Getting Around in Mongolia

Getting Around in Mongolia

Getting Around in Mongolia

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Getting around in Mongolia is no small feat, especially in a country three times the size of France with virtually no road network. Of course, a highway corridor does exist, with 1,300 km of paved roads connecting the country's major points and linking principal cities such as Erdenet, Moron, Ulgi… However, for those seeking a

11 Dec. 2015

Getting around in Mongolia is no small feat, especially in a country three times the size of France with virtually no road network. Of course, a highway corridor does exist, with 1,300 km of paved roads connecting the country's major points and linking principal cities such as Erdenet, Moron, Ulgi… However, for those seeking a touch of escape or adventure, it is only once you venture off the beaten path that you will experience the true Mongolie. Thus, those with an adventurous spirit would be strongly tempted to travel by their own means to encounter these nomadic peoples, so renowned for their hospitality, before venturing into this picturesque landscape.

However, be warned: driving in Mongolie requires expertise and dexterity. We, dependent on these 21st-century gadgets and colorful signs that make our daily driving pleasant, must rely on cunning and intuition to navigate these vast lands. Indeed, once you leave the towns, signposts become rare, and you must trust your instincts or your faithful road maps. If, like me, you possess a sense of direction equal to zero, I strongly recommend renting the services of a guide and driver, who will not only make your life easier but also save you time. Since roads are virtually non-existent, you must know how to drive on all terrain and be comfortable with mechanics. Breakdowns and flat tires will be part of the experience.

During your stay, you will be surprised and admiring of these Mongols who navigate as easily as one would in a supermarket. One might think this geolocation intuition is written in their genes. Another observation that will always amaze me is seeing with what confidence they venture into the countryside in their city vehicles, crossing with ease these fords or passages where only an American monster truck would pass.

Shagaa

Our Drivers

Depending on group size and client wishes, we primarily offer two types of vehicles: the Japanese 4x4 or the Russian van. The latter, known for its robustness, is the ideal all-purpose vehicle for rugged Mongolian terrain. The drivers we employ guarantee expertise and professionalism throughout your stay. Have no fear when you see them traverse the horizon at a confident pace and brave natural obstacles.

Public Transport

Another option is to use public transport and travel from city to city. You have buses departing from the capital for Moron, Khovd, Olgi… Once there, you will need to find local buses or drivers to reach your final destination. This can be difficult if you do not speak the language.

Domestic Flights

It is possible to reach major cities via various national airlines Hunnu air and Aero Mongolia, saving you a day of travel. However, note that flights are suspended from September 15 to June 15; meaning you must use land transport during this period.

Getting Around in the City

Since August of this year, notable changes have occurred in the capital's public transport. New buses have been put into circulation, and a magnetic card system is now in effect. Numerous buses serve the city and its surroundings. A journey costs 500 tugriks. Now, you must board at the front of the bus and insert your money into the terminal next to the driver. If you lack change, you can wait for the next passenger to board to exchange money. Bus stops are easy to spot downtown, but once you venture outside the perimeter, they become non-existent. You will have to rely on the few people gathered who appear to be waiting for something. Be careful: if you need to take it during rush hour, be sure to keep your valuables close to you.

Another option is to take a taxi.

Much to the amusement of passersby, you will observe at every street corner numerous people with outstretched arms and dangling hands, hailing drivers. Indeed, many unofficial taxis will stop to offer you a ride. Depending on the journey, you will be asked for 3,000 to 4,000 tugriks. If you wish to call an official taxi, here is the number of one of the companies: 190011991

Charlène Nomadays
An English-speaking SEO writer from Nomadays' early days, Charlène has evolved into content manager and head of communications, accompanying the adventure since its beginnings with passion and dedication. After living seven years in Asia—from China to Thailand, passing through Mongolie and South Korea—she has made travel a way of being in the world. A lover of words, nature, and human connection, she is committed to conveying in her writing a sensitive, engaged, and responsible vision of tourism. Each article is for her a bridge between curiosity, respect, and wonder.

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