Mongolia is a vast, landlocked country in East Asia, nestled between two powerful neighbours—Russia to the north and China to the south. You may hear the term “Outer Mongolia” used for the country itself, while “Inner Mongolia” refers to an autonomous region within China.
Famous for its endless grasslands, dramatic scenery, and rich nomadic traditions, Mongolia offers an incredible sense of space and freedom that’s hard to find elsewhere. Often called the “Land of the Eternal Blue Sky,” the country enjoys more than 250 sunny days a year and a timeless way of life shaped by horses, wide horizons, and a deep connection to nature.
Ulaanbaatar, often simply called UB, is the capital and largest city of Mongolia. It is the country’s political, economic, and cultural heart and is home to around half of Mongolia’s population. The city combines modern urban life with strong traditional influences, creating an interesting contrast to the wide-open rural landscapes that Mongolia is so well known for.
Yes! Mongolia is the 19th largest country in the world, covering around 1.5 million square kilometres (about 605,000 square miles). Despite its vast size, it is one of the most sparsely populated countries on Earth. With just over 3.5 million people, huge areas of Mongolia remain wide open and untouched, creating an incredible sense of space and tranquility. This low population density is one of the reasons why Mongolia’s nomadic lifestyle, natural beauty, and endless horizons feel so pure and unspoiled.
Mongolia is famous for its vast, unspoiled wilderness and stunning natural beauty. Although the country may seem simple and rugged at first glance, it is home to an удивительно wide range of landscapes, each with its own special character and charm:
The Gobi Desert
One of the world’s great cold deserts, stretching across southern Mongolia. It is known for its dramatic sand dunes, rocky plains, unique wildlife, and important fossil discoveries.
The Steppes
Endless rolling grasslands that lie at the heart of the country. These open plains are the traditional home of Mongolia’s nomadic herders and perfectly capture the nation’s strong sense of freedom and open space.
Mountain Ranges
The Altai, Khangai, and Khentii mountains shape Mongolia’s varied terrain. Here you’ll find snow-capped peaks, alpine valleys, and clear rivers—ideal for trekking and wildlife encounters.
Forests
In the north, thick taiga forests stretch toward the Siberian border, providing a habitat for animals such as elk, bears, and wolves.
Lakes
Mongolia is home to more than 3,000 lakes, including the beautiful Lake Khövsgöl—often called the “Blue Pearl of Mongolia” for its crystal-clear waters and peaceful alpine surroundings.
Together, these landscapes make Mongolia a wonderful destination for nature lovers, adventure seekers, and anyone looking to experience truly wide-open, untouched spaces.
The official language of Mongolia is Mongolian, spoken by most of the population and deeply connected to the country’s cultural identity. In cities and popular tourist areas, English is quite commonly used—especially by tour guides, hotel staff, and people working in tourism. While English is less common in rural areas, visitors are warmly welcomed everywhere, and communication is often made easy through friendly gestures, genuine hospitality, and the support of local guides.
The official currency of Mongolia is the Mongolian Tögrög (MNT). In Ulaanbaatar, credit cards are widely accepted at hotels, restaurants, shops, and larger service providers, making it easy to pay for most things. However, once you venture into the countryside, cash becomes essential. Many small shops, family-run ger camps, and rural areas don’t accept cards, so it’s a good idea to carry enough Tögrög to cover your daily expenses while exploring Mongolia’s wide-open spaces.
Genghis Khan, born Temüjin, is celebrated as the founding father of Mongolia. In the early 13th century, he achieved the incredible feat of uniting the many independent—and often rival—Mongol tribes under one leadership. With his strategic genius, innovative military tactics, and strong leadership, he went on to establish the Mongol Empire, which became the largest contiguous land empire in history.
Today, Genghis Khan is revered as a national hero, symbolizing the spirit, resilience, and identity of the Mongolian people. His remarkable legacy continues to inspire cultural pride and shapes how Mongolia is seen around the world.
Yes! Around a quarter to a third of Mongolia’s population still follow a semi-nomadic lifestyle. They live in traditional portable homes called gers (or yurts) and move with their herds of horses, camels, sheep, goats, cows, and yaks between seasonal pastures—keeping alive a way of life that has shaped Mongolia for centuries.
A ger is a traditional, round tent covered with felt, used by Mongolia’s nomads. It’s perfectly suited to the country’s climate and way of life—keeping warm in winter, cool in summer, strong against the wind, and easy to pack up and move. Today, the ger stands as an iconic symbol of Mongolian home, culture, and nomadic heritage.
Tibetan Buddhism is the main religion in Mongolia and has a deep influence on the country’s culture and daily life. At the same time, there’s a growing revival of Shamanism, the ancient, indigenous spiritual tradition, keeping Mongolia’s rich spiritual heritage alive.
The Naadam Festival is Mongolia’s biggest and most exciting celebration, often called “Eriin Gurvan Naadam” or the Three Games of Men. It showcases the country’s traditional sports:
Wrestling: Hundreds of wrestlers compete in matches with no weight classes, showing strength, skill, and stamina.
Horse Racing: Young jockeys, often between 5 and 13 years old, race across the steppe for distances of 15–30 km.
Archery: Both men and women test their aim using traditional composite bows.
Naadam is celebrated across Mongolia from July 11–13, with the biggest and most spectacular festivities taking place in Ulaanbaatar.
Always accept items with your right hand or with both hands.
When visiting a ger, walk clockwise around it.
Ask before taking photos of people—it’s a sign of respect.
Avoid touching someone’s head or stepping on door thresholds.
These small gestures go a long way in showing respect for Mongolian customs!
Mongolian cuisine is closely tied to the country’s nomadic traditions, with a focus on meat and dairy. The food is hearty and protein-rich, perfectly suited to life on the steppe and the challenges of Mongolia’s harsh climate. Some of the most iconic dishes include:
Buuz: Steamed dumplings filled with seasoned mutton or beef, often enjoyed during Lunar New Year and family gatherings.
Khorkhog: A unique Mongolian barbecue where chunks of meat (usually mutton) and vegetables are cooked inside a sealed container with hot stones, creating rich, smoky flavors.
Airag: Fermented mare’s milk, a slightly tangy and mildly alcoholic drink traditionally enjoyed in summer, prized for both its refreshing taste and cultural importance.
Tsuivan: Stir-fried noodles with meat and vegetables, a simple yet satisfying dish full of flavor.
Mongolian food reflects the country’s nomadic lifestyle, rugged landscapes, and rich cultural heritage—giving travelers a true taste of the steppe in every bite.
Vegetarian and vegan meals are available on request—just let us know in advance. We’re happy to accommodate all dietary preferences to make your experience enjoyable.
No. Drink only bottled or boiled water.
Modern clinics and medical services are available in Ulaanbaatar. In rural areas, facilities are more basic, so it’s a good idea to bring any personal medications you may need while traveling. Make sure you have reliable travel insurance from your home country that covers all aspects of your trip—it’s the best way to travel with peace of mind.
Mongolia has a continental climate, with dramatic seasonal changes. Summers are generally warm, with long, sunny days—but even in July, nights can be surprisingly chilly because of the country’s high elevation and wide-open landscapes. Winters are long, dry, and bitterly cold, often dropping well below freezing with occasional strong winds. These extremes shape daily life and the nomadic way of life, so layered clothing and good preparation are key for enjoying Mongolia comfortably, no matter the season.
Essential items to pack for a trip to Mongolia:
Warm layers: Even in summer, nights can get chilly, especially in the countryside or mountains. Pack sweaters, a fleece, or a light insulated jacket.
Hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen: The sun can be strong across the open steppes and deserts, so sun protection is important.
Comfortable walking shoes: Whether trekking, exploring ger camps, or strolling city streets, sturdy and comfy footwear is a must.
Power bank and flashlight: Electricity can be limited in remote areas, so a power bank comes in handy. A flashlight or headlamp is also useful for evening walks or rural stays.
Personal medicines: Bring any prescriptions or over-the-counter medications you need, as pharmacies in remote areas may be scarce or unfamiliar with your brands.
Packing these items will help you stay comfortable, safe, and prepared while enjoying Mongolia’s stunning landscapes and unpredictable weather.
The best time to visit Mongolia is from June to September, when the weather is pleasantly warm, the landscapes are lush and green, and festivals like Naadam (July 11–13) bring vibrant cultural celebrations. Late September is also a beautiful time, with the steppe and forests painted in stunning autumn colors.
Winter, on the other hand, can be extremely cold, with snow covering much of the country, while spring can be windy and dusty, making travel more challenging. Choosing your travel season wisely helps ensure a comfortable and truly rewarding experience in Mongolia.
Accommodation in the Countryside
We offer a range of accommodation options to suit different comfort levels and preferences:
Standard Ger Camps (shared facilities):
These camps have clean and well-maintained shared bathrooms with hot showers and flush toilets in a communal block, separated for men and women. They provide a comfortable and practical place to rest after a day of exploring.
Luxury Ger Camps (private facilities):
In recent years, more luxury ger camps have become available, offering private en-suite bathrooms attached to each Ger. Keep in mind that not all regions have luxury camps, and the number of en-suite Gers is limited.
Local Family Stay:
For a more authentic experience, you can stay with local families who set up extra Gers next to their homes. You’ll have your own private Ger, similar to a guesthouse. While there are no showers or flush toilets, a small sink inside the Ger is available for basic washing, and toilets are nearby, either in nature or a simple wooden cabin.
Tented Camp:
For those who love the outdoors, our tented camps let you set up your own tent in stunning natural surroundings. We provide all the necessary camping and kitchen equipment, so you can sleep comfortably and enjoy meals in the wilderness.
These options let you choose the experience that best fits your adventure, from cozy and traditional to private and luxurious.
Internet access in Mongolia is limited, particularly in remote areas. Some tourist ger camps may offer Starlink or other satellite-based internet, usually available near the main restaurant or common areas. With a local SIM card, you can enjoy Wi-Fi or mobile data in many parts of Mongolia, especially in towns and popular tourist areas. It makes staying connected easier while still allowing you to enjoy the country’s wide-open spaces.
However, most locations do not have reliable connectivity, giving travelers the rare opportunity to truly disconnect and immerse themselves in the vast, uninterrupted landscapes of the Mongolian wilderness.
Traveling independently in Mongolia is possible, but it can be challenging. Distances are vast, and many roads are unpaved or unmarked, which can make navigation tricky. Many of Mongolia’s most beautiful sites are located in the middle of nowhere, far from towns or villages. Reaching them often requires private transfers, which can be expensive if you’re traveling alone. Guided trips or small group tours can make visiting these remote spots easier, more affordable, and far more enjoyable. For safety, convenience, and a richer experience, guided tours are highly recommended. Local guides offer expert knowledge, reliable transportation, and unique insights into Mongolia’s landscapes, culture, and nomadic traditions.
Perhaps the most important thing to keep in mind when traveling in Mongolia is just how vast the country is. With limited paved roads, covering the distances can take time and patience. From west to east, Mongolia stretches about 2,400 km, and from north to south about 1,300 km, covering 1.56 million square kilometers—home to just 3.5 million people… and around 70 million animals! With only three major towns, you can imagine that traveling here requires careful planning, plenty of energy, and a spirit of adventure.
For our tours, we use comfortable 4×4 vehicles fully equipped for off-road travel. They’re perfect for navigating Mongolia’s rugged terrain—from rolling steppes and desert tracks to mountainous paths. The drives themselves are part of the adventure, giving you uninterrupted views of breathtaking landscapes, nomadic settlements, and endless open horizons. You can sit back and relax in comfort while the scenery unfolds, making the journey just as memorable as the destinations.
Local long-distance buses connect many provincial towns and villages on their routes to Ulaanbaatar, making it possible to travel between regions without private transport. Buses generally arrive only in the provincial towns, so you’ll need to plan additional transport to reach smaller villages or more remote destinations. At provincial markets, you may find local people offering shared rides in their own vehicles to more remote villages. It can be an option if you want to try your luck, but keep in mind that safety isn’t guaranteed and there is no regular schedule.
There are local flights operated by Mongolian Airlines (MIAT) to some of the more remote provincial towns, mainly in the west, north, and south. These flights are a convenient way to cover long distances and save travel time across Mongolia’s vast landscapes.
The Trans-Mongolian Railway connects Russia and China through Mongolia, offering a scenic and convenient way to travel across the country by train.