Camping in Mongolia: Tips for an Unforgettable Adventure

Picture yourself riding horseback through vast, untamed expanses, setting up camp under the vast Mongolian sky, and immersing yourself in the unique nomadic culture. Welcome to the captivating world of camping in Mongolia! In this blog post, we will guide you through every aspect of a once-in-a-lifetime Mongolian adventure traveling around this vast country, from selecting the best time to visit and essential camping gear to discovering the most breathtaking camping sites and engaging in thrilling outdoor activities.

We will also share valuable insights on responsible camping practices, interacting with local nomadic families, and ensuring your safety during your journey. So, saddle up, and let’s begin this unforgettable odyssey through the land of the blue sky!

Highlights of camping in Mongolia

• Experience Mongolia’s breathtaking beauty with camping between May and mid-October!
• Pack quality gear, supplies & horses for a safe adventure & explore top sites like Lake Khovsgol, Amarbayasgalant Monastery & Elsen Tasarkhai sand dunes!
• Stay safe by following responsible practices such as Leave No Trace principles and emergency preparedness while packing the right items for an unforgettable experience.

Best Time for Camping in Mongolia

When planning your Mongolian adventure, timing matters a lot. The ideal window for camping in Mongolia is between May and mid-October, with the high season from June to September offering the most pleasant weather and a myriad of outdoor activities. During this period, the Gobi Desert and green hills come alive, creating unforgettable landscapes that will take your breath away.

The high season also sees average temperatures ranging from 25°C to 38°C (77°F to 100°F). As the weather in Mongolia can vary greatly throughout the year, packing a sleeping bag that can handle such temperatures and choosing wind-stable tents can provide a comfortable camping experience.

Essential Camping Gear and Equipment

A successful and safe camping trip in Mongolia hinges on having quality camping gear and equipment. From tents to sleeping bags, it’s important to invest in gear that meets Western safety standards to guarantee your comfort and protection during your trip.

AVIS Mongolia self drive tours include modern high quality, reliable and very comfortable camping gear like hard shell roof top tents, shower tents, cooking and dining gear as well as optional high speed sattelite internet.

Additionally, be mindful of possible water flows after a rain when camping near lakes or dry river beds and always use wind-stable tents for a comfortable and secure sleep.

When choosing clothing for camping in Mongolia, select garments that are sturdy and warm enough to withstand temperatures below 10 Degrees Celsius in summer and below freezing temperatures in spring and autumn.

The Elsen Tasarkhai sand dunes, located west of Ulaanbaatar, are a popular camping destination.

Best rental cars for a camping trip in Mongolia

TOYOTA Landcruiser 76

Toyota Landcruiser 76 is the perfect car to explore Mongolia. The newest generation of Toyota Landcruiser 76 is available with manual and automatic transmission configurations. The spacious car can sit up to 5 passengers comfortably, while having a large trunk to carry luaggage and camping gear.

TOYOTA Landcruiser 76 with roof top tent configuration is ideal for camping in Mongolia. A hardshell tent protects against wind, which can be strong during night in the Gobi. A thick mattress guarantees good sleep. The tent is easy to open and close within a minute.

TOYOTA Landcruiser 78

The TOYOTA Landcruiser 78 is ideal for a camping adventure during the colder months for two passengers. The integrated rooftop tent can be accessed from within the cabin. A  parking heater provides warm temperatures inside the cabin all night.

A small kitchen cabinet inside the cabin is ideal to prepare a meal while staying warm. The vehicle is a two seater.

Top Camping Sites in Mongolia

Mongolia offers an incredible array of picturesque and unique camping sites, each with its distinct charm. Some of the must-visit sites include:

• Lake Khovsgol
• Amarbayasgalant Monastery
• Tsagaan Suvraga
• Orkhon Valley
• Gorkhi-Terelj National Park
• Elsen Tasarkhai sand dunes

Lake Khovsgol, located in the north of Mongolia, is known for its pristine condition and stunning panorama of surrounding mountains. The Gorkhi-Terelj National Park, on the other hand, boasts breathtaking mountainous landscapes, serene rivers, lush forests, and awe-inspiring rock formations.

The Orkhon Valley is an incredibly significant site and the birthplace of nomadic life in Mongolia. This former center of power for the Mongols is home to several monuments, the former capital Karakorum, and the magnificent Ulaan Tsutgalan waterfall.

Each of these camping sites offers a unique experience, allowing you to create unforgettable memories during your Mongolian adventure.

Wild Camping Tips and Regulations

Wild camping is legal in Mongolia, making it the perfect destination for an immersive outdoor experience. To fully enjoy your wild camping adventure, knowing the rules and regulations is important, as well as practical tips for setting up a tent and managing food and water supplies.

Find a sheltered area when setting up your tent. Preferably choose a spot where the morning sun shines early on your tent and you can enjoy the night sky. Avoid placing your tent under trees, dried-out riverbeds, and staying too close to any body of water.

Manage your food and water supplies by:

• Stocking up on fresh produce, meat, and other essentials from big supermarkets in Ulaanbaatar before setting off
• Using iodine drops or water treatment tablets to ensure a safe and enjoyable camping experience
• Boiling water before drinking

Maintain proper hygiene while camping in Mongolia by:

• wearing bright clothing
• avoiding perfume and aftershave
• using insect repellents
• camping away from water sources to minimize mosquito bites
• burning cow dung to keep insects at bay

By following these tips and regulations, you can make the most of your wild camping adventure in Mongolia.

Staying at Ger Camps

For those seeking an authentic Mongolian experience, staying at a traditional ger camp is an excellent choice. Ger camps offer cozy accommodations, communal meals, and cultural activities that allow you to immerse yourself in the local way of life.

Most ger camps provide basic facilities such as a toilet and shower block, and electricity running from a central generator. The Three Eagle Camp, for example, offers exciting activities like hiking and horseback riding while giving you the opportunity to interact with local families. Choosing a ger camp allows for a unique and memorable stay that truly encapsulates the essence of Mongolia.

Horseback Riding and Other Outdoor Activities

Mongolia is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts, offering a wide array of activities such as:

• Horseback riding
• Hiking
• Mountain trekking
• Visiting nomadic families

Horseback riding is an exhilarating experience that allows you to connect with the timeless nomadic traditions while exploring the vast, untamed steppes of Mongolia.

For adventure seekers, mountain trekking in the Altai Mountains presents a thrilling challenge. As you ascend, marvel at the sweeping plains, shimmering rivers, and distant snow-capped peaks that make Mongolia a truly unforgettable destination.

Visiting nomadic families is another enriching experience, allowing you to share stories, learn about their unique traditions, and gain insights into their symbiotic relationship with the land.

Responsible Camping Practices

Camping responsibly in Mongolia not only protects the environment and preserves cultural heritage but also generates income for local communities. By following responsible camping practices, such as adhering to Leave No Trace principles and using eco-friendly camping options, you can help promote sustainable tourism in the country.

Some guidelines for responsible camping include:

• Camping for one night only in public areas
• Avoiding private property
• Choosing campsites with good water and grass
• Practicing environmentally responsible camping practices
• Supporting local businesses to contribute positively to the communities you visit during your Mongolian adventure.

Tips for Interacting with Local Nomads

One should respect the customs and traditions of Mongolian nomads when interacting with them. Mongolian people are incredibly hospitable, so be polite, appreciative, and open-minded when engaging with them.

Embrace the customs and traditions of Mongolian nomads with enthusiasm, and be excited to learn from their way of life. By showing genuine interest and respect for their culture, you’ll create lasting connections and memories during your Mongolian adventure.

Safety Precautions and Emergency Preparedness

Being aware of potential safety risks and taking necessary precautions is important when camping in Mongolia. Be mindful of wild animals such as bears and wolves, and know how to deal with them if encountered. Make sure to bring essential safety equipment, such as a filtration pump for water and a first aid kit.

Be aware of common health risks or diseases in Mongolia, such as:

• Chikungunya
• Crimean-Congo hemorrhagic fever
• Leishmaniasis
• Scrub typhus

By knowing how to purify drinking water when camping and staying vigilant, you can ensure a safe and enjoyable trip.

Planning Your Camping Itinerary

Begin planning your camping itinerary in Mongolia by examining different regions and deciding on the length of your trip. Identify points of interest and allocate time for camping while considering transportation options. Popular routes for a camping trip in Mongolia include the Classic Mongolia Loop, Discovering Khövsgöl Nuur, and An Altai Mountains Odyssey.

Book your trip with reputable tour operators, such as Nomadic Journeys and Sunpath-Mongolia Tour Operator. Allocate at least 1-2 weeks to fully experience the beauty and adventure of Mongolia, with the best time for camping being from May to mid-October.

Things to pack for camping

For a successful trip, packing the right items for your Mongolian camping adventure is important. Essential items include:

• Portable light down jacket
• Cap
• Sunglasses
• Water bottle
• Portable charger
• Phone and earpiece
• Thin scarf
• Underwear
• Socks
• Pajamas
• Long pants
• Shorts
• T-shirts
• Thin long sleeve shirts
• Sweater
• Large flexible bag
• Backpack
• Headlamp
• Rubber slippers
• Binoculars
• Camera
• Camera accessories
• Personal medication
• Warm clothing

When choosing clothing, pack a mixture of tanks, short-sleeve and long-sleeve shirts, and consider wearing long-sleeved insulated shirts under a fleece layer for colder days. Don’t forget essential camping equipment like a large flexible bag, backpack, headlamp, rubber slippers, binoculars, and a camera.

By packing these essential items, you’ll be well-prepared for your unforgettable camping experience in Mongolia. So get your gear ready and prepare for a once-in-a-lifetime adventure!

Summary

Camping in Mongolia offers a unique and unforgettable experience, immersing you in the country’s breathtaking landscapes and rich cultural heritage. From planning your itinerary and packing essential gear to exploring the best camping sites and engaging in thrilling outdoor activities, this blog post has provided everything you need to embark on a once-in-a-lifetime Mongolian adventure.

As you set off on your journey, remember to camp responsibly, interact respectfully with local nomads, and embrace the customs and traditions of this fascinating country. The memories and connections you create during your Mongolian camping adventure will undoubtedly last a lifetime.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I camp anywhere in Mongolia?

Yes! You can legally camp in Mongolia, just be sure to avoid setting up under trees and dried riverbeds. Have an amazing time!

Can you camp in the Gobi Desert?

If you're looking for an adventure and don't mind the cold, camping in the Gobi Desert can be a great experience! Enjoy nights at remote sites, surrounded by silence and brilliant stars, or bask in the winter sun with sweeping landscapes - it's up to you!

What country has the best camping?

Mongolia is the ultimate destination for a camping adventure! The countrys nomadic culture with a third of the population still following it makes the country a camping nation. Freedom to choose any camping spot and moving with the weather and climate make it very unique to camp in Mongolia.

What is a ger camp in Mongolia?

Experience the traditional Mongolian nomadic lifestyle with a stay at an Orkhon Valley Ger Camp – traditional yurt tents specially built and operated for visitors!

When is the best time for camping in Mongolia?

Camping in Mongolia is best from May to mid-October, with the high season from June to September for the best weather and outdoor activities.

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