Albania Mongolia

Mongolia is a landlocked country in East Asia, bordered by Russia to the north and China to the south. The capital, Ulaanbaatar, is the cultural and political heart of the nation, blending modern development with historical landmarks.

With a population of around 3.4 million, Mongolia is one of the most sparsely populated countries in the world. Buddhism is the predominant religion, deeply influencing the culture and traditions of its people.

Mongolian cuisine is shaped by the country’s nomadic lifestyle and emphasizes meat and dairy products. Staple dishes include buuz, steamed dumplings; khuushuur, fried meat pies; and tsuivan, a stir-fry of noodles. Dairy products like airag, a fermented mare’s milk, and arugula, dried curd, are central to the diet. 

While wine production is limited, Mongolia produces traditional alcoholic beverages such as arkhi, a distilled spirit, and imported wines are available in cities like Ulaanbaatar. Tea, particularly salty milk tea, is a widely consumed and cherished drink.

Mongolia offers great opportunities for hiking, mountain climbing, fishing and photography. The Altai Mountains and the Gobi Desert provide camel trekking and the stunning Khongoryn Els sand dunes are locations that afford travellers some activities 

Monasteries, temples, and archaeological sites are places where you can fill your mind and eyes with history. For culture enthusiasts, staying in a traditional ger (yurt) with a nomadic family allows for an immersive experience of local life.

Mongolia’s diverse landscapes include grassy steppes, dense forests, arid deserts, and snow-capped mountains. The country is home to unique wildlife such as the Przewalski's horse, the world’s only wild horse species, and the rare snow leopard.

The Orkhon Valley, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, offers scenic vistas and a glimpse into Mongolia’s nomadic past. The Gobi Gurvansaikhan National Park showcases dramatic canyons, dunes, and desert flora, while the forests of the north host a variety of bird species and reindeer.

Mongolia’s festivals celebrate its rich culture and traditions. The Naadam Festival, held in July, is the most significant event, showcasing the "three manly games" of wrestling, horse racing, and archery. It is a colourful celebration of Mongolian heritage and unity.

The Golden Eagle Festival, held in the Altai Mountains, highlights the ancient art of falconry, with Kazakh hunters demonstrating their skills. During the Tsagaan Sar (Lunar New Year), families gather to celebrate renewal with traditional foods, rituals, and blessings.

Travelers to Mongolia should ensure their vaccinations for hepatitis A, typhoid, and tetanus are up to date. Since rabies is prevalent in the region, it is highly advisable to get vaccinated before your trip and exercise heightened caution.

Most importantly, securing comprehensive travel insurance is a smart way to safeguard yourself against unexpected medical emergencies.

The official currency is the Mongolian Tögrög (MNT).

Mongolia uses plug types C and E, with a standard voltage of 230V and a frequency of 50Hz. Travellers from countries using different plug types should carry an adapter and if needed, a voltage converter.

Mongolia’s vast size and rugged terrain make transportation a unique experience. Domestic flights connect major cities. Buses and shared minivans are the primary means of land transport, though schedules can be unpredictable.

Hiring a guide and chartering a jeep are the best for rural exploration, but require you to spend more.

Mongolian is the official language, and Cyrillic script is used for writing. 

Mongolian culture places a high value on respect, hospitality and straight forward nature. Be mindful of all local laws and customs, especially when visiting nomads in their gers. Receiving things with the right palm facing up, and accepting gifts and invitations are deemed courteous. 

• Spring (March to May): A windy season with rapidly warming temperatures, ideal for exploring the Gobi Desert.

• Summer (June to August): Warm and pleasant, this is the peak travel season for festivals and outdoor activities.

• Autumn (September to November): Cooler temperatures and colourful landscapes make it an excellent time for photography and trekking.  It is still warm during the days but a bit chilly during the nights

• Winter (December to February): Harsh and cold, with temperatures often dropping below -30°C, but you can get rewarded with an amazing experience from visiting nomads in their gers.

Mongolia can accommodate a range of budgets. Budget travellers can expect to spend $30–50 daily, covering basic accommodations, local meals, and transport. Mid-range travellers may budget $100–150 daily for comfortable stays and guided tours. Luxury travellers, opting for high-end lodges and tailored experiences, can expect costs of $300 or more daily.

Visitors to Mongolia must obtain a visa from one of the Mongolian diplomatic missions unless they are citizens of one of the visa-exempt countries, citizens who may obtain a visa on arrival, or citizens eligible for an e-visa.

All visitors must have a passport valid for at least 6 months from the date of arrival.

• Visit remote areas like Gobi to enjoy camel rides.

• Consider going along with a GPS tracker for security reasons, Mongolia is big enough to get lost in

• Experience the Naadam Festival for an authentic insight into Mongolian traditions.

• Stay in a traditional ger camp to connect with nomadic life.

• Trek through the Altai Mountains, encountering remote landscapes and wildlife.