Is Mongolia Safe to Travel?

Of course, everyone who is going to visit Mongolia has one important question they like to ask themselves, is Mongolia safe to travel to? The answer is yes.

Mongolia is one of the safest countries in Asia. It ranks as the 8th safest country in Asia after countries such as Singapore, Japan, Malaysia, and Kuwait and 40th in the world.

But there are things you still need to be aware about. So, here are the best tips to be safe during your stay in Mongolia.

Violent crimes

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Several violent crimes have been reported in the last decades, mostly because of independent travelers with no experience. Here are some tips to help keep you safe while traveling. Do not visit nightclubs and bars at night alone.

As in most countries of the world, nighttime is dangerous due to a large number of drunk people. Do not drive alone to remote places in Mongolia where there are no marked roads and settlements.

Mongolia is a large country known as the land of emptiness and you can get lost and stuck in the middle of nowhere. Most remote places have no telephone service, and the nearest town can be reached in ten hours. So be aware of such situations.

Petty crimes

Pickpocketing occurs, so be careful of thieves in crowded areas such as Narantuul Bazaar and on public transport. Do not display signs of wealth, jewelry, and watches during festivals and public places. Always try to use licensed taxis instead of street taxis.

Also, be prepared for any weather conditions. Even in summer, it can get cold and the weather changes quickly without warning.

Your safety is always our top priority. Discover Altai team will be your guides during your stay in Mongolia and we’ll make sure you have a safe and enjoyable trip. Please contact us to choose the perfect trip for you!

What advice do you have for women travelers?

Mongolians, both men, and women, are a relatively modest people, and most people outside of the capital do not wear very revealing clothing, although they are now used to seeing foreigners in shorts at many of the more visited places in the countryside.

However, you will want to wear trousers or a skirt covering at least your knees to avoid being stared at in some rural areas, and also to enter monasteries. That said, shorts are perfectly acceptable while hiking and/or trekking and you should bring a bathing suit for swimming in the summer.

Mongolia has a limited range of feminine hygiene products, particularly in the countryside, so it is best to bring your own. Mongolia is a very egalitarian society, and women are treated with respect, courtesy, and friendliness.

It’s my first camping adventure tour. What can I expect?

Many travelers on their first extended wilderness trip are uncertain about where they will be able to wash, use the bathroom, etc. And whether or not they will be able to handle ‘roughing it’ in the great outdoors.

Rest assured, many first-time campers have been on extended wilderness trips in Mongolia and found it easy to adjust, if not outright liberating. Your guide will let you know at each stop what the arrangements are for washing, using the toilet, cooking and so on.

HOW FRIENDLY ARE MONGOLIANS?

Mongols are very friendly people. Whether you are in the city or in the countryside, the Mongolians treat you with respect and are always happy to help you. And you should also show them your respect and not offend their beliefs and traditions.

It would be very grateful if you learn a few Mongolian words such as “Hello”, “How are you?” and “thanks”. Showing hospitality to guests is in our blood. It is in our culture that when travelers come to us, we must feed them and help them with everything.

Health and Medical Safety in Mongolia

Vaccinations and Pre-Trip Health: The U.S. CDC recommends all travelers be up-to-date on routine vaccines. Additionally, consider vaccinations for Hepatitis A and Typhoid due to potential exposure through contaminated food or water. Rabies is also a risk, particularly for those who will be in close contact with animals.

Medical Facilities: Medical facilities in Ulaanbaatar are adequate for routine care but fall short of Western standards for complex procedures. Outside the capital, medical services are extremely limited and often inaccessible. For any serious illness or injury, medical evacuation to another country is typically required.

Food and Water Safety: Tap water is not considered safe to drink anywhere in Mongolia. Always drink bottled, boiled, or filtered water. Be cautious with uncooked foods, including salads and unpeeled fruits. Stick to well-cooked meals, especially from street vendors, to avoid traveler’s diarrhea and other foodborne illnesses.

Navigating Transportation Safely

Road Conditions and Driving: Paved roads are limited outside of Ulaanbaatar and between major provincial centers. Rural travel often involves unpaved, unmarked dirt tracks. Driving can be hazardous due to aggressive local driving habits, poorly maintained vehicles, and livestock on roads. Avoid driving at night. For any travel outside the city, a well-maintained 4×4 vehicle with an experienced local driver is strongly recommended.

Taxis and Public Transit: In Ulaanbaatar, use official, metered taxis or a ride-hailing app like UBCab. Unofficial or “shared” taxis carry a higher risk of robbery or overcharging. Public buses are often overcrowded, making them hotspots for pickpocketing; keep your valuables secure and out of sight.

Domestic Flights and Trains: Domestic flights are the most efficient way to cover long distances. The Trans-Mongolian Railway is a popular travel route, but be vigilant against theft, especially on overnight trains between Mongolia, Russia, and China. Secure your cabin and never leave valuables unattended.

Local Laws and Cultural Etiquette for Travelers

Key Laws to Be Aware Of: Mongolia has a zero-tolerance policy for illegal drugs, with severe penalties including long prison sentences. It is illegal to photograph military installations, police stations, and border crossings. There are also restrictions on the sale of alcohol, with many shops and restaurants not serving it on the first day of each month.

LGBTQI+ Traveler Information: While same-sex sexual activity is not illegal, there are no laws protecting against discrimination based on sexual orientation. Mongolian society is generally conservative, and public displays of affection are uncommon for any couple. LGBTQI+ travelers should exercise discretion.

Cultural Etiquette: When visiting a nomadic family’s ger (yurt), it is customary to accept offered food or drink with your right hand, with your left hand supporting your right elbow. Do not step on the threshold when entering, and avoid pointing your feet at the family altar or other people. These small gestures of respect are deeply appreciated.

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After all, nomads believe that every guest brings goodness to the family. In the city, if you ask someone for directions, they will probably do their best to show you the way. In every public place like restaurants and shops, they are very kind and always smiling.   

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