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Official name: State of Mongolia
Capital city: Ulaanbaatar
Languages spoken: Mongolian (official), Russian, English (increasingly studied)
Population: Around 3.4 million
Currency: Mongolian tögrög (MNT)
Time zone: GMT+8
Driving side: Right
Climate: Harsh continental climate - long, bitterly cold winters and short, hot summers with big swings between day and night
Mongolia is a vast, landlocked country between Russia and China, famed for its dramatic steppe, rugged mountains, and nomadic culture. The legacy of Genghis Khan runs deep, and while Ulaanbaatar is a growing modern city, much of the population still lives in gers (yurts) across the countryside. Its sheer size, sparse population, and natural beauty make it one of the world’s last frontiers for adventure travel.
Mongolia covers over 1.5 million km², yet has one of the lowest population densities in the world. The south is dominated by the Gobi Desert, while the north and west feature forested mountains and lakes. The Altai Mountains stretch across the west, and vast grass steppes dominate the central and eastern regions.
Chinggis Khaan International Airport in Ulaanbaatar is the main entry point, with limited but growing international connections. Travel within Mongolia is challenging due to vast distances, unpaved roads, and extreme weather. Domestic flights connect major towns, while long-distance buses and jeeps are common for overland journeys. Rail services run on the Trans-Mongolian line, linking with Russia and China.
UK citizens and many others require a visa to visit Mongolia, which can usually be obtained online or through an embassy. A valid passport with at least six months’ validity is required. The British Embassy in Ulaanbaatar provides consular assistance.
The tögrög (MNT) is the official currency. Credit cards are accepted in Ulaanbaatar and some larger towns, but cash is essential for rural areas. ATMs are limited outside the capital. Foreign currencies such as US dollars are often used for larger transactions.
Healthcare in Mongolia is basic outside Ulaanbaatar, where some hospitals offer acceptable standards of care. Facilities in rural areas are extremely limited. Emergency evacuation may be required for serious illness or injury. Travellers should carry personal medical supplies and ensure they have comprehensive travel insurance with evacuation cover. Tap water is not safe to drink.
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