Welcome to our Frequently Asked Questions page about Mongolia! Here, we aim to address some common queries you may have before visiting this fascinating country:

The best time to visit Mongolia largely depends on your preferences and the activities you would like to engage in during your trip. Here is a breakdown of the main seasons and their characteristics:

  1. Summer (June to August):
  • Weather: Warm to hot temperatures, with July being the hottest month.
  • Landscape: Lush greenery, blooming flowers, and rivers flowing.
  • Activities: Ideal for outdoor activities such as hiking, horseback riding, and camping. Naadam Festival, Mongolia’s biggest traditional event, takes place in July.
  1. Autumn (September to October):
  • Weather: Mild to cool temperatures, with September being milder.
  • Landscape: Beautiful autumn colors as the vegetation starts to change.
  • Activities: Good for hiking and photography as the landscapes are stunning. The tourist season begins to wind down.
  1. Winter (November to February):
  • Weather: Extremely cold temperatures, with January being the coldest month.
  • Landscape: Snow-covered landscapes and frozen lakes.
  • Activities: Winter sports like dog sledding and ice skating are popular. Winter festivals, such as Ice Festival and Eagle Festival, can be experienced.
  1. Spring (March to May):
  • Weather: Gradually warming temperatures, but still chilly in March.
  • Landscape: The snow begins to melt, revealing emerging vegetation.
  • Activities: A good time for bird watching and witnessing the nomadic lifestyle. Mongolia celebrates Tsagaan Sar (Lunar New Year) in February, which can be a cultural highlight.

It’s important to note that Mongolia is a vast country with diverse landscapes, so regional variations in climate and weather patterns can occur. If you have specific activities or regions in mind, it’s recommended to research and plan accordingly.

There are several ways to get to Mongolia depending on your location and preferences. Here are some common transportation options:

  1. By Air: The most convenient way to reach Mongolia is by flying into the capital city, Ulaanbaatar (ULN). Chinggis Khaan International Airport is the main international airport in Mongolia, and it receives flights from various cities around the world. You can check for flights with international airlines or connect through major hubs in neighboring countries such as China or Russia.
  2. By Train: If you prefer a scenic and adventurous journey, you can take a train to Mongolia. The Trans-Siberian Railway connects Moscow, Russia, with Ulaanbaatar, making it a popular route for travelers. There are also train connections from neighboring China, particularly from Beijing to Ulaanbaatar.
  3. By Land: If you are already in a neighboring country, such as Russia or China, you can enter Mongolia by road. There are border crossings available for both private vehicles and buses/coaches. It’s important to check visa requirements and road conditions before embarking on a land journey.
  4. By Bus: International buses operate between Mongolia and neighboring countries. For example, there are long-distance buses that connect Ulaanbaatar with major cities in Russia and China. These journeys can be long and may require multiple stops and border crossings.

Once you arrive in Mongolia, you can explore the country further by domestic flights, local buses, or hiring a driver/guide for more remote areas.

It’s important to check visa requirements, flight availability, and any travel restrictions or advisories before planning your trip, as these can vary and change. It is recommended to consult with travel agents or check official tourism websites for the most up-to-date information.

When packing for Mongolia, consider the following items:

  1. Clothing: Pack clothing suitable for various weather conditions, as Mongolia experiences different seasons and temperature extremes. Include:
  • Lightweight, breathable layers for summer, including t-shirts, long-sleeved shirts, and shorts.
  • Warm layers for cooler seasons, such as sweaters, thermal tops, and pants.
  • A waterproof and windproof outer layer, like a rain jacket or shell.
  • Sturdy and comfortable hiking or walking shoes.
  • Hat, gloves, and scarf for colder months.
  • Swimsuit (for hot springs or swimming).
  1. Personal Essentials:
  • Travel-sized toiletries, including sunscreen, insect repellent, and hand sanitizer.
  • Medications and a basic first aid kit.
  • Sunglasses and a hat for sun protection.
  • Travel adapter for electrical outlets.
  1. Outdoor Gear:
  • Backpack or daypack for day trips or hiking.
  • Sleeping bag (if planning camping or trekking).
  • Travel towel or quick-drying towel.
  • Water bottle or water purification system.
  • Flashlight or headlamp.
  • Trekking poles (if planning on hiking).
  1. Miscellaneous:
  • Travel documents (passport, visa, travel insurance).
  • Cash (both local currency and USD/EUR).
  • Binoculars for wildlife viewing.
  • Portable charger or power bank.
  • Travel guidebook or maps.

It’s worth noting that if you plan to visit during winter or engage in winter activities, additional items like cold-weather gear (thermal layers, heavy coat, snow boots) and equipment for winter sports may be necessary.

Always check the weather conditions and the specific activities you plan to undertake to ensure you pack accordingly. Remember to pack light and prioritize essential items to make your travel experience more comfortable.

Mongolia has extreme weather conditions throughout the year, so it’s important to plan your tour accordingly. Here’s an overview of the weather in Mongolia:

  1. Summer (June to August):
  • Weather: Warm to hot with temperatures ranging from 20°C to 30°C (68°F to 86°F).
  • Highlights: This is the peak tourist season when the weather is most favorable for outdoor activities, exploring the Gobi Desert, hiking, and experiencing nomadic life.
  1. Autumn (September to October):
  • Weather: Mild temperatures ranging from 10°C to 20°C (50°F to 68°F).
  • Highlights: Autumn offers beautiful landscapes with changing foliage colors, particularly in September. It’s a great time for hiking and photography.
  1. Winter (November to February):
  • Weather: Extremely cold with temperatures dropping below freezing, often reaching as low as -30°C (-22°F).
  • Highlights: Winter in Mongolia is ideal for those interested in winter sports like skiing or for cultural experiences like attending local festivals such as Tsagaan Sar (Lunar New Year).
  1. Spring (March to May):
  • Weather: Cold with temperatures gradually rising from below freezing to 10°C (32°F).
  • Highlights: Spring is the time when the landscape begins to thaw, and you can witness the emergence of new life. It’s a great time for birdwatching and horseback riding.

Please note that weather conditions can vary, so it’s always recommended to check the forecast closer to your travel dates and pack accordingly. Let me know if there’s anything else I can assist you with!

The official currency of Mongolia is the Mongolian Tugrik (MNT). When traveling to Mongolia, it is advisable to have local currency on hand for your expenses.

While some major hotels and tourist establishments in Ulaanbaatar may accept credit cards, cash is still widely used, especially in rural areas and smaller towns. Therefore, it is recommended to have some cash in the local currency for your daily expenses, transportation, meals, and shopping.

You can exchange foreign currency into Mongolian Tugriks at banks, exchange offices, and some hotels in Ulaanbaatar. Additionally, ATMs are available in major cities, allowing you to withdraw cash using your international debit or credit card. However, it is important to notify your bank prior to your travel to ensure your card functions in Mongolia.

Do keep in mind that smaller towns and rural areas might have limited access to ATMs and exchange services, so it’s better to plan accordingly and carry enough cash with you.

If you have any more questions or need further assistance, feel free to ask!

The official language of Mongolia is Mongolian. Mongolian uses the Cyrillic script, which was adopted in the 1940s. However, it’s worth noting that there are also different dialects of Mongolian spoken among various ethnic groups in the country.

In urban areas, especially in the capital city Ulaanbaatar, you will generally find people who speak English, especially in hotels, tourist areas, and some service industries. However, English proficiency may vary outside of these areas, particularly in rural or remote regions.

Learning a few basic Mongolian phrases can be helpful and appreciated by the locals while traveling in Mongolia, especially if you plan to explore more off-the-beaten-path destinations. It’s always a great way to connect with the locals and enhance your travel experience.

If you need any assistance with specific phrases or have any more questions, feel free to ask!

Mongolia is generally considered a safe country to visit. The crime rate is relatively low, and violent crimes, especially towards tourists, are rare. However, as with any travel destination, it is important to take certain precautions to ensure your safety and well-being:

  1. Personal Safety: Exercise caution and remain vigilant in crowded areas, particularly in Ulaanbaatar, where petty theft and pickpocketing can occur. Keep your belongings secure and avoid displaying signs of wealth.
  2. Transportation: Be cautious when traveling by road, especially in remote areas. Roads can be in poor condition, and drivers may not always follow traffic rules. Choose reputable transportation options and consider hiring experienced drivers for long journeys.
  3. Nature and Wildlife: Mongolia is known for its vast, unspoiled landscapes and unique wildlife. If you plan to venture into rural areas or national parks, be cautious of the surroundings and follow safety guidelines. Stay informed about potential risks, such as encountering wild animals or extreme weather conditions.
  4. Cultural Sensitivity: Respect local customs, traditions, and the nomadic way of life. Mongolians are known for their hospitality, so show appreciation and be considerate when interacting with locals.
  5. Weather Conditions: Mongolia experiences extreme weather conditions, especially during winter. Be prepared for temperature changes, pack appropriate clothing and equipment, and ensure your travel plans consider weather forecasts.

It is always a good idea to stay updated on travel advisories and consult with local authorities or a reputable travel agency when planning your trip to Mongolia.

If you have any specific concerns or questions, feel free to let me know!