Last updated: 23 Oct 2025
Mongolia
About
| Mongolia is located on the plateau of central Asia, between Russian Siberia and Chine, yet has much to offer in terms of scenery, wildlife, and historic and cultural sites. Outside the main cities, Mongolians continue to live the traditional life of malchin (herdsmen), and many are nomadic. Mongolia's best travel routes and attractions are classified into 6 main categories by the geographical locations: Ulaanbataar and surrounds, southern Mongolia - the Gobi Desert regions, Western, Central, Northern and Eastern Mongolia - (Great Eastern Plains). For a truly authentic experience, try to arrange a night in a ger (yurt). Staying with a nomad family is a fascinating experience and full of surprises. You'll get to taste local food, ride horses and help herd the sheep. Remember to bring some thoughtful gifts in exchange for the hospitality. |
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| Formerly called: | Mongolian People's Republic |
| Capital: | Ulaanbaatar (ULN) |
| Currency: | Mongolian Tugrik (MNT) |
| Language: | Mongolian. Russian is also spoken. English is becoming more popular. |
| Dialling code from SA: | + 976 |
| Time Zones: | Hovd: UTC / GMT +7 (5 hours ahead of South Africa). Rest of Mongolia: UTC / GMT +8 (6 hours ahead of South Africa) |
| Side of the Road: | Right. Road conditions can be poor. |
| Best Time to Go: | May – October. |
| Best for: | Monasteries, Historical Sites |
| Plugs: | 220 volts AC, 50Hz. Round two-pin plugs are used. |
| Drinking Water: | All water should be regarded as being potentially contaminated. Milk is unpasteurised. Bottled water is available in Ulaanbaatar. |
| Health: | Medical facilities are very limited. It is advisable to carry basic medical supplies. Comprehensive health insurance is recommended and it should include emergency air evacuation coverage. If you require any medication on your travels it is best to bring it with you, in the original packaging, with a signed and dated letter from your doctor detailing exactly what it is and why you need it. |
| Customs: | Mongolia has many cultural and religious customs, and visitors should be sensitive to this. Permission should be granted before entering temples and monasteries. Respect to Mother Nature is a central theme in Mongolian life, and visitors should take care not to litter or cause damage to the land or animals. Many Mongolians are nomadic, even though urbanised. |
| Local Offences / Laws: | Damage to “Mother Nature” is against the law. Photography of military personnel and installations is illegal. |
| Travel Tips / Warnings: | Credit cards are becoming increasingly popular, but should not be relied upon. |
| Duty Free: | The following goods may be imported into Mongolia by travellers over the age of 18 without incurring customs duty: • 200 cigarettes and 50 cigars and 250g of tobacco. • 1L of spirits and 2L of wine and 3L of beer. |
| Prohibited Imports: | Prohibited and restricted imports include narcotics, hazardous chemicals, explosives, and firearms and ammunition. |
| Prohibited Exports: | If you plan to export items of historical or cultural value (e.g. antiques or fossils), you must ensure you have official permission. |
Issuing Authorities
Public Holidays 2025: Jan 1; Mar 1-3, 8; Jun 1, 4; Jul 11-15; Nov 21, 26; Dec 29
Public Holidays 2026: Jan 1; Feb 20-22; Mar 8; Jun 1; Jul 10-15; Nov 26; Dec 29
Visa Requirements
Visas are required by SA passport holders, and can be applied for online at: evisa.mn
General visa information can be found here: en.consul.mn
SA Representative
Representation accredited from Beijing, People’s Republic of China (PRC)
Travel Health
| Compulsory: | None |
| Recommended Travel Vaccines: | Hepatitis A & B, Rabies, Typhoid, Tetanus, Polio |
