Destination: Mongolia

Odyssey Travel incorporates a mix of coach and local transportation like trains and ferries in their tours, with all details clearly laid out in the itinerary. While buses and minibuses connect Ulaanbataar to regional areas, passengers may find the services a bit cramped. The train network operates along a limited north-south route from Sukhbaatar through Ulaanbataar to Zamiin-Uud in the south. Taxi services are available from Ulaanbataar to nearby cities; however, they may not venture off-road to reach rugged sites.

In urban hubs, like major cities across Mongolia, Odyssey prioritizes accommodations at conveniently situated 3-4 star hotels, ensuring seamless access to public transportation networks. In more remote locales such as smaller towns or rural expanses, we opt for cozy family-owned hotels or guesthouses. For our extended stay excursions where guests remain in one place for the duration of the tour, we arrange comfortable stays in serviced apartments. This tailored approach to lodging guarantees a varied yet homely experience throughout our journeys.

Odyssey ensures an enriching experience by collaborating with knowledgeable local guides who bring forth authentic insights into the history and culture of the destinations you explore. This approach allows you to delve deeper into the rich tapestry of Mongolian history and culture, gaining valuable insights that elevate your travel experience to a profound and educational level.

Mongolia, a landlocked country spanning 1,564,116 square kilometers, boasts a diverse landscape dominated by rolling plains and towering mountains. The Altai Mountains and Khangai Mountains define much of the northern and western regions, adding to the country’s scenic beauty.

With an extreme continental climate, Mongolia experiences harsh winters and brief summers. Winter temperatures frequently plunge below freezing, necessitating thorough weather checks and appropriate clothing prior to embarking on your journey.

Mongolia boasts 5 UNESCO World Heritage Sites, showcasing its rich cultural and natural heritage. These sites include the Landscapes of Dauria, a sprawling region teeming with endangered avian species; the Uvs Nuur Basin, renowned for its varied terrain encompassing desert dunes, steppe, wetlands, and forests hosting a wide array of flora and fauna; and the Petroglyphic Complexes of the Mongolian Altai, home to ancient rock carvings and funerary structures dating back thousands of years. The preservation of these sites not only underscores Mongolia’s historical significance but also highlights the importance of safeguarding its ecological diversity for generations to come.

Mongolia’s rich culture and traditions come alive through various vibrant festivals held across the country. Among them, the Naadam Festival stands out, occurring annually during the summer months and featuring spirited competitions in archery, wrestling, and horse racing, collectively known as the three ‘manly’ sports. Additionally, the Thousand Camel Festival, set against the breathtaking backdrop of the Gobi Desert, pays tribute to the esteemed camels of the region through exhilarating races and polo matches, complemented by captivating displays of traditional music and dance. Another significant celebration is Tsagaan Sar, the Mongolian Lunar New Year, marked by families coming together to honor one another, savoring customary delicacies like buuz (dumplings), rice and curds, and savory mutton dishes.

• Mongolia: Travels in the Untamed Land, by Jasper Becker
  Hearing Birds Fly, by Louisa Waugh
• In Search of Genghis Khan, by Tim Severin
• Moving with the Seasons: Portrait of a Mongolian, by Liza F. Carter

Mongolia, steeped in a rich history of nomadism, places great emphasis on meat and dairy products within its culinary heritage. Traditional Mongolian cuisine boasts a strong presence of roasts and barbecues, showcasing noteworthy dishes such as khorkhog, a savory concoction of lamb slow-cooked with carrots, onions, and potatoes, and boodog, where a whole goat is stuffed with hot stones, onions, and potatoes before being cooked to perfection. During festive occasions like Lunar New Year, Mongolians indulge in buuz, delicate flour dumplings bursting with a flavorful filling of shredded meat, onion, garlic, and pepper, while aaruul, dried cheese biscuits, remain a beloved snack in Mongolian households. Alcohol holds a significant role in social gatherings, with vodka and airag, a fermented mare’s milk beverage, ranking high among the libations favored by the Mongolian populace for centuries.

While traveling in Mongolia, it is important to note that the country is generally safe for tourists. However, like any other destination, it is advisable to practice common sense and remain cautious during your travels.

When traveling abroad, it is essential to be equipped with the proper travel adaptor to ensure you can efficiently use electronic devices. In Mongolia, the electricity supply operates at 220V and 50Hz, requiring travelers to have the appropriate Type C and Type E plugs for compatibility. Being prepared with the right adaptor is crucial for a smooth travel experience in Mongolia.