Getting Around: Ulaanbaatar

Public Transit Overview

Ulaanbaatar's public transit network consists mainly of an extensive system of public buses and trolleybuses. These vehicles cover most of the city's main routes and residential areas. Ulaanbaatar does not have a metro, tram, or light rail system. The bus network is the backbone of urban transport.

Route maps are available online. Major transportation hubs and intersections are generally along Peace Avenue, which runs east-west through the city center, and around Sukhbaatar Square. These areas serve as transfer points for many bus lines.

Ticketing & Accessibility

Smart Card: The main method for paying bus fares is the Ulaanbaatar Smart Card. Purchase and top up at kiosks near bus stops, convenience stores, and supermarkets. Tap the card on a reader when boarding.
Cash: Less common and often inconvenient. It is strongly recommended to acquire a smart card upon arrival. A single bus ride is very inexpensive, around 600 MNT.
Hours & Frequency: Buses operate from approximately 6:00 AM to 10:00 PM. Frequency varies, higher during morning (8-9 AM) and evening (5-7 PM) rush hours.
Accessibility: Public buses are generally not wheelchair accessible. Infrastructure for mobility needs is limited.

Use Google Maps

For real-time bus routes, estimated arrival times, and directions.

Avoid Rush Hour

Buses can be very crowded during peak commute times.

Safety on Buses

Be vigilant about pickpockets in crowded buses; keep valuables secure.

Taxis & Ride-Sharing

Taxis & Fares

Licensed Taxis: Marked with a yellow roof light, "TAXI" sign, and often a meter.
Taxis can be hailed on the street. Use official, metered taxis.
Fares: Short rides within the city are 5,000 - 15,000 MNT ($1.40 - $4.00). Cash (MNT) is the common payment method.

Ride-Sharing & Safety

Apps: UBCab, InDriver, and OnDriver are popular local ride-sharing apps.
Safety: Apps provide estimated fares, track rides, and add safety compared to unmarked cars.
Unofficial Taxis: Exercise caution with unmarked private cars. Agree on price beforehand. Avoid if alone, especially late at night.

Rental Options

Car Rental

Available from international (Hertz Mongolia) and local agencies. Requires national license, IDP, and credit card. Self-driving outside UB is generally not recommended.

Motorcycles/Scooters

Less common for tourists; city traffic is congested and less ideal for two-wheelers.

Bicycle Rentals

Available from guesthouses/shops. Limited cycling lanes; city traffic can be hazardous. Best for experienced urban cyclists or parks.

Specialty Vehicles

For rural travel, a robust 4x4 with an experienced local driver is standard and practical.

Driving & Walking in UB

Driving Landscape

Driving Laws: Vehicles drive on the right. Speed limits: 60 km/h in urban, 80 km/h outside. Seatbelt use is mandatory.
Road Conditions: Ulaanbaatar roads are mostly paved but congested with potholes. Outside the city, roads are often unpaved dirt tracks, gravel, or unmarked.
Parking: Can be challenging and costly in central Ulaanbaatar. Look for designated lots.
Safety Concerns: Heavy traffic, local driving habits, and livestock on rural roads.

Pedestrian & Cycling Experience

Pedestrian-Friendly Areas: Sukhbaatar Square and Peace Avenue offer walkable areas. National parks like Bogd Khan Uul or Terelj have trails.
Walking Tours: Guided walking tours cover historical sites and markets. Self-guided walks are feasible with maps/apps.
Bicycle Safety: Limited cycling infrastructure. City cycling can be risky due to aggressive driving and potholes. Best for experienced urban cyclists or parks.
No-Go Areas for Pedestrians/Cyclists: Highly crowded markets (Narantuul) due to pickpocketing risk. Avoid poorly lit or isolated areas after dark. Ger districts are best explored with a local guide.

Specialized Transport

Tour Buses: Private companies offer city sightseeing tours.
Water Transport: Not applicable for Ulaanbaatar.
Unique Local Transport: No cable cars or funiculars. Hardy 4x4 vehicles with local drivers are the main specialized transport for rural areas.

Accessibility Services: Infrastructure is generally not designed for accessibility. Public transport is largely inaccessible.
Travelers with mobility needs may arrange specialized assistance and private transport through dedicated operators.
These organizations tailor advice and arrange accommodations and accessible vehicles.

Mobility Recommendations

Smart Card Purchase

Acquire an Ulaanbaatar Smart Card immediately for efficient public bus travel.

App-Based Rides

Use UBCab or InDriver for convenient and tracked taxi services.

Guided Rural Tours

For countryside exploration, a hired 4x4 with a local driver is advised.

Walk & Cycle Navigation

Ulaanbaatar provides options for pedestrians and cyclists, with considerations for infrastructure and safety.

Pedestrian Routes

Sukhbaatar Square: A highly pedestrian-friendly central point for city exploration.
Peace Avenue: Features wide sidewalks, suitable for walking, though often crowded and uneven.
National Parks: Areas like Bogd Khan Uul and Terelj offer vast spaces and trails for walking away from city traffic.
Air Quality: Winter air pollution can make walking outdoors uncomfortable; consider a mask on high pollution days.

Cycling & Safety

Bicycle Infrastructure: Ulaanbaatar has limited dedicated cycling lanes.
Safety Concerns: Cycling in city traffic carries risk due to aggressive driving, potholes, and a lack of cyclist awareness.
No-Go Areas: Highly crowded markets (Narantuul) due to pickpocketing risk. Avoid poorly lit areas after dark. Ger districts are best explored with a local guide.
Walking Tours: Guided tours cover historical sites. Self-guided walks are possible with good maps and navigation apps.

Accessibility Services

Infrastructure Limitations

Ulaanbaatar’s infrastructure is generally not designed for accessibility.

Public transportation is largely inaccessible for mobility challenges.

Specialized Assistance

Travelers with mobility needs may arrange assistance through dedicated tour operators.

These organizations provide tailored advice and accommodations.

Accessible Vehicles

Operators can arrange accessible vehicles for a comfortable travel experience.

This approach makes travel more feasible for all visitors.

Specialized Urban Transport

Tour & Unique Options

Tour Buses: Private companies offer city sightseeing tours covering major attractions.
Unique Local Transport: The most common specialized transport for rural Mongolia is the hardy 4x4 vehicle with an experienced local driver.
This is ideal for navigating challenging unpaved terrain and reaching remote destinations.

Excluded Options

Boat Taxis/Water Transport: Not applicable for Ulaanbaatar as it is not on a major navigable waterway for public or tourist use.
Cable Cars/Funiculars: Ulaanbaatar does not have these systems for public transport.
Hop-on-hop-off services: Not a widespread feature in Ulaanbaatar.

Mobility Warnings

Ulaanbaatar's public buses are generally not accessible for wheelchairs.
City traffic can be aggressive, with potholes and limited cyclist awareness.
Self-driving in rural areas presents significant challenges due to road conditions and navigation.
Unofficial taxis can be unregulated and risky, especially alone at night.

High risk of accidents on poor rural roads, especially at night.
Livestock frequently roam on rural roads, posing a common hazard.
Be vigilant about pickpockets in crowded markets and on public transport.
Avoid poorly lit or isolated areas after dark.

Final Navigation Thought

Ulaanbaatar offers varied transport modes.

For rural exploration, specialized vehicles with local drivers are the most practical solution.

Getting Around Ulaanbaatar