Mongolia might not be the first place you think of for budget travel, but it’s actually a great destination for saving money. You can explore vast landscapes, stay in cozy yurts, and experience local life without breaking the bank. Here’s how to travel to Mongolia on a budget while still having an incredible adventure.
Accommodation
Guesthouses and Hostels
In Ulaanbaatar, the capital, you’ll find plenty of guesthouses and hostels. Dorm rooms are very budget-friendly, usually costing between $10 to $20 per night. Some even include breakfast. These places are a great way to meet other travelers and get advice on exploring Mongolia.
Ger Camps
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Outside the city, you can stay in traditional Mongolian gers (yurts). Ger camps can be surprisingly affordable, and many offer meals and tours. Expect to pay around $15 to $25 per night. Some camps even let you work in exchange for a place to stay, which can be a great way to extend your travels without spending too much.
Homestays
Don’t overlook homestays. Many nomadic families open their homes to travelers. It’s an overnight stay and cultural experience rolled into one. Prices vary, but it’s typically between $10 to $20 per night. It’s a perfect way to learn about the local lifestyle.
Food
Mongolia isn’t known for gourmet food, but you can still eat well without spending much.
Street Food and Markets
Street food is your friend! Pick up things like dumplings (buuz) or meat pies (khuushuur) for just a few dollars. Local markets are also a good spot to buy snacks, water, and cheap meals. The food may be simple, but it’s filling and affordable.
Cook Your Own Meals
If you’re on a real shoestring budget, consider buying groceries and preparing your own meals, especially if your guesthouse or hostel has a kitchen. Doing a little bit of cooking yourself is a great way to save some cash and eat more affordably.
Local Restaurants
Sit-down restaurants can be inexpensive if you choose local eateries. Stick with Mongolian dishes like stews, soups, and noodles, which cost around $5 to $10 per meal. Avoid Western-style restaurants—they tend to be much pricier.
Transportation
Within Cities
Ulaanbaatar has a decent bus system. A single ride only costs about $0.30, making it a super affordable way to get around the city. It’s also a walkable city if you’re staying centrally, so you could save more money by skipping transportation altogether.
Travel Between Cities
For longer distances, you have a few budget-friendly options. Public buses and shared vans (minivans) are cheap ways to travel between towns. Tickets can cost anywhere between $10 and $20, depending on how far you’re going.
Hitchhiking
Mongolia is one of the best places to hitchhike. Locals often offer lifts—and sometimes expect a small payment—but it’s still cheaper than renting a car or taking a bus. Just be prepared for long waits between rides in remote areas.
Train Travel
If you’re heading to faraway places like the Gobi Desert or the Russian border, consider trains. Second-class tickets are reasonably priced, costing around $20 to $30 depending on the distance. The journey might take longer, but it’s a relaxing way to see the countryside.
Attractions
One of the best things about Mongolia is that its natural beauty is free. You can explore vast open spaces without worrying about entrance fees.
National Parks and Nomadic Life
Entry to most national parks is either free or costs very little. For example, Terelj National Park near Ulaanbaatar charges a small entrance fee—about $3 to $5. If you’re up for some adventure, just camp in the wilderness for free or a small fee in designated areas.
Many locals are happy to show travelers around their nomadic camps and share their way of life. If you stay with them, you may end up going horseback riding, milking yaks, or taking part in their day-to-day work as part of the experience.
Museums and Monasteries
Most history museums and monasteries have minimal entrance fees, often around $1 to $5. Visit the Gandan Monastery in Ulaanbaatar for a dose of culture. It’s one of the more popular attractions, and it’s very affordable.
Budget-Friendly Destinations
Ulaanbaatar
Though it’s the most expensive part of Mongolia, Ulaanbaatar still has a lot to offer on a budget. Visit the National Museum of Mongolia, take a walk around the Buddhist Gandan Monastery, or just wander through the local markets. Take in the daily life of the capital without spending much.
Gobi Desert
The Gobi Desert is one of Mongolia’s top highlights. While getting there requires some transportation spending, once you’re there, camping in the desert can be a budget-friendly experience. Similarly, visiting the sand dunes, Flaming Cliffs, and other natural sites won’t cost a fortune.
Orkhon Valley
Orkhon Valley is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and an excellent budget destination. You can camp or stay in a ger on the cheap. The valley is ideal for hiking, horse trekking, and seeing ancient ruins—all without paying hefty fees.
Cheap or Free Activities
Outdoor Adventures
The beauty of Mongolia is in its outdoors. Hiking, camping, and exploring its open landscapes don’t cost much. You can trek through mountains, camp under the stars, or take in the endless steppes—free of charge or for a small camping fee.
Attend a Festival
If you time your trip with the Naadam Festival in July, you’ll get to see an incredible tradition. Naadam features events like horse racing, wrestling, and archery. While the events may have low ticket prices, you can often catch local celebrations for free once you’re in town.
Explore Ulaanbaatar on Foot
Walking around the capital is both healthy and easy on the wallet. Visit Sukhbaatar Square, check out local shops, or take a stroll in Nairamdal Park. It’s a good way to soak in the city sights without spending anything.
Go Horseback Riding
In rural areas, short horseback tours can be quite affordable. You will usually find local people offering their horses at reasonable rates—around $10 for a short ride. Some families might even let you ride for free if you’re staying overnight with them.
Tours and Guides
If you want to join a tour group, opt for local operators. Tours aimed at foreigners can be expensive, while Mongolian-run operations tend to offer much better prices. Multi-day tours can cost anywhere from $50 to $100 per day with all-inclusive options. However, do some research, as prices vary greatly based on the type of tour and region you want to visit.
Independent Travel
If you’re adventurous, Mongolia is ideal for independent travelers. Renting a motorbike or even a 4×4 with a group of friends can significantly cut down the cost of seeing remote regions. The initial cost may seem high, but splitting it among a group makes it cheaper than joining overpriced tours.
Extra Tips for Saving Money in Mongolia
Here are a few more quick tips for stretching your dollar while traveling through Mongolia:
- Stick to local transportation like public buses and shared vans; avoid taxis as they charge a premium, especially in Ulaanbaatar.
- Use ride-sharing apps like UBCab for cheaper rides in the capital.
- Visit during the shoulder season (May or September) when accommodation prices are lower, and there are fewer tourists.
- If you’re traveling long-term, consider volunteering through work exchange platforms. You can trade labor for room and board, making it easy to save for your next leg of travel.
Conclusion
Traveling in Mongolia on a budget is completely possible. With a mix of local food, affordable accommodation, and free or cheap outdoor activities, you can experience the country’s natural beauty, nomadic culture, and rich history without overspending. Just prepare for some long rides and simple meals, and you’ll come back with memorable stories and money left in your pocket.
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