Mongolia, located in East Asia, is a vast and rugged country known for its nomadic culture, vast steppes, and breathtaking landscapes. From the iconic Gobi Desert to the serene beauty of Lake Khövsgöl and the historic capital city of Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia offers travelers a unique and adventurous experience.
Ultimate Mongolia Travel Guide
Destinations
Best time to go
The best time to visit Mongolia is during the summer months, from June to August, when the weather is warm and the grasslands are lush, making it ideal for outdoor activities like trekking and horseback riding. Spring (April to May) and autumn (September to October) are also pleasant, with cooler temperatures and fewer tourists. Winters (November to March) can be harsh, with temperatures dropping well below freezing.
Average Temperature By Month
January: -19°C (-2°F)
February: -15°C (5°F)
March: -7°C (19°F)
April: 5°C (41°F)
May: 12°C (54°F)
June: 17°C (63°F)
July: 20°C (68°F)
August: 17°C (63°F)
September: 10°C (50°F)
October: 1°C (34°F)
November: -10°C (14°F)
December: -17°C (1°F)
What To Expect
Time Zone:
Mongolia Standard Time (ULAT), UTC+8.
Currency:
The official currency of Mongolia is the Mongolian Tugrik (MNT). While credit cards are accepted in major cities and tourist areas, it's advisable to carry cash, especially in rural areas where ATMs may be scarce.
Language:
Mongolian is the official language of Mongolia, but English is spoken in tourist areas and by younger generations, particularly in Ulaanbaatar.
Airport:
Chinggis Khaan International Airport (ULN) in Ulaanbaatar is the main international airport in Mongolia, serving as the primary entry point for international travelers.
How To Get Around
Public Transport: Public transportation options in Mongolia are limited outside of major cities. In Ulaanbaatar, buses and minibusses (marshrutkas) are available for getting around the city.
Rental Cars: Renting a car is a popular option for exploring Mongolia, especially if you plan to visit remote areas or travel independently. Roads outside of Ulaanbaatar may be rough, so a 4WD vehicle is recommended.
Guided Tours: Joining a guided tour is a convenient option for exploring Mongolia’s vast landscapes and experiencing traditional nomadic culture. Tour operators offer a range of options, from multi-day treks to cultural excursions.
Average Temperature By Month:
January: -19°C (-2°F)
February: -15°C (5°F)
March: -7°C (19°F)
April: 5°C (41°F)
May: 12°C (54°F)
June: 17°C (63°F)
July: 20°C (68°F)
August: 17°C (63°F)
September: 10°C (50°F)
October: 1°C (34°F)
November: -10°C (14°F)
December: -17°C (1°F)
Plugs:
Mongolia typically uses Type C and Type E electrical plugs, with a standard voltage of 230V and a frequency of 50Hz.
VPN:
Using a VPN is advisable for secure internet browsing, especially when accessing public Wi-Fi networks.
Safety:
Mongolia is generally safe for travelers, but it's essential to be prepared for the rugged terrain and extreme weather conditions, particularly if venturing into remote areas. It's also advisable to respect local customs and traditions, especially when visiting nomadic communities.
Credit Cards and Banks
Credit Cards:
Credit card acceptance in Mongolia is limited, especially outside of major cities and tourist areas. While some upscale hotels, restaurants, and larger shops in Ulaanbaatar may accept Visa and MasterCard, cash is the primary form of payment in most places. It’s advisable to carry sufficient cash for transactions, especially when traveling to rural or remote areas.
Debit Cards:
Debit cards are less commonly used in Mongolia compared to credit cards, but major international debit card networks like Visa and MasterCard are accepted at some ATMs and larger establishments in Ulaanbaatar. However, it’s advisable to confirm with your bank whether your debit card will work in Mongolia and to inform them of your travel plans in advance.
ATMs:
ATMs are available in Ulaanbaatar and some other major cities and tourist destinations in Mongolia. However, ATM availability may be limited outside of urban areas, so it’s advisable to withdraw sufficient cash in Ulaanbaatar or at the airport upon arrival. Most ATMs dispense Mongolian Tugrik (MNT), the official currency of Mongolia.
Currency Exchange:
The official currency of Mongolia is the Mongolian Tugrik (MNT). It’s recommended to exchange your currency to Mongolian Tugrik upon arrival in Mongolia. You can exchange major foreign currencies at banks, currency exchange booths, and some hotels. US dollars and euros are widely accepted for exchange, especially at banks and exchange offices in Ulaanbaatar.
Banks:
Major banks in Mongolia include:
- Trade and Development Bank of Mongolia (TDB): One of the largest banks in Mongolia, TDB offers a range of banking services including savings accounts, loans, and foreign exchange.
- Khan Bank: Another prominent bank in Mongolia, Khan Bank provides various banking products and services for individuals and businesses.
Traveler’s Checks:
Traveler’s checks are becoming less common worldwide, and their usage is limited in Mongolia. It’s recommended to carry cash or use alternative payment methods such as credit/debit cards or ATMs for transactions. However, some banks may still offer services for cashing traveler’s checks, albeit with a fee.
Tips for Banking in Mongolia:
- Notify your bank before traveling to Mongolia to inform them of your travel plans and avoid any issues with card usage abroad.
- Keep your PIN and card information secure, and be cautious when using ATMs, especially in remote areas.
- Familiarize yourself with the current exchange rate to ensure fair transactions when exchanging currency.
- Carry small denominations of Mongolian Tugrik for smaller purchases, as change may be limited.
By understanding the banking system in Mongolia, you can ensure a smooth and hassle-free financial experience during your travels in the country.
Locations
Mongolia
TRAVEL FACTS
US State Dept Travel Advisory
The US Department of State currently recommends US citizens exercise normal precautions in Mongolia.
https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/traveladvisories/traveladvisories.html
Passport/Visa Requirements
For the latest passport and visa requirements for this country, please consult the U.S. State Department’s “Learn About Your Destination” search tool, available through the link below.
US Embassy/Consulate
+976-7007-6001; US Embassy Ulaanbaatar, Denver Street #3, 11th Micro-District, Ulaanbaatar 14190, Mongolia; UlaanbaatarACS@state.gov; https://mn.usembassy.gov/
LGBTQIA+ Travelers
Telephone Code
976
Local Emergency Phone
Ambulance: 103; Fire: 101; Police: 102
Vaccinations
The CDC and WHO recommend the following vaccinations for Mongolia: hepatitis A, hepatitis B, typhoid, rabies, tickborne encephalitis, meningitis, polio, measles, mumps and rubella (MMR), Tdap (tetanus, diphtheria and pertussis), chickenpox, shingles, pneumonia, influenza, COVID-19.
Climate
Desert; continental (large daily and seasonal temperature ranges)
Currency (Code)
Togrog/tugriks (MNT)
Electricity/Voltage/Plug Type(s)
230 V / 50 Hz / plug types(s): C, E
Major Languages
Mongolian, Turkic, Russian
Major Religions
Buddhist, Muslim, Shamanist, Christian
Time Difference
UTC+8 (13 hours ahead of Washington, DC, during Standard Time); daylight saving time: +1hr, begins last Saturday in March; ends last Saturday in September; note: Mongolia has two time zones – Ulaanbaatar Time (8 hours in advance of UTC) and Hovd Time (7 hours in advance of UTC)
Potable Water
Opt for bottled water
International Driving Permit
Suggested / Note: Mongolia is sparsely inhabited and most of the country’s road network consists of simple cross-country tracks.
Road Driving Side
Right
Tourist Destinations
Karakorum; Gorkhi-Terelj National Park; Lake Khovsgol; Altai Tavan Bogd National Park; Orkhon Valley; Khustain Nuruu National Park; Petroglyphic Complexes of the Mongolian Altai
Major Sports
Soccer, horse racing, archery, wrestling, basketball
Cultural Practices
Mongolians have a tradition of hospitality, with guests often welcomed into their homes and offered food and drink. Another unique custom is the Mongolian practice of eagle hunting, where trained eagles are used to hunt small game such as foxes and rabbits.
Tipping Guidelines
Tipping 10% in restaurants is customary. It is accepted practice to tip guides and drivers $10-20 (USD) per person per day.
Souvenirs
Wool, cashmere, and felt goods; leather goods, woodcrafts, batik fabric items
Traditional Cuisine
Khorkhog — meat (usually goat but sometimes mutton) and vegetables cooked inside large milk jugs using hot stones and water
Please visit the following links to find further information about your desired destination.
World Health Organization (WHO) – To learn what vaccines and health precautions to take while visiting your destination.
US State Dept Travel Information – Overall information about foreign travel for US citizens.
To obtain an international driving permit (IDP). Only two organizations in the US issue IDPs:
American Automobile Association (AAA) and American Automobile Touring Alliance (AATA)
How to get help in an emergency?
Contact the nearest US embassy or consulate, or call one of these numbers:
from the US or Canada – 1-888-407-4747 or from Overseas – +1 202-501-4444
Central Intelligence Agency.
The World Factbook.
/the-world-factbook
(May 8, 2024)
