia can only issue a visa for China to residents of Mongolia. If you're going to China, you must get a visa before you travel. More information: Travel advice for China

Mongolia Travel Restrictions

Traveling from the United States to Mongolia

COVID-19 testing

Restaurants

Mongolia entry details and exceptions

Can I travel to Mongolia from the United States?

Can I travel to Mongolia if I am vaccinated?

Can I travel to Mongolia without being vaccinated?

Do I need a COVID test to enter Mongolia?

Can I travel to Mongolia without quarantine?

Do I need to wear a mask in Mongolia?

Are the restaurants and bars open in Mongolia?

Update April 12, 2024

Find U.S. Embassies & Consulates

Learn About Your Destination

Travel Advisory July 24, 2023

Embassy Messages

Quick Facts

Embassies and Consulates

Destination Description

Entry, Exit and Visa Requirements

Safety and Security

Local Laws & Special Circumstances

Travel and Transportation

For additional travel information

Travel Advisory Levels

External Link

Language selection

Mongolia travel advice

On this page

Demonstrations

2SLGBTQI+ travellers

Adventure tourism

Road travel

Road safety

Public transportation

Regular Canadian passport

Passport for official travel

Passport with “X” gender identifier

Other travel documents

Useful links

Registration

Travel to and from China

Travel to and from Russia

Children and travel

Yellow fever

Relevant Travel Health Notices

Routine vaccines

Pre-travel vaccines and medications

Safe food and water precautions

Insect bite prevention

Animal precautions

Person-to-person infections

Medical services and facilities

Keep in Mind...

Identification

Dual citizenship

International Child Abduction

Train travel to and from Russia

Seismic activity

Flooding and landslides

Dust storms

Extreme temperatures

Air quality

Local services

Consular assistance

Risk Levels

Exercise a high degree of caution

Avoid non-essential travel

Avoid all travel

The Ultimate Mongolia Travel Guide 2024

Live with an Eagle Hunter Family During this Eagle Festival Tour 2024

What is Mongolian Traditional Mounted Archery?

Mongolian Lunar New Year and Shambala Winter Tour 2025

When is the Best Time of Year to Visit Mongolia?

What to Expect When You Visit Mongolia in Fall, Winter, or Spring

Finding a Cheap Flight to Mongolia

Taking the Trans-Siberian Railway

Tips for Taking Taxis, Public Transportation, and Hiring a Driving

Finding a Taxi in Ulaanbaatar