Mongolia Car Rental & Self-Drive Tours with SIXT

FAQs - All you need to know for your travel to Mongolia 

• Is it possible to rent a car in Mongolia?

  Yes. SIXT Mongolia rents SUVs and fully equipped off-road 4x4s from Ulaanbaatar, for both short-term and long-term hire. To rent you need a valid driving licence from your home country, your passport, and a credit card for the deposit. An International Driving Permit (IDP) is not required for licences from most countries, but we strongly recommend carrying one alongside your national licence, as police at countryside checkpoints are more familiar with it. Book in advance for the May–September season, when the 4×4 fleet is in high demand.

• Is it hard to drive in Mongolia?

  Driving in Mongolia can be challenging but also rewarding. Within Ulaanbaatar, traffic can be busy, but once you leave the city, you’ll encounter open roads and off-road trails. Many rural routes are unpaved or unmarked, so a high-clearance 4WD is essential. With proper preparation, maps, and awareness of changing weather conditions, driving in Mongolia is safe and incredibly scenic. With tours graded from 1 to 5, there’s a route for first-timers as well as experienced off-roaders.The sense of adventure and freedom makes it a top choice for travelers.

• Can tourists drive in Mongolia?

  Yes. Tourists can self-drive in Mongolia on their national driving licence, carried together with their passport; an International Driving Permit is recommended as a back-up but not required for most countries. Self-driving is one of the best ways to explore Mongolia’s open landscapes, nomadic camps and remote destinations at your own pace.

• How do I rent a car in Mongolia?

  Book online in advance and collect your vehicle in Ulaanbaatar or at Chinggis Khaan International Airport. Bring your national driving licence, passport, and a credit card for the deposit; an IDP is recommended but not required for most nationalities. For a vehicle only, book at https://www.sixt.com/car-rental/mongolia/. For a fully organised self-drive tour with a GPS route, camping kit and 24/7 remote support, book at https://mongolia.com.co/.

• What is the best time of year to visit Mongolia?

  Mongolia’s main travel season runs from April to October. The best months are May and June, and September to mid-October: the climate is mild, the landscapes are at their most beautiful, and there are far fewer tourists than in high summer. Spring brings the newborn animals — foals, lambs, kids and camel calves across the steppe — while autumn turns the larch forests and river valleys gold and red. July and August are the warmest months and bring the Naadam Festival with its wrestling, archery and horse racing, but also peak crowds and prices. For winter travel, January to mid-March is ideal: clear skies, frozen lakes you can drive on, and the eagle-hunter and snow-leopard trips in the Altai.

• Do you need a car in Mongolia?

  If you plan to explore beyond Ulaanbaatar, then yes — you definitely need a car in Mongolia. Public transport covers only main routes between cities, while the real beauty of Mongolia lies off-road in remote regions. A Mongolia 4×4 rental gives you the freedom to visit places like the Gobi Desert, Orkhon Valley, and Khovsgol Lake at your own pace. For full independence and flexibility, a self drive Mongolia trip is the best way to experience the country’s vast landscapes.

• What dietary considerations should I be aware of when visiting Mongolia?

  Mongolian cuisine is heavily meat-based, with mutton, beef, and goat being staples. Dairy products are also prevalent. Vegetarians and vegans may find dining challenging, especially in rural areas. However, urban centers like Ulaanbaatar have restaurants catering to diverse dietary preferences. It’s advisable to communicate dietary restrictions clearly and possibly carry some supplementary snacks.

• How can I experience Mongolia's nomadic culture?

  To truly experience Mongolia’s nomadic culture, consider staying in a traditional Ger (yurt) with a nomadic family. This unique opportunity allows visitors to immerse themselves in the daily life, traditions, and hospitality of Mongolian nomads. Tour companies offer Ger stays, including activities like horse riding, learning to make dairy products, and participating in nomadic chores.

• Are there any additional costs not included in the tour price?

  Yes, food and fuel expenses are managed by the participants, and a 4,000,000MNT car rental deposit is not included.

• What are communication tips for non-Mongolian speakers in Mongolia?

  Although Mongolian is the primary language, English proficiency is on the rise, particularly in urban settings, among the youth, and within the tourism sector. Mastering a few basic Mongolian expressions can significantly enhance respect and ease interactions. Having a phrasebook or translation application can prove invaluable. In more secluded locales, employing a guide or interpreter can greatly improve your experience and facilitate better communication.

• Is Mongolia a safe destination for travelers?

  Mongolia is widely regarded as a safe destination for travelers, with relatively low crime rates, especially in the countryside, where the communal nomadic ethos fosters hospitality and security for guests. Nevertheless, exercising standard safety measures is advised, especially in urban centers like Ulaanbaatar, to mitigate risks associated with petty crimes such as pickpocketing or bag-snatching in crowded areas.

• Are credit cards commonly accepted throughout Mongolia?

  Credit cards find widespread acceptance in Ulaanbaatar and other significant urban locales, usable in many hotels, eateries, and select stores. Yet, in more remote regions or smaller townships, relying on cash is essential. While ATMs are accessible in urban areas, carrying enough cash for expenses outside these zones is recommended. Ensuring you have Mongolian tögrög for minor transactions and in places less inclined to accept card payments is also advisable.

• What are some must-visit natural attractions in Mongolia?

  Mongolia boasts a plethora of breathtaking natural wonders. Noteworthy sites include the expansive Gobi Desert, the serene Lake Khövsgöl, the majestic Altai Tavan Bogd National Park, and the historic Orkhon Valley.

• Does Mongolia have paved roads?

  Yes, Mongolia has paved roads, particularly in and around the capital city, Ulaanbaatar, and major urban centers. However, much of the country remains remote and rural, with many roads being unpaved and rugged. This makes Mongolia a prime destination for offroad adventures. Exploring offroad Mongolia allows travelers to venture into the countryside and experience the raw, unspoiled landscapes that are often inaccessible by conventional means. Whether you’re driving through the Gobi Desert or the mountainous regions of the north, offroad Mongolia offers an unforgettable experience.

• How do you get around in Mongolia?

  Getting around Mongolia depends on your travel style. For long distances between cities, you can use domestic flights or intercity buses. However, to explore the countryside and natural parks, the best way is by car rental or self drive 4×4. Many travelers choose to Drive Mongolia independently, while others join guided tours or hire local drivers familiar with off-road routes. A Mongolia car rental lets you set your own pace and reach hidden gems unreachable by public transport.

• Do I need a 4x4 to drive in Mongolia?

  Yes, if you plan to travel beyond Ulaanbaatar or take a road trip to the Gobi Desert, the steppe, or the mountains, a Mongolia 4×4 rental is highly recommended. Many rural roads are unpaved or cross rivers, so a high-clearance 4WD is essential for safety and comfort.

• Is it safe to drive in Mongolia?

  Yes, driving in Mongolia is generally safe, but conditions can be challenging in remote regions. Always plan your route in advance, carry extra fuel and water, and consider using offline GPS maps. Roads between major cities are paved, while rural routes can be rough and unmarked. Self drive tours from SIXT include a digital navigation app to guide you along well prepared routes.

• How much does it cost to rent a car in Mongolia?

  Mongolia car rental prices vary depending on the vehicle type and rental duration. Find the best daily rental rates on https://www.sixt.com/car-rental/mongolia/

  Compact SUV: from $80–$150/day

  Fully equipped 4×4: from $180–$280/day

  Long-term rentals or off-season bookings often include discounts.

• Can I pick up and drop off the rental car outside Ulaanbaatar?

  Yes, SIXT car rental in Mongolia offers one-way rentals so you can drive Mongolia from Ulaanbaatar to destinations like Dalanzadgad, Kharkhorin, or Khovsgol. Extra fees may apply for remote drop-off locations.

• When is the best time to self-drive in Mongolia?

  Self-drive tours run from April to October, with May–June and September to mid-October the recommended windows: roads are dry, rivers are low, most ger camps are open, and you have the tracks largely to yourself. July and August are the busiest months and the most expensive for accommodation. Winter self-drive is possible from January to mid-March on our dedicated winter routes, with a properly equipped 4×4 and our remote support — see our Winter Wonderland tour.

• Do I need travel insurance for driving in Mongolia?

  No but comprehensive travel insurance is strongly recommended. Make sure it covers vehicle damage, medical emergencies, and off-road travel since driving in Mongolia often involves long distances between services.

• Why choose a self-drive trip in Mongolia?

  A self drive Mongolia adventure gives you total freedom to explore untouched landscapes, visit nomadic families, and stop anywhere you like. It’s the ultimate overland experience — from the Gobi Desert dunes to the lakes of the north.