Frequently asked questions

• When is the best time to visit Mongolia?+

  June to September. July is the peak season, with the Naadam Festival. July and August are the wettest months, but still bring plenty of sunny days, and June to September is also the best time for the Gobi.

• How do you ride a Mongolian horse?+

  We use saddles adapted for foreign riders rather than traditional Mongolian ones. Mongolian riders sit high with short stirrups, steer with neck reins and their voice rather than their legs, and stop with their seat.

  The horses live freely for much of the year, so approach them calmly, avoid sudden movements, and wear clothes that don't flap in the wind: a raincoat rather than a poncho.

• Where will I stay?+

  In Ulaanbaatar, a central 4* hotel. On tour, a mix of ger camps (traditional yurts with 2–5 beds, shared showers and a restaurant), guest yurts with nomad families (4–5 beds, a stove and a shower tent), and camping.

  Our camping gear is recent and meets Western standards: thick self-inflating mattresses, a mess tent and a shower tent. Travelling alone? Ask for a tent of your own at no extra cost.

• Who will I travel with?+

  A small group: our scheduled tours take 3 to 10 people. We also run private tours for individuals, families and groups, adapted to you.

  If you have a long flight or a big time difference, consider arriving a day early.

• How do we get around in Mongolia?+

  Outside Ulaanbaatar there are few paved roads, so we travel by 4x4 with an experienced driver. The clay and sand tracks are slow, but the empty landscapes are part of the journey, and we stop often.

  International flights: Korean Air via Seoul, Air China via Beijing and Turkish Airlines via Istanbul and Bishkek. For July and August, book about six months ahead.

• What are the customs in a Mongolian ger and family?+

  Don't knock if the door is closed. Step in right foot first without touching the threshold, never walk between the two central pillars, and don't point your feet at people or the fire.

  Take food and drink with both hands, or your right hand supported by your left, and taste what you're offered; if you don't drink alcohol, just touch the glass to your lips. Never throw rubbish into the fire. A smile goes a long way if you get something wrong.

• What about vaccines, electricity and luggage?+

  Most nationalities need no vaccinations, but keep routine ones up to date (tetanus, typhoid, hepatitis). Medical travel insurance is required. Drink bottled water, and keep personal medication in your hand luggage.

  Mongolia is on UTC+8. Power is 220V, 50Hz, with type C, F and G plugs; bring a power bank for camping. The weather can change fast, so pack light and warm layers and a windbreaker. We send a packing list for your tour.

• What about money and cards?+

  Visa and Mastercard are accepted, and US dollars are widely taken in Ulaanbaatar, but carry some Mongolian tugrik too. Banks, hotels and ATMs exchange most currencies.