About Look Mongolia
a. What is the specialty of Look Mongolia?
We are not a conventional travel operator. We cater the needs of the curious wanderer, dedicated adventurer. We design our services to give the authentic experience of lifestyles of ordinary Mongolians and real taste of untamed nature. Our clients are encouraged to visit the most barren landscapes in its natural conditions and meet the most ordinary people, no matter those living centuries old nomadic lifestyle or modern-day metropolitan lives. We choose to accommodate our guests in the most nature friendly lodges and glamping camps in the country and highest-class hotels in the cities.
b. How long has Look Mongolia been in operation?
Look Mongolia was established in 2005 and has been pioneer in re-inventing travel experiences and revolutionizing tourism concept in Mongolia during the last 18 years. Our clients include individual travelers, family and friends, educational institutions, nonprofit organizations, businesses, and tourism companies all over the world.
About Our Tours
a. What kind of transportation do you use during trips?
Depending on the type of tour, we travel by car, minivan, bus, 4WD Jeeps, airplane, train or even camels and horses. To continue on a journey in distant areas like Western Mongolian Altai region, southern Gobi desert or Northern Huvsgul Lake, we usually fly, if the program does not include anything on the way to these destinations. In cities and for short excursions we use cars, vans and busses and in many expeditions through barren landscapes in the countryside, we use quality 4wd jeeps that could travel through mountains, steppes, sands and waters.
b. What kind of accommodation we are staying in Mongolia?
In Ulaanbaatar and some local towns, you will stay in the choice of hotels ranging from 4-5 stars. During tours in the countryside, we use either tourist camps made of Mongolian traditional gers or glamping tents. Look Mongolia carefully chooses ger camps, based on constant health and safety and service standard auditing. We use glamping camps (private campsite) on tours to most unique and remote destinations and sometimes to give special natural feel and unique experience to our clients. Glamping camps are operated by Look Mongolia and are specifically for private use of our tours.
c. What is your glamping campsite setup like for your outdoors excursions?
While the detailed specifics depend on the journey, in general we use large comfortable tents for two people traveling together. For groups and large incentive events, there will be a wholescale set-up of dining, shower and toilet tents to provide all necessary amenities.
d. What is the food like?
In Ulaanbaatar, restaurants serve variety of cuisines, Mongolian, Western, Oriental, or even Latin American cuisine. Majority of Mongolian cuisine include lamb or beef, as Mongolians consume a lot of organic meat from its pasture-based livestock herding. Except from lamb and beef, there can camel meet, yak meat and even horse meat. Tourist camps also serve western style food that cater different diet needs with variety of meat, fish, vegetables, noodles, rice, and fruit. During glamping, our chef will be able to serve both western and Mongolian specialty barbeque.
c. How strenuous are hiking and trekking programs?
We have various levels of hiking and trekking journeys. Some are short 1–2-hour hikes while others are 3-5 day treks. Please refer to our itinerary descriptions for more information. We tailor the journey to fit the needs of the client and can adjust the hikes accordingly.
About Our Tours: Booking and Pricing Questions
a. How to book a tour?
After consulting with our travel experts, when you finally decide to book a tour with us, you will be asked to sign a tour booking form. In order to confirm your place on a tour you will need to return a completed booking form with a deposit of US $500 per person. After paying your deposit, you’ll receive confirmation from your Look Mongolia travel expert and an invitation letter for your visa application if you need a visa. 60 days before your departure date, we will begin collecting final payments. If you are booking within the 60 days the commence of the tour, then full payment is required at time of booking. Our preferred method of payment is wire transfer, although payment can also be made with a credit card or check. Please tell your travel expert how you would like to transfer your tour payment, and they will send you the appropriate details. Once your tour prices are paid in full, you’ll receive your final itinerary, as well as your local guide and hotel contacts and pre-departure guidelines to help you begin preparing for your journey.
b. What is the cancellation policy?
Certain cancellations policies are applied to ensure mutual responsibility and comply with booking policies of local service providers. If a tour is cancelled with a written notice prior to 60 days prior to the commencement of tour, $100 cancellation is applied per person and the rest of the funds will be refunded or deposit paid can be used for another tour that can be booked for one – two years from original agreement.
If a tour is cancelled within 60 days prior to commencement of the tour, the following charges will be applied:
between 30 and 60 days before departure: 20% of the tour cost
between 15 and 29 days before departure: 30% of the tour cost;
14 days or less before departure (or fail to join the tour): 50% of the tour cost.
The date when we receive a written notice is counted as cancellation date. Though cancellations with us very rare, we recommend you protect yourself by purchasing travel insurance. If a tour is cancelled by Look Mongolia, all payments will be returned in full.
c. What is included / excluded in the tour cost?
Depending on type of type of tours inclusions could vary. In general, the land cost quotation includes all best-in-local accommodations (on a double-occupancy basis); all admission fees and activity expenses as per itinerary; all meals and drinking water; services of Look Mongolia local guides and other staff; and all land transport including transfers to/from the airport. For journeys that include domestic flights, the cost includes economy-class tickets. Our quotes do not include the Mongolian Tourist visa; international flights; meals not included in the itinerary and alcohol; tips and gratuities, expenses of a personal nature (e.g. mini bar, personal telecommunications, laundry, etc.); or any activities not included in the itinerary.
d. Is travel Insurance needed and accounted for tours?
Our quotations do not include travel insurance. All Look Mongolia travelers are required to purchase their medical insurance before arrival in Mongolia. More specific travel insurance, including coverage of lost luggage and trip cancellation, is optional.
Health and Safety Questions
a. Can you accommodate allergies and food preferences?
Look Mongolia provides vegetarian options at every meal. We request guests with allergies to consult their physicians prior to traveling and to bring all necessary medications with them. Guests are highly encouraged to inform Look Mongolia ahead of arrival of specific allergies of food items, so that our guides can ensure these items are not used in restaurant meals.
b. What kind of emergency procedures are in place?
In case of emergency, all guests traveling with Look Mongolia are required to provide a copy of their medical insurance document to your tour leader before departure. You can scan and email the copy to the Look Mongolia staff before arrival.
c. What kinds of altitudes do travelers experience?
Most of our tours in Central and Southern Mongolia are carried out in mild altitude with 1,000 – 2,000 meters (3,000 – 6,000 feet). In Western Altai and Northern Huvsgul region trips can run at altitudes above 2,500 meters (7,500 feet) and in these higher altitudes some travelers may experience Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS), resulting in headache, nausea, fatigue and loss of appetite. After some rest, symptoms usually subside. In rare cases, at much higher altitudes, like 3,000 meters (9,000 feet) or above there can be more severe complications relating to altitude.
d. What kind of vaccinations should I get before visiting Mongolia?
Please contact your local international travel clinic for information regarding vaccinations and other relevant health-related information. You may also wish to refer to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), which provides a comprehensive list of recommended immunizations prior to traveling in Mongolia.
Traveling to Mongolia: Before Arrival Questions
a. How do I get a Mongolian visa?
Foreign nationals who wish to visit Mongolia must obtain visas of appropriate types corresponding to the purpose of their visit. Nationals of those countries which have concluded visa exemption agreements with Mongolia are not required to obtain a visa if the intended period of the visit is not beyond the period allowed under such arrangements. See Travel advisory for the list of visa-free countries.
Citizens of countries who need visas to travel to Mongolia, can either apply for a tourist visa in person, at your nearest Mongolian Embassy or Consulate, or apply online at www.evisa.mn. To apply for tourist evisa, you need to fill a simple form and provide tour or hotel booking form along with visa fee payment confirmation. If you’d like to apply for a tourist visa in person, you can find consulate locations, visa forms, and specific requirements for tourist visa applications on consular website of Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Mongolia: https://en.consul.mn/visa.
b. How to get to Mongolia?
You can travel to Mongolia by air or train. Most convenient way is international travel and Ulaanbaatar, the capital city is a major hub. Chinggis Khan International airport located 45 km southwest of Ulaanbaatar is the only international flight gateway to Mongolia. The famous Trans Siberian railway runs through the vast Russian territories to Beijing via Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia. Traveling along Trans-Siberian railway is incredibly exciting experience.
The following airlines operate commercial flights to/from Mongolia:
MIAT Mongolian Airlines: Ulaanbaatar-Berlin-Moscow, Ulaanbaatar-Beijing, Ulaanbaatar-Frankfurt, Ulaanbaatar-Seoul, Ulaanbaatar-Busan, Ulaanbaatar-Tokyo, Ulaanbaatar-Osaka, Ulaanbaatar-Hong Kong, Ulaanbaatar-Bangkok, Ulaanbaatar-Guangzhou
AIR CHINA: Ulaanbaatar-Beijing
AEROFLOT: Ulaanbaatar-Moscow
KOREAN AIR: Ulaanbaatar-Seoul
TURKISH AIRLINES: Ulaanbaatar-Istanbul
AIR ASIANA: Ulaanbaatar-Incheon
HUNNU AIR: Ulaanbaatar-Ulan-Ude, Ulaanbaatar-Manzhouli, Ulaanbaatar-Erlian, Ulaanbaatar-Baotou
AERO MONGOLIA: Ulaanbaatar-Irkutsk, Ulaanbaatar-Huhhot, Ulaanbaatar-Tianjin
EZNIS AIRWAYS: Ulaanbaatar-Hong Kong
SCAT AIRLINE: Ulaanbaatar-Nur Sultan
AIR BUSAN: Ulaanbaatar-Busan
c. What should I bring with me to Mongolia?
Here is a basic packing list to prepare before traveling to Mongolia:
1. Clothing: Mongolia has extreme weather conditions, so be prepared for both hot and cold weather. Pack warm clothes such as thermal underwear, fleece jacket, hat, and gloves for the colder nights. Lightweight, breathable clothes such as long-sleeve shirts, pants, and shorts for the warmer days
2. Footwear: A good pair of comfortable and sturdy shoes or hiking boots for walking around in cities and for outdoor activities. Sandals or flip flops for relaxing at your accommodation
3. Backpack: A backpack with a capacity of 35-40 liters is suitable for carrying your essentials, water, and snacks for day trips.
4. Sleeping Bag: If you plan to stay in tented or glamping camps, you'll need a sleeping bag suitable for the cold nights.
5. Toiletries: Toothbrush, toothpaste, deodorant, shampoo, soap, hand sanitizer, wet wipes, and sunscreen
6. First Aid Kit: Basic first aid kit with essential items such as plasters, painkillers, antiseptic cream, etc.
7. Water Bottle: Mongolia's tap water is not safe to drink, so you will need to bring a reusable water bottle or a hydration system.
8. Travel Adapter: Mongolia uses type C and type E sockets, so bring a travel adapter that can handle both.
9. Camera: Mongolia has some of the world's most breathtaking landscapes, so bring a camera to capture your memories.
10. Maps and Guidebooks: Maps and guidebooks will be helpful for navigating around Mongolia, especially if you plan to go off the beaten path.
11. Remember, this is just a basic packing list. Adjust it according to your needs and the specific activities you plan to do during your trip.
What kind of medications or medical supplies should I bring?
We suggest that you bring along the following extras for your own comfort and convenience: antibacterial ointment (e.g. Neosporin), antihistamines, anti-nausea medication, decongestants (Pseudoephedrine), anti-diarrheal medication (Loperamide), insect repellent containing DEET, hydrocortisone cream for itches, Ibuprofen or other pain-relievers, and sunscreen (30+ protection factor). Always pack enough prescription medications for the entirety of the trip.
What is the baggage weight limit in domestic flights?
Within Mongolia, baggage allowance is checked luggage weighing up to 15 kg per person. Baggage in excess of this amount on domestic flights will be charged approximately 1.5- 2 USD per kg, depending on destinations, which is collected by the airline at airport.
How much spending money should I bring, and what is the best way to carry it?
Most expenses of your travel are taken care of within the package cost of the tour. However, this does not include personal expenses. Pick-pocketing can be a problem in Mongolia, so it is wise to keep money and valuables out of easy reach. A money belt to keep your passport and money close to your body—even under your clothes—is advisable.
Traveling in Mongolia: After Arrival Questions
How can I meet you upon arrival in Mongolia?
Upon your arrival at Ulaanbaatar airport or train station, a Look Mongolia representative; your guide/travel expert will pick you up and transfer you the hotel in Ulaanbaatar or next destination. Depending on the tour program you booked, the consecutive services are provided. We must always be supplied with your international arrival departure time and details. Please bring your tour confirmation sheet either printed or electronic and proof of your ID.
What is the local currency, where can I exchange my money?
Mongolian national currency is Tugrug (MNT). USD 1 is equal to MNT 3,500 (as of May 2023). Any bank offers currency exchange services. There are many exchange offices in Ulaanbaatar. You can find them in areas popular with tourists. Be sure to check the exchange rate before exchanging your money, and avoid exchanging money on the street. You will need to bring your passport to exchange money at the bank.
Do I need travel insurance?
It is recommended to purchase a standard travel before traveling to Mongolia. This is an affordable and comprehensive travel protection program that covers you for unexpected events that could cause you to cancel or interrupt your tour, unexpected delays, medical assistance, loss of or damage to baggage.
Are medical services available?
Visitors to Mongolia should be in good health condition and able to engage in a reasonable amount of physical activities. Medical services are only available in provincial centers, towns, and soum (administrative unit) centers. Be sure to bring an adequate supply of medications and antibiotics to protect yourself against various infections, diarrhea, insect etc. Make sure your travel insurance covers medical related services.
What language is spoken in Mongolia?
Mongolian is the official language in Mongolia. But many Mongolians speak foreign languages, English is most widely spoken especially among young generation. Mongolians older than 45 years speak good Russian as they were taught it at secondary schools.
What are internet and mobile services like in Mongolia?
Internet and mobile service in Mongolia are very good. In major cities such as Ulaanbaatar, you can find good quality internet and mobile service, although coverage may be spotty in rural areas. There are four main mobile service providers in Mongolia: Mobicom, Unitel, Skytel and G-Mobile. They offer 2G, 3G, and 4G services with coverage in most major cities and towns. You can buy a SIM card from any of these providers at their shops or kiosks, or at the airport upon arrival. To activate your SIM card, you will need to present your passport. You can then purchase a data plan for your phone or mobile hotspot. Many hotels, restaurants, and cafes in Mongolia offer free Wi-Fi for customers. The quality and speed of the Wi-Fi may vary, but it's a good option for staying connected while you're out.
Are there any restrictions on photography?
In Mongolia, most people are very comfortable being photographed. When in doubt, ask first. In certain areas, such as temples, monasteries, and museums, photography is prohibited.
Is it safe to drink tap water in Mongolia?
Tap water is not safe to drink in Mongolia. Look Mongolia provides ample bottled water throughout the journey, and we allow restaurants to serve only purified water.
What kind of electric plugs are used in Mongolia?
The electric plugs used in Mongolia are type C and type E. Type C plugs are two round pins and are commonly used in continental Europe, while type E plugs are two round pins with a grounding pin and are commonly used in France and Belgium. You will need to bring a travel adapter that can handle type C or type E sockets to use your electronic devices in Mongolia. Mongolia operates on a 220-240V electrical system, so be sure to check your electronic devices' voltage requirements before plugging them in. If your device cannot handle 220-240V, you will need to bring a voltage converter or transformer as well.
Should tourists tip service staff?
It is common to tip your guide and driver at the end your tour in Mongolia. The tipping amount depends on the length of your trip, the number of staff, and the number of clients on the trip. If you enjoyed your trip, giving a tip is a way of showing your gratitude. Tipping tourist camp staff, taxis, restaurants, and hotels is purely at your own personal discretion. Look Mongolia’s basic tipping guidelines will be sent to you, along with other useful pre-departure information, approximately one month before your departure. In some situations, gift giving is appropriate. For example, for homestays, we suggest guests give a small gift to the host family and bring along small items, such as pencils, candies for the children in the family or for other village children.