Travel Knowledge Base
Everything you need to plan, prepare, and experience Mongolia with confidence.
How to Book a Trip
Booking with Valley Tour is a collaborative process. We work with you to design an itinerary that fits your pace, interests, and travel style — from first enquiry to the moment you land.
Take the Persona Quiz →
Before anything else, we recommend completing our Persona Quiz. It takes under 2 minutes and helps us understand whether you're a nomadic wanderer, a comfort-seeker, an adventure chaser, or something in between. This shapes everything from your route to your accommodation.
Browse Tours or Request Custom →
Explore our curated packages across the Tours page — from Classic Steppe Expeditions to Eagle Festival trips. Each listing shows duration, difficulty, best season, and group size. You can also request a fully bespoke itinerary built around you.
Submit an Enquiry →
Fill in the contact form with your preferred dates, party size, budget range, and any special requests — dietary, accessibility, photography-focused travel, etc. Our Ulaanbaatar team responds within 24 hours.
Receive Your Tailored Proposal
We'll send a detailed itinerary with a day-by-day breakdown, all included services, accommodation options, full pricing, and a seasonal suitability rating. Revisions are free until you're fully satisfied.
Confirm with a Deposit
A 50% non-refundable deposit secures your dates. The balance is due 14 days before departure. We accept bank transfer (SWIFT/Wise) and PayPal. All prices are quoted in USD.
Pre-Departure Pack & Depart
Six weeks before arrival, we send a comprehensive pre-trip document — packing list, visa guidance, flight recommendations, emergency contacts, and your guide's details. Airport pickup is included for all guests. All you need to do is arrive.
Peak season (July–August) books out fast, especially around Naadam Festival (July 11–13). We recommend enquiring at least 4–6 months in advance for summer travel.
When to Travel to Mongolia
Mongolia is a land of extremes — every season offers something extraordinary. The right time to visit depends entirely on what you're after.
The steppe awakens. Wildflowers carpet the valleys and newborn animals dot the pastures. Temperatures are mild but variable — warm days, cold nights. Ideal for photography and bird-watching. Some roads can be muddy after snowmelt.
The classic Mongolia experience. The steppe is lush and green, the weather is reliable, and the famous Naadam Festival takes place in July. Peak season — higher prices but unbeatable conditions for first-timers and families.
Our favourite season. Crowds thin, the light turns golden, and the landscapes shift to amber and rust. The Eagle Festival in Bayan-Ölgii (October) is one of the most dramatic cultural events in Central Asia.
Brutal and beautiful. Temperatures can drop to –40°C. Designed for the adventurous — the Ice Festival at Lake Khövsgöl (March) and nomadic winter stays are utterly unique experiences found nowhere else on earth.
| Month | Avg. Temp (°C) | Rainfall | Crowds | Highlight |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| January | –20 to –30 | Very Low | Low | Nomad Winter Life |
| February | –18 to –28 | Very Low | Low | Eagle Hunting Season |
| March | –10 to –18 | Low | Low | Ice Festival (Khövsgöl) |
| April | –2 to +8 | Low | Low | Spring Arrival |
| May | +8 to +15 | Moderate | Medium | Wildflowers, Foals |
| June | +15 to +22 | Moderate | Medium | Lush Steppe Begins |
| July | +20 to +28 | Moderate | Peak | 🏆 Naadam Festival (Jul 11–13) |
| August | +18 to +26 | Moderate | Peak | Horse Treks, Gobi Desert |
| September | +10 to +18 | Low | Medium | Golden Autumn Light |
| October | 0 to +10 | Low | Medium | 🦅 Eagle Festival |
| November | –8 to –15 | Very Low | Low | First Snows, Quiet Season |
| December | –15 to –25 | Very Low | Low | Winter Landscapes |
The Persona Quiz
Mongolia means something different to every traveller. Our Persona Quiz is a short, thoughtful questionnaire designed to identify which type of Mongolia experience will resonate most deeply with you.
The quiz takes under 2 minutes and covers your comfort preferences, activity level, cultural interests, and travel style. Your results unlock exclusive itineraries designed specifically for your persona type — itineraries that aren't listed publicly on our tours page.
Answer 8–10 multiple-choice questions. Your results reveal your traveller persona along with suggested trip styles, ideal seasons, accommodation preferences, and a curated Mongolia reading list. Results are emailed to you instantly.
The Light Nomad — A sharp observer of the hidden world. You uncover ancient ruins and track rare wildlife across Mongolia's quiet, remote landscapes.
The Railway Explorer — Drawn to rhythmic momentum. You ride the northern rails, fly-fish for Taimen, and scout ridges overlooking the steel pulse of the tracks.
The Survivalist — Seeking raw purity. You trek volcanic craters, master survival skills in deep wilderness, and take on rugged terrain on horseback.
The Glamping Guru — You value refined mastery and stillness. Camel husbandry, sunset relaxation, and towering sand dunes — wilderness without compromise.
The Empire Historian — A keeper of sacred lore. You journey into the Khentii taiga, explore the Princess Temple, and practice empire-era archery beneath Burkhan Khaldun.
The Slow Steppe Seeker — A hands-on humanist. You master wool preparation, play traditional ankle-bone games, and learn the rhythmic churn of making Airag.
Find the Persona Quiz in the navigation menu or visit valleytour.org/persona-quiz. Takes less than 2 minutes.
What to Pack
Mongolia demands the layering system. Weather shifts dramatically within a single day — from warm steppe sun to biting evening wind. Pack light, pack layers, and expect dust everywhere.
When travelling by domestic flight or 4WD, space is limited. Keep luggage to a soft duffel bag of 15–20kg maximum. Hard shell suitcases are impractical on rough terrain and may not fit in vehicles.
👕 Clothing
🩺 Health & Toiletries
🔧 Gear & Tech
📋 Documents
🎁 Nice to Have
❌ Leave Behind
Safety Guidelines
Mongolia is one of the safest countries for travellers. Violent crime against tourists is rare. The most common risks are environmental — extreme weather, remote terrain, and wildlife. Preparation is your best protection.
🌡 Extreme Weather
- Temperatures range from +35°C in summer to –40°C in winter. Always carry layers regardless of season.
- Afternoon thunderstorms are common in July–August. Seek shelter immediately when lightning approaches.
- The dzud (severe winter storm) can make roads impassable. Follow your guide's instructions without question.
- Sunburn risk is very high at altitude — reapply SPF every 2 hours, even on cloudy days.
🏜 Remote Terrain
- Never leave your guide or vehicle without informing someone of your direction and expected return time.
- GPS devices and offline maps are essential in the countryside — mobile signal is unreliable.
- Road conditions change without warning after rain. Our vehicles are equipped for off-road travel.
- A 2-day emergency supply of food and water is kept in all Valley Tour vehicles at all times.
🐕 Animals
- Mongolian Bankhar dogs are territorial and powerful. Never approach without the owner present.
- Do not feed or approach stray dogs in Ulaanbaatar or at camps.
- Horses can be unpredictable — follow your guide's instructions closely when riding or near herds.
- Wild animals rarely pose a direct threat, but maintain safe distances from all wildlife.
🏥 Medical
- Medical facilities outside Ulaanbaatar are extremely limited. Bring your own kit and all prescription medications.
- Comprehensive travel insurance with medical evacuation cover is mandatory for all Valley Tour trips.
- Recommended vaccinations: Hepatitis A&B, Typhoid, Rabies (for longer stays), and routine boosters. Consult your GP 6–8 weeks before departure.
- Water from rivers and wells must be treated or boiled before drinking.
🏙 Ulaanbaatar
- Air pollution is severe in winter (Nov–March) due to coal heating. Bring an air quality mask.
- Pickpocketing can occur at the Black Market (Narantuul) and on crowded buses. Use a money belt.
- Alcohol impairs judgment dangerously in cold temperatures. Drink responsibly.
- Use licensed taxis or the Taxi app. Always negotiate the fare before getting in.
🆘 Emergency Contacts
- Ambulance: 103 · Police: 102 · Fire: 101
- Register with your country's embassy for stays longer than 30 days.
- Share your daily itinerary with someone at home before departing each day.
- All Valley Tour clients receive our 24/7 emergency contact number for the full duration of their trip.
Visa Information
Mongolia's visa requirements vary by nationality. Many countries enjoy visa-free entry; others must apply in advance. Always verify with your local Mongolian embassy — policies change.
✅ Visa-Free Entry — 30 Days
Citizens of the following countries do not need a visa for tourism stays up to 30 days. Your passport must be valid for at least 6 months beyond your travel dates.
| Country / Region | Duration | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| USA, Canada | 30 days | Extendable at INFCD in Ulaanbaatar |
| UK & EU Member States | 30 days | Extendable in Ulaanbaatar |
| Japan, South Korea | 30 days | Strong bilateral agreement |
| Russia | 30 days | Historical bilateral exemption |
| China | 30 days | Tourism purposes only |
| Turkey, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan | 30 days | — |
| Singapore, Malaysia, Thailand | 30 days | — |
| Brazil, Argentina | 30 days | — |
| Australia | 30 days | — |
🌐 e-Visa — Available to All Nationalities
Mongolia's e-Visa is available to all nationalities and is the easiest, most reliable way to obtain a visa. Processed entirely online and approved within 1–7 business days.
How to Apply
Apply at the official portal: evisa.mn. Create an account, upload your passport photo and scanned data page, pay the fee, and submit. Approval is emailed to you — print or save to your phone.
Cost & Validity
Standard fee: USD $53 (5–7 business days). Expedited: USD $63 (1–2 business days). Grants single-entry stay of up to 30 days, valid for 180 days from issue date.
What You Need
Valid passport (6+ months validity), digital passport photo on a white background, completed application form, return flight confirmation or onward travel proof, and a valid payment card.
Where It's Accepted
The e-Visa is accepted at all international ports of entry: Chinggis Khaan Airport (UB), Zamiin-Üüd (China border), and Sukhbaatar (Russia border).
🏛 Embassies in Ulaanbaatar — By Region
The embassies below are physically located in Ulaanbaatar — useful if you need emergency consular assistance, document notarisation, or help during your trip. For nationalities without a resident embassy in Mongolia, the nearest representation is typically in Beijing or Seoul. Always call ahead to confirm hours before visiting.
| Region | Embassy in Ulaanbaatar | Address | Phone |
|---|---|---|---|
| 🇺🇸 North America | U.S. Embassy | Denver Street #3, 11th Micro-District, UB 14190 | +976 7007 6001 |
| 🇬🇧 Europe | British Embassy | Peace Avenue 17, Ulaanbaatar | +976 1132 9545 |
| Embassy of France | Enkh Taivan Avenue, P.O. Box 661, Ulaanbaatar | +976 1132 7851 | |
| Embassy of Germany | Negdsen Undestnii Gudamj 7, Ulaanbaatar | +976 7007 6600 | |
| Embassy of Turkey | Khunnu St 906-1, Ikh Mongol Office, 5th Floor, UB | +976 7722 2200 | |
| 🇨🇳 East & SE Asia | Embassy of China | Zaluuchuudyn Avenue 5, Ulaanbaatar | +976 1132 3940 |
| Embassy of Japan | Seoul Street 21, Naiman Zovkhis Bldg 4F, UB 14251 | +976 7013 3001 | |
| Embassy of South Korea | Chinggis Ave 1/18, Bayangiin Ekh Bldg, Khan-Uul District | +976 1132 0641 | |
| Embassy of Vietnam | J. Sambuu St 32, Bluemon Center, 6F, UB 14200 | +976 7700 5600 | |
| 🇮🇳 South Asia | Embassy of India | Enkh Taivan Avenue, Embassy Street 9, Ulaanbaatar | +976 1132 1886 |
| 🇷🇺 Russia & Central Asia | Embassy of Russia | Peace Avenue 6, Ulaanbaatar | +976 1132 6836 |
| Embassy of Kazakhstan | Chinggis Ave 1/18, Bayangiin Ekh Bldg, Khan-Uul District | +976 1131 0432 | |
| 🇦🇺 Australia & Pacific | Australian Embassy | Ikh Toiruu 19 (Shangri-La complex), Ulaanbaatar | +976 7007 7200 |
⚠️ Many nationalities do not have a resident embassy in Mongolia. If your country is not listed above, your nearest embassy is likely in Beijing or Seoul. Always verify details directly — hours and addresses can change.
Visa extensions (up to 30 additional days) can be arranged at the Immigration, Naturalization and Foreign Citizens Department (INFCD) in Ulaanbaatar. Bring your passport, a passport photo, and the extension fee. Apply before your current visa or visa-free period expires. Processing takes 3–5 business days.
evisa.mn — Official Mongolian e-Visa portal
mongolia.travel/visa — Mongolia Tourism Board: full visa guide
immigration.gov.mn — INFCD: Immigration, Naturalization and Foreign Citizens Department (visa extensions, registration)
Always verify requirements with your nearest Mongolian embassy before travel — policies change periodically.
Transportation in Mongolia
There are no motorways outside Ulaanbaatar. Getting around Mongolia is part of the adventure — navigated by track, river, and instinct. The vehicle you travel in shapes your experience significantly.
The UAZ Furgon is a Soviet-era 4WD van that has been the workhorse of Mongolian countryside travel for decades. Loud, rugged, spartan, and utterly capable on the worst terrain imaginable. Travelling by UAZ is genuinely immersive — you feel every kilometre.
Best for: Remote expeditions, large groups, photographers needing roof access, the classic Mongolia experience.
The most popular vehicle for mid-range tours in Mongolia. More comfort than the UAZ — better suspension and reliable mechanics. Handles moderately rough terrain well, though less capable in truly extreme conditions. Parts readily available across the country.
Best for: Medium groups, moderate countryside routes, families, those wanting a balance of comfort and capability.
Not an off-road vehicle — yet ubiquitous in Mongolia, particularly as a taxi and for urban transfers. Mongolia imports used Prius hybrids from Japan in enormous numbers. Used for airport transfers, city travel, and paved highway sections. Comfortable, quiet, fuel-efficient.
Best for: Ulaanbaatar city transfers, airport pickups, paved highway sections, day trips near the capital.
When comfort and off-road capability must coexist, the Toyota Land Cruiser — locally called "Jeep" — is the vehicle of choice. Handles the most extreme terrain, carries luggage efficiently, and offers a significantly more comfortable ride than the UAZ. Used for premium tours and challenging routes.
Best for: Small private groups (2–4), luxury tours, challenging terrain like the Altai Mountains or deep Gobi.
For longer itineraries, domestic flights connect Ulaanbaatar to Ölgii (western Mongolia), Mörön (Khövsgöl), Dalanzadgad (Gobi), and other aimag centres. Operated by EzNis Airways and Hunnu Air. Book well in advance for July–August. Baggage limits are strict — typically 15–20kg total.
Cultural Etiquette
Mongolians are renowned for their warmth and hospitality — especially toward travellers who show genuine respect for their customs. Knowing these basic rules will open doors that remain closed to the unaware.
Enter a ger with your right foot first
Step over the threshold with your right foot. Never stand on or touch the threshold — it is considered the home's foundation and stepping on it is deeply disrespectful.
Never point your feet at the hearth or altar
The central hearth and northern altar are sacred spaces. Sit cross-legged or folded to the side. Lying with feet pointed toward them is offensive.
Accept food and drink with both hands
When offered airag, tea, or food, accept with both hands or your right hand supported by the left. Declining entirely can be rude — a sip and polite bow is sufficient.
Don't whistle inside a ger
Whistling indoors is believed to summon evil spirits. It is a firm social taboo and is considered simply rude in nomadic households.
Walk around religious objects clockwise
At ovoos, monasteries, and stupas, always walk clockwise. Adding a stone to an ovoo as you pass is a respectful tradition. Treat these as active places of worship.
Never lean against the ger's central pillars
The two central columns (bagana) support the ger structurally and symbolically. Leaning against them or passing objects between them is considered very bad form.
Ask before photographing people
Many Mongolians — especially elders — are uncomfortable being photographed. Always ask through your guide. Showing them the photo on your screen often creates a wonderful moment of connection.
Don't touch someone's head or hat
The head is considered sacred in Mongolian Buddhist culture. Never place your hands on someone's head, pass objects over their head, or touch a person's hat without invitation.
Remove shoes before entering a ger
When visiting a traditional household, remove your shoes at the door unless your hosts indicate otherwise. This signals respect for the home across Central Asia.
Avoid sensitive political topics
Discussion of Inner Mongolia or China–Mongolia relations can be sensitive. Genghis Khan is a figure of immense national pride — engage respectfully and curiously, not dismissively.
Bring small gifts for host families
Sweets, biscuits, or school supplies for children; scarves or soap for adults. Offer with both hands and without expectation of reciprocity.
Don't litter on the steppe
The land is sacred to nomadic culture. Littering is perceived as deeply disrespectful. Carry all waste with you until it can be properly disposed of.
2026 Seasonal Calendar
Mongolia's tourism year follows the rhythms of the steppe. From winter ice festivals to the thundering horses of Naadam, plan your trip around these anchor events.
Families begin cooking for Lunar New Year
Assist herder families with livestock
Kazakh eagle hunters still active in western Mongolia
Lunar New Year (approx. Feb 17–19). Mongolia's most important holiday — family visits, traditional food, ceremonial dress.
Feb 7–8, Bulgan, South Gobi. Bactrian camel races, polo, traditional games — a Guinness World Record festival. One of Mongolia's most joyful winter events.
Mar 2–3, Khatgal, Lake Khövsgöl. Ice sculptures, horse sled racing, ice sumo, shamanic ceremonies, dog sledding on the frozen lake.
Mar 7–8, Chinggisiin Khuree, near Ulaanbaatar. ~20 Kazakh eagle hunters from Western Mongolia. Perfect for visitors who can't make it to October.
Last reliable dates for winter expedition travel
Nomadic families move to spring pastures; lambing season
Countryside routes become accessible as snow melts
Orkhon Valley and Arkhangai carpeted in flowers
Ideal for animal lovers and photographers
Handicrafts, local food, traditional arts
Peak lushness across central Mongolia
Tsam masked dance ceremony at the ancient monastery, Kharkhorin
Ger camps open; roads at their best
Jul 11–13, Ulaanbaatar & nationwide. The Three Games: archery, wrestling, horse racing. National holiday — do not miss.
More intimate celebrations throughout aimag centres in July
Traditional horse racing and shamanic performances near the lake
Last window to visit Tsaatan herders before autumn migration
Best weather; highest demand — book well ahead
Birch forests in Khövsgöl and Khentii turn gold
Sep 19–20, Sagsai, Bayan-Ölgii. Smaller but equally dramatic regional festival with international eagle hunters. Great for those who want a more intimate experience ahead of the main October event.
Watch nomadic families move herds to winter pastures — among the most photogenic moments in Mongolia
Oct 3–4, Ölgii, Bayan-Ölgii. The flagship Eagle Festival — 100+ Kazakh eagle hunters compete in the world's most spectacular cultural event. Book flights and hotels months ahead.
South Gobi Altai; best window for wildlife photographers
Northern Mongolia and Altai receive first heavy snows
Nomads prepare livestock for winter — traditional butchering season
Very few tourists; excellent for cultural immersion
Gobi reaches –30°C; Lake Khövsgöl begins to freeze
Private ceremonies accessible through specialist operators only
Fireworks over Sukhbaatar Square
Tsagaan Sar (Lunar New Year): Feb 17–19 · Thousand Camel Festival: Feb 7–8 · Khövsgöl Ice Festival: Mar 2–3 · Spring Eagle Festival (UB): Mar 7–8 · Naadam: Jul 11–13 (fixed every year) · Altai Eagle Festival: Sep 19–20 · Golden Eagle Festival: Oct 3–4. We confirm all precise dates in your pre-trip documentation. Check valleytour.org for live updates.