How To Basics: Mongolia
How To Basics: Mongolia
Ever wondered what it’s like to sleep under a blanket of stars, surrounded by miles of untouched nature—and the occasional yak staring at you through your ger window? Welcome to Mongolia: a land where adventure, culture, and humor collide in the most unpredictable ways.
Prepare to trade your office chair for a horseback saddle, your morning latte for airag (yes, that’s fermented mare’s milk), and your predictable 9-to-5 for a whirlwind journey through the Land of Eternal Blue Sky. Let’s dive into what makes a Mongolian tour an experience like no other!
Welcome to the Land of the Eternal Blue Sky
Mongolia boasts over 250 sunny days a year, but don’t let that fool you. This is a country where you can experience all four seasons before lunch. You’ll step off the plane ready for an Instagram-worthy adventure, only to be hit with a sandstorm in the Gobi or a snow flurry in the Altai Mountains.
A Cozy Slice of Nomadic Life
There’s nothing quite like staying in a ger (yurt). These traditional, round tents have been home to Mongolian nomads for centuries. They're warm, inviting, and...a bit of a puzzle for first-timers.
Your first night might involve figuring out how to keep the wood stove going without accidentally turning your ger into a sauna. And don’t be surprised if you wake up to the sound of a yak sniffing around—he’s just as curious about you as you are about him.
Pro tip: Always remember where the door latch is. Midnight bathroom trips are tricky when you're disoriented in the dark.
The Ships of the Gobi Desert
Forget the single-humped dromedary camels you’ve seen in movies. In Mongolia, it’s all about the majestic two-humped bactrian camel. These woolly creatures are perfectly adapted to the harsh Gobi Desert, and riding one is an experience you won’t forget.
Picture this: you’re perched between two humps, swaying gently as your camel plods along the golden dunes. It’s peaceful, almost meditative—until your camel decides it’s snack time and stops abruptly to chew on some desert shrub.
Camels are full of personality, and they know it. Whether they’re side-eyeing you for sitting too long or making grumpy noises during photo ops, these creatures are equal parts graceful and hilarious.
Pro tip: Hold on tight when your camel stands up—it’s like riding an elevator with a mind of its own.
The Actual Horsepower
Mongolia is often called the "Land of the Horse," and for good reason. Riding a Mongolian horse is a rite of passage. These sturdy, semi-wild creatures are nothing like the well-mannered ponies at your local riding club.
Your guide will likely offer sage advice like “Lean forward and hold tight.” Follow it, or you might find yourself making an unplanned dismount into the soft (ish) grass. But don’t worry—Mongolian horses are as tough as they are loyal. By the end of your ride, you might even feel like a modern-day Genghis Khan.
Meat Lover's Paradise
Mongolia’s food is hearty, filling, and perfect for the active traveler. Dishes like khorkhog (meat cooked with hot stones) or buuz (steamed dumplings) are the ultimate comfort foods after a long day of exploring.
And then there’s airag, the infamous fermented mare’s milk. Let’s just say it’s an acquired taste. If you’re feeling brave, take a sip and try not to make a face—locals will appreciate the effort.
Desert Meets Wi-Fi
One of the most unexpected parts of touring Mongolia is how modern amenities pop up in the middle of nowhere. Need to post a photo of yourself on a camel? Chances are, there’s a 4G signal nearby.
The contrast between ancient traditions and modern technology is part of what makes Mongolia so fascinating. You’ll spend the morning visiting a centuries-old monastery and the afternoon Googling “how to remove yak hair from clothes" or "how to stop the sheeps from stealing my food"
Mongolia Should Be on Your Bucket List
Mongolia is not just a destination—it’s an experience. It’s the kind of place that challenges your comfort zone, surprises you at every turn, and leaves you with stories that will outlast any souvenir.
So pack your sense of humor, a sturdy pair of boots, and an open mind. Whether you’re milking a goat, mastering the art of ger-stove management, or just staring in awe at the endless horizon, Mongolia is a place you’ll never forget.
And who knows? You might even develop a taste for airag. (Okay, maybe not. But you're welcome to prove us wrong :) )