Mongolia : Safety by City
Warnings & Dangers in Mongolia
OVERALL RISK : MEDIUM
Mongolia is a vast country, and in different regions, there may be a different level of security. Observing safety precautions, you can safely travel through its vast expanses. Be especially careful in large cities, as well as in desert areas where nomads live.
TRANSPORT & TAXIS RISK : MEDIUM
Public transportation may not be reliable enough. Watch out for pockets in crowded buses. Taxis are quite safe in Mongolia, the main condition is to call a licensed taxi service. Make sure the driver turns on the taximeter.
PICKPOCKETS RISK : HIGH
There are a lot of pickpockets in the capital of Mongolia and in large cities. Their goal is foreign tourists. Therefore, be very careful, especially in the area of train stations, airports, in tourist places, and in public transport.
NATURAL DISASTERS RISK : MEDIUM
Mongolia is located in the area of earthquakes and floods. Also, forest fires and drought often occur here. In winter, the country experiences severe frosts and a lot of snow.
MUGGING RISK : MEDIUM
Grave robberies and armed attacks occur in the capital Ulaanbaatar, and large cities of Mongolia. Tourists are advised to avoid walking late at night; it is also better not to sit up in bars and avoid drunk people. Do not carry a lot of cash and expensive things.
TERRORISM RISK : LOW
Terrorist attacks in Mongolia did not occur in the recent history of the country. However, they cannot be excluded, mainly because of their proximity to Transnistria, where military conflicts outside countries are possible. Examine the political situation in the country before your visit here.
SCAMS RISK : MEDIUM
Fraud in Mongolia is enough. Usually, tourists become victims of scammers. Be very careful. Withdraw money only at ATMs at banks to avoid scamming your cards - this happens quite often. Use only licensed services to buy services and goods to avoid buying fakes or non-existing travel tours.
WOMEN TRAVELERS RISK : LOW
It is quite safe for women traveling to Mongolia alone. However, precautions and safety should not be forgotten. Avoid walking in remote areas and do not travel at night.
How Safe Is Mongolia for Tourists?
Mongolia has an average crime rate.
The crime index ranges from high to medium.
The main problems are related to robberies, attacks, theft of things, housebreaking.
Mongolia also has a high level of corruption and bribery.
In Mongolia, tourism is still not very developed.
Therefore, xenophobia is widespread, and violence against foreigners is collective.
There are groups of Mongolian nationalists who consider themselves neo-Nazis and attack foreigners: be careful.
In the capital, violent crime rates are among the highest in Asia.
Avoid the drunken locals in the bars; it is believed that they become quite aggressive and can attack foreigners.
Violent crimes are common outside the capital, and caution is required at night.
In particular, dark or deserted alleys and streets should be avoided.
In addition to Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia is usually a safe place to travel.
Notorious thefts for theft are the bazaar, train station, and crowded bus stops.
Horseback riding in the steppes of Mongolia is a common type of tourism in this country.
Be careful as it is easy to fall off the horse.
Take proper health insurance.
Mongolia has aggressive dogs that can run in packs.
Beware of them, as they are unlikely to be as tame as domestic dogs in other places, and they can be frantic.
Do I Need a Visa to Visit Mongolia?
All visitors to Mongolia require a visa unless they come from one of the visa-exempt countries or countries that can obtain a visa on arrival. Visitors must hold passports that are valid for at least 6 months from the date of arrival.
Which Currency Is Used in Mongolia?
The tögrög or tugrik is the official currency of Mongolia. It was historically subdivided into 100 möngö. The word tögrög (төгрөг) refers to “circle,” or a “circular object” (i.e., a coin). Today, it is rarely used outside of relating to the currency, except the phrase tögrög sar (төгрөг сар), meaning “full moon”.
How's the Weather like in Mongolia?
The best times to visit Mongolia for ideal weather are June to September. Average temperatures in Mongolia vary an incredible amount and the weather feels cold for most of the year with a very low chance of rain or snow throughout the year.
What Do I Need to Know about Airports in Mongolia?
There are several airports in Mongolia. Genghis Khan International Airport located 18 km southwest of the capital. This is the largest international aviation facility in the country.
Should I Get Travel Insurance for My Travels?
Just like anywhere else, the travel insurance policy is a must when visiting a foreign country. Make sure you got it before starting your journey, the customs officer may ask for it.
What Are Some Things to Do in Mongolia?
Mongolia is a fantastic country to travel around in, due to its incredible landscapes and total otherworldliness. Even in booming Ulaanbaatar, you’ll find that the city stands poised on edge between East and West: Western-style restaurants next to traditional restaurants selling dumplings and soups. Because tourism is still in its infancy in the country, Mongolia can sometimes be a bit challenging to travel around.
Is the Water in Mongolia Safe to Drink?
The rivers in Mongolia can generally be classified as “clean” or “of acceptable quality”. Tap water isn’t drinkable in Mongolia.
Is Uber Safe in Mongolia?
There is no Uber taxi in Mongolia. However, you can use any other taxi service in this country.
