Budget Travel Tips for Exploring Mongolia
Mongolia is a dramatic stage for wild, off-the-beaten-path adventures, where the nomadic culture of the steppes remains vibrant and authentic. Travel in this epic land can be inspiring and captivating; however, it is essential to recognize that a trip to Mongolia can be costly.
To explore the stunning landscapes, you’ll likely need to hire a 4WD vehicle, along with a driver and a guide, as English-speaking drivers are rare. Fuel costs represent a significant expense due to the vast distances between sights, especially now, with gasoline imports becoming pricier. Consequently, it’s crucial to plan your budget wisely to ensure a memorable experience without overspending.
A Guide to Daily Costs in Mongolia
- Dorm bed in Ulaanbaatar: US$10–20
- Basic room for two in Ulaanbaatar: US$60–150
- A homestay night in a ger: from US$40
- A Ulaanbaatar–Kharkhorin bus ticket: US$7 one-way
- Cup of coffee: US$2–3
- Khuushuur (fried mutton pancakes) at a local restaurant: US$1
- A sit-down dinner for two: US$20–60
- Beer/pint at a pub in Ulaanbaatar: US$3
Average daily cost per person (including meals, accommodation, and car/driver hire): US$60–200
1. No Cheaper “Off Season”
Travel costs in Mongolia remain relatively constant throughout the year, as there is no distinct “cheap” season. Travelers should consider timing based on ease of travel, with summer offering more services and tours compared to the winter months when fewer guides are available.
2. Visa Waiver Opportunities
The Mongolian government has designated 2023, 2024, and 2025 as the “years to visit Mongolia,” unveiling new visa conditions for numerous nationalities. Citizens from many countries, including the UK and Australia, can enjoy 30 days of visa-free travel, simplifying travel planning.
3. Collaborate with Other Travelers
The cost of tours decreases significantly when more travelers join a 4WD vehicle. Although finding travel companions has become more challenging post-pandemic, peak tourist season in late June to early August presents the best opportunities to connect with fellow adventurers.
4. Guesthouse Tours for Budget Travelers
Economical tours are usually organized by hostels and guesthouses in Ulaanbaatar. These typically cover standard highlights such as the Gobi Desert and Kharkhorin, providing a no-frills but affordable experience.
5. Focus on Experience Over Driving
Mongolia is vast, making excessive travel impractical and costly. Rather than rushing across the country, consider spending quality time in one region or at a beautiful ger camp, allowing you to appreciate the tranquillity of the landscape while potentially saving money.
6. Hire a Driver Without a Guide
If you are comfortable using translation apps, you might consider hiring just a driver, bypassing the need for a guide. This can lower costs, but remember that drivers may require extra compensation for managing additional logistics.
7. Bring Your Own Tent
To save on accommodation in remote areas, consider bringing your own tent. Wild camping is permitted, enabling you to experience the wilderness without the expenses of ger camps. Tents are readily available in Ulaanbaatar before heading into the wild.
8. Seek Free Airport Picks from Accommodations
Since Chinggis Khaan International Airport opened, some Ulaanbaatar hotels offer complimentary pickup services, providing a cost-effective option for travel from the airport.
9. Utilize Public Transportation
While most of Mongolia’s sights necessitate renting a 4WD, Ulaanbaatar has public bus routes connecting to popular destinations. This gives travelers a chance to engage in independent travel while mingling with locals.
10. Embrace Local Travel Trends
As international tourism diminished, local Mongolians started their own countryside trips, creating a rise in affordable ger camps targeting domestic travelers. Embracing this trend can lead to unique and economical travel experiences.
11. Dine at Local Canteens
To save on meals, opt for local canteens (known as guanz) where you can enjoy authentic Mongolian dishes like buuz (steamed mutton dumplings) and tsuivan (fried noodles) at reasonable prices.
