Mongolia is one of the few places where travel is defined by a lack of fences and private property restrictions. Across the open steppe and mountain ranges, it is possible to travel for days without encountering roads or light pollution. This landscape offers a rare level of autonomy, allowing travelers to camp and explore freely. This independence is balanced by a deep-rooted culture of nomadic hospitality, where guests are traditionally welcomed with food and shelter. Whether hiking, horseback riding,or special interest wildlife tours, Mongolia provides a direct, practical connection to the landand its people through its well organized adventure trips.
Hiking Across Mongolia
For those who prefer to explore on foot, Mongolia’s geography offers distinct environments, from the rugged Altai Mountains and the granite formations of Gorkhi-Terelj National Park to the Gobi Desert.
Essential Hiking Tips:
Hire a Local Guide: Navigating unmarked wilderness requires expertise in local weather patterns and water sources.
Hydration and Protection: High altitudes and arid climates cause rapid dehydration. Carry ample water and high-SPF sun protection.
Self-Sufficiency: Infrastructure is minimal outside of national parks. Hikers must carry all necessary supplies or arrange for pack animals.
Horseback Riding Through Mongolia
Horseback riding is the traditional way to navigate the Mongolian steppe. The local horses are reliable, sure-footed, and well-suited for all skill levels. These animals are highly perceptive; they often sense and adapt to a rider's style, pace, and comfort level, as well as the broader group dynamics. Ultimately, a successful and enjoyable expedition depends on the rider maintaining a calm attitude and a positive approach, allowing the horse to navigate the terrain effectively.
Key Considerations for Your Ride:
Mounting Tradition: In Mongolia, horses are traditionally trained to be approached and mounted only from the left side. Approaching from the right or rear can startle the horse.
Active Riding: While the horses are hardy, they are not "automated." You must remain an active participant—sitting tall and using decisive commands (like the local "Chu!" to move) helps the horse understand your intent and keeps the journey steady.
Wildlife Tours Mongolia
Mongolia is a destination for birdwatching and tracking rare species in their natural habitats. Organized wildlife tours in Mongolia particularly in the Gobi and protected mountain regions, offer sightings of wild horses (Takhi), Argali sheep, and snow leopards.
Wildlife Considerations
The "Mountain Ghost" Strategy: Tracking elusive species like the Snow Leopard or Pallas’s Cat requires significant patience and high-quality optics. Most successful tours utilize local community rangers and spotters who track these animals daily; you should be prepared to spend long hours stationary at observation points rather than hiking in active pursuit.
Hustai National Park & The Takhi: For those with limited time, Hustai National Park (near Ulaanbaatar) is the best place to see the Przewalski’s Horse (Takhi)—the world’s only truly wild horse species. The best viewing happens at dawn or dusk when the herds descend from the ridges to the water points; during the heat of the day, they are often invisible to the naked eye.
Safest Tourist Destinations
Mongolia is one of the safest travel destinations in Asia, consistently ranking high on the Global Peace Index. In rural areas, visitors are warmly welcomed as guests through the country’s traditional nomadic hospitality. In urban environments, just like any city, standard precautions such as being mindful of your valuables are recommended.
Travel Tips and Logistics
Urban Practicalities In Ulaanbaatar, it is helpful to stay mindful of your belongings while visiting popular spots like the Naran Tuul Market or Gandan Monastery. For getting around the city, using the UBCab app is a convenient way to ensure your ride is registered and the fare is set, which is often easier than finding a taxi on the street.
Countryside Navigation Outside of the capital, the primary focus is on navigating the open landscape and changing weather. Since mobile signals are limited in remote areas, many travelers use the what3words app. This tool helps you share your exact location with your team or hosts using three simple words, even without a data connection or traditional address.
Things to Do in Mongolia
For visitors to Mongolia, these are popular and common activities that provide a balanced mix of adventure, culture, and nature.:
- Hiking through mountain ranges or national parks or hiking through desert regions.
Horseback Riding on the steppes.
Wildlife tours in protected areas and National Parks
Visiting the Gobi Desert and fossil sites.
Exploring monasteries and cultural landmarks.
Participating in festivals such as Naadam.
Conclusion
There are numerous ways to experience Mongolia through nature, adventure, and culture. Along with unique opportunities for adventure through hiking, horseback riding, and wildlife watching, visitors to Mongolia have the opportunity to experience the landscapes of Mongolia as well as its cultural heritage.