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International flights land in Chinggis Khaan international airport of Ulaanbaatar. There are several major frequent flights such as Beijing – UB, Shanghai-Ulaanbaatar, Seoul – UB, Istanbul – UB, Tokyo – UB, Frankfurt – Ulaanbaatar, Hongkong-Ulaanbaatar, Singapore-Ulaanbaatar etc.. Major air companies are: MIAT, TURKSIH AIRLINE, KOREAN AIRLINE, ASIANA AIRLINES and AIR CHINA etc.. All flights are operated due to seasonal schedule.
Mongolia is an enormous country with vast distances between towns and regions, and the infrastructure outside the capital city, Ulaanbaatar, remains limited. While there are regular daily buses connecting Ulaanbaatar with the aimag centres (provincial towns), public transport does not operate beyond these town centres. This means that buses and other forms of public transportation cannot take you to the major sightseeing areas or the most beautiful natural attractions, as these places are often located far from main roads and in remote countryside locations.
Because of this, organised transportation is the only reliable and practical way to reach Mongolia’s key natural and cultural highlights. Whether you are visiting national parks, historical sites, or scenic valleys and deserts, guided tours or private vehicle arrangements are essential for safe, efficient, and comfortable travel.
Mongolian roads are generally classified into three categories:
1. State Roads
State roads connect the capital city, Ulaanbaatar, with the provincial centres (aimag centres), major towns, and key border crossing points. Most of the main arteries between Ulaanbaatar and the aimag centres—as well as the strategic routes leading to the Russian and Chinese borders—are paved with tarmac. These roads form the backbone of Mongolia’s national transport network.
2. Local Roads
Local roads link the aimag centres to the smaller administrative villages known as sum centres. Many of these roads are not directly connected to the state road system. Local roads often vary in quality and are less frequently maintained compared to state roads.
3. Internal Roads
Internal roads connect the sum centres with even smaller settlements, remote communities, herder households, sightseeing spots, farms, and nomadic camps. These are typically rough tracks or natural earth routes created by repeated vehicle use rather than formal road construction.
Mongolia’s entire road network—combining state, local, and internal roads—covers approximately 49,000 kilometres. This network connects 24 major cities and more than 160 villages (sums and bags). Of this total:
Approximately 11,219 km are classified as state roads
Around 37,859 km are local roads
A significant portion of the network, especially the local and internal road sections, consists of gravel, dirt tracks, or unimproved earth roads. These types of roads are common on routes leading to natural attractions, national parks, historical sites, and other remote sightseeing destinations.
The Mongolian government has invested heavily in improving road connectivity. A major national project aimed to link all aimag centres to Ulaanbaatar with tarmac roads, and this ambitious goal was largely achieved by 2020. Despite this progress, many rural and scenic areas still rely on unpaved roads where conditions can quickly change due to weather or seasonal factors.
When planning travel times in Mongolia, it is essential to allow extra time, especially when your journey includes unpaved or remote sections. Recommended average driving speeds are:
45 km/h in Northern Mongolia
55 km/h in the Gobi Desert
Driving significantly faster is dangerous as it increases the risk of accidents and can seriously damage vehicles, especially on rough terrain.
While more bridges are being constructed across the country, certain routes—particularly in the far western regions—still require river crossings. Depending on your itinerary, you may need to drive through shallow rivers or use small cable ferries, although these are becoming less common.
Mongolia has large populations of livestock, including horses, sheep, goats, yaks, and camels. These animals often wander freely and have little awareness of vehicles, creating potential hazards on the road.
In general, road safety in Mongolia is good, but challenges do exist due to:
Extreme cold temperatures in winter
Sudden weather changes
The isolated nature of many roads
Limited roadside services outside major towns
Travelling with experienced drivers or using organised transportation is therefore the safest and most reliable way to navigate Mongolia’s diverse and remote landscapes.
Choosing the right vehicle for your overland tour may seem like a small detail, but it is one of the most important factors for your comfort, safety, and overall travel experience. Long driving days, variable road conditions, and Mongolia’s vast distances make a suitable vehicle essential. We consider our vehicles part of our family, and we maintain them with great care to ensure reliability on the road.
Land Cruiser – 4 Passenger Seats
Land Cruisers are ideal for Mongolia’s rugged terrain. They offer four comfortable forward-facing seats, each equipped with seat belts. These vehicles handle bumpy roads with ease, have air conditioning, and provide plenty of space for luggage—both in the trunk and on the roof rack. They are fast, stable, and offer the highest level of comfort for long-distance travel.
Delica – Japanese 4×4 Van (5 Passenger Seats)
The Delica is a reliable and comfortable Japanese 4×4 van with five forward-facing, seat-belt-equipped seats. Although slightly slower off-road compared to the Land Cruiser, it performs well on Mongolia’s rough tracks. It features air conditioning, large panoramic windows for excellent visibility, and a pleasant interior. As the trunk space is limited, most luggage is stored on the roof rack.
Furgon – Russian 4×4 Military Van (7 Passenger Seats)
The Furgon is a classic Russian 4×4 van designed for tough conditions. It offers seven seats, mostly forward-facing, with plenty of interior space for both passengers and luggage. While it does not have air conditioning and is less comfortable than Land Cruisers and Delicas, it is extremely durable off-road. For adventurous groups travelling on a tighter budget, the Furgon is a practical and authentic choice, especially for challenging terrain.
24- and 45-Seater Luxury Buses
For larger groups, we offer modern, air-conditioned buses with 24 or 45 seats. These buses provide comfort, safety, and ample luggage space, making them ideal for group tours or company trips. Whatever your travel style or group size, we tailor the transportation to suit your needs.
Self-Drive Option
Self-driving with Land Cruisers is also available for travellers who prefer independence and flexibility. For more information, please visit our Self-Driving website.
Choosing the right accommodation that matches both your budget and comfort level is an important part of ensuring an enjoyable trip, especially when you are far from home. Ulaanbaatar, the capital of Mongolia, offers a wide variety of lodging options to suit different travel styles and financial preferences.
In the city, you can find everything from high-end 5-star international hotels with full amenities—such as restaurants, spas, gyms, and concierge services—to mid-range hotels, boutique accommodations, and budget-friendly guesthouses. For travellers looking for economical stays or a more social atmosphere, there are also hostels and dormitory-style rooms available in guesthouses.
This range of choices allows you to select the type of accommodation that best suits your needs before heading out to the countryside, where options become more limited and simpler.
When travelling through rural Mongolia, accommodation options vary depending on the region, level of development, and remoteness of the area. Below are the main types of countryside accommodation available:
Standard Ger camps are the most common type of accommodation in the Mongolian countryside. These camps consist of traditional Gers (Yurts) arranged around a central dining area. Guests sleep in their own private Ger, typically furnished with 2–4 separate beds, bedding, and a small stove for heating when needed.
Facilities such as hot showers and flush toilets are located in a communal block, with separate sections for men and women. These shared facilities are usually well-maintained and clean, offering comfort while still providing an authentic Mongolian experience.
Luxury Ger camps have become increasingly popular in recent years. These camps provide Gers equipped with private, attached bathrooms, offering direct access to your own shower and toilet. This provides a higher level of comfort, especially for those who prefer more convenience and privacy.
However, luxury camps are not available in all locations, as remote regions often lack the infrastructure to support them. Additionally, the number of en-suite Gers is limited, so these camps tend to book out quickly during the high season.
Staying with a local family is a unique cultural experience, offering insight into traditional nomadic life. Many herder families set up extra Gers next to their own homes to host visitors.
Guests receive a private Ger, but facilities are basic. There are no showers or flush toilets. Inside the Ger, you will have a simple sink for washing your hands, face, and brushing your teeth. Toilets are located outdoors—either as a simple wooden outhouse with a hole or in designated natural areas near the family’s home.
A family stay provides authentic hospitality and a deeper connection with nomadic traditions and daily life.
For travellers seeking adventure and complete immersion in nature, tented camping is another option. You can set up your tent in beautiful, secluded locations—whether beside mountains, lakes, or in open steppe landscapes.
We provide all necessary camping equipment, including tents, sleeping mats, sleeping bags, and kitchen gear for preparing meals in the wild. This option offers the most privacy and direct connection with Mongolia’s untouched landscapes.
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Mongolia’s climate is best described as extreme continental, characterised by short, warm summers and long, dry, and very cold winters. The country is completely landlocked, and much of its territory lies on a high plateau ranging between 900 and 1,500 meters above sea level.
This combination—high elevation, inland location, and northern latitude—results in a climate that is both dry and sharply variable. Mongolia is famously known as the “Land of the Eternal Blue Sky”, with an average of 257 cloudless days per year. The country often sits under stable high atmospheric pressure, contributing to its clear skies and low precipitation.
Temperatures vary widely between seasons.
Average summer temperature: around 15°C, though daytime highs can be significantly warmer.
Average winter temperature: approximately –22.3°C, with many regions experiencing far colder conditions.
Mongolia is particularly windy, especially during the spring months. Winds from the north can cause temperatures to drop suddenly, creating very quick weather changes. When the wind calms, the atmosphere warms up just as rapidly.
Even during the height of summer, weather conditions can shift dramatically depending on the region you are visiting. You may find yourself walking comfortably in a T-shirt and sandals one moment, only to need a coat, boots, and layers the next. Nights in the desert, steppe, or mountainous areas can be surprisingly cold, and sudden drops in temperature are common.
For this reason, travellers are advised to pack all-season clothing, including warm layers, windproof jackets, and sturdy footwear, regardless of when they visit.
This unpredictable and extreme nature of Mongolia’s climate is part of what makes the country so unique—and why preparation is essential for a comfortable and safe journey.
Mongolian cuisine is deeply rooted in the traditional nomadic lifestyle, which relies heavily on animal husbandry. As a result, our diet traditionally features a large amount of dairy products and meat, with very limited use of vegetables and fruits. Classic Mongolian dishes include boiled or fried mutton seasoned simply with onions and garlic, steamed meat dumplings (buuz), fried meat pies (khuushuur), and other hearty meals designed to provide energy in a harsh climate.
Because of Mongolia’s extreme continental climate—with its long, cold winters and hot, dry summers—our ancestors ate seasonally. Dairy products were consumed more in summer, while meat-heavy meals were essential in winter for strength and warmth. This seasonal rhythm shaped our food culture for centuries.
However, dietary habits in Mongolia have changed significantly in recent years. Today, in Ulaanbaatar and larger cities, the culinary scene is becoming much more diverse. You can find international restaurants offering a wide variety of cuisines, from Asian to European and Middle Eastern dishes. Supermarkets and markets in urban areas now carry a broad selection of fresh vegetables, fruits, and imported products, making modern diets more balanced and varied.
During our tours, we ensure that meals are suited to travellers’ needs. Our cooks are experienced in preparing dishes that respect dietary restrictions, allergies, and personal preferences. Meals on the road are typically a balanced mix of Western, Asian, and Mongolian cuisine, ensuring comfort, variety, and a taste of local tradition.
Passport – Passport should be valid for at least 6 months after your arrival time.
Visa and Permission
Travel Insurance (Required)
Service voucher or Tour Booking Form
Flight Info (Please print out E-tickets you might need at borders)
Camera/Charger/Extra memory card– There will be a lot of photo opportunities
Head torch
First aid-kit (should contain lip balm with sunscreen, sunscreen, Aspirin, band aids/plasters, tape, anti-histamines, antibacterial gel/wipes, antiseptic cream, Imodium or similiar tablets for mild cases of diarrhea, rehydration powder, water purification tablets or drops, insect repellent, sewing kit, extra prescription drugs you may be taking).
Watch/Alarm
Binoculars (Optional. Given huge scale of the country)
Cash, credit and debit cards
Ear plugs
Personal entertainment (Reading and writing materials, music players, cards etc…)
Money belt
Reusable water bottle
Day pack – useful during excursion
Waterproof backpack cover
Towels (small and big during camel trek) In Ger camps towels are provided.
Medical Services: In urban centres such as Ulaanbaatar, medical facilities are available, but in rural and remote areas, hospitals and pharmacies are limited. Serious medical emergencies may require evacuation to the capital.
Vaccinations: Routine vaccinations are recommended, and depending on your itinerary, travellers may consider hepatitis A, hepatitis B, rabies, and tetanus boosters. Consult your healthcare provider before departure.
Food and Water Safety: Tap water outside major cities is generally not safe to drink. It is recommended to drink bottled or boiled water. Food from reputable restaurants and tour operators is safe, but be cautious with raw vegetables or street food in remote areas.
Altitude and Climate: Some destinations, especially in the mountainous regions, may reach high altitudes. Though not extremely high compared to the Himalayas, travellers should be aware of mild altitude-related fatigue. Also, the climate is extreme: prepare for very cold winters and potentially hot, dry summers.
Wildlife and Insects
While Mongolia has few dangerous animals, ticks are present in grasslands during summer months and can carry diseases. Use insect repellent and check for ticks after hiking.
Horseflies and mosquitoes may be present near water sources. Long sleeves and insect repellent help prevent bites.
Personal Safety
Mongolia is known for its strong winds, especially during the spring, and highly variable weather conditions. When winds blow from the north, temperatures can drop sharply, while calm periods can see the weather warm up quickly. Even in the height of summer, depending on the region you are visiting, you may need clothing suitable for both warm and cold conditions. It is not unusual to walk in a T-shirt and sandals one moment and need a coat and boots the next.
We strongly recommend that travellers check the weather forecast before arrival and pack clothing for all types of weather. Being prepared ensures a safe and comfortable trip across Mongolia’s diverse landscapes, from deserts to mountains and steppe.
Warm Jacket: Summer days can reach up to 30°C, but temperatures can drop to 5°C at night, especially in desert areas. A good insulated jacket is essential for early mornings and evenings.
Raincoat / Waterproof Jacket: Weather can be unpredictable, with sudden rain or strong winds. A waterproof jacket is highly recommended to stay dry and comfortable.
Sun Hat: The sun is strong, especially at higher elevations. A wide-brimmed hat helps protect against sunburn and heatstroke.
Walking / Hiking Shoes: Durable shoes with good grip are essential for walking on uneven terrain, hiking, and exploring natural sites.
Long Trousers: Comfortable for outdoor activities, offering protection from sun, wind, and insects.
Scarf / Buff: Useful for wind, dust, and sun protection. Can also help keep you warm in colder conditions.
Long-Sleeved Shirts or Sweaters: Layering is important to adjust to changing temperatures during the day.
Sandals or Flip-Flops: Useful for camps, guesthouses, or short walks in warm weather.
Gloves: Especially important for camel riding or holding reins, and also for keeping hands warm in colder conditions.
Dress in layers to adapt quickly to changing weather.
Even in summer, be prepared for cold mornings and nights.
Always carry a small backpack with extra layers, sun protection, and a water bottle when venturing into remote areas.
Travelling in Mongolia, especially in rural and desert areas, requires some preparation for dry climate, wind, and limited facilities. Here are key items to bring along for a comfortable trip.
Sunblock / Sunscreen: Mongolia has a dry climate and strong winds, particularly in open steppe and desert regions. Sunlight is intense due to the high elevation and clear skies, so a high SPF sunblock is essential to protect your skin.
Insect Repellent: During early mornings and evenings, mosquitoes and flies are common near water sources or campsites. While these insects are not dangerous, bites can be uncomfortable. Bring a reliable insect repellent for outdoor activities.
Hand Sanitizer: Many remote areas, including parts of the Gobi Desert, do not have regular toilet facilities. Hand sanitizer is useful for maintaining hygiene when water and soap are unavailable.
Lip Balm / Moisturizer: The air is very dry, and strong winds can easily cause chapped lips and dry skin. Lip balm and a good moisturizer are highly recommended.
Soap and Toothpaste: Basic toiletries are available in local grocery shops and hotels, but it is convenient to bring your preferred brands from home, especially if you have sensitive skin.
Laundry services are available at most hotels we work with in Ulaanbaatar and some of the Ger camps along the route.
Pricing varies depending on the location, number of items, and size of clothing. It is best to check with your accommodation in advance if you plan to use this service during your trip.
Mongolia is a politically stable country. It is governed by an elected President and Parliament, who oversee the administration of the country. The political environment is calm, and the government maintains a stable framework that supports both residents and visitors.
For travellers, as long as visa requirements are met, there are generally no administrative difficulties. Local authorities and police are helpful to foreigners, and Mongolia has very low rates of street crime. Instances of violent crime or natural disasters—such as earthquakes or floods—are extremely rare, and none have been reported recently in areas commonly visited by tourists.
As with any destination, it is wise to exercise basic caution at night. Avoid walking alone in poorly lit areas and stay clear of visibly intoxicated individuals. In Mongolia, the main “risk” for tourists is often humorous rather than dangerous: occasionally, a drunk local may approach at night to share long stories about their life in Mongolian. While this can be surprising or amusing, it does not pose a real threat.
Overall, Mongolia is considered safe for tourists, and travellers who follow common-sense precautions can enjoy their journey with confidence.
Mongolia is an enormous country, yet it has an extremely low population density, with roughly one person per square kilometre. This makes much of the country feel untouched and wild, offering travellers a sense of vast openness and freedom that is hard to find elsewhere.
The country’s landscape diversity is truly remarkable. In the south, the Gobi Desert stretches as a vast, mirror-flat expanse of sand and semi-desert terrain. Moving north and west, the land rises into the Altai Mountains, with their rugged peaks often capped with snow. Between these extremes, central Mongolia is home to rolling hills covered with dense forests and lush grasslands. This combination of deserts, mountains, forests, and steppe creates unique, largely unexplored ecosystems with rich biodiversity, from rare wildlife to endemic plant species.
Mongolia’s people are as diverse as its landscapes. The majority of the population are Khalkh Mongols, but many ethnic minorities coexist peacefully, including Buriats, Kazakhs, and other groups. Despite differences in language and tradition, Mongolians share a deep respect for their cultural heritage, and many maintain nomadic lifestyles passed down through generations.
One of the most memorable aspects of visiting Mongolia is the incomparable hospitality of its people. Guests are welcomed warmly, often offered food, tea, or even a place in a ger (yurt), reflecting centuries of nomadic tradition and communal living.
From its stunning natural beauty to its rich cultural tapestry, Mongolia promises a journey that is truly unforgettable, leaving visitors delighted by both its landscapes and its people.
Mongolia is primarily accessed by air or rail, with options available year-round for international travellers.
By Air:
The national carrier, MIAT Mongolian Airlines, operates flights to and from major international cities including Berlin, Frankfurt, Moscow, Beijing, Tokyo, Seoul, and Hong Kong. In addition, several international airlines maintain regular connections with Mongolia, such as Aeroflot, Air China, Korean Air, and Turkish Airlines, offering weekly flights to and from Ulaanbaatar. Air travel is the most convenient option for most visitors, especially given the country’s vast distances and limited road infrastructure.
By Train:
For those seeking a more scenic or adventurous journey, train travel is an option. The Trans-Mongolian Express Train links Moscow and Beijing with Ulaanbaatar, passing through stunning landscapes along the way. The journey typically takes several days, allowing travellers to experience the vast steppe, deserts, and mountains en route.
By Road (Overland Entry):
Mongolia can also be entered overland, though border crossings are limited and mostly used for regional travel. Key entry points include:
Western Mongolia:
Tsagaan Nuur (Mongolia) ↔ Tashanta (Russia)
Bulgan (Mongolia) ↔ Takashiken (China)
Northern Mongolia:
Altanbulag (Mongolia) ↔ Naushki (Russia)
Eastern Mongolia:
Zamiin Uud (Mongolia) ↔ Erlian (China)
Overland crossings are generally slower than air travel, but they provide a unique perspective on Mongolia’s remote border regions and countryside.
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All of our tours are fully supported, ensuring that your journey through Mongolia is comfortable, convenient, and stress-free.
Luggage Handling: Your main luggage is transported for you—depending on the tour, this may be by horses, camels, or vehicles. This allows you to travel light and move freely without worrying about heavy bags.
Camp Setup: When camping in the countryside or the Gobi Desert, our team will set up and take down your tents, so you don’t need to worry about the logistics of camping.
Meals: All meals are prepared and cooked for you by experienced cooks. You can enjoy freshly cooked food every day, tailored to your dietary preferences and restrictions.
With these arrangements, the only thing you need to carry is a small daypack or rucksack for essentials during daily excursions. This allows you to fully relax and immerse yourself in Mongolia’s landscapes, culture, and experiences without unnecessary burdens.
To ensure the highest level of personal service and quality, we deliberately limit our tour groups to a maximum of 8 to 10 passengers. This small group size allows our guides and staff to provide individual attention, respond quickly to your needs, and create a more intimate and enjoyable travel experience.
During the expedition, you will be accompanied by knowledgeable, experienced, and attentive guides, supported by our local auxiliary staff. These guides are trained to ensure your comfort, safety, and enjoyment throughout the journey.
For camel and horse treks, local nomads will lead the way. Their deep knowledge of the landscape allows you to explore hidden corners and experience the most authentic aspects of Mongolia’s countryside. They are familiar with trails, water sources, and scenic spots that are often off the beaten path, providing a truly immersive experience.
For each expedition, we provide a professional English-speaking guide who will accompany you from your arrival in Mongolia until your departure. Upon request, guides speaking German, French, Italian, Spanish, Japanese, or Korean can also be arranged, ensuring that you can enjoy the tour in your preferred language.
This combination of small groups, expert guidance, and local knowledge guarantees a memorable, safe, and enriching travel experience across Mongolia.
Approximately half of the trips we organize are tailor-made itineraries designed specifically for private small groups. These bespoke journeys allow travellers to experience Mongolia in a way that perfectly matches their interests, pace, and preferences.
On average, these trips last 2 to 3 weeks, but the duration can be adjusted according to your schedule. We are happy to create a custom itinerary for any group of 2 or more people.
Planning your dream trip is simple: just contact us with your travel dates, budget, interests, and any special requests. Our team will work closely with you to design a personalized journey, including routes, activities, accommodation, and experiences that reflect your preferences. Whether you want to explore the Gobi Desert, trek in the Altai Mountains, experience nomadic culture, or enjoy a combination of all, we will craft a trip that is truly unique and unforgettable.
With our expertise and local knowledge, your tailor-made adventure in Mongolia will be stress-free, well-organized, and perfectly suited to your expectations.