Guided Self-Drive Offroad Mongolia Tours

09 FAQs

• When is the ideal season to explore Mongolia?

  The prime season for exploring Mongolia is during the summertime, particularly from June through August. This window not only promises pleasant weather but also coincides with the Naadam Festival, a cultural highlight featuring traditional sports like wrestling, archery, and horse racing. For those aiming to dodge the busiest tourist period while still enjoying agreeable weather, the tail ends of spring (May) and the onset of autumn (September) are excellent choices.

• How can one delve into Mongolia's nomadic lifestyle?

  For an authentic glimpse into Mongolia’s nomadic lifestyle, opting to stay in a Ger (a traditional yurt) with a nomadic family is unbeatable. Such stays offer a deep dive into the everyday lives, customs, and warm hospitality of Mongolia’s nomadic communities. Many tour operators provide Ger accommodations, complete with activities such as horseback riding, traditional dairy product making, and engaging in nomadic daily tasks.

• What natural wonders are essential visits in Mongolia?

  Mongolia’s breathtaking natural beauty is encapsulated in sites like The Gobi Desert, Lake Khövsgöl, Altai Tavan Bogd National Park, and the Orkhon Valley. These destinations are emblematic of Mongolia’s vast and varied landscapes.

• What should I know about Mongolia's food culture?

  The cornerstone of Mongolian cuisine is its emphasis on meat, particularly mutton, beef, and goat, alongside a variety of dairy products. While vegetarians and vegans might find the local dining scene to be a challenge, especially in less urbanized areas, the capital city Ulaanbaatar hosts eateries that cater to a broad range of dietary needs. It’s wise to clearly communicate any dietary restrictions and consider bringing along additional snacks for convenience.

• Is it common to use credit cards across Mongolia?

  Credit cards are accepted in Ulaanbaatar and other significant Mongolian cities, primarily in hotels, restaurants, and select stores. Yet, in the countryside and smaller towns, it’s essential to have cash at the ready. While ATMs are accessible in urban locales, travelers should ensure they carry enough cash for expenditures in less urbanized areas, always having Mongolian tögrög for minor transactions and locations less inclined to accept card payments.

• What are the language and communication tips for Mongolia?

  English is progressively becoming common in Mongolia’s urban zones, notably among the youth and the tourism sector. However, mastering a few basic phrases in Mongolian is not only courteous but also aids in smoother interactions. Keeping a phrasebook or a translation app handy is beneficial. For visits to more secluded areas, engaging a guide or translator can significantly enhance your cultural experience and ease communication challenges.

• Is Mongolia a safe destination for tourists?

  Mongolia is widely regarded as a safe country for travelers, with particularly low crime rates in its countryside, reflective of the strong communal ties and hospitality inherent in the nomadic culture. Nonetheless, adopting standard safety measures is advised, especially in more populous areas like Ulaanbaatar, where minor crimes such as pickpocketing may occur in crowded spaces.

• Can I drive in Mongolia?

  Yes, you can drive in Mongolia, but it’s advisable to be prepared for challenging conditions. International driving permits are recognized, but driving here requires a good sense of adventure and navigation skills, as road conditions can vary widely outside major cities.

• Are there roads in Mongolia?

  Mongolia has a network of roads, but it’s important to note that outside of the main urban areas, many roads are unpaved or simply tracks across the landscape. The country is investing in infrastructure, yet travel can still be rugged and requires a sturdy vehicle, preferably 4WD.

• Is Mongolia a cheap place to visit?

  Mongolia can be relatively affordable for travelers, especially when compared to Western countries. Costs can vary widely depending on your style of travel, with options ranging from budget stays in gers to more luxurious accommodations. Rural areas tend to be cheaper, but importing goods can make certain items pricier.

• Is it easy to travel to Mongolia?

  Traveling to Mongolia has become easier over the years, especially with direct international flights to Ulaanbaatar from several major cities around the world. Once in Mongolia, travel logistics require more effort, particularly if venturing into remote areas. Planning and local guidance are essential.

• Is Mongolia left or right-hand drive?

  In Mongolia, vehicles drive on the right-hand side of the road. This is consistent with the majority of countries worldwide, making it more familiar for travelers from right-hand driving nations.

• Is it easy to drive in Mongolia?

  Driving in Mongolia can be challenging due to varied road conditions, remote landscapes, and sparse infrastructure in rural areas. While driving in urban areas like Ulaanbaatar is more straightforward, venturing into the countryside requires a 4WD vehicle, good navigation skills, and a sense of adventure. It’s often recommended for less experienced drivers to hire a local driver or join a guided tour for off-the-beaten-path explorations.