Mongolia is one of the most fascinating countries we travel to for a variety of reasons. This vast country is steeped in deep cultural traditions, was once the main vein of the greatest empire in history, and has some of the most epic landscapes for hiking and general adventuring you will find anywhere.
But due to the special climate in Mongolia, there are certain seasons that are better to visit than others. Factor in the various festival events happening across many different months and it can be difficult to decide when the best time to visit Mongolia is.
This blog will walk you through the best time to visit Mongolia for weather, beating the tourist crowds, and for getting the most our of your adventure holiday here.
Climate in Mongolia
Mongolia’s climate is characterized by extreme temperature variations throughout the year. Summers are brief but warm, while winters are long and harsh, with temperatures plummeting well below freezing. Fun fact: Ulaanbaatar is the coldest capital in the world!
Spring and autumn serve as transitional seasons, with unpredictable weather patterns – and temperatures can vary depending on where in Mongolia you are traveling to. The country’s diverse geography, encompassing deserts, grasslands, and mountains, contributes to regional climate variations.
On the vast steppe plateaus, the wind can be an issue as there are little to no trees from breaking the strong gusts – so packing a solid windproof jacket is a must for Mongolia. Check out our full Mongolia packing list for more information.
Mongolia High Tourist Season
Every year, the number of tourists coming to Mongolia is going up. Increasingly, the country is seeing more visitors from China, Russia, and Korea. But good news! While there are many people coming to visit Mongolia for the festivals – the numbers are not as high for trekkers, especially during the shoulder seasons.
The peak tourist season in Mongolia typically occurs from June to August, coinciding with the warmer months and the annual Naadam festival – the most popular cultural in the country. During this time, travelers flock to witness traditional Mongolian sports such as wrestling, horse racing, and archery. Accommodation and tour prices may be higher, and popular destinations can become crowded.
For those seeking a balance between favorable weather and fewer crowds, consider visiting during the shoulder seasons of May and September – which is when we schedule our Altai Mountains trekking tours!
Best time to Visit Mongolia for Weather
Without a doubt, June – August is when the weather is at its warmest and it is also when the wind is temporarily at bay. But as mentioned above, these summer months are also when the tourist hordes reminiscent of Genghis Khan’s Mongols flock to Mongolia in mass numbers.
Late spring and early autumn offer the most pleasant weather conditions in Mongolia if you want to combine hikes and sightseeing without being totally overwhelmed by tourist crowds.
These months also provide opportunities to explore the landscapes, which are adorned with vibrant greenery in spring or colorful foliage in autumn. September can be cold in the Altai region – with the occasional snowfall and nightly frost common. If you are equipped to deal with cold temperatures – the rewards for visiting during this period (September/October) are high.
If you plan to visit Mongolia during the wintertime – then expect absolutely frigid temperatures and almost no crowds.
The main reason to visit Mongolia during winter would be to photograph wildlife – which can be a very unique experience if you have a bit of luck.
How Cold Does it Get in Mongolia, Really?
Winter in Mongolia is characterized by extreme cold, with temperatures dropping well below freezing.
In Ulaanbaatar, the capital city, temperatures can plummet to -30°C (-22°F) or lower during the coldest months of December to February.
In rural areas, especially in the northern regions, temperatures can be even colder. Despite the harsh conditions, winter offers unique experiences such as eagle hunting expeditions and photography-specific tours, providing insights into Mongolia’s ancient traditions.
As of now, Epic Expeditions is not running any winter trips in Mongolia. Should we be? Let us know in the comments if you would like to join us for a winter Mongolia tour :).
Climate and Conditions in the Altai Mountains for Hiking
The Altai Mountains, situated in Western Mongolia, offer stunning scenery and diverse ecosystems for hiking nuts like us – which is exactly why we run trips there!
In September – it is possible to experience a huge swing in temperatures and weather patterns throughout the day. Our team members should be prepared for sudden weather changes, including rain showers, snow fall, and strong winds.
When the sun is shining, the weather is perfect for hiking in September – with temperatures hovering around 10 degrees C / 50 F. In the fall season, we have none of the hot temperatures that the summer months can bring – meaning overall we are sweating little as we hike.
Best Time to Visit Mongolia for Festivals
If you love cultural festivals, Mongolia is one of the best places in the world to visit. And it seems like there is something happening almost every month.
The festival we enjoy the most is The Golden Eagle Festival, held annually in September and October, celebrates the ancient art of eagle hunting. Skilled hunters, known as berkutchi, demonstrate their mastery as they command their majestic golden eagles in various competitions. And it really is a sight to behold.
The festival also features cultural performances, traditional music, tasty food, and nomadic games, providing a unique cultural experience for visitors.
In the Altai region where the Eagle Hunters come from, there is the big Golden Eagle Festival in October, but there are also smaller festivals held in September – which are the festivals you see on our Mongolia itinerary. Even the smaller scale festivals attract hundreds of people (still quieter than thousands of people) – but part of the festival atmosphere is sharing it with other people – and we enjoy the camaraderie with other travelers – as long as we are not dealing with thousands and thousands of clicking cameras!
As mentioned above, the very cool, but ultra-busy Naadam happens in July each year.
In February, you can attend the “Festival of 1000 Camels” which is exactly what it sounds like.
Wrap Up: Best Time to Visit Mongolia
As you plan your journey to Mongolia, consider the diverse array of experiences that each season offers. Whether you’re drawn to the excitement of summer festivals, the tranquility of autumn landscapes (our top pick!), or the quiet of winter expeditions, BIG adventures in Mongolia await.
No doubt, Mongolia is a land with some pretty harsh climates. For generations, its people have proved to be as tough as the various climates can be – and have literally spent millennia learning to live with such climatic variations. Stepping into the world of locals for a few weeks to see how they live is one of the most important reasons to travel! So pack your jacket, hiking boots, and get ready to experience the magic of Mongolia during which every season you choose to visit.
If you are interested in joining our unique Mongolia Expedition (hiking, horse riding, eagle festivals, camping, yurt stays, endless laughter), be sure to check out our Mongolia trip page to learn more about how you can join the team for the next departure.
