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Camel riding in Khongor Sand Dunes
Practical Informations

Time Zone Mongolia is in the GMT+8 time zone.
Electricity Electricity in Mongolia is 220 volts, 50 Hz. Power outages are rare in cities. In the countryside, nomadic families commonly use solar panels and car batteries. Most European (including French) plugs are compatible, but carrying a universal adapter is recommended.
Money The official currency is the Tugrug (MNT). As of April 2023, 1 Euro is approximately 3783 MNT.

  • Credit cards (especially Visa, Mastercard, and sometimes American Express) are accepted in Ulaanbaatar and major provincial centers.
  • Checks are not accepted anywhere in Mongolia.

Health Mongolia's climate and food are generally safe and healthy. However, travelers may experience mild digestive issues due to dietary changes. Fermented horse milk (airag) is a traditional and beneficial drink but should be consumed gradually, especially for first-timers. No vaccinations are mandatory, but updating your tetanus shot is recommended. For current health advisories, contact: Switzerland: Geneva Cantonal Hospital Travel Service (022 372 33 11 / 372 96 04) In Ulaanbaatar, there are two hospitals equipped to treat foreigners. Postal Services Sending parcels is relatively affordable through the Central Post Office in Ulaanbaatar (1 Enkh Taivan Ave, Tel: 21399). DHL is also available for express shipping (Peace Ave 15A, Tel: 310919), though more expensive. Delivery times for international mail range from 1–2 weeks. It’s best to buy stamps in the capital and send mail directly from the central post office rather than leaving it in hotel lobbies or public boxes. Central Post Office hours: 8:00 AM – 7:00 PM (until 9:00 PM in summer). Phone & Internet The country code for Mongolia is +976, and Ulaanbaatar's area code is 11. International calls are possible from cities, but some rural areas lack phone coverage. Your guide may carry a satellite phone for emergencies. In cities like Ulaanbaatar, internet access is widely available. In rural areas, access is limited or unavailable. Cultural Etiquette & Traditions In Mongolian gers (yurts), traditional customs and taboos are still respected, especially in rural areas. Some important rules include: Do not lean against or walk between the central support posts inside the ger. Avoid stepping on the threshold when entering. Do not touch both sides of the doorway at once — this gesture is considered a bad omen. Do not throw trash into the fire, which is regarded as sacred. Keep clean and dirty items separate, especially in shared spaces like the family chest. Show respect to elders by not walking or sitting to the north (back) of them. Avoid walking between the hearth and the rear altar — this space represents the energy center of the ger. Move clockwise inside the ger, in alignment with the sun's path ("nar zuv"). Remove weapons or knives before entering, and hang them visibly as a sign of peace. Hospitality Customs Mongolians are known for their hospitality. Guests are often welcomed without prior notice. When approaching a ger: Say "Nokhoi khor!" ("Hold your dog") to announce your arrival. The host will usually invite you inside and offer tea or food. There are three main forms of hospitality: Tsailaga – offering tea Budaalaga – offering rice or a light meal Dailaga – offering a full meal or dinner These gestures reflect varying levels of respect and welcome. "Tsailaga" is the most common and widespread tradition.

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