Mongolia Travel Advices

Mongolia Travel Advices

Expert tips for gear, clothing, and gadgets to enhance your travel experience.

Traveling to Mongolia is an adventure filled with vast landscapes, rich culture, and unique experiences. Here are some key pieces of advice from someone who has traveled to Mongolia multiple times:

1. Embrace the Nomadic Lifestyle

Mongolia’s nomadic culture is central to the experience, so take the opportunity to stay in a ger (traditional felt tent) with local families. It’s a great way to experience their hospitality, daily life, and traditions. Be open to trying traditional foods like airag (fermented mare’s milk) and participating in their rituals, such as herding livestock or milking animals.

2. Plan for Remote Travel

Mongolia’s charm lies in its remote beauty, but this also means that travel between destinations can be long and rough. The roads outside of Ulaanbaatar are often unpaved, so be prepared for bumpy rides. Hiring an experienced driver or guide with a 4x4 vehicle is highly recommended, especially for visiting areas like the Gobi Desert or the Altai Mountains.

3. Bring Essentials for Comfort

Mongolia is remote, and access to modern amenities can be limited outside the cities. Pack items like:

• Toiletries (wet wipes, hand sanitizer)

• First aid kit with any medications you might need

• Power bank for charging electronics (electricity can be sporadic in rural areas)

• Snacks and lightweight food, especially for long journeys where dining options are limited

4. Be Prepared for Extreme Weather

Mongolia’s weather can be unpredictable and extreme, with hot summers and very cold nights, even in the desert. Bring layered clothing that can handle both warm days and freezing nights. In winter, temperatures can drop dramatically, so high-quality cold-weather gear is a must.

5. Respect Local Customs

Mongolian customs may be different from what you’re used to. For example:

• Do not point your feet at others or at the family altar in a ger.

• Always receive gifts or food with your right hand or both hands.

• When entering a ger, avoid stepping on the threshold and follow seating instructions from your hosts.

6. Travel During Naadam Festival

If possible, time your visit around Naadam, Mongolia’s biggest cultural event, held in July. It’s a national celebration with traditional sports like wrestling, horse racing, and archery, offering a unique insight into the country’s heritage. It’s a great opportunity to see Mongolian pride and culture on full display.

7. Explore Mongolia’s Natural Wonders

Mongolia is known for its incredible landscapes, from the rolling steppe to the vast Gobi Desert, to the towering Altai Mountains. Key destinations to explore include:

• Gobi Desert: Famous for its sand dunes, dinosaur fossils, and camel rides.

• Lake Khövsgöl: Often called the "Blue Pearl of Mongolia," it’s a stunning alpine lake that’s perfect for hiking, boating, and staying with local nomads.

• Orkhon Valley: A UNESCO World Heritage site with ancient monuments and the heart of Mongolian nomadic culture.

8. Prepare for Limited Infrastructure

Outside Ulaanbaatar, infrastructure can be basic. Accommodations are often gers or simple guesthouses, with shared facilities. Showers and toilets may not be available every day, and internet or cell service can be sparse. Embrace the experience of disconnecting and immersing yourself in nature.

9. Pack for Adventure

Mongolia offers a wide range of outdoor activities, from horseback riding across the steppe to trekking in the mountains. Bring appropriate gear for adventure, including sturdy boots, sun protection (the sun can be intense at high altitudes), and lightweight, breathable clothing for trekking.

10. Get a Local Guide

A local guide can enrich your experience, not just by navigating the landscapes but by explaining Mongolian customs, history, and natural wonders. Guides can also help you communicate with nomadic families who may not speak English.

11. Be Mindful of Altitude

If you’re traveling to higher regions like the Altai Mountains, be prepared for altitude sickness. Acclimatize slowly, stay hydrated, and rest if you start feeling symptoms.

12. Respect Wildlife and Nature

Mongolia is home to incredible wildlife, including the snow leopard, Bactrian camels, and wild horses (Przewalski's horses). Respect the natural environment by leaving no trace and supporting eco-friendly tourism initiatives.