ULAANBAATAR, Mongolia – With its vast open spaces, breathtaking landscapes, and unique cultural experiences, Mongolia is the perfect destination for those looking to truly get away from it all. Despite the challenges brought on by the COVID-19 pandemic, the country is determined to revive its tourism industry and has launched a “Welcome to MonGOlia” campaign to attract visitors from all over the world. With added flights and a streamlined visa process, Mongolia is making it easier than ever to explore this hidden gem of a country.
In the first seven months of this year, Mongolia saw a 25% increase in foreign tourists compared to the same period last year, with visitors coming from Europe, the United States, and Japan. The number of tourists from South Korea nearly doubled, thanks in part to the short four-hour flight to the country. However, the government’s goal of reaching 1 million visitors per year by 2023-2025 is still a work in progress for the land of Genghis Khan, which once encompassed much of Eurasia and is now located between Russia and China.
With a population of only 3.3 million people, half of whom reside in the capital city of Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia offers plenty of open space for adventurous travelers to explore. Egjimaa Battsooj, who works for a tour company, says that the country’s customized itineraries include horseback trips, camping excursions, and the opportunity to stay in traditional gers, the felt-covered dwellings still used by Mongolia’s herders. The best part? With very little private property in the country, there are few places that are off-limits to tourists.
“You don’t need to open a gate, you don’t need to have permission from anyone,” Battsooj explains as she sits in front of a map of Mongolia, marked with routes and pins. “We are kind of like the last truly nomadic culture on the whole planet.”
In recognition of its unique offerings, Lonely Planet named Mongolia as its top destination in its Best in Travel 2024 report. The country also gained attention last year when Pope Francis visited, and its breakdancers became stars at the Asian Games. In addition, local bands like The Hu, a folk-metal group that blends traditional Mongolian instruments and throat singing with modern rock, have gained a global following.
Despite these accolades, many people still know very little about Mongolia. American tourist Michael John admits that he only knew some of the history of Genghis Khan and had seen a documentary on eagle hunting before deciding to stop in Ulaanbaatar as part of a longer vacation. “It was a great opportunity to learn more,” he says.
Tourism plays a significant role in Mongolia’s economy, accounting for 7.2% of its gross domestic product and 7.6% of its employment in 2019. However, the industry took a hit due to the COVID-19 pandemic. But the World Bank notes that Mongolia has “substantial growth potential” with its diverse nature, stunning sceneries, and possibilities for sports and adventure tourism.
The country’s tourism ads focus on these themes, showcasing the beauty of frozen lakes in winter for skating and fishing, the Northern Lights, and unique events like reindeer sledding, camel racing, and hiking. Munkhjargal Dayan, who offers camel rides, traditional archery, and eagle training for hunting, hopes to show visitors the traditional way of life in Mongolia. “We want to show tourists coming from other countries that we have such a way of life in Mongolia,” he says while waiting for customers near a giant statue of Genghis Khan on the outskirts of Ulaanbaatar.
While the capital city is bustling with life, getting around outside of it can be challenging, especially during the summer when the steppes become waterlogged. There is also a shortage of infrastructure, accommodation, and skilled labor in tourism destinations. However, Dutch tourist Jasper Koning, who is currently exploring Mongolia, says that these challenges are minor compared to the overall experience.
“The weather is perfect, the scenery is breathtaking, and the country is clean and the people are friendly,” he says, highlighting the positives of his trip.
Mongolia may be a lesser-known destination, but its unique culture, stunning landscapes, and warm hospitality make it a must-visit for anyone looking for a truly off-the-beaten
