1 Week in Mongolia (2025): The Perfect Itinerary From a Seasoned Traveler - Xplrverse

Mongolia: My Love Affair with the Land of Blue Sky

The first time I set foot in Mongolia back in 2018, I was utterly unprepared for how it would change me. Standing on the vast steppe outside Ulaanbaatar, watching horses gallop freely against an endless horizon, I felt something shift inside me. That moment—wind whipping my hair, the scent of wild herbs in the air, the absolute silence except for horse hooves—was when Mongolia claimed a piece of my heart. I’ve returned four times since, most recently in early 2024, and each visit unveils new secrets of this magnificent country.

If you’re planning to spend one week in Mongolia in 2025, you’re in for an adventure that balances the raw, untamed wilderness with surprising comfort and hospitality. This itinerary distills my years of exploration into the perfect 7-day introduction to the Land of the Eternal Blue Sky.

Mongolia isn’t just a destination; it’s an experience that will challenge your perceptions of space, time, and human connection. Let me guide you through a week that will leave you, like me, forever changed by this remarkable country.

Planning Your Mongolia Trip: Essential Information

Before diving into the day-by-day itinerary, let’s cover some critical planning information that will help you make the most of your week in Mongolia.

Best Time to Visit Mongolia

Timing is everything for a Mongolia trip. I’ve visited in all seasons, and trust me, a winter expedition requires a completely different preparation than a summer one.

Peak Season (June-August): Warm days (15-25°C), occasional rain, lush landscapes, and major festivals like Naadam. Expect higher prices and more tourists.
Shoulder Season (May & September): My personal favorite! Fewer crowds, reasonable temperatures, and lower prices. September offers spectacular autumn colors.
Winter (October-April): Only for the adventurous! Temperatures drop to -40°C, but you’ll see a side of Mongolia few tourists experience. My 2022 winter trip was challenging but rewarding.

For a one-week itinerary, I strongly recommend late May through September unless you specifically want a winter adventure.

Getting to Mongolia

Most international flights arrive at Chinggis Khaan International Airport (ULN) near Ulaanbaatar. The new airport opened in 2021 and is significantly better than the old one I first flew into years ago.

Direct flights to ULN are available from:

Beijing, Seoul, Hong Kong, and Tokyo (year-round)
Berlin, Frankfurt, and Istanbul (seasonal)
Moscow and various Russian cities

I usually fly through Seoul on Korean Air or through Beijing on MIAT (Mongolian Airlines). Pro tip: If flying through Beijing, check if you need a transit visa—regulations change frequently!

Visa Information

Visa requirements for Mongolia vary by nationality. As of 2024, citizens of many countries including the US, Canada, EU nations, UK, Australia, and New Zealand can enter visa-free for 30 days. Always check the official Mongolian consular website for the most current information.

I once made the mistake of assuming my visa status was unchanged from a previous year—big mistake! Regulations change regularly, so double-check even if you’ve visited before.

Currency and Budget

Mongolia uses the Tugrik (₮ or MNT). As of early 2025, the exchange rate is approximately:

1 USD = ~3,440 MNT
1 EUR = ~3,720 MNT
1 GBP = ~4,360 MNT

Budget-wise, Mongolia can be surprisingly variable:

Budget Level	Accommodation	Food	Daily Total
Budget	9,000-25,000 MNT	10,000-20,000 MNT	~35,000-60,000 MNT
Mid-range	25,000-120,000 MNT	20,000-40,000 MNT	~80,000-160,000 MNT
Luxury	120,000+ MNT	40,000+ MNT	200,000+ MNT

Remember that tours will be your biggest expense. A basic 7-day tour might cost $600-900 USD, while premium experiences can exceed $2,000 USD. My first trip, I blew my budget because I didn’t account for the tour costs!

Insider Saving Tip #1: Book tours directly with local operators rather than through international agencies. I saved over $300 on my last trip by contacting a Mongolian company directly via email rather than booking through a Western intermediary.

Transportation in Mongolia

Mongolia is VAST, with limited infrastructure outside Ulaanbaatar. For a one-week trip, you have several options:

Organized Tour: The most practical option for short visits. Your tour company handles all logistics.
Domestic Flights: Available to provincial centers like Dalanzadgad (Gobi) or Murun (Lake Khövsgöl), saving precious time.
Public Transport: Cheap but time-consuming and uncomfortable. Not recommended for short trips.
Private Driver: Expensive but flexible. A 4WD with driver costs about $100-150/day plus fuel.

After trying all options, I strongly recommend option #1 for a one-week trip. Mongolia’s vastness means you’ll waste precious time navigating transportation otherwise.

Travel Health and Safety

Mongolia is generally safe, but medical facilities outside Ulaanbaatar are basic. Comprehensive travel insurance is essential. In 2019, I caught a nasty stomach bug in the Gobi—being able to call a 24/7 medical helpline through my insurance was a lifesaver.

Bring any prescription medications plus a basic first aid kit. The nomadic diet is heavy on meat and dairy, which can be challenging for sensitive stomachs.

Altitude isn’t typically an issue except in the western mountains, but temperature extremes can be. Even in summer, nights can drop close to freezing in the steppe.

The Perfect 7-Day Mongolia Itinerary

Now for the main event—your day-by-day guide to experiencing the best of Mongolia in just one week.

Day 1: Arrival in Ulaanbaatar & City Exploration

Most flights arrive at ULN in the morning, giving you a full day to explore Mongolia’s capital before heading into the countryside.

Morning: Arrival and Check-In

After clearing immigration, take the airport shuttle or a taxi to your hotel. A taxi should cost around 30,000-40,000 MNT (~$9-12 USD), but always agree on the price beforehand. Skip unofficial taxi touts and use the official taxi desk in the arrivals hall.

I recommend staying in downtown Ulaanbaatar near Sukhbaatar Square. Good mid-range options include:

Ibis Styles Ulaanbaatar Polaris (modern, central location)
Best Western Premier Tuushin Hotel (great views of Sukhbaatar Square)
Holiday Inn Ulaanbaatar (reliable international standard)

Afternoon: Cultural Introduction

Start your cultural immersion with these key sites:

Gandantegchinlen Monastery – Mongolia’s largest functioning Buddhist monastery. The giant Janraisig statue is particularly impressive. Entrance fee: 5,000 MNT.
National Museum of Mongolia – Essential for understanding Mongolia’s history from prehistoric times through the Soviet period. Don’t miss the ethnic costume hall! Entrance fee: 8,000 MNT.

On my first visit, I almost skipped the National Museum thinking it would be dull—big mistake! It provided crucial context for everything I saw later in the countryside.

Evening: Welcome Dinner

For your first dinner, try traditional Mongolian cuisine at one of these restaurants:

Modern Nomads (Peace Ave) – Excellent khorkhog (Mongolian BBQ) and traditional dishes in a modern setting
Khara Khorum (Seoul Street) – Traditional food with cultural performances most evenings

Try buuz (steamed dumplings, ~8,000 MNT) or khuushuur (fried meat pastries, ~7,000 MNT), and maybe a sip of airag (fermented mare’s milk) if you’re adventurous!

End your day with an early night—the real adventure begins tomorrow!

Local Language Tip: Learn these basic Mongolian phrases! “Sain baina uu” (Hello), “Bayarlalaa” (Thank you), and “Za” (yes/ok, used constantly by Mongolians). They’ll be appreciated everywhere you go.

Day 2-3: Terelj National Park & Genghis Khan Statue Complex

On days 2-3, you’ll get your first taste of Mongolia’s natural beauty at Gorkhi-Terelj National Park, just 65km from Ulaanbaatar yet worlds away from city life.

Day 2: Morning

Your tour guide should pick you up around 9am. If you’ve arranged your own transportation, a private taxi to Terelj costs around 120,000 MNT (~$35 USD) round trip.

En route to Terelj, visit the Genghis Khan Statue Complex in Tsonjin Boldog. This 40-meter stainless steel statue of Mongolia’s founding father on horseback is truly impressive. Entrance fee: 10,000 MNT.

Take the elevator up to the horse’s head for panoramic views of the surrounding steppe. Inside, explore the small but informative museum about Genghis Khan and the Mongol Empire.

Day 2: Afternoon & Evening

Continue to Terelj National Park. The landscape of granite rock formations, rolling hills, and forest-covered mountains is stunning.

Check into your ger camp—I recommend Terelj Lodge or Buuveit Ger Camp. A night in a traditional ger (yurt) typically costs 80,000-150,000 MNT (~$25-45 USD) per person including meals.

The first time I stayed in a ger, I was surprised by how comfortable they are, with proper beds and wood-burning stoves. Just be aware that bathroom facilities are usually in a separate building.

In the afternoon, visit Turtle Rock (Melkhii Khad) and take a short hike to Aryabal Meditation Temple for beautiful views.

Enjoy a traditional dinner at your camp, followed by stargazing. The night sky in Mongolia is unbelievable—I’ve never seen so many stars anywhere else in the world.

Day 3: Full Day in Terelj

Wake up to the peaceful sounds of the steppe and enjoy a hearty breakfast at your camp.

Today’s activities include:

Horseback riding: Even beginners can enjoy a guided ride through the valleys. Cost: ~25,000-35,000 MNT (~$7-10) per hour.
Visit to a nomadic family: Experience daily life, help with chores, and try homemade dairy products like aaruul (dried curds) and suutei tsai (milk tea with salt).
Optional hiking: Several trails offer stunning vistas. I particularly recommend the hike to/from Aryabal Meditation Temple.

Insider Saving Tip #2: At nomadic family visits, small practical gifts are much more appreciated than money. Bring items like good quality headlamps, Swiss army knives, or school supplies for children. I still remember the joy on a herder’s face when I gave him a durable LED headlamp that would last for years.

Return to Ulaanbaatar in the late afternoon. If time permits, visit the Zaisan Memorial for sunset views over the city before dinner.

For dinner, try Hazara for excellent Indian food (a welcome change after camp food) or Californication for good international options.

Day 4-6: Gobi Desert Adventure

The Gobi Desert is Mongolia’s most iconic landscape and a must-visit even on a short trip. For a one-week itinerary, flying is the only practical way to include the Gobi.

Day 4: Morning

Take an early flight from Ulaanbaatar to Dalanzadgad, the capital of South Gobi province. Flights operate daily in summer (less frequently in other seasons) and cost around $150-200 USD one way. The flight takes only 1.5 hours versus 8+ hours by car.

Your tour guide should meet you at the small Dalanzadgad airport. If you’ve arranged your own tour, confirm pickup details in advance.

Day 4: Afternoon

Drive to the Yolyn Am (Vulture’s Mouth) canyon in the Gurvansaikhan Mountains. This narrow canyon features dramatic rocky cliffs and was historically home to a glacier that persisted well into summer (though climate change has unfortunately reduced this significantly since my first visit).

Enjoy a picnic lunch amid the stunning scenery, then take a 2-3 hour hike through the canyon. Watch for indigenous wildlife including Siberian ibex, pikas, and bearded vultures.

In the late afternoon, continue to your ger camp near Khongoryn Els sand dunes. I recommend Gobi Oasis or Gobi Erdene camps.

Day 5: Full Day at Khongoryn Els

Today is dedicated to exploring Khongoryn Els, Mongolia’s largest sand dunes. These “Singing Sands” stretch for over 100km and reach heights of up to 300 meters.

Morning activities include:

Climbing the largest dune for sunrise views (challenging but worth it!)
Camel riding along the base of the dunes (30,000 MNT/~$9 USD per hour)
Visiting a camel-herding family to learn about their unique lifestyle

My first attempt at climbing the main dune was humbling—one step up, slide half a step back in the soft sand. But the panoramic view from the ridge was one of the highlights of all my Mongolia trips. The shifting sands produce an eerie “singing” sound when conditions are right.

In the afternoon, relax at your camp or take photographs as the setting sun transforms the colors of the dunes from gold to deep orange and finally purple.

Photography Tip: The best light for dune photography is within one hour of sunrise or sunset. The midday sun washes out the textures that make these dunes so photogenic.

Day 6: Bayanzag Flaming Cliffs

After breakfast, drive to Bayanzag, better known as the “Flaming Cliffs.” This area earned international fame when American paleontologist Roy Chapman Andrews discovered the first dinosaur eggs here in 1923.

The red sandstone cliffs truly do appear to be in flames at sunset. Explore the area on foot, keeping an eye out for fossils (but remember that collecting them is strictly prohibited).

After lunch, fly back to Ulaanbaatar (or begin the long drive if flights aren’t available). If flying, you’ll arrive back in the capital by evening.

For your final night in Ulaanbaatar, I recommend a special dinner at Bluefin for excellent Japanese food or Veranda for upscale Mongolian-European fusion.

Day 7: Final Day in Ulaanbaatar & Departure

Make the most of your final day in Mongolia before your evening flight.

Morning

Complete your cultural education with visits to:

Choijin Lama Temple Museum – A beautifully preserved temple complex right in downtown UB. Entrance fee: 8,000 MNT.
Bogd Khan Winter Palace – The home of Mongolia’s last king, featuring stunning architecture and artifacts. Entrance fee: 10,000 MNT.

Afternoon

Spend your final afternoon shopping for high-quality souvenirs:

Gobi Cashmere Factory Store (Industrial Street) – Mongolia produces some of the world’s finest cashmere at prices far below what you’d pay in Western countries.
State Department Store (Seoul Street) – The top floor has a good selection of traditional crafts and souvenirs.
International Intellectual Museum – Beyond the fascinating puzzle collection, they sell beautiful handcrafted wooden puzzles that make unique souvenirs.

Insider Saving Tip #3: For cashmere shopping, skip the tourist-oriented shops downtown and head to the Gobi factory store. I bought a top-quality sweater there for about 120,000 MNT ($35 USD) that would have cost over $200 in the US. Check the label to confirm it’s 100% Mongolian cashmere.

If time permits before your flight, catch a cultural performance at the Tumen Ekh Ensemble. Shows typically last about an hour and feature traditional music, dance, contortion, and the remarkable khöömii (throat singing). Tickets: 35,000-40,000 MNT.

I still get chills remembering the first time I heard throat singing live—one performer somehow producing multiple tones simultaneously that resonated through my entire body. It’s a fitting final memory of Mongolia’s unique culture.

Evening

Transfer to the airport for your departure flight. Most international flights leave in the evening or late night.

Making the Most of Your Mongolia Adventure: Final Tips and Recommendations

After multiple trips to Mongolia spanning different seasons and regions, I’ve learned that preparation is key to enjoying this remarkable country. Here are my final recommendations to ensure your week in Mongolia becomes a cherished memory rather than a logistical challenge.

5-Step Action Plan for Your Mongolia Trip

Book a reputable tour operator at least 3 months in advance, especially if traveling during Naadam (July). I recommend Mongolia Trips, Discover Mongolia, or Stone Horse Expeditions for smaller, more personalized experiences.
Pack strategically for extreme temperature variations. Even in summer, bring a warm jacket and layers. The temperature dropped to near freezing one August night during my 2019 trip!
Arrange comprehensive travel insurance that includes emergency evacuation coverage and bring a well-stocked medical kit.
Download offline maps, translation apps, and essential information. Cell service is surprisingly good along main roads, but don’t count on reliable internet in remote areas.
Exchange money in Ulaanbaatar before heading to the countryside, where ATMs and card payments are rare. The Golomt Bank near Sukhbaatar Square offers good rates.

Sustainable Travel in Mongolia

Mongolia’s pristine environments are increasingly vulnerable to tourism impacts. These practices help protect the places you visit while often saving money:

Bring a water purifier like a SteriPen or LifeStraw rather than buying bottled water. I’ve used both successfully throughout Mongolia.
Pack out all trash when visiting national parks and protected areas. There’s no waste collection infrastructure in rural areas.
Use biodegradable toiletries as your shower and washing water often drains directly into the soil.
Respect nomadic traditions by asking permission before taking photos of people or their homes, and by following local customs like entering a ger clockwise.

Mistakes I Made So You Don’t Have To

Learn from my errors:

Underestimating distances and travel times. On my first trip, I tried to cram too many destinations into too few days. The map may show places as “not that far apart,” but on Mongolia’s rough roads, 200km can take 5+ hours. Be realistic about distances.
Packing inadequate footwear. I once brought only lightweight hiking shoes to Mongolia. Big mistake! Pack sturdy hiking boots with ankle support for the rocky, uneven terrain, even if you’re not planning serious trekking.
Forgetting sun protection. The intense sun at Mongolia’s high elevation caught me off guard. Bring a wide-brimmed hat, high-SPF sunscreen, and quality sunglasses—the steppe and desert offer zero shade.
Not bringing cash to remote areas. I once found a beautiful handmade saddle decoration I wanted to buy from a herder family but had no cash, and of course, they didn’t accept cards. Always carry small denominations of tugrik when visiting rural areas.

What Will Surprise You About Mongolia

Every visitor to Mongolia experiences surprises. Here are some of mine:

The unexpected sophistication of Ulaanbaatar. Beneath the Soviet architecture lies a city with excellent restaurants, good coffee shops, and surprisingly fast internet.
The genuine hospitality of nomadic families. The concept of khundlekh (respecting guests) runs deep. A family with very little will unhesitatingly share everything they have.
The sensory impact of the landscape. It’s not just the visual grandeur—it’s the silence so complete you can hear your own heartbeat, the scent of wild artemisia crushed underfoot, the taste of fresh air.
The quality of the night sky. Without light pollution, the Milky Way doesn’t just appear as a faint smudge—it’s a brilliant, three-dimensional river of stars arching overhead.

Mongolia isn’t just a destination; it’s a perspective-altering experience. Even after multiple visits, I still feel like I’ve barely scratched the surface of this extraordinary country.

Frequently Asked Questions About Traveling in Mongolia

Is Mongolia safe for tourists?

Yes, Mongolia is generally very safe for tourists. Violent crime targeting foreigners is rare, though petty theft can occur in Ulaanbaatar. The biggest safety risks are environmental—extreme weather, remote locations, and road conditions. Always travel with a guide when leaving Ulaanbaatar, inform someone of your itinerary, and prepare for sudden weather changes even in summer.

Do I need a guide to travel in Mongolia?

For a short one-week trip, yes, a guide is essentially required. Mongolia’s vast distances, limited infrastructure, and navigation challenges make independent travel time-consuming and potentially dangerous for those unfamiliar with the country. A good guide also provides cultural context and helps with language barriers outside the capital.

Can I drink the water in Mongolia?

In Ulaanbaatar, tap water is generally not recommended for drinking without treatment. In the countryside, water sources vary widely in quality. I use a water purifier like SteriPen or LifeStraw for all water outside major hotels. Many ger camps provide boiled water for drinking.

What’s the food like in Mongolia?

Traditional Mongolian cuisine centers on meat (primarily mutton and beef), dairy, and flour. Vegetarians can find options in Ulaanbaatar but will struggle in rural areas. Popular dishes include buuz (steamed dumplings), khuushuur (fried meat pastries), and khorkhog (Mongolian BBQ). The food isn’t heavily spiced but is hearty and filling.

What’s the best time of year to visit Mongolia?

June through September offers the most pleasant weather and accessibility. July features the Naadam Festival but also brings the highest prices and crowds. For a balance of good weather and fewer tourists, I particularly like late May and September. Winter (November-March) is extremely cold but offers unique experiences like eagle hunting festivals and the chance to see the Gobi covered in snow.

Can I see the Gobi Desert in a one-week trip?

Yes, but only if you fly. The Gobi is about 8-10 hours driving from Ulaanbaatar on rough roads. With only one week, I strongly recommend flying to Dalanzadgad to maximize your time. If you’re determined to stick to a ground itinerary, consider focusing on central Mongolia instead (Kharkhorin, Orkhon Valley, and Khustai National Park).

What should I pack for Mongolia?

Even in summer, pack for four seasons! Essential items include:

Layers, including a warm fleece and waterproof jacket
Sturdy hiking boots with ankle support
High-SPF sunscreen and a wide-brimmed hat
Headlamp or flashlight (ger camps often have limited lighting)
Basic medical kit including diarrhea remedies
Wet wipes and hand sanitizer (bathroom facilities are basic outside UB)

Is Mongolia expensive to visit?

Mongolia can be surprisingly expensive for budget travelers, mainly because tours are necessary for accessing remote areas. While food and accommodation costs are moderate, transportation and guide services add up quickly. A week-long tour typically costs $800-1,500 USD per person depending on comfort level, group size, and destinations included.

Can I combine Mongolia with other countries in Asia?

Yes! Many travelers combine Mongolia with China (particularly Beijing, which has direct flights to UB) or South Korea (Seoul also has direct connections). The Trans-Siberian/Trans-Mongolian railway also makes it possible to continue to/from Russia. If planning a multi-country trip, I recommend placing Mongolia in the middle rather than at the beginning, as its rustic conditions make for a jarring first stop in Asia.

References

For more detailed information about traveling in Mongolia, check out these excellent resources:

Lonely Planet Mongolia Guide – Comprehensive information regularly updated
Mongolia Travel Advice – Practical tips from long-term expats
Caravanistan Mongolia Guide – Detailed transportation information
Way to Nomad Blog – Insights from local tour guides
Wikitravel Mongolia – Collaborative travel guide with regular updates
Mongolia Photography Tours – Excellent resource for photographers
Visit Mongolia Official Tourism Website – Government tourist information
Mongolia Travel – Official destination guide
Indy Guide – Platform connecting travelers directly with local guides
U.S. Embassy in Mongolia – Information for Travelers – Official safety and security information
UK Government Travel Advice for Mongolia – Regularly updated travel advisories
CDC Mongolia Travel Health Information – Health recommendations for travelers