Safety Tips & Health Advice for Traveling in Mongolia

Mongolia is one of the safest travel destinations in the world—friendly people, low crime rates, and peaceful countryside. However, the country’s vast wilderness, long distances, and extreme weather mean travelers should be well prepared. Here is everything you need to know to stay safe and healthy on your journey.

🦺 1. General Safety Tips

✔ Mongolia is very safe

Crime against tourists is rare, especially in rural areas.

✔ In Ulaanbaatar

• Be mindful of pickpockets in busy areas
• Avoid walking alone late at night in unfamiliar neighborhoods
• Use official taxis or ride-hailing apps

✔ Keep valuables secure

• Use a money belt or zipper bag
• Do not leave belongings unattended in public

🛣 2. Countryside & Off-Road Safety

Most of Mongolia is remote and off-road. Traveling with caution is essential.

✔ Always travel with:

• A local driver or guide
• A reliable 4x4 vehicle
• Spare tires & tools

✔ Expect long driving hours

6–9 hours a day is normal on countryside routes.

✔ Check distances realistically

Google Maps may not account for off-road terrain.

✔ Fuel stations are limited

Vehicles fill up whenever possible.

🐎 3. Animal & Nature Safety

Nomadic animals roam freely—be cautious on foot and on the road.

✔ Around livestock:

• Don’t walk behind horses (kicking risk)
• Don’t chase goats, sheep, or yaks
• Avoid guard dogs near gers

✔ Wildlife:

• Wolves and bears exist, but avoid humans
• Be cautious around marmots in plague-season areas (guides will advise)

✔ Nature safety:

• Don’t climb unstable rocks
• Stay on known trails
• Respect rivers—water levels can rise fast

🔥 4. Weather & Climate Safety

✔ In Summer:

• High UV → Wear sunscreen & hat
• Sudden storms → Carry a rain jacket
• Heat in the Gobi → Drink water regularly

✔ In Autumn:

• Rapid temperature drops
• Early snow in Altai & Khuvsgul

✔ In Winter:

• Extreme cold → –25°C to –40°C
• Frostbite risk → Wear thermal layers
• Keep electronics warm

✔ In Spring:

• Strong winds & dust storms in desert areas

Weather can change fast—always pack layers.

💧 5. Health & Hygiene Tips

✔ Water Safety

• Drink bottled or boiled water
• Avoid tap water
• Brush teeth with clean water

✔ Food Safety

• Rural food is fresh but simple
• Avoid raw meat
• Inform your guide of allergies

✔ Personal Hygiene

• Carry hand sanitizer
• Bring wet wipes (for remote areas)
• Use sunscreen daily

🧳 6. Medical Preparedness

✔ Bring personal medications

Pharmacies in rural areas are extremely limited.

✔ Recommended items:

• Pain relievers
• Anti-diarrhea tablets
• Allergy medicine
• Motion sickness pills (long drives)
• Band-aids & basic first aid
• Rehydration salts

✔ Health facilities:

• Ulaanbaatar → modern hospitals
• Rural areas → basic clinics

Travel insurance is strongly recommended.

⛰ 7. Altitude & Trekking Safety

Some regions like Altai Mountains reach high altitudes.

✔ Tips:

• Drink plenty of water
• Ascend gradually
• Rest if you feel dizzy or fatigued
• Listen to your guide

🔌 8. Technology & Connectivity Safety

✔ Electricity

• Most ger camps have limited electricity hours
• Bring power banks
• Charge devices whenever possible

✔ Connectivity

• Countryside → little to no signal
• Buy a local SIM card for UB & towns
• Download offline maps

🔥 9. Fire & Stove Safety in Gers

Ger stoves become very hot.

✔ Safety rules:

• Do not place clothing near stove
• Keep children away
• Use gloves when adding firewood
• Open the door carefully—wind may blow ashes

🤝 10. Cultural Safety Tips

Respect builds trust and ensures a safe experience.

✔ Ask before taking photos

Especially of families, elders, and shamans.

✔ Do not step on the ger threshold

It is considered disrespectful.

✔ Do not lean on center poles

They symbolize the strength of the home.

✔ Accept food with right hand or both hands

A sign of politeness.

🚨 11. Emergency Tips

✔ Emergency numbers:

• Police: 102
• Ambulance: 103
• Fire: 101

✔ If traveling off-road:

Your driver/guide will handle communication via:

• Satellite phone (in remote areas)
• Local networks when available

🌟 Why Mongolia Is a Safe Destination

✔ Very low crime rate
✔ Friendly, helpful locals
✔ Wide open spaces with fresh air
✔ Peaceful nomadic culture
✔ Strong hospitality traditions

With basic preparation and awareness, you will enjoy a safe, smooth, and unforgettable journey across one of Earth’s greatest wilderness destinations.