Essential Travel Tips for Visiting Mongolia
A land defined by boundless steppes, blue skies, and roving nomads, Mongolia is perfectly set up for adventure and cultural immersion. Memorable experiences are a given, but travel in the world’s least-densely-populated country comes with its own challenges. Therefore, it’s beneficial to expand your knowledge of Mongolia before your visit.
Experience is often the best teacher, so here are some key tips to help you make the most of your own Mongolian adventure. Regardless of how you explore this fascinating country, remember that Mongolians are famously hospitable and predisposed to assist travelers. Even if challenges arise during your journey, help will be available to guide you back on track.
1. Organize Your Tour Well Before You Travel
Mongolia’s travel season is fleeting, stretching from late May to late August. Hence, the best drivers, guides, and vehicles are quickly booked. It is advisable to plan and secure your tours ahead of time.
2. Don’t Be Too Ambitious with Your Mongolia Itinerary
A common mistake is trying to cover too much ground in one trip. Instead, focus on just one area of the country or plan for a minimum of two nights in each location. This approach will allow you to savor the majesty and tranquility of the Mongolian landscape.
3. Book Domestic Travel Tickets through Local Agencies
Domestic flight and rail schedules often change at the last minute. Using a local travel agent can help you manage last-minute changes effectively if your flight is canceled or delayed. A good tour operator might even assist in retrieving missed connections.
4. If You Plan to Drive Yourself, Avoid July and August
The summer months bring risks of waterlogged roads, making them less ideal for self-driving. It is recommended to visit during the shoulder seasons like June or September for better driving conditions. If traveling during peak summer, stick to paved roads or consider hiring a local driver.
5. Download Podcasts and Audiobooks for Long Road Trips
With Mongolia being three times the size of France and many roads being bumpy tracks, pre-loading your audio device with music, audiobooks, or podcasts can make your travel more enjoyable and help pass the hours spent on the road.
6. Bring Sanitary Supplies and Medication
While you can find most essentials in the capital, they become increasingly scarce on the steppe. Therefore, be sure to pack all necessary personal sanitary items and medications before departing.
7. Spice Up Your Mutton with Condiments
Mongolian cuisine often revolves around mutton dishes. To enhance your meals during lengthy expeditions, it is wise to bring your preferred condiments along to add flavor to your food.
8. Boil or Purify Water from Streams and Lakes
Even if the water appears clear, it may still be contaminated. Boiling water for at least one minute or using purification methods can help ensure it is safe to drink.
9. Pack Camping Gear to Save Money
In popular destinations, you can find fixed ger camps. However, in remote areas, carrying your camping gear is advisable since accommodations may be sparse. Shops in Ulaanbaatar sell outdoor equipment if needed.
10. Bring Gifts When Visiting Nomad Families
It is customary to bring a small gift when staying with local families. Items such as traditional food, candies, or alcohol are appreciated, and bringing along a souvenir from your home country fosters cultural exchange.
11. Climb a Hill to Get a Mobile Phone Signal
Although cell coverage has improved, certain rural areas still lack service. If you find yourself without a signal, climbing the nearest hill often helps restore connectivity.
12. Think Twice About Riding That Horse
Horseback riding can be risky, particularly for inexperienced riders. Ensure that your travel insurance covers riding activities and consider practicing beforehand if you plan to ride in remote regions.
13. Observe Ger Etiquette
While inside a ger, it is respectful to wait until seated and served tea before conversing with your hosts. Proper etiquette also includes disposing of trash appropriately rather than throwing it in the stove.
14. Be Vigilant When Walking Around Central Ulaanbaatar
While generally safe, be cautious in urban areas, especially regarding personal belongings. Additionally, use care when navigating busy streets, as traffic can be chaotic.
15. Use Official Taxis After Dark
There are licensed and unofficial taxis in Ulaanbaatar. While unlicensed taxis may be acceptable during the day, it is safest to opt for official taxis at night for security. Consider using local taxi apps for a safer experience.
16. Use What3words to Find Places and Points of Interest
Mongolia utilizes the what3words navigation system to simplify finding locations in a land with few roads or landmarks. Familiarizing yourself with this tool can enhance your travel experience.
17. Get a GPS Tracker Device
A GPS tracker adds a layer of safety during adventures in the vast Mongolian landscape. If you have this device, any support office can locate you in case of emergencies.
