When is the best time to visit Mongolia?
Welcome to Mongolia, a country unlike any other! With its vast, sweeping landscapes, rich cultural traditions and a history that spans thousands of years, Mongolia is a fascinating destination.
If you’re thinking of planning a trip to Mongolia, you may be wondering when is the best time to go. With its wide range of climates and weather patterns it can be difficult to know when the best time to visit is. We will explore the different seasons in Mongolia and highlight the best things to do during each one to help you plan your trip and travel with confidence...
Low season
The low season in Mongolia runs from November to February and is characterized by cold, snowy weather. For those who love the snow the low season can actually be a great time to visit The main advantage of visiting Mongolia during the low season is that there are far fewer tourists and you can enjoy Mongolia’s popular destinations without having to worry about the crowds.
Best things to do in Mongolia during the low season
Visit the Tsaatan people, a tribe of reindeer herders that live in the far north of the country. During the winter months, they migrate southward to avoid the worst of the cold weather so it becomes possible to visit their camps and learn about their way of life.
Go dog sledding. With so much snow on the ground, it’s the perfect time to explore the countryside on a sled pulled by a team of eager dogs. You can even take a multi-day trip and camp out in the wilderness, experiencing Mongolia’s rugged beauty up close.
Visit lake Khovsgol, frozen from November to May it becomes a glacial playground.
Shoulder season
The shoulder season in Mongolia runs from March through May and September through October. During these months, the weather is mild and pleasant, with occasional rain and snow showers. This is a great time to visit Mongolia if you’re looking for a balance between good weather and fewer crowds.
Best things to do during the shoulder season
Explore the stunning landscapes of Mongolia’s national parks. With the weather just right, you can hike through the mountains, go bird watching and see if you can spot the elusive snow leopard.
Visit Mongolia’s many monasteries and temples. With fewer tourists around, you’ll be able to enjoy a more peaceful and contemplative experience, learning about the rich spiritual traditions of this fascinating country.
High season
The high season in Mongolia runs from June through August, and is characterized by warm, sunny weather. This is the peak tourist season in Mongolia, so be prepared for crowds and higher prices.
Best things to do during the high season
Visit Mongolia’s famous Naadam Festival, which takes place in July. A celebration of Mongolian culture, it features traditional sports like wrestling, archery and horse racing. It’s a great opportunity to see the country at its most vibrant and colourful.
Explore the stunning Gobi Desert. With warm weather and clear skies, explore the dunes, visit ancient ruins and even stay with a nomadic family to learn about their way of life.
Mongolia weather by the seasons
Mongolia experiences four distinct seasons, with temperatures ranging from below freezing in the winter to above 30°C (86°F) in the summer. The best time to visit Mongolia depends on your interests and the type of experience you’re looking for. Here’s a breakdown of the weather by season:
Winter in Mongolia (November to February)
Extremely cold with snow and occasional blizzards, temperatures can drop to -30°C (-22°F) or even lower.
Spring in Mongolia (March to May)
Mild temperatures with occasional rain and snow showers, temperatures range from 5°C (41°F) to 15°C (59°F).
Summer in Mongolia (June to August)
Warm and sunny, with temperatures ranging from 20°C (68°F) to 30°C (86°F).
Autumn in Mongolia (September to October)
Mild temperatures with occasional rain and snow showers, temperatures range from 5°C (41°F) to 15°C (59°F).
Best season to visit Mongolia
The best season to visit Mongolia really depends on your interests and preferences. If you’re looking for fewer crowds and the chance to experience Mongolia’s stunning winter landscapes, the low season is a great time to visit. If you prefer milder weather and a balance between good weather and fewer crowds, the shoulder season is the way to go. However, if you want to experience Mongolia’s more vibrant and colourful cultural festivals, the high season is the time to visit.
Things to do in Mongolia
No matter when you visit Mongolia there are plenty of amazing things to see and do. Here are just a few:
- Explore the stunning landscapes of Mongolia’s national parks, including Altai Tavan Bogd, Gorkhi-Terelj, and Hustai.
- Visit the capital city of Ulaanbaatar with its bustling markets, museums, and cultural attractions.
- Experience the nomadic way of life by staying with a family in the countryside.
- Learn about Mongolia’s rich spiritual traditions by visiting monasteries and temples.
- Go horseback riding, hiking, or camping in the countryside.
When not to go to Mongolia
While Mongolia is an amazing destination at any time of year there are a few times when it’s best to avoid visiting:
Avoid travelling to Mongolia during the peak of winter (December to February) as temperatures can be dangerously cold and travel can be difficult.
Avoid visiting during Mongolia’s peak tourist season (June to August) if you prefer fewer crowds and lower prices.
How long should you go to Mongolia for?
Mongolia is a vast country with a lot to see, so it would be recommended to spend at least two weeks here to get a taste of what it has to offer. However, if you have more time, extending your trip to three or four weeks would enable you to fully immerse yourself in the culture and explore the more remote areas.
Is Mongolia good for tourists?
Absolutely! Mongolia has a lot to offer tourists, with its stunning natural landscapes, unique cultural experiences and a welcoming local population. From exploring the capital city of Ulaanbaatar to visiting traditional nomadic families, there's something for everyone in Mongolia.