Frequently Asked Questions

Why would I want to visit Mongolia?

Mongolia offers a unique cultural experience: nomadic herdsmen who pack their tent-like gers on camelback and travel across the land; horse-riders who gallop across the vast steppe as was done during the time of Chingis Khan; and monasteries where Tibetan Buddhism is once again openly practiced. Mongolia's pristine environment, unique and exotic culture, breathtakingly beautiful landscapes, and fascinating history make it an ideal destination for those seeking an uncommon experience. To learn more, read our About Mongolia section

Is Mongolia safe?

Based on our history, one might expect modern Mongolians to be aggressive and unfriendly to outsiders and strangers. Nothing could be further from the truth. The same harsh conditions that make nomadic existence so precarious and challenging have dictated the need for uncommon hospitality and warmth extended to all travelers and pilgrims encountered in one's own vicinity. It is firmly implanted into every Mongolian's beliefs, whether he or she is a city dweller or herder, that the courtesy extended today to a stranger will be repaid in the future when the situation is reversed, and that the welcome offered to a visitor into one's home is the same that you can expect when you are the guest. This is the basis for Mongolian civilization and the cornerstone of Mongolian culture that is intertwined throughout its institutions and customs. Of course, there are inherent dangers in travel to any destination, and particularly a remote country like Mongolia.

When is the best time of the year to go to Mongolia and what is the weather like?

Mongolia has a relatively cool climate with short, mild summers and long, severe winters. One of the unique and exciting aspects of travel to Mongolia is that you can sometimes experience all four seasons within one day. The best time to travel to Mongolia is from early June through the end of September, when travelers can expect an average range in temperature from 50° to 80° F. Mongolia has approximately 260 cloudless days a year, hence its reputation for endless blue skies. The rainy season extends from mid-July to August, but showers are usually brief. Because Mongolia is located far from any oceans, the humidity is very low. If your schedule only permits that you can travel from October through mid-May, please note that ger camps are closed and excursions are limited to the capital city and its immediate environs.

What types of food will I be eating in Mongolia?

Mongolian food reflects the influence of Russia and China. Dairy products, breads and meat (primarily mutton and beef) form the basis of the Mongolian diet. Some typical dishes include: shorlog (Mongolian Barbecue or shish kebab), horhog (roasted sheep), buuz (steamed dumplings with mutton or beef), and guriltai shol (mutton noodle soup). Food is generally oilier than you may be used to. Noodles, rice and/or breads are likely to be a part of most meals. Although vegetables and fruits are not widely cultivated or consumed in Mongolia, most meals are also likely to include potatoes, carrots, cabbage, cucumbers and/or tomatoes. Fruit is usually canned. In general, it is difficult to accommodate special needs such as vegetarian or low fat diets because an import market for tourists is only now developing. If you are uncomfortable eating unfamiliar foods, or feel you will need foods to supplement your nutritional needs (e.g. non-meat based protein), it may be useful to bring your own snacks.

What is "inner" and "outer" Mongolia?

These terms were used by the Chinese with "outer" Mongolia being the area furthest from Beijing and "inner" Mongolia being the area closest to Beijing. "Outer" Mongolia is now the official country of Mongolia, while "inner" Mongolia is an autonomous region in China.