What Should I bring with me ?
Electronics: Cameras and Accessories – Mongolia Travel Advice
Mongolia’s breathtaking wildlife, wide-open landscapes, and vibrant nomadic traditions offer unforgettable photo opportunities. You’ll definitely want to bring a good camera to capture it all.
Make sure to pack:
- Extra memory cards
- A charger
- A travel adapter for 220V European-style 2-pin plugs
🔋 Mongolia travel advice: Batteries can be difficult to find in rural areas, so bring spares with you before heading off-grid.
LED Head Torch
In Mongolia’s countryside, electricity can be unreliable, especially outside of towns. That’s why a LED head torch is one of the most useful items you can pack.
Whether you’re reading at night or heading to the bathroom in the dark, this hands-free light source will come in very handy.
💡 Mongolia travel advice: Always bring extra batteries or rechargeable models with a power bank, as power outages are common in remote areas.
Clothing Essentials
Warm Jacket and Layers
Don’t be misled by Mongolia’s summer season (June to September)—nights can still get surprisingly cold. Especially in higher elevations, temperatures may dip below freezing even during summer.
Bring clothes you can layer so you can easily adapt to changing weather. A raincoat or poncho is also useful—not just for rain, but as insulation when wrapped around your sleeping bag. A windproof and waterproof outer shell is highly recommended.
Other Clothing Items to Pack:
Swimsuit: Perfect for relaxing in natural hot springs like Tsenkher.
Multiple socks: Dry, warm feet are essential on the road.
Sunglasses, scarf, and a wide-brimmed hat: For sun and wind protection.
Gloves: Especially useful during chilly nights or mountain treks.
🧳 Mongolia travel advice: Pack light but smart—layers are your best friend in Mongolia’s unpredictable climate.
Footwear
Trekking Shoes
From the Gobi Desert to the Altai Mountains, Mongolia’s wild landscapes require sturdy, reliable shoes. Invest in comfortable trekking shoes with good ankle support and grip.
Rubber Slippers
Lightweight and practical, rubber slippers are great for showering at Ger camps or guesthouses where facilities are shared.
👣 Mongolia travel advice: Break in your trekking shoes before your trip to avoid blisters on the trail.
Toiletries
Stick to travel-sized versions of your essentials to save space. Include:
Soap, shampoo, toothbrush, toothpaste
Sunscreen and moisturizing cream (especially helpful against sun and wind)
Roll-on deodorant
Shaving cream in a tube or stick
Extra razor blades
Wet and dry wipes (available in cities, but not always in the countryside)
🧴 Mongolia travel advice: Stock up on personal hygiene items before heading to rural areas, where shops can be few and far between.
Other Important Items
Travel Medications
Bring a basic medical kit tailored to your needs. At minimum, pack:
- Disinfectant, band-aids, bandages
- Sterile gloves and syringes
- Anti-diarrhea tablets and general antibiotics
- Headache and fever medication (like paracetamol)
- Allergy relief and hand sanitizer
- Insect repellent—a must-have in summer
🏥 Mongolia travel advice: While medical services are available in cities, they’re limited in rural areas—so come prepared.
Money and Currency Exchange
In Ulaanbaatar, you can exchange foreign currency at banks or withdraw Mongolian Tugriks (MNT) from ATMs using your debit card. ATMs are now widely available in both the capital and most provincial centers.
Pro tip: Always check the latest exchange rates before converting your money.
Mongolia travel advice: It’s smart to carry cash, especially if you plan to visit remote areas. You’ll need it for local snacks, souvenirs, and small purchases in Ger camps.
When to go and weather ?
Mongolia Weather & Climate: What to Expect
Mongolia is often called “the land of blue sky”—and for good reason. The country enjoys around 250 sunny days each year, making it one of the sunniest destinations in the world.
Mongolia has a continental climate, which means it experiences warm summers and long, dry, and extremely cold winters.
☀️ Summer Weather in Mongolia
Summer in Mongolia runs from mid-May to mid-September. During this time, the weather is usually warm and pleasant, with average daytime temperatures ranging from 18°C to 26°C (64°F to 79°F). However, in the Gobi Desert, temperatures can soar above 30°C (86°F) and occasionally even reach 40°C (104°F), especially in July and August.
While Mongolia receives most of its annual rainfall in the summer, rain showers are usually short-lived and rarely last more than two or three days. The heaviest rains typically fall in mid-July and early August, which is why many local herders move their camps away from rivers to avoid flash floods.
🧭 Mongolia Travel Advice
The best time to travel to Mongolia is during the summer months, from mid-June to late August. During this season, you’ll enjoy the most stable weather, long sunny days, and a green, vibrant countryside.
If you prefer milder weather, both June and September are excellent choices. June brings fresh greenery and blooming wildflowers, while September is perfect for autumn colors, cooler temperatures, and a peaceful atmosphere.
Autumn is also when nomadic families are busy preparing for winter, and you’ll get to taste a variety of dairy products made from fresh milk—an authentic cultural experience. For the best Mongolia travel advice, consider your interests: adventure seekers might love the extremes of winter, while nature lovers may favor the lush summer or colorful fall.
📅 Mongolia Travel Seasons at a Glance:
Here’s a quick breakdown of the best months for specific activities and destinations in Mongolia:
July – Best time to experience the famous Naadam Festival, Mongolia’s biggest national celebration.
June to September – Ideal season for exploring the Gobi Desert. October is considered a shoulder season, offering fewer tourists and quieter landscapes.
July to August – Perfect months to visit Northern Mongolia and Lake Khuvsgul, often referred to as Mongolia’s “Blue Pearl.” September is a good alternative with fewer crowds.
Early October – Visit Western Mongolia to witness the awe-inspiring Golden Eagle Festival in the Altai Mountains.
February – For a true winter adventure, February is the best time to experience the Mongolian winter, with ice festivals and frozen lakes offering unforgettable memories.
Before planning your itinerary, be sure to check up-to-date Mongolia travel advice for seasonal events, accessibility, and local customs.
Health, Safety and Emergency ?
✅ Mongolia Travel Advice: Safety Tips and What Travelers Need to Know
When it comes to safety, Mongolia is considered one of the safest travel destinations in the world. Most visitors find the local people, including the police, to be welcoming and respectful. As a tourist, you’re unlikely to face any serious issues during your trip.
However, like in any country, there are a few things you should keep in mind to stay safe. While violent crime is rare, petty theft does occasionally occur, particularly in crowded areas.
🚨 Be Aware of Pickpocketing
Pickpocketing and bag-slitting can happen in busy public places like:
The Black Market (Narantuul Market)
Public buses
Tourist attractions, such as Gandan Monastery or major shopping areas
To avoid problems, always keep your belongings close and avoid flashing valuables in public. Using a money belt or secure daypack can be a smart move.
For more Mongolia travel advice, especially related to safety, always check for local updates before your trip.
💉 Vaccines and Medicines: What to Prepare Before Traveling to Mongolia
For most travelers, no special vaccinations are required to enter Mongolia—unless you’re arriving from a country with a risk of yellow fever. That said, it’s a good idea to check with your doctor or a travel clinic at least 4 to 6 weeks before your trip.
✅ Recommended Vaccines and Medications
According to the World Health Organization (WHO) and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), travelers to Mongolia are often advised to have up-to-date routine vaccines, such as:
Tetanus
Hepatitis A and B
Typhoid (for those going off-the-beaten path)
Medical care is widely available in Mongolia’s cities. However, in rural or remote areas, facilities can be basic. Therefore, it’s best to come prepared with any prescription medications you take regularly, as well as common over-the-counter meds, such as:
Pain relievers
Flu or cold medicine
Throat lozenges
Anti-diarrhea tablets
Motion sickness pills
Mongolia travel advice: Always pack a small first aid kit, especially if you’re heading to remote regions.
🏥 What Happens If I Get Sick in Mongolia?
In most cases, if you fall ill while traveling in Mongolia, you can be treated at a local hospital or clinic, especially in urban areas. However, for tours that take you to remote regions, medical facilities may be far away, and medical evacuation could be necessary.
Here’s what you need to know:
Hospitals in Mongolia may not offer the same standards as those in Western countries.
For serious health issues, medical evacuation can cost more than $100,000 USD.
Evacuation companies usually require full payment or insurance confirmation before proceeding.
Important Mongolia travel advice: Make sure your travel insurance includes medical evacuation coverage. Not all policies do, so double-check with your provider.
🚑 Recommended Clinic in Mongolia
The SOS Medica Mongolia UB International Clinic in Ulaanbaatar is currently the only clinic offering medical evacuation services. They provide international-standard care and can assist with urgent health concerns.
Final Mongolia Travel Advice for Health and Safety
Always carry copies of your health insurance documents.
Share your travel itinerary with someone back home.
Stay informed about local health guidelines and road conditions.
Consider purchasing supplemental travel insurance to cover unexpected emergencies.
By staying prepared and following basic safety measures, your journey through Mongolia can be not only safe but also incredibly rewarding.
Getting to Mongolia
How to Get to Mongolia: Mongolia Travel Advice on Flights, Trains, and Buses
If you’re planning your adventure to Mongolia, you’re probably wondering about the best ways to get there. Whether you’re flying in, riding the famous Trans-Siberian Railway, or crossing the border by bus, there are a few convenient options to consider. Here’s our essential Mongolia travel advice to help you choose the route that suits your travel style and budget.
✈️ Getting to Mongolia by Air
Flying is the fastest and most convenient way to reach Mongolia. Several international airlines offer regular flights to Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia’s capital.
Major Airlines Flying to Mongolia:
MIAT Mongolian Airlines – Direct flights to/from Berlin, Moscow, Beijing, Tokyo, Osaka, and Seoul
Korean Air – Multiple flights per week to Ulaanbaatar
Aeroflot – Two flights per week from Moscow
Air China – Regular flights connecting through Beijing
Turkish Airlines – Flights available via Istanbul
🧭 Recommended Flight Routes:
From Europe: You can fly to Berlin or Moscow, then connect to a MIAT or Aeroflot flight to Ulaanbaatar.
From the U.S.: One cost-effective route is to book through a Mongolian travel agency based in the U.S. Alternatively:
Fly United Airlines to Beijing, then transfer to a MIAT or Air China flight to Mongolia.
Fly to Seoul, then take a Korean Air flight to Ulaanbaatar.
✈️ Mongolia travel advice: Book flights early, especially during peak travel season (June to August), when seat availability is limited.
🚆 Getting to Mongolia by Train
If you’re looking for a more scenic and cultural experience, traveling to Mongolia by train is an unforgettable journey.
🚂 The Trans-Siberian Railway
The world-famous Trans-Siberian Railway runs all the way from St. Petersburg, through Moscow, across Russia, into Ulaanbaatar, and on to Beijing. This route spans 7 time zones and two continents, offering breathtaking views of landscapes that change dramatically as you travel.
Moscow to Ulaanbaatar: Approx. 5 days
Ulaanbaatar to Beijing: Approx. 35 hours
The journey is comfortable, reliable, and cost-effective, making it a popular option for travelers who want to combine multiple countries in one trip.
🚆 Mongolia travel advice: Train tickets must be booked at least one month in advance, especially during the summer. Travel agencies can assist with reservations based on your preferred route and schedule.
🚌 Getting to Mongolia by Bus
If you’re traveling from Russia, especially from nearby Ulan Ude, taking the bus is a quick and affordable way to reach Mongolia.
🚍 Ulan Ude to Ulaanbaatar:
Daily buses depart at 07:30 from the Old Bus Station (Старый Автовокзал)
Route crosses through the Altanbulag border
Trip duration: Around 12 hours, including customs processing
Ticket price: Approx. RUB 1800 one-way
Night buses are also available:
Departure: Fridays and Sundays at 19:00
Tickets can be booked through most local travel agencies or online.
🚌 Mongolia travel advice: The bus is faster than the train from Russia and offers a convenient alternative for budget travelers or those with limited time.
🧭 Final Mongolia Travel Advice: Choosing the Right Route
Fly if you’re short on time or coming from far away (like the U.S. or Europe).
Take the train if you want a slower, scenic route with the chance to visit multiple countries.
Bus travel is great for regional border crossings, especially from Russia.
No matter how you get to Mongolia, the journey itself is part of the adventure!
Mongolia Visa information ?
Mongolia Visa Requirements: What Travelers Need to Know
Before planning your trip, it’s important to understand Mongolia’s visa policies. For most travelers, a visa is required to enter Mongolia. However, there are some exceptions.
✅ Countries That Don’t Require a Visa
Citizens of certain countries can enter Mongolia without a visa for short stays. If you’re unsure about your visa status, it’s always best to check with the nearest Mongolian embassy or consulate in your country.
🌍 Mongolia travel advice: Always confirm visa requirements in advance, as visa-free entry policies may change depending on diplomatic agreements.
🏢 How to Apply for a Mongolia Visa
If your country requires a visa, you can usually apply for one at the Mongolian embassy or consulate in your home country.
However, if Mongolia does not have an embassy in your country, don’t worry—there’s another option. You can obtain a 30-day visa on arrival at the airport or railway station when you arrive in Mongolia.
💰 Mongolia Visa Costs
The cost of a Mongolian visa varies slightly depending on your country of application and the local currency exchange rate. Generally, a single-entry 30-day visa will cost between USD 50 and USD 70.
💡 More Mongolia travel advice: Bring cash in U.S. dollars when applying on arrival, just in case credit card payments aren’t accepted.
🧭 Final Mongolia Travel Advice for Visas
Apply early if you’re visiting the embassy, as processing times can vary.
Double-check all entry requirements, especially if you plan to extend your stay.
Keep a printed copy of your visa and travel insurance with you at all times.
If you have questions or need help, feel free to contact a local travel agency or reach out to us directly.
📌 Read more Mongolia travel advice and get the latest updates to make your journey smooth and stress-free. For any visa-related concerns or trip planning help, don’t hesitate to contact us!
