Gobi Desert Mongolia Travel Guide
The Mongolian Tugrik (MNT) is the local currency. Exchange rates change, so check current rates before travel. ATMs are in Ulaanbaatar and larger Gobi towns like Dalanzadgad. Major hotels and some larger shops in Ulaanbaatar accept credit cards, but cash is a must in the Gobi. US Dollars (USD) are widely accepted for exchange.
Carry sufficient MNT for your daily expenses while in the Gobi.
These are general price ranges if not included in a package.
Accommodation (per night): Basic Ger Camp: $15 - $30 | Mid-range Ger Camp: $30 - $70 | Luxury Ger Camp: $100 - $300+ | Basic Hotel/Guesthouse (in towns): $20 - $50. Meals (per person): Local eatery/street food (in towns): $3 - $7 | Mid-range restaurant (in towns): $8 - $20. Transportation (within Gobi, if separate): Private 4x4 with driver (daily rate): $100 - $200+ (plus fuel, driver's expenses) | Internal flight (Ulaanbaatar to Dalanzadgad): $100 - $200 one way. Attractions: National Park entrance fees (e.g., Gobi Gurvansaikhan): MNT 3,000 - 5,000 (around $1-2 USD) | Local camel riding: MNT 10,000 - 20,000 per hour (around $3-7 USD).
Not traditional outside Ulaanbaatar.
For multi-day Gobi tours, consider MNT 20,000 - 50,000 (around $7-17 USD) per person per day for the team. Groups may pool contributions.
Tipping is not expected, but small gestures are accepted.
Make your budget last.
Share 4x4 automobile and guide costs to significantly lower per-person prices.
Possible, especially if booking locally or with a flexible itinerary.
Smart choices for your wallet.
Buy snacks and drinks in Ulaanbaatar or larger towns. Cheaper than remote ger camps.
May or September may have slightly lower prices and fewer crowds.
No vaccinations are mandatory for Mongolia entry for most nationalities. Consult a travel health clinic or doctor 4-6 weeks before travel. Common recommendations include: Routine vaccinations (MMR, DTP, Polio), Hepatitis A, and Typhoid. Rabies and Hepatitis B may be recommended based on activities and trip length.
Dehydration: The arid climate presents a risk. Drink plenty of filtered or Bottled water. Dust/Allergies: High dust levels, especially in spring, may cause issues. Bring antihistamines. Sunburn/Heatstroke: Intense sun exposure is common. Use High-SPF sunscreen, wear Wide-brimmed hats, and not heavy, long-sleeved clothing. Stay hydrated. Gastrointestinal Issues: Diet changes plus different hygiene standards may upset stomachs. Practice good hand hygiene, drink only purified water, and eat well-cooked food. Insect Bites: Mosquitoes near water sources. Ticks, potentially carrying tick-borne encephalitis, risk in grassy areas outside the desert. Use Insect repellent.
Medical facilities in a Large desert region in asia are very basic, limited to small clinics or hospitals in provincial centers. Serious emergencies typically mean evacuation to Ulaanbaatar.
Dial 103 for medical emergencies. English speaking services are rare outside Ulaanbaatar.
Tap water in a Cold desert is not potable. Rely on pre-packaged water, boiled water, or use a Water purification system or Purification tablets.
The Gobi is sparsely populated; crime rates are very low. Risks relate to accidents (vehicle breakdowns, getting lost) due to remote, challenging environment. Dust storms (spring) reduce visibility. Dzud (severe winter weather) livestock deaths, travel problems. Rapid flooding are rare but possible in dry riverbeds during heavy summer rains.
Comprehensive travel insurance covering medical emergencies, emergency evacuation, trip interruption, and baggage loss is highly advisable. Consider World Nomads or SafetyWing. An Insubuy policy also works for visitors to the US from abroad.
Air travel is the fastest way to Mongolia and its Gobi region. Understand your flight choices and airport connections.
Chinggis Khaan International Airport (UBN) near Ulaanbaatar is Mongolia's main international gateway. To reach the Gobi, travelers typically take domestic flights or overland tours from Ulaanbaatar. Dalanzadgad Airport (DLZ) in Ömnögovi Province is the main airport for central Gobi access.
Chinggis Khaan International Airport (UBN) offers a range of facilities: currency exchange, ATMs, duty-free shops, cafes, car rental agencies. The airport provides necessary services for travelers.
Gather these items for your visa application or entry.
