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Mongolia FAQ

Is tipping customary in Mongolia?

Tipping isn’t a local custom in Mongolia; however, the bars and cafes of Ulaanbaatar are used to receiving tips from tourists. Use your discretion and tip if you feel like it.

What is the internet access like in Mongolia?

Internet access is widely available in Ulaanbaatar. Some cafes and coffee houses have Wi-Fi, while many hotels and guesthouses have internet connectivity. Internet availability is far less common outside of Ulaanbaatar, so expect no access when leaving the city.

Can I use my mobile/cell phone while in Mongolia?

Mobile phone coverage is generally good in Mongolia, although coverage may be patchy in remote or mountainous areas.

What are the toilets like in Mongolia?

Flushable, European-style toilets are common in the hotels and restaurants of Ulaanbaatar. Throughout the rest of the country, squat toilets are the standard, with the exception of some ger camps and homestays, where toilets may be simple holes in the ground. Please be aware that, in most cases, soap and toilet paper aren’t provided, so make sure you come prepared.

What will it cost for a…?

Can of beer = 1500 MNT
Simple meal in a local restaurant = 4000 MNT
Dinner at an international restaurant = 10,000 MNT

Can I drink the water in Mongolia?

Drinking tap water isn't recommended in Mongolia. For environmental reasons, try to avoid buying bottled water. Fill a reusable water bottle or canteen with filtered water. Ask your leader where filtered water can be found. It's also advisable to avoid ice in drinks and to peel fruit and vegetables before eating.

Are credit cards accepted widely in Mongolia?

Major credit cards are usually accepted by most large hotels and restaurants in Ulaanbaatar and other large cities, however smaller establishments may not have credit card facilities. Ensure you have other payment options when visiting small shops and markets, and when travelling through rural areas.

What is ATM access like in Mongolia?

Travellers can access ATMs in Ulaanbaatar; however, rural regions run on a cash economy, so prepare for this when leaving the city.

Do I need to purchase travel insurance before travelling in Mongolia?

Absolutely. All passengers travelling with Intrepid are required to purchase travel insurance before the start of their trip. Your travel insurance details will be recorded by your leader on the first day of the trip. Due to the varying nature, availability and cost of health care around the world, travel insurance is very much an essential and necessary part of every journey.

For more information on insurance, please go to: Travel Insurance

What public holidays are celebrated in Mongolia?

Jan 1 New Year’s Day
Feb 11 Tsagaan Sar (Lunar New Year)
Mar 8 International Women’s Day
Jun 1 Mother and Child Day
Jul 11 Naadam
Nov 26 Independence Day

Please note these dates are for 2013. For a current list of public holidays go to: http://www.worldtravelguide.net/Mongolia/public-holidays

Do I need a visa to travel to Mongolia?

Visas are the responsibility of the individual traveller. The visa requirements for your trip vary depending on where you are from and where you are going. As a general rule most countries expect that you will have at least 6 months' validity on your passport. On arrival visitors may be asked to present return tickets and evidence of means to cover your intended stay.

We keep the following information up to date as much as possible, but rules do change - it's important that you check for yourself. Residents from other countries must consult the relevant embassies or your travel agent.

  • MONGOLIA - TRAINS:
    Australia: Yes - in advance
    Belgium: Yes - in advance
    Canada: Yes - in advance
    Germany: Yes - in advance
    Ireland: Yes - in advance
    Netherlands: Yes - in advance
    New Zealand: Yes - in advance
    South Africa: Yes - in advance
    Switzerland: Yes - in advance
    United Kingdom: Yes - in advance
    USA: Not required

    Most embassies do not require a letter of invitation for a Mongolian visa. However, should you be required to present one with your visa application, please contact us.

    When filling out the visa application form please list the hosting company or individual in Mongolia as:
    Monkhutuch Travel Co. Ltd
    Bayangol district, Building 19-3
    Tel: +976 11 364 708
    +976 99 039 291
  • MONGOLIA:
    Australia: Yes - in advance
    Belgium: Yes - in advance
    Canada: Yes - in advance
    Germany: Yes - in advance
    Ireland: Yes - in advance
    Netherlands: Yes - in advance
    New Zealand: Yes - in advance
    South Africa: Yes - in advance
    Switzerland: Yes - in advance
    United Kingdom: Yes - in advance
    USA: Not required

    Most embassies do not require a letter of invitation for a Mongolian visa. However, should you be required to present one with your visa application please contact us. There may be a fee for this service.

    When filling out the visa application form please list the hosting company or individual in Mongolia as:
    Mongolian Trails
    Suite 103, Baga Toiruu street 43
    Suhbaatar district
    Ulaanbaatar City
    MONGOLIA
    Tel: +976 9918 3751

    You will need to apply for a single entry tourist visa that covers the duration of your stay in Mongolia.
    Visas are not available on arrival at any land borders into Mongolia. Due to changes in visa regulations we are no longer able to provide visa invitations for visa on arrival at the Chinggis Khan International Airport.

    You will need to apply for a single entry tourist visa that covers the duration of your stay in Mongolia.
  • MONGOLIA (DRAGOMAN OVERLAND):

    Australia: Yes - in advance
    Belgium: Yes - in advance
    Canada: Yes - in advance
    Germany: Yes - in advance
    Ireland: Yes - in advance
    Netherlands: Yes - in advance
    New Zealand: Yes - in advance
    South Africa: Yes - in advance
    Switzerland: Yes - in advance
    United Kingdom: Yes - in advance
    USA: Not required

    Most embassies do not require a letter of invitation for a Mongolian visa. However, should you be required to present one with your visa application please contact us. There may be a fee for this service.

    When filling out the visa application form please list the hosting company or individual in Mongolia as:
    Mongolian Ways Ltd.
    Chingeltei Duureg
    5th Khoroo, 6th Khoroolol
    bldg. 17, door 39
    Ulaanbaatar 211238
    MONGOLIA
    Tel: +976 11 330351

    You will need to apply for a single entry & exit tourist visa that covers the duration of your stay in Mongolia. Visas are usually valid for 3 months from the date of issue. Visas are not available on arrival at any land borders into Mongolia. Due to changes in visa regulations we are no longer able to provide visa invitations for visa on arrival at the Chinggis Khan International Airport.

    Please send through a clear scan or photocopy of your passport as soon as possible after booking. You will also need to advise us at which embassy you will be applying for your visa in order for us to provide an invitation letter.

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Mongolia at a glance

  • 10
  • Ulaanbaatar (population 1.2 million)
  • 3 million
  • Mongolian
  • MNT
  • (GMT+08:00) Irkutsk, Ulaan Bataar
  • Type C (European 2-pin), Type E (French 2-pin, female earth)
  • +976

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