Mongolia : Safety by City
Mongolia is a land of vast open landscapes, rich nomadic culture, and rugged beauty that still flies under the radar for many travelers.
Wedged between Russia and China, it’s one of the world’s most sparsely populated countries, offering the kind of off-the-grid experience that’s hard to find elsewhere.
While its tourist numbers are growing, Mongolia still hasn’t hit one million visitors a year, making it one of the least-visited destinations in Asia.
Historically, Mongolia is best known as the birthplace of Genghis Khan and the Mongol Empire, which once stretched across Eurasia.
You can explore remnants of that past in places like Karakorum, the empire’s ancient capital, and through festivals, monuments, and museums throughout the country.
The Soviet era left its mark too, especially in the capital city, Ulaanbaatar, where communist-era buildings sit alongside modern glass towers and Buddhist monasteries.
Today, people come to Mongolia for a mix of natural and cultural experiences.
From the towering dunes of the Gobi Desert to the alpine beauty of Lake Khövsgöl, the scenery is diverse and dramatic.
Travelers can also experience traditional ger camps, witness the Naadam Festival’s sports competitions, or go hiking and horseback riding in the highlands.
It’s not a country built for casual travel. Distances are long and the infrastructure is limited, but for those seeking adventure, Mongolia delivers something real, raw, and rewarding.
Warnings & Dangers in Mongolia
OVERALL RISK: LOW
Mongolia is generally safe, especially if you stick to well-traveled routes and book through legitimate operators. That said, there's an underbelly of risks we need to go through. For a safe place, it has a lot of concerns.
TRANSPORT & TAXIS RISK: MEDIUM
Transport risk is moderate. Always use a legitimate taxi service booked through a service or your hotel. The bus system is prone to pickpockets lying in wait. Even driving yourself can put you in the throes of Mongolian road chaos. The safest choice is to let a legit tour company take care of transportation.
PICKPOCKETS RISK: LOW
The risk of pickpocketing is relatively low, but it happens in crowded markets, bus stops, and during festivals like Naadam. Most thefts are crimes of opportunity, not aggression. Carry your bag in front, skip the flashy accessories, and stay alert in public areas.
NATURAL DISASTERS RISK: LOW
Natural disasters aren't a major threat in Mongolia. Earthquakes are rare, and the biggest seasonal issue is severe winter cold or sudden dust storms. The risk is low overall, but weather-related disruptions, especially in the countryside, can change your plans fast.
MUGGING RISK: MEDIUM
This is a medium risk during certain times of the year, so read the latest government advisory to see how crime rates are trending. For the most part, the risks are contained in busy tourist areas where someone is letting their guard down or in the entertainment areas after dark.
TERRORISM RISK: LOW
Beyond the standard "terrorism can happen anywhere," this isn't a country where you need to be overly concerned about it. In fact, this might be the first country I've seen where the U.S. travel advisory doesn't even include the word "terrorism."
SCAMS RISK: MEDIUM
Scams are usually small-scale and involve inflated prices, fake guides, or dodgy taxi fares. The risk is moderate, especially for tourists unfamiliar with the currency or cultural cues. Then there's the fact that the tourism industry isn't regulated that much, and even the companies that are legit won't be up to the standards that Westerners expect. Due diligence is needed when booking trips or transportation.
WOMEN TRAVELERS RISK: HIGH
The U.S. advises women to avoid solo travel in Mongolia for a reason. Harassment and unwanted attention are more common outside the capital. While many women visit safely, the risk is higher than average if you’re traveling alone, especially at night or in rural areas. That risk does include sexual assaults.
TAP WATER RISK: HIGH
Tap water isn’t safe to drink in most parts of Mongolia. Locals boil it, and you should too. Better yet, stick to bottled or filtered water. The risk of waterborne illness is high enough to take seriously, especially if you're traveling outside major cities.
Safest Places to Visit in Mongolia
The official tourism website for Mongolia is Mongolia.travel.
The Ministry of Environment and Tourism runs it, but as of this publication, the website isn’t working.
You’ll find other websites, like Discover Mongolia and Tour Mongolia.
However, you should know that these are run by specific tour companies or travel agencies.
If you’re planning a trip, start with the capital, Ulaanbaatar.
It’s where you’ll find the National Museum of Mongolia, the Gandan Monastery, and the massive Genghis Khan statue complex just outside the city.
It’s also your best base for heading out into the rest of the country.
Most travelers head to the Gobi Desert to see towering sand dunes at Khongoryn Els, flaming cliffs at Bayanzag, and the unique wildlife of Yolyn Am gorge.
It’s remote, but worth it.
In central Mongolia, Karakorum offers a mix of history and scenery, with the ancient capital ruins and the impressive Erdene Zuu Monastery nearby.
If you’re more into mountains and lakes, the west is your spot.
Altai Tavan Bogd National Park has rugged peaks, glaciers, and eagle hunters still practicing traditional falconry.
Up north, Lake Khövsgöl is often called Mongolia’s version of Lake Baikal.
It’s the deepest lake in the world, surrounded by forest and herder communities.
For a cultural fix, time your visit with the Naadam Festival in July.
You’ll see wrestling, horse racing, and archery, the “three manly sports” of Mongolia.
Or take it slower and stay in a ger camp, where you can learn about nomadic traditions firsthand.
Places to Avoid in Mongolia
While there aren’t inherently dangerous parts of Mongolia, there’s a seedy side that comes out after dark.
First, know that crime will increase during major festivals, like July’s Naadam Festival or the Mongolian Lunar New Year in winter.
Second, alcohol is a big part of Mongolian culture, and it can even be seen as rude not to accept a drink from someone.
At the same time, alcohol-induced scams and fights happen all too often.
Even if you do enjoy the after-hours adventures, keep your wits about you.
Don’t travel alone and never rely on random taxis on the street to get you home safely.
Also, don’t take a shared taxi.
That’s usually a setup for a scam or robbery.
LGBTQ+ travelers have also reported street harassment or threats during their visit.
Safety Tips for Traveling to Mongolia
- You can call the police in Mongolia by dialing 102, but don’t expect fast or fluent service in English. Officers are usually helpful, but they’re often limited by a lack of resources, especially outside Ulaanbaatar.
- Mongolia doesn’t have a formal public emergency alert system for tourists. There’s no national app or text alert system. You’ll need to stay informed through your embassy, local news sites, and tour operators. Sign up for the U.S. State Department’s STEP program if you’re American.
- No vaccines are required for entry, but travelers should consider vaccinations for Hepatitis A and B, rabies, and typhoid. Mongolia also reports periodic outbreaks of diseases like anthrax and plague, mostly in rural areas. Tick-borne encephalitis is a low risk in the north. Talk to a travel clinic before your trip for up-to-date advice.
- To drive in Mongolia, you’ll need an International Driving Permit (IDP) along with your valid home country license. Some car rental companies may still deny you without a local translator or guide. Roads are rough, GPS is unreliable, and signage can be scarce.
- The official language is Mongolian, and English is not widely spoken outside tourist zones in Ulaanbaatar. Communication can be a challenge, especially in rural areas. Learn a few basic phrases or use a translation app. Don’t expect hotel or restaurant staff outside the capital to understand much English.
- Harassment is a real issue at night and in less-patrolled areas. Women walking alone and foreign men with Mongolian or Asian women are often targeted. It may start with name-calling or drunken comments and escalate to aggression. Stick to well-lit, busy streets, and don’t engage with provokers.
- Mongolia takes drug enforcement seriously, and foreigners are often seen as part of the problem. Even small amounts of marijuana can land you in prison for up to 12 years. Police conduct surprise searches in nightclubs and hotels. If you’re carrying any prescription medication, keep the paperwork on you.
- Stick to registered operators listed on the official tourism website or recommended by embassies and travel forums. Legitimate companies will clearly outline itineraries, offer receipts, and provide licensed guides. If a company doesn’t show their credentials or gives you the run around, walk away.
- You can’t import medicine into Mongolia without a doctor’s prescription, even for common over-the-counter drugs. Customs agents may confiscate or tax anything that looks suspicious, including vitamins. Stick to no more than two packages per item, and carry your prescriptions in their original containers with matching documents.
- Ulaanbaatar’s air quality in winter is among the worst in the world, thanks to coal stoves and stagnant cold air. If you have asthma or any respiratory condition, bring a high-quality mask like an N95 or KN95. Air purifiers aren’t widely available, and exposure can worsen symptoms fast in sub-zero temperatures.
So... How Safe Is Mongolia Really?
As of June 2025, the travel advisories for Mongolia are at the lowest level across the board.
The United States, Canada, and Australia all state that standard precautions are sufficient.
That’s a Level 1 risk on a scale that goes up to four.
Crime rates have been on the decline for several years now.
Even with that said, law enforcement across the country has started a Student Police program.
Through this initiative, dozens of students are brought in to help tourists during the summer peak season.
The biggest crime risks are petty theft, mostly during the summer and the Lunar New Year festival in winter.
On top of that, crime is generally contained to after dark around bars and nightclubs.
Common sense, situational awareness, and cultural respect go a long way toward enjoying your time in Mongolia.
How Does Mongolia Compare?
| Country | Safety Index |
|---|---|
| Mongolia | 71 |
| Djibouti | 38 |
| Croatia | 83 |
| Mexico | 65 |
| France | 64 |
| Puerto Rico | 34 |
| Somalia | 16 |
| United Kingdom | 77 |
| Peru | 50 |
Useful Information
Visas
Most visitors can stay in Mongolia up to 30 days without a visa through the “Years to Visit Mongolia” program, running through the end of 2025. Beyond that, check the updated guidance online. U.S. and many Western passport holders can stay up to 90 days visa-free. Your passport must be valid for at least six months, and everyone needs to register with immigration within 48 hours of arrival.
Currency
Mongolia’s currency is the Mongolian tugrik (MNT). It’s best to carry small notes (100, 500, 1000 MNT) outside Ulaanbaatar. U.S. dollars are widely accepted in rural areas and are easy to exchange.
Weather
Mongolia experiences extreme seasons. Summers (June–August) are warm, between 77° and 90°F, in Ulaanbaatar and hotter in the Gobi. Winters are brutally cold, often dropping below –20°F. Spring and autumn are brief and unpredictable, with dust storms or sudden snowstorms. Pack layers and plan visits based on seasonal climate needs.
Airports
Your entry point is usually Chinggis Khaan International Airport in Ulaanbaatar, which offers flights from Asia and Europe. Domestic carriers like Aero Mongolia and Hunnu Air connect regional cities. The TransMongolian Railway is another classic way to arrive.
Travel Insurance
Travel insurance for Mongolia isn’t legally required for entry, but it’s strongly recommended. If you're working with a tour operator, they will likely require that you have a policy with specific coverage. Ask when you're researching the companies.
Mongolia Weather Averages (Temperatures)
Average High/Low Temperature
| Temperature / Month | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| High °C |
-20 | -15 | -6 | 15 | 12 | 22 | 20 | 22 | 15 | 13 | 16 | -12 |
| Low °C |
-26 | -22 | -13 | 0 | 7 | 6 | 15 | 9 | 0 | -2 | 3 | -30 |
| High °F |
-4 | 5 | 21 | 59 | 54 | 72 | 68 | 72 | 59 | 55 | 61 | 10 |
| Low °F |
-15 | -8 | 9 | 32 | 45 | 43 | 59 | 48 | 32 | 28 | 37 | -22 |
Mongolia - Safety by City
| City | Safety Index |
|---|---|
| Ulaanbaatar | 43 |
A marvelous country
It’s a bit weird to see such a big difference in temperatures from -23 in January to 18 in June. We went there in May and it was around 7 degrees then. It was a good experience as we like to travel around the country and there are many beautiful places to see while traveling. The cities are interesting especially the capital and you also do need to stay a bit alert so you don’t get mugged or scammed.
Brave Mongolia on your Own
We were neither mugged nor scammed. However, at an outdoor market, a nice man with a young son warned us that pickpockets do exist. Few people speak English, a problem when we were trying to find a museum that was in a former movie theater. All the theater trappings were still on the building. No mention of a museum! It took us about a half hour to find an English speaker who pointed us to the right place.
Anyone who figured us for being American asked if we could get them a McDonald’s since they were the only Central Asian country without one. There was even a joke one on the internet. However, they do have KFC and Burger King near the Holiday Day Inn Hotel. And a burger joint whose meat is rolled in ground charcoal before grilling. Weird but not deadly.
We stayed at Holiday Inn at one end of town and Best Western at the other so we would have an English speaking base. We accepted the offer of HI to pick us up at the airport for around $50. Turns out it is far and that night they had their first snow. Their working hours are very unusual. They are up and around until midnight but still sleeping at 10 am. Streets are empty until then.
One of the HI employees arranged a day trip to the mountains and an old temple plus the giant statue of Gengis Khan on horseback. It turns out that there is an independent hotel on the outskirts of town where you can stay in a glorified ger (their word for yurt). Next to Holiday Inn is a local community of people with houses plus a ger. The ger is like having a garage (which they did not have) for storing your stuff. Best Western is near the government buildings and expensive shops. Near the art museum you can find a huge department store full of western products. We stayed 4 days which was plenty for the city. We did pass up the camping experience as we are seniors.
All I can say is “GO!!”
We flew Mongolian Air non-stop in a new jet from Tokyo. That was totally the best choice.
The capital also has an art museum that is very interesting as it is broken into three parts (pre Soviet, Soviet and current. You can readily see big differences in style as the country changed.