Countries | Read more
Flags are sourced from free platforms like flagpedia.net
Mongolia
Mongolia is renowned for its expansive steppes, rich nomadic culture, and dramatic landscapes. Visitors can experience the traditional lifestyle of the nomads, explore the vast Gobi Desert, and enjoy the beauty of the Altai Mountains. Its unique blend of natural beauty and cultural heritage makes Mongolia a captivating destination.
Photos without credits are sourced from free platforms like Unsplash and Pexels
Summary
Neighboring Countries
Overview
Months
05. May, 06. June, 07. July, 08. August, 09. September
Vacation type
Couple, Family, Hiking, Mountains, Nature, Sightseeing
Expenses
<100€, <150€, <200€, 0-50€, Over 200€
Temperature
0-10°C, 10-20°C, 20-25°C
Rainfall
0-50mm
Safety
Safe
Continent
Asia
Currency
Tögrög
Languages
Mangolian
Currency Converter
When to visit
The best time to visit Mongolia is during the summer months from June to August. During this period, the weather is relatively warm and dry, which is ideal for exploring the country's vast landscapes and experiencing outdoor activities.
- June to August: Features warm temperatures and clear skies, making it perfect for visiting the Gobi Desert, the steppes, and cultural sites. This is also when the annual Naadam Festival takes place in July, showcasing traditional Mongolian sports and cultural events.
- Spring (April to May) and autumn (September to October) can be good times as well, with milder temperatures and fewer tourists, though weather can be unpredictable, with occasional rain or dust storms.
- Winter (November to March) can be extremely cold, with temperatures often dropping well below freezing. However, this period offers a unique experience of traditional winter activities and festivals but requires proper preparation for the harsh conditions.
Weather, Crowds and Costs
Per one person
Tourist Season: June-August (Summer)
Budget Vacation ($30-60/day)
Accommodation: $10-30/night (guesthouses, budget hotels).
Food: $5-15/day (street food, local restaurants).
Activities: $5-10/day (hikes, cultural visits).
Transportation: $5-10/day (public transport, local taxis).
Other Costs: $5/day (souvenirs).
Mid-Range Vacation ($60-150/day)
Accommodation: $30-70/night (mid-range hotels, yurts).
Food: $15-30/day (restaurants, cafes).
Activities: $10-30/day (excursions, cultural experiences).
Transportation: $10-20/day (taxis, car rentals).
Other Costs: $10-15/day (shopping).
Luxury Vacation ($150+/day)
Accommodation: $70+/night (luxury hotels, boutique resorts).
Food: $20+/day (fine dining).
Activities: $30+/day (private tours, activities).
Transportation: $20+/day (private transport).
Other Costs: $10+/day (luxury shopping).
Off-Peak Season: October-May (Winter)
Budget Vacation ($20-50/day)
Accommodation: $10-25/night (budget guesthouses).
Food: $5-10/day (local food).
Activities: $5-10/day (cultural visits, museum tours).
Transportation: $5/day (public transport).
Other Costs: $5/day (souvenirs).
Mid-Range Vacation ($50-120/day)
Accommodation: $20-50/night (mid-range hotels).
Food: $10-20/day (local restaurants).
Activities: $10-20/day (city tours, historical sites).
Transportation: $5-10/day (public transport, taxis).
Other Costs: $5-10/day (shopping).
Luxury Vacation ($120+/day)
Accommodation: $60+/night (luxury hotels).
Food: $20+/day (fine dining).
Activities: $15+/day (private tours, luxury excursions).
Transportation: $10+/day (private transport).
Other Costs: $10+/day (luxury shopping).
Best Regions to visit
Cities
1. Ulaanbaatar
- The capital and largest city, known for its mix of modern and traditional culture, museums, and landmarks like Gandan Monastery.
2. Erdenet
- An important industrial city, famous for its large copper mine and nearby scenic landscapes.
3. Karakorum (Kharkhorin)
- The ancient capital of the Mongol Empire, known for its historical significance and the Erdene Zuu Monastery.
4. Darkhan
- One of Mongolia's largest cities, known for its cultural sites and proximity to beautiful countryside.
5. Ölgii
- Located in the western part of Mongolia, it's known for its rich Kazakh culture and as a gateway to the Altai Mountains.
Ulaanbaatar
Islands
Mongolia is a landlocked country, so it does not have any islands.
Things to see
Natural Attractions
1. Gobi Desert
- Explore this vast and iconic desert, known for its sand dunes, unique rock formations, and the possibility of spotting the elusive Bactrian camel. Key sites include the Flaming Cliffs, where dinosaur fossils have been found.
2. Khövsgöl Lake
- Visit this stunning alpine lake, often called the "Blue Pearl of Mongolia," surrounded by forests and mountains. It’s perfect for hiking, horseback riding, and experiencing the culture of the Tsaatan reindeer herders.
3. Altai Mountains
- Trek through this rugged mountain range, home to snow-capped peaks, glaciers, and rich wildlife, including the rare snow leopard. The area is also known for the traditional practice of eagle hunting.
4. Terelj National Park
- Enjoy the beautiful landscapes of this park, featuring rock formations, meadows, and forests. Activities include hiking, visiting nomadic families, and seeing the iconic Turtle Rock and Aryabal Meditation Temple.
5. Orkhon Valley
- Explore this UNESCO World Heritage site, rich in historical and cultural significance, with ancient ruins, traditional nomadic camps, and the Orkhon Waterfall, one of Mongolia’s most picturesque spots.
6. Lake Khagiin Khar
- Discover this remote, pristine lake located in the Khan Khentii Strictly Protected Area. It’s a challenging journey to reach it, but the untouched wilderness and tranquility make it a unique experience.
Cultural Attractions
1. Naadam Festival
- Experience Mongolia’s largest traditional festival, held in July, featuring the "Three Manly Games" of wrestling, horse racing, and archery. It’s a vibrant display of Mongolian culture and heritage.
2. Erdene Zuu Monastery
- Visit Mongolia’s oldest Buddhist monastery, built in the 16th century, which still functions as a place of worship and is surrounded by an ancient wall with 108 stupas.
3. Karakorum
- Explore the ancient capital of the Mongol Empire, where you can see the ruins of the once-great city, along with the nearby Erdene Zuu Monastery.
4. Gandan Monastery
- Visit this important Buddhist monastery in Ulaanbaatar, home to a 26.5-meter tall statue of Avalokitesvara and a significant religious center for Mongolians.
5. Genghis Khan Equestrian Statue
- See the world’s largest equestrian statue, towering at 40 meters, depicting Genghis Khan on horseback. The site offers panoramic views and a museum dedicated to Mongolia’s history.
6. Tumen Ekh Ensemble
- Attend a performance by this renowned traditional Mongolian music and dance group, where you can experience throat singing, contortion, and other unique cultural expressions.
How to get around
1. Domestic Flights
- Domestic flights are essential for traveling between distant regions of Mongolia. Airlines like MIAT Mongolian Airlines and Hunnu Air offer flights connecting major cities such as Ulaanbaatar, Olgii, and Khovd. Flights are the quickest way to cover long distances, especially to remote areas.
2. Buses
- Long-distance buses connect Ulaanbaatar with other cities and towns. Services such as Baatar Express and Gobi Tour offer routes to places like Karim, Erdenet, and Dalanzadgad. Buses are a cost-effective option, though travel times can be long.
3. Trains
- Trains operated by the Mongolian Railway connect Ulaanbaatar with other cities and even international destinations like Beijing and Moscow. The train to Sükhbaatar and Darkhan can be a scenic and comfortable option for travel within Mongolia.
4. Private Vehicles
- Renting a 4x4 vehicle with a driver is a popular choice for exploring Mongolia’s vast landscapes and remote areas. The country’s terrain can be rugged, so a 4x4 is often necessary for travel outside of major cities. Many tour operators offer vehicle rentals with drivers.
5. Shared Jeeps
- Shared jeeps or tourist vans are commonly used for group travel and tours to destinations like the Gobi Desert or Terelj National Park. These services can be arranged through local travel agencies.
6. Taxis and Ride-Hailing Apps
- In Ulaanbaatar, taxis are available for local travel. Although ride-hailing apps are not as prevalent, Bolt operates in the capital. It’s helpful to agree on fares in advance or use apps where possible.
7. Walking and Cycling
- Walking is ideal for exploring Ulaanbaatar and other urban areas. Cycling can be enjoyable for short distances and local exploration, though be aware of traffic and road conditions.
For the best experience, use domestic flights or trains for long-distance travel, buses for regional connections, and consider renting a 4x4 or using shared jeeps for exploring remote areas. Walking or cycling is great for urban exploration.
What to eat
1. Boodog
- A traditional dish made with whole goat or sheep cooked with hot stones inside.
2. Buuz
- Steamed dumplings filled with meat, often served with soy sauce.
3. Khuushuur
- Fried meat pastries, a popular street food enjoyed throughout Mongolia.
4. Khorkhog
- Barbecue lamb cooked with hot stones, often enjoyed during celebrations.
5. Airag
- Fermented mare's milk, a traditional drink showcasing Mongolian nomadic culture.
Flights
Flight prices are approximate and vary by departure city, airline, and booking time. Check airlines or travel platforms for the latest details.
Main Airport: Chinggis Khaan International Airport (UBN)
Flight Prices and Seasons:
From Europe
- Average Round-Trip Cost: €500 to €900.
- Cheapest Months: March to May and September to November.
- Peak Prices: Summer (June to August) and December holidays.
From North America
- Average Round-Trip Cost: $700 to $1,200.
- Cheapest Months: February to March and September to November.
- Peak Prices: Summer and December holidays.
From Asia
- Average Round-Trip Cost: $300 to $600.
- Cheapest Months: February to March and October.
- Peak Prices: December holidays and summer months.
From Australia
- Average Round-Trip Cost: $800 to $1,200.
- Cheapest Months: February to March and September.
- Peak Prices: December holidays and summer months.
From Africa
- Average Round-Trip Cost: $700 to $1,200.
- Cheapest Months: February to March and September to November.
- Peak Prices: Summer and December holidays.
Visa
1. Visa Requirement
- Many travelers, including citizens of the U.S., Canada, and Australia, need a visa to enter Mongolia. However, citizens of some countries can enter visa-free.
2. Visa-Free Entry
- Citizens from certain countries can enter visa-free for stays of up to 30 days.
3. Visa Application
- Travelers from countries that require a visa must apply for a Mongolian visa at a Mongolian embassy or consulate before traveling.
4. Types of Visa
- Common visa types include a Tourist Visa: Typically issued for stays of 30 to 90 days, depending on nationality.
5. Processing Time
- Visa processing can take from 3 to 10 business days, so it’s advisable to apply well in advance.
6. Duration of Stay
- Visa-free visitors can stay for up to 30 days; visa holders can stay for the duration specified in their visa.
7. Health Requirements
- No specific vaccinations are generally required for entry, but travel insurance is recommended.
8. COVID-19 Regulations
- Check for any current COVID-19 entry requirements before traveling, as regulations may change.
Important things to know
1. Payments
- The local currency is the Mongolian Tögrög (MNT). Credit cards are accepted in urban areas.
2. Tap Water
- Tap water is generally safe to drink in Ulaanbaatar but may not be safe in rural areas.
3. Electricity
- The voltage is 230V, and plug types C and E (two round pins) are used. An adapter may be needed for devices from other regions.
4. Tipping in Restaurants
- Tipping is appreciated, usually around 10%.
5. SIM Cards
- Local SIM cards are available from providers like MobiCom and Gmobile. They can be purchased at stores.
6. Driving Side
- In Mongolia, people drive on the right side of the road.