Arrival and Getting into the City

The new airport is quite far from the city center, and prices for private cars and taxis can vary a lot. It’s recommended to agree on a price before getting in or arrange a hotel transfer to avoid being overcharged upon arrival.

Getting Around the City

• Buses and Trams: Tickets are cheap, but routes may not be very intuitive for tourists, though they are suitable for short rides.
• Taxis: It’s best to use local ride-hailing apps or book through your hotel and confirm the fare in advance. Hailing a taxi on the street and negotiating the price is also common.
• Walking: The area around Sükhbaatar Square in the city center is walkable, but watch out for icy roads in winter.

City and Cross-Region Travel

• Ulaanbaatar – Kharkhorin: Around 5–6 hours by car, mostly via private car hire or small tour groups.
• Ulaanbaatar – Dalanzadgad: Domestic flight takes about 1.5 hours, and is the fastest way to reach the South Gobi.
• Ulaanbaatar – Khuvsgul Lake (Murun): Domestic flight takes about 1.5 hours; long-distance buses take over ten hours.
• International Rail: Ulaanbaatar has trains connecting to Beijing and Moscow, ideal for travelers including Mongolia in a transnational itinerary.
• Deep Grasslands: Mostly accessed by 4x4 private vehicle hire; horses and camels are used for short distances within scenic areas.

Tickets and Costs

Mongolia does not have a nationwide unified transport pass. Buses require on-the-spot coin or card payment, while long-distance private car hires are priced by the day. The airport shuttle from the city to the airport is relatively inexpensive, but its schedule depends on flight times; taxis and hotel transfers are more flexible but also more expensive. For domestic flights, it’s advisable to book online in advance, as flights can fill up quickly during peak seasons and prices rise significantly.

For the grasslands and Gobi Desert, most private car hires are 4x4 vehicles, usually seating three to four people. The price typically covers the vehicle, driver, and fuel. The longer the trip, the lower the average daily rate. Opting for a shared group ride can significantly reduce costs, but the itinerary will follow the group’s schedule and include fixed stop durations.

Apps and Tips

• Google Maps works in Ulaanbaatar, but download offline maps before heading into the Gobi or mountainous areas.
• Local ride-hailing apps and map tools often support English. Consider installing them ahead of time and linking a payment method.
• Private car hires are usually charged by the day and include driver accommodation and meals. Be sure to confirm whether fuel, entrance fees, and campsite costs are included before signing a contract.
• Traffic congestion is heavy during morning and evening rush hours in the city. Leave plenty of time when heading to the airport.