Overview
Mongolia is a landlocked country in East Asia, located between Russia and China. With only around 3 million inhabitants, this large country has one of the lowest average population densities in the world. Mongolia’s landscape is relatively untouched, consisting of deserts and semi deserts, as well as forested mountain ranges and lake-dotted basins. About three-quarters of the landscape is made up of pasture lands, which support the large number of livestock for which Mongolia is well known. In this fascinating country, meet nomadic communities, see the two-humped Bactrian camel, explore the Gobi desert and visit the world’s oldest national park. For first-time travellers, a well-rounded Mongolia travel guide helps highlight the most rewarding experiences and key things to do in Mongolia.
Bogd Khan Uul National Park is the world’s oldest national park established in 1778. It’s half an hour drive from the city of Ulaanbaatar (the only city in Mongolia) and is home to the historic Manzushir monastery. This protected area is often listed among the best places to visit in Mongolia, combining natural scenery with cultural heritage and easy access from the capital.
Gobi Gurvansaikhan National Park, located in the northern region of the Gobi desert, is the largest national park in Mongolia and the second most protected. The park is made up of mountains, dunes, salt wetlands, dry valleys and oases. It’s also home to over 52 mammal species and over 200 bird species. Mammals of the area include the snow leopard, Gobi bear, wildcat and Siberian ibex. In this massive park, activities vary from hiking and cycling to camel safaris, horse riding, camping and bird watching. As one of the most iconic Mongolia national parks, it plays a central role in shaping many itineraries focused on the best places to visit in Mongolia.
Altai Tavan Bogd National Park is in western Mongolia, accessed by a two-hour flight from Ulaanbaatar to Ulgii town then roughly an 8-hour drive on dirt roads. As well as the highest mountains in Mongolia, the Tavan Bogd mountain range, the area consists of about 100,000 acres of forest and mountain, surrounded by grasslands. Here visitors can spot the Siberian deer, Siberian ibex, wild boar and many species of birds including the buzzard, woodpecker, and stork. Activities include hiking, climbing and bird watching.
Khyargas Nuur National Park wraps around the Khyargas Nuur lake, a huge saline lake over 75 km wide, surrounded by desert and scrub grass. On the lake’s north west shore, a gravel beach can be found which is popular with visitors who come to picnic, sunbathe and swim. The lake’s main attraction is a massive rock that sticks out of the water and attracts migratory cormorants and a variety of other bird life. At Khyargas, swim, picnic, bird watch or go on a lake safari.
FAQ - Safari in Mongolia
First-time travellers to Mongolia often visit the Gobi Desert, Ulaanbaatar, and iconic national parks like Bogd Khan Uul and Gobi Gurvansaikhan. These destinations offer a mix of culture, wildlife, and dramatic landscapes. They are widely considered some of the best places to visit in Mongolia for an introductory trip.
Popular things to do in Mongolia include exploring vast national parks, meeting nomadic families, riding camels in the Gobi Desert, and hiking mountain ranges like Altai Tavan Bogd. Wildlife watching and birding are also major highlights. A well-planned Mongolia travel guide helps prioritise experiences based on season and travel style.
Mongolia national parks such as Gobi Gurvansaikhan, Altai Tavan Bogd, Bogd Khan Uul, and Khyargas Nuur showcase the country’s ecological diversity. These parks protect deserts, mountains, forests, and lakes while offering opportunities for hiking, wildlife spotting, and cultural encounters. Visiting multiple parks gives a deeper understanding of Mongolia’s landscapes.
Yes, Mongolia is ideal for travellers seeking remote and nature-based adventures. Activities range from hiking, cycling, and horse riding to camping and camel safaris in expansive wilderness areas. Mongolia’s low population density makes it especially appealing for off-the-beaten-path exploration.
Most travellers spend 10 to 14 days in Mongolia to explore key regions without rushing. This allows time for travel between remote areas, visiting national parks, and experiencing nomadic culture. Shorter trips usually focus on one or two regions such as the Gobi Desert or central Mongolia.
Mongolia is generally safe for tourists, particularly those travelling with experienced local guides. The main challenges relate to long distances, rough roads, and weather conditions rather than crime. Using a reliable Mongolia travel guide and organised tours helps ensure a smooth and safe journey.
Guided tours are strongly recommended in Mongolia due to the country’s vast size and limited infrastructure. Local guides provide navigation, cultural insight, and logistical support in remote regions. For many visitors, guided trips are the most efficient way to experience the best places to visit in Mongolia.
