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Mongolia: Trip Preparation & Destination Information

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Mongolia: Trip Preparation & Destination Information

About Mongolia

Overview

The Mongolian Nomad, a culture of true adventurers, where travel has been woven into the fabric of their tradition since the time of Ghengis Khan. From the ruggedness of the Gobi Desert to the rolling green hills of Terelj National Park and stretched across the infinite grasslands and plains, you will walk the path of the nomad on your Mongolian adventure.

 

Capital City: Ulaanbaatar

Population: 3.2 million

Currency: Mongolian Tugrik (MNT)

Time Zone: Ulaanbaatar Standard Time - (GMT +8)

Emergency Number: 102

Outlet: Types C/E

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Packing List

Speak the Language

Mongolian is the official language of Mongolia

 

  • Good morning - öglöönii mend
  • Good afternoon - ödriin mend
  • Good night - saikhan amraarai
  • Good bye - Bayartai
  • Thank you - bayarlalaa
  • How are you? - yuu baina
  • I’m fine - bi zügeeree
  • I’m Sorry - namaig uuchlaarai
  • Where is the bathroom? - ugaalgyn öröö khaashaa ve

 

Google Translate: Download the Google Translate app or click here 

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Culture Notes

  • In most cities around Mongolia and particularly in the capital Ulaanbaatar, ATM's and credit cards are becoming more widely accepted however Mongolia is very much a cash-based economy.
  • Personal space is optional. Queuing generally doesn't happen and people will jostle to buy things, board a bus etc. While this may feel rude, in many cultures it's just part of how things are done. 
  • Possessing or using drugs is strictly illegal in Mongolia. If you are caught taking or carrying drugs, you may end up serving time in prison. Mongolian Police are quite strict on this.
  • If you walk around a stupa or prayer wheels always walk in a clockwise direction.
  • Remove any hats, sunglasses and shoes before entering any religious building. Dress modestly; wear long-sleeved clothing.
  • Don't touch prayer flags, altars, Mani stones or any other items of religious significance.
  • Always respect any signage in areas that asks for No Photography. If you are unsure of whether you can take photos in places, ask your Guide.

Tipping

Tipping Suggestions: In Mongolia tipping is not considered to be conventionally traditional, however, Mongolians working in tourism and service-related positions appreciate them. If the local teams have added to the experience, please reward them.

Guides USD $10 per person/per day
Drivers USD $10 per person/per day
Restaurants(full service)  USD 10% of total bill

 

FAQ

Where can I find information on travel safety? Check out the US Department of State's website for the most up-to-date information on safety while traveling.

 

Is the water safe to drink? Tap water should be avoided by travelers. For drinking water, make sure to drink treated, filtered, or boiled water, even in the capital.

 

Do I need a Visa? For Visa information, click here. Make sure your passport is valid for at least six months after you return home and has two or more blank pages. Otherwise, some countries may not let you enter.

 

What about vaccines? For vaccination information, click here. 

 

Do you recommend travel insurance? While not required, we highly recommend all travelers get travel insurance for their trip to protect themselves from the unknown! Check out travel insurance options from our partner, worldnomads.com, or from a provider of your choice.

 

How much should I pack? As we will be using shared transfers and spaces throughout our tour we recommend all travelers pack as lightly as possible. All travelers are allowed to bring one large piece of luggage (not exceeding 23kg (50lbs) in weight, with the dimensions (30” x 18” x 10”), one small carry-on (12”x11”x6), and a personal item.

 

What does public transportation look like? Ulaanbaatar has a good bus network whether traveling to different parts of the city or even out to the countryside. Otherwise, there are plenty of taxis that circulate around the city.

 

Is Uber or Lyft available? There are no ride-share apps in Mongolia as they were deemed illegal since the Mongolian Taxi Services Association were able to shut down Uber, Lyft and local start-up called EasyRide.

Luggage Restrictions

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