Frequently Asked Questions
We’ve compiled answers to our guests’ most popular questions—from the best travel season to tipping guidelines—so you have everything you need for your Mongolian adventure.
When is the best time to come to Mongolia?
May through September is ideal, with the peak season in July for the Naadam Festival.
July and August see the most rainfall, but Mongolia’s high sunshine rate means plenty of clear days.
For Gobi Desert explorations, consider June or September when temperatures are milder.
How do I get to Mongolia?
Most international flights arrive at Chinggis Khaan International Airport (ULN) in Ulaanbaatar, with direct routes from Beijing, Seoul, Hong Kong, Tokyo, Moscow, Berlin, and Istanbul.
The Trans-Mongolian Railway from Moscow or Beijing offers an exhilarating overland entry.
Once in Ulaanbaatar, domestic flights and trains connect you to the rest of the country. Many tours use 4WD Japanese or Korean vehicles to reach remote destinations.
Can you arrange my international flights?
Yes. As a local agency, we can secure competitive airfares from major hubs.
Please complete the flight inquiry form on our website with your origin, dates, and class preferences. We’ll respond with a quote within one working day.
What are the visa requirements?
Visa rules vary by nationality:
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Citizens of certain countries (e.g., USA, Canada, UK, Singapore, EU member states) enjoy visa-free entry for 14–90 days.
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All others must apply at a Mongolian Embassy or Consulate with:
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Completed application form
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Passport valid for ≥6 months
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One 3.5 × 4.5 cm photo
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Proof of accommodation and round-trip tickets
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Visa fee (non-refundable)
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For a full list of visa-exempt countries and application details, visit MongoliaVisa.com.
How will I meet you in Ulaanbaatar?
Upon arrival at the airport or train station, look for our representative holding a “Discover Mongolia” sign.
They’ll transfer you to your hotel or tour start point as per your itinerary. Please email your exact arrival/departure times in advance.
Emergency contact: +976 86113332 (Ms. Taivanjargal, Travel Advisor)
How do I book my tour?
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Return a completed booking form with a US $200 per-person deposit.
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We’ll send a confirmation and balance-payment instructions.
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Pay the remaining tour cost at least eight weeks before departure (full payment if booking within eight weeks).
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No contract is formed until we receive your deposit.
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Payment methods: bank transfer, international money transfer, VISA, or MasterCard.
What is your cancellation policy?
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Cancellations ≥60 days before departure incur a US $100 service charge per person.
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Deposits are non-refundable after 60 days unless credited toward a future trip within two years.
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Cancellation fees on paid-in-full bookings:
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43–59 days before: 20% of tour cost
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29–42 days before: 25%
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15–28 days before: 30%
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≤14 days or no-show: 50%
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Minimum cancellation charge equals your US $200 deposit.
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If we cancel, you receive a full refund.
What is the accommodation like?
In Ulaanbaatar, you stay in your chosen hotel.
On the road, you’ll camp in tents and traditional Mongolian gers, each inspected by our staff for comfort and safety.
What is a tourist ger camp?
Gers (yurts) sleep 2–4 guests. Camps include western-style flushing toilets, showers, laundry, dining areas, and shops.
Electric sockets (two round prongs, 220 V, 50 Hz) are available for charging devices.
How is the food?
In Ulaanbaatar, dine at top European and Asian restaurants.
On the trail, meals center on mutton, beef, rice, and noodles, with occasional vegetables, eggs, cheese, and yak.
When no dining facilities exist, you receive nutritious lunchboxes from the camps.
What are the road conditions?
Mongolia’s main roads between provinces are paved. Beyond that, most routes are unpaved tracks.
Expect wild-style adventures across vast landscapes.
What transport do you use?
We provide late-model, air-conditioned vans and 4WD vehicles.
Typical countryside drives cover 200–250 km in 3–6 hours, depending on terrain.
What should I bring?
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Warm, thin layers and a waterproof jacket
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Good walking boots, sandals, hat, and headscarf
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Insect repellent, sunscreen, lip balm
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Water-purification tablets and a reusable bottle
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First-aid kit, any personal medications
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Camera gear, binoculars, and snacks
What is the luggage limit on domestic flights?
Checked baggage up to 15 kg per person (Hunnu Air and Aero Mongolia).
Excess baggage is charged ~US $1.50–2.00 per kg at the airport.
Do I need vaccines and is water safe?
No mandatory vaccinations. City tap water is generally safe, but we recommend mineral water, which we provide on tour.
Where can I exchange money?
US dollars are widely accepted in Ulaanbaatar, but carry some Mongolian tugrik (MNT) for smaller towns.
Major banks and hotels exchange currency—bring crisp, undamaged bills.
Can I use traveler’s cheques?
Traveler’s cheques are rarely accepted.
Use credit cards (Visa, MasterCard, American Express, JCB) in cities or withdraw local currency from ATMs. Cards aren’t usable in most countryside locations.
Do I need travel insurance?
We strongly recommend comprehensive travel insurance covering trip cancellation/interruption, medical emergencies, delays, and baggage loss or damage.
How many people will be on my tour?
Group sizes vary but average 4–14 participants to ensure an intimate experience.
What nationalities participate?
Our tours attract travelers from 20+ countries, commonly including Americans, Australians, Europeans, Canadians, and Asians—creating a richly international atmosphere.
What about tipping?
Tips are voluntary. As a guideline, US $5 per person per day for guides and drivers is appreciated for excellent service.
Should I arrive early?
Yes. Early arrival helps adjust to time differences and travel delays.
We can book a hotel room at a discounted rate if needed.
Do you organize private tours?
Absolutely. We design private itineraries for individuals, families, and groups—from cultural explorations to Altai trekking, horse riding, and Gobi expeditions.
Why choose Mir Expeditions?
Mir Expeditions is a well-established, government-recognized operator affiliated with major travel trade organizations.
We deliver expert local knowledge, personalized service, and unforgettable Mongolian experiences.