🐾 Traveling to Mongolia with Pets
Pet-Friendly Mongolia
Mongolia offers unique adventures for pets and families, with vast steppes and nomadic culture welcoming well-behaved animals. In Ulaanbaatar and rural ger camps, pets are often treated like family members, though urban areas have more regulations. Mongolia is an emerging pet-friendly destination for adventurous travelers.
Entry Requirements & Documentation
International Health Certificate
Dogs, cats, and other pets need an international veterinary health certificate issued within 10 days of entry.
Certificate must include details on the pet's health status and be endorsed by official authorities in the country of origin.
Rabies Vaccination
Mandatory rabies vaccination required, administered between 30 days and 1 year before travel.
Vaccination must be recorded on the health certificate; boosters needed if over 1 year old.
Microchip Requirements
Pets must have an ISO 11784/11785 compliant microchip implanted before vaccination.
Bring proof of microchip implantation; customs may scan upon arrival at Ulaanbaatar airport.
Non-Low Risk Countries
Pets from high-risk rabies countries may need a rabies antibody titer test and 30-day quarantine.
Check with Mongolian embassy; advance approval from State Central Veterinary Laboratory recommended.
Restricted Breeds
No specific breed bans, but aggressive dogs may be restricted; muzzles required for large breeds in urban areas.
Declare any fighting breeds at entry; additional documentation may be needed for transport.
Other Pets
Birds and exotic animals require special permits from Mongolian customs and veterinary authorities.
CITES documentation needed for endangered species; contact embassy for pre-approval.
Pet-Friendly Accommodations
Book Pet-Friendly Hotels
Find hotels that welcome pets across Mongolia on Booking.com. Filter by "Pets allowed" to see properties with pet-friendly policies, fees, and amenities like outdoor spaces and nearby parks.
Accommodation Types
- Pet-Friendly Hotels (Ulaanbaatar): Urban hotels like Bayangol Hotel and Shangri-La welcome pets for 20,000-50,000 MNT/night, with access to green spaces. International chains often have consistent policies.
- Ger Camps (Gobi & Lake Regions): Traditional yurt camps in Terelj and Khövsgöl allow pets at no extra charge, with open steppes for roaming. Ideal for nomadic-style stays with animals.
- Vacation Rentals & Guesthouses: Airbnb listings in rural areas frequently permit pets, offering space for dogs to play. Family-run guesthouses provide authentic experiences.
- Nomadic Family Stays: Homestays with herders in central Mongolia welcome pets alongside livestock. Great for families learning about rural life and animal care.
- Campsites & Eco-Lodges: Sites near national parks like Khustain Nuruu are pet-friendly, with areas for dogs and hiking access. Popular in summer for outdoor enthusiasts.
- Luxury Pet-Friendly Options: High-end resorts like Three Camel Lodge in the Gobi offer pet amenities including guided walks and special feeding areas for premium travelers.
Pet-Friendly Activities & Destinations
Steppe Hiking Trails
Mongolia's vast landscapes in Gorkhi-Terelj National Park are perfect for dogs with endless trails.
Keep pets leashed near livestock; check with guides for wildlife encounters in remote areas.
Lakes & Rivers
Lake Khövsgöl and Orkhon River areas have pet-friendly shores for swimming and picnics.
Designated zones in national parks; respect local fishing and herding activities.
Cities & Parks
Ulaanbaatar's National Park and Sukhbaatar Square allow leashed dogs; outdoor markets welcome pets.
Rural monasteries like Erdene Zuu permit pets in outer courtyards; always ask locals.
Pet-Friendly Cafés
Modern cafés in Ulaanbaatar provide outdoor seating for pets; traditional spots may vary.
Water bowls common in urban areas; inquire before entering indoor spaces with animals.
Guided Tours
Horseback and jeep tours in the countryside welcome leashed dogs at no extra cost.
Focus on outdoor adventures; avoid indoor cultural sites like museums with pets.
National Parks Access
Many parks like Khustain Nuruu allow pets on trails; entry fees 3,000-5,000 MNT including animals.
Book eco-tours in advance; some areas require guides for pet safety in wilderness.
Pet Transport & Logistics
- Trains (Trans-Mongolian Railway): Small pets travel free in carriers; larger dogs require tickets (10,000-20,000 MNT) and must be leashed. Allowed in most cars except dining areas.
- Buses & Minivans (Urban/Rural): Ulaanbaatar public buses allow small pets free; larger dogs 5,000 MNT with leash. Rural marshrutkas may restrict during peak times.
- Taxis: Confirm with drivers before pet entry; most accept with notice. Apps like UBCab offer pet-friendly options in the capital.
- Rental Cars & Jeeps: 4x4 rentals from companies like Nomadic Journeys allow pets with deposit (50,000-100,000 MNT). Essential for off-road family trips.
- Flights to Mongolia: MIAT Mongolian Airlines permits cabin pets under 8kg for 50,000-100,000 MNT. Book early and review carrier rules. Compare flight options on Aviasales to find pet-friendly airlines and routes.
- Pet-Friendly Airlines: Aeroflot, Turkish Airlines, and Korean Air accept pets in cabin (under 8kg) for 50,000-150,000 MNT. Larger pets in hold with health certificate.
Pet Services & Veterinary Care
Emergency Vet Services
24-hour clinics in Ulaanbaatar like the State Central Veterinary Laboratory offer urgent care.
Travel insurance recommended; consultations cost 20,000-50,000 MNT.
Pharmacies & Pet Supplies
State Department Stores and pet shops in Ulaanbaatar stock food, medicine, and accessories.
Bring specialized items from home; local pharmacies have basic veterinary supplies.
Grooming & Day Care
Urban salons in Ulaanbaatar provide grooming for 15,000-30,000 MNT per session.
Limited in rural areas; ger camps may offer basic care during longer stays.
Pet-Sitting Services
Local services in Ulaanbaatar via apps or hotels for day trips; 10,000-20,000 MNT/day.
Ask tour operators for trusted sitters in remote areas.
Pet Rules & Etiquette
- Leash Laws: Dogs must be leashed in Ulaanbaatar and protected areas; rural steppes allow off-leash if away from herders and livestock.
- Muzzle Requirements: Large or potentially aggressive dogs need muzzles in cities and on transport. Carry one for compliance.
- Waste Disposal: Carry waste bags; bins limited outside cities. Fines up to 50,000 MNT for not cleaning up in urban parks.
- Water & Sacred Sites Rules: Keep pets away from monasteries and rivers used for rituals; respect nomadic grazing lands.
- Restaurant Etiquette: Pets allowed at outdoor areas; indoor entry rare. Keep dogs calm and away from food preparation.
- National Parks: Leash required near wild horses in Khustain; seasonal restrictions during festivals like Naadam.
👨👩👧👦 Family-Friendly Mongolia
Mongolia for Families
Mongolia captivates families with its epic landscapes, cultural immersion, and adventure activities. From horseback riding on the steppes to staying in gers, children learn about nomadic life while parents enjoy stunning vistas. Urban facilities in Ulaanbaatar support families with parks and museums.
Top Family Attractions
National Amusement Park (Ulaanbaatar)
Funfair with rides, games, and cultural shows for all ages in the capital.
Entry free; rides 2,000-5,000 MNT. Open daily with seasonal events.
Natural History Museum (Ulaanbaatar)
Dinosaur fossils, wildlife exhibits, and interactive displays in the city center.
Tickets 5,000-8,000 MNT adults, 3,000 MNT kids; great for educational family visits.
Erdene Zuu Monastery (Kharkhorin)
Ancient Buddhist site with temples, history tours, and open grounds kids explore.
Entry 10,000 MNT family; combine with nearby ruins for a full-day adventure.
Choijin Lama Museum (Ulaanbaatar)
Interactive temple museum with artifacts, masks, and storytelling sessions.
Tickets 6,000 MNT adults, 4,000 MNT kids; engaging for young history buffs.
Khustain Nuruu National Park
Wild Przewalski horse sanctuary with guided hikes and wildlife viewing.
Entry 5,000 MNT per person; family-friendly trails and picnic areas.
Gobi Desert Adventures (South Gobi)
Dune buggy rides, camel treks, and fossil hunts across the desert.
Tours 100,000-200,000 MNT/family; suitable for kids 5+ with safety gear.
Book Family Activities
Discover family-friendly tours, attractions, and activities across Mongolia on Viator. From Naadam Festival experiences to steppe adventures, find skip-the-line tickets and age-appropriate experiences with flexible cancellation.
Family Accommodations
- Family Hotels (Ulaanbaatar): Hotels like Novotel and Kempinski offer family suites (2 adults + 2 kids) for 150,000-300,000 MNT/night. Include cribs, kids' menus, and play areas.
- Ger Camp Resorts (Countryside): All-inclusive camps with family gers, kids' activities, and horseback riding. Properties like Terelj Hotel cater to families with cultural programs.
- Nomadic Homestays: Rural stays with herder families for 50,000-100,000 MNT/night including meals. Animal interactions and storytelling engage children.
- Vacation Apartments: Self-catering units in Ulaanbaatar ideal for families with kitchens and space. Flexibility for meal times and downtime.
- Budget Guesthouses: Affordable family rooms in cities like Moron for 80,000-120,000 MNT/night. Clean with shared facilities and local advice.
- Eco-Lodges: Sustainable stays like Hustai National Park lodges for immersive family experiences. Kids love the nature and wildlife focus.
Find family-friendly accommodations with connected rooms, cribs, and children's facilities on Booking.com. Filter by "Family rooms" and read reviews from other parents.
Kid-Friendly Activities by Region
Ulaanbaatar with Kids
National Park rides, Children's Palace activities, Gandan Monastery visits, and Zaisan Hill views.
Horse cart tours and traditional throat singing shows delight young explorers.
Central Mongolia with Kids
Orkhon Valley horse treks, Kharkhorin ruins exploration, and ger building workshops.
River rafting and eagle hunting demos provide cultural fun for families.
Northern Mongolia with Kids
Lake Khövsgöl boating, reindeer herder visits, and forest hikes near Moron.
Cable-free adventures like fishing and camping suit active children.
Gobi Desert Region
Yol Valley hikes, Flaming Cliffs dinosaur digs, and sand dune sliding.
Camel rides and star-gazing camps create memorable desert family outings.
Family Travel Practicalities
Getting Around with Kids
- Trains: Children under 5 travel free; ages 5-12 get 50% discount. Family cars on Trans-Mongolian with space for strollers.
- City Transport: Ulaanbaatar buses and trolleys offer family passes (20,000 MNT/day). Mostly accessible but uneven roads challenge strollers.
- Car Rentals: Book child seats (10,000-20,000 MNT/day); required for under 12. 4x4 jeeps best for rural family travel.
- Stroller-Friendly: Ulaanbaatar improving with ramps; countryside tours use jeeps. Attractions provide basic parking for strollers.
Dining with Children
- Kids' Menus: Restaurants offer simple buuz (dumplings) or noodles for 5,000-10,000 MNT. High chairs available in urban spots.
- Family-Friendly Restaurants: Modern eateries in Ulaanbaatar with play areas; ger camps serve communal family meals.
- Self-Catering: Markets like Narantuul stock baby food and diapers. Fresh dairy from nomads for healthy options.
- Snacks & Treats: Airag (fermented milk) and sweets from bazaars keep kids happy on long drives.
Childcare & Baby Facilities
- Baby-Changing Rooms: Found in major hotels and malls in Ulaanbaatar; limited elsewhere.
- Pharmacies: Stock formula, diapers, and meds; English labels common in cities.
- Babysitting Services: Hotels arrange sitters for 20,000-30,000 MNT/hour; tour companies offer family nannies.
- Medical Care: Pediatric services in Ulaanbaatar hospitals; travel insurance essential for remote areas.
♿ Accessibility in Mongolia
Accessible Travel
Mongolia is developing accessibility, with improvements in Ulaanbaatar's infrastructure and select attractions. Rural areas pose challenges, but urban sites and tours offer wheelchair-friendly options. Contact operators for customized accessible itineraries.
Transportation Accessibility
- Trains: Trans-Mongolian offers wheelchair spaces and assistance; book ahead for ramps at stations.
- City Transport: Ulaanbaatar buses have low-floor options; taxis accommodate wheelchairs with notice.
- Taxis: Standard vehicles fit folding wheelchairs; specialized services available via apps.
- Airports: Ulaanbaatar's Chinggis Khaan Airport provides assistance, ramps, and priority services.
Accessible Attractions
- Museums & Sites: Natural History Museum has ramps and elevators; monasteries vary with steps.
- Historic Sites: Kharkhorin accessible paths; Gobi tours use adapted jeeps.
- Nature & Parks: Terelj offers flat trails; national parks provide viewpoints for wheelchairs.
- Accommodations: Hotels indicate accessible rooms on Booking.com; look for ground-floor gers and showers.
Essential Tips for Families & Pet Owners
Best Time to Visit
Summer (June-August) for warm steppes and Naadam Festival; avoid harsh winters (Dec-Feb).
Shoulder seasons (May, Sept) milder with fewer crowds and blooming landscapes.
Budget Tips
Group tours save on transport; Ulaanbaatar Card for city discounts on attractions.
Picnics with local dairy and self-catering gers accommodate family budgets.
Language
Mongolian is official; English in tourist areas and with guides.
Basic phrases appreciated; translation apps help in rural interactions.
Packing Essentials
Layers for extreme weather, sturdy boots for steppes, and sun/rain protection.
Pet owners: bring food, leash, muzzle, waste bags, and vaccination records.
Useful Apps
MIAT app for flights, Google Translate for language, and Hi Mongolia for tours.
UB Transport app for city navigation and real-time updates.
Health & Safety
Mongolia safe but remote; boil water outside cities. Pharmacies provide advice.
Emergency: dial 112. Comprehensive insurance covers medical and evacuation.