Did you know that Mongolia is home to the world’s last remaining horse-based culture? As I prepared for my own Mongolian adventure, I was fascinated by this fact and so many others about this enchanting country. Whether you’re dreaming of galloping across the vast steppes or exploring the bustling streets of Ulaanbaatar, this Mongolia Travel Cheat Sheet is your ticket to an unforgettable journey in 2024. From practical tips to cultural insights, we’ve got you covered. So, saddle up and let’s dive into everything you need to know for your Mongolian escapade!
Why Visit Mongolia
Mongolia is a land of breathtaking landscapes and rich nomadic culture. I’ll never forget the first time I set foot on the vast steppes – it felt like I was stepping into another world entirely. The country’s untouched natural beauty, from the rolling grasslands to the rugged Altai Mountains, is truly awe-inspiring.
But it’s not just about the scenery. The warmth and hospitality of the Mongolian people left a lasting impression on me. Staying with nomadic families in their traditional gers (yurts) gave me a unique insight into their way of life, unchanged for centuries.
For history buffs, Mongolia is a treasure trove. The legacy of Genghis Khan is ever-present, and ancient Buddhist monasteries dot the landscape. It’s a place where you can ride horses across the same plains that once thundered under the hooves of the Mongol army.
Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit Mongolia largely depends on what you want to experience. Here’s a breakdown:
- Summer (June to August): This is peak tourist season, and for good reason. The weather is warm and pleasant, perfect for outdoor activities. The famous Naadam Festival takes place in July, showcasing traditional Mongolian sports.
- Spring (April to May) and Autumn (September to October): These shoulder seasons offer milder weather and fewer tourists. Spring brings newborn animals to the steppes, while autumn paints the landscape in beautiful colors.
- Winter (November to March): It’s brutally cold, but if you’re adventurous, this is the time to experience the unique Eagle Hunting Festival in the far west.
I visited in late August, and while it was still warm during the day, the nights were getting chilly. Pack layers no matter when you go – the temperature can fluctuate dramatically within a single day.
How Many Days is Enough to Visit
In my experience, you need at least 10-14 days to get a good taste of Mongolia. The country is vast, and travel times between destinations can be long. Here’s a sample itinerary:
- Day 1-2: Explore Ulaanbaatar
- Day 3-5: Visit Khustain Nuruu National Park and Karakorum
- Day 6-9: Experience the Gobi Desert
- Day 10-12: Trek in Terelj National Park
- Day 13-14: Return to Ulaanbaatar, shop for souvenirs
Of course, if you have more time, you can venture further afield to places like Lake Khovsgol in the north or the Altai Mountains in the west. Each region of Mongolia offers something unique, so the more time you have, the better.
How Affordable Is It
Mongolia can be surprisingly affordable, especially if you’re willing to rough it a bit. Here’s a general breakdown of costs:
- Budget: $30-50 per day
- Mid-range: $50-100 per day
- Luxury: $100+ per day
These estimates include accommodation, food, and some activities. Keep in mind that organized tours, especially to remote areas, can significantly increase your daily budget.
I found that staying in ger camps and eating local food helped keep costs down. Plus, many of the best experiences – like watching the sunset over the steppes or stargazing in the Gobi – are absolutely free.
How to Get There
Getting to Mongolia typically involves flying into Chinggis Khaan International Airport in Ulaanbaatar. There are no direct flights from North America or Western Europe, so you’ll likely have a layover in cities like Beijing, Seoul, or Moscow.
If you’re feeling adventurous, you can also reach Mongolia by train on the Trans-Siberian Railway from Russia or China. It’s a long journey, but the views are spectacular.
Tip: Check if you need a visa before you travel. Many nationalities can enter visa-free for up to 30 days, but it’s always best to double-check the current regulations.
Navigating
Navigating in Mongolia can be challenging, especially outside of Ulaanbaatar. Here are some tips:
- In Ulaanbaatar, taxis are plentiful and affordable. Just make sure to agree on the fare before starting your journey.
- For long-distance travel, domestic flights are available to major towns, but schedules can be unreliable.
- Many visitors opt for organized tours with drivers, which takes the stress out of navigation.
- If you’re feeling brave, you can rent a 4WD vehicle, but be prepared for rough roads and limited signage.
During my trip, I used a mix of organized tours and public transportation. The local buses were an adventure in themselves, often packed with people, livestock, and all manner of goods!
Where to Stay (For Each Budget)
Budget
- Hostels in Ulaanbaatar: $5-15 per night
- Basic ger camps: $10-20 per night
Mid-range
- 3-star hotels in Ulaanbaatar: $50-80 per night
- Comfortable ger camps: $30-50 per night
Luxury
- 5-star hotels in Ulaanbaatar: $150+ per night
- High-end ger camps with private bathrooms and gourmet meals: $100+ per night
I stayed mostly in mid-range accommodations and found them comfortable and clean. The ger camps were a particular highlight – there’s nothing quite like falling asleep under a blanket of stars in the middle of the steppes.
What to Do – Top 5 Things to Do by Day for Tourists
- Explore Gorkhi-Terelj National Park: Just a short drive from Ulaanbaatar, this park offers stunning scenery, hiking trails, and the chance to stay with nomadic families.
- Visit Khustain Nuruu National Park: Home to the last remaining wild horses in the world, the Przewalski’s horses. I was lucky enough to spot a small herd during my visit!
- Ride a camel in the Gobi Desert: The Khongoryn Els sand dunes, also known as the “Singing Sands,” are a must-visit. The sound of the wind moving the sand is otherworldly.
- Explore the ancient capital of Karakorum: The ruins of Genghis Khan’s capital city and the nearby Erdene Zuu Monastery offer a fascinating glimpse into Mongolia’s history.
- Visit a nomadic family: Many tours offer the chance to spend time with a local family, learning about their way of life and even helping with daily chores. It was one of the most memorable experiences of my trip.
What to Do – Top 5 Things to Do by Night for Tourists
- Attend a traditional music and dance performance: The Tumen Ekh ensemble in Ulaanbaatar puts on a spectacular show featuring throat singing, contortionists, and traditional instruments.
- Go stargazing: The lack of light pollution in rural Mongolia makes for incredible stargazing opportunities. I’ve never seen the Milky Way so clearly!
- Experience Ulaanbaatar’s nightlife: The capital has a growing number of bars and clubs. I particularly enjoyed the rooftop bar at the Blue Sky Hotel for its panoramic city views.
- Enjoy a sunset camel ride: In the Gobi, many camps offer evening camel rides. Watching the sun set over the dunes while swaying on camelback is an unforgettable experience.
- Participate in a traditional bonfire night: Many ger camps organize evening bonfires where you can enjoy Mongolian songs and stories under the stars.
What to Eat
Mongolian cuisine might not be internationally famous, but it has its charms. Here are some must-try dishes:
- Buuz: Steamed dumplings filled with mutton or beef
- Khuushuur: Deep-fried meat pastries
- Tsuivan: A noodle stir-fry with meat and vegetables
- Airag: Fermented mare’s milk (an acquired taste, but culturally significant)
- Boortsog: Deep-fried dough, often served with tea
Don’t expect a lot of vegetables in traditional Mongolian cuisine – the diet is heavily meat-based due to the country’s nomadic heritage. However, Ulaanbaatar has a growing international food scene if you’re craving some variety.
Where to Shop (For Each Budget)
Budget
- Narantuul Market (Black Market): Despite its name, this is a legitimate market selling everything from traditional clothing to souvenirs. Great for budget shopping, but watch out for pickpockets.
Mid-range
- State Department Store: A multi-story shopping center in Ulaanbaatar with a good selection of souvenirs, clothing, and local products.
Luxury
- Naran Tuul Cashmere: High-quality Mongolian cashmere products. Pricey, but the quality is unbeatable.
I picked up some beautiful hand-painted snuff bottles at the State Department Store – they make great gifts and are easy to pack.
Essential Sentences
Here are some key phrases in Mongolian:
- Hello: Sain baina uu (Sain bye-na oo)
- Thank you: Bayarlalaa (Bai-ar-la-la)
- Yes: Tiim (Teem)
- No: Ugui (Oo-goi)
- Goodbye: Bayartai (Bye-ar-tai)
Local Pro Tip
Always accept offerings of food or drink when visiting a ger – it’s considered rude to refuse. If you’re not comfortable consuming certain things (like airag), it’s polite to at least take a small sip or touch the cup to your forehead as a sign of respect.
Is It Safe
Generally speaking, Mongolia is a safe country for tourists. Violent crime against foreigners is rare. However, petty theft can be an issue in Ulaanbaatar, so keep an eye on your belongings in crowded areas.
The biggest safety concerns are usually related to the rugged nature of travel in Mongolia:
- Road conditions can be poor, and traffic accidents are not uncommon.
- Medical facilities outside of Ulaanbaatar are limited, so travel insurance is a must.
- Weather can be extreme, so always be prepared with appropriate clothing and supplies.
During my trip, I felt very safe, even when staying in remote areas. The Mongolian people are generally very hospitable and willing to help travelers in need.
FAQ – Top 15 Questions
- Do I need a visa to visit Mongolia?
Many nationalities can enter visa-free for up to 30 days, but check the current regulations for your country. - What’s the best way to get around Mongolia?
For most tourists, organized tours with drivers are the most convenient option. - Is it safe to drink the tap water?
It’s best to stick to bottled water, especially outside of Ulaanbaatar.
- What’s the weather like?
Summers are warm but short, winters are long and extremely cold. Spring and autumn can be pleasant but unpredictable. - Do I need any vaccinations?
Consult your doctor, but hepatitis A and typhoid vaccinations are often recommended. - Can I use credit cards in Mongolia?
Cards are widely accepted in Ulaanbaatar, but cash is king in rural areas.
- What’s the local currency?
The Mongolian Tugrik (MNT). - Is English widely spoken?
In Ulaanbaatar, you’ll find English speakers in the tourism industry, but it’s less common in rural areas. - What should I pack?
Layers are key. Even in summer, nights can be cold. Don’t forget a good hat and sunscreen.
- Is it okay to take photos of local people?
Always ask permission first, especially when photographing nomadic families or inside monasteries. - Can I use my cell phone in Mongolia?
Yes, but coverage can be spotty outside of urban areas. Consider renting a local SIM card. - Are there any cultural taboos I should be aware of?
Avoid touching someone's head, or pointing the soles of your feet at people or sacred objects.
- Is tipping expected?
Tipping isn’t traditional in Mongolia, but it’s becoming more common in tourist areas. 10% is generally sufficient. - Can I trek independently in Mongolia?
It’s possible, but not recommended unless you’re very experienced. The landscape can be challenging and it’s easy to get lost. - What’s the altitude in Mongolia?
Ulaanbaatar sits at about 1,300 meters (4,300 feet) above sea level. Some mountainous areas are much higher, so be aware of altitude sickness symptoms.
Conclusion
As we wrap up our Mongolia Travel Cheat Sheet, I hope you’re feeling excited and well-prepared for your upcoming adventure. Remember, Mongolia is a land of contrasts – from the modern capital to the timeless traditions of the nomads. Embrace the unexpected, respect the local customs, and immerse yourself in the breathtaking landscapes. Whether you’re sipping fermented mare’s milk in a ger or marveling at ancient monasteries, Mongolia will leave an indelible mark on your traveler’s soul. So pack your bags, bring an open mind, and get ready for the journey of a lifetime in the Land of the Eternal Blue Sky. Happy travels!