The ‘Land of Blue Sky’ as this remote country is sometimes known is famed for the magical quality of its light and its huge expanses of open space. With wild horses, grazing camels and wandering nomads at times it seems like stepping into another century rather than another country. This is the ideal destination for those who delight in the emptiness of the unspoiled wilderness and relish the challenge of exploring what for a long periods was regarded as the ‘end of the earth’.

Weather
Consisting mostly of high plateau, Mongolia has a short visiting season from April to October with warm dry days. The Gobi desert in the south and grasslands north and east make for harsh winters which can be bitterly cold with arctic temperatures.

Local Customs
When visiting any foreign country it is always polite to respect the local customs. Take the time before your trip to read up on the countries you will be visiting and perhaps learn a few words of the language.

Over half of the Mongolian population live in Gers, the traditional round felt tents and during your trip you will be staying in and visiting local people in their Gers. There is a complicated Ger etiquette which includes: try not to point your feet at the hearth, the altar or another person, sleep with your feet pointing towards the door, avoid walking in front of an older person... The list is seemingly endless but you will soon get used to it.

Visas
British passport holders must obtain a Mongolian visa before arrival. The consular fee for a single entry tourist visa is currently £35.00. Most other nationalities also require a visa, visas cost change frequently, please check with your consular office. Please contact us regarding the visa application process.

Vaccinations
Nothing compulsory but it is recommended that your vaccinations for polio, hepatitis A, typhoid and tetanus are up to date. Contact any of the following organisations for further information about immunisations.
MASTA: Telephone: 0906 822 4100 www.masta.org
Live Travel Health Line: 09068 633414
www.fitfortravel.scot.nhs.uk

Flight duration
There are no non stop flights from London to Ulaanbaator. The most direct flights are either via Beijing or via Moscow with one change of plane. Flights take approximately 11 hours.

Accommodation
In Ulaanbaator we use 3 star standard hotels while outside the capital the only accommodation available is in Gers. Two people are accommodated per Ger, which contains a raised bed, a wood stove, a table and some chairs. There is a separate communal shower block.

Transport
A variety of transportation will be used on tour: a private saloon car or minibus for larger parties in the city and Russian built four wheel drive jeeps in the countryside.