Mongolia—vast, untamed, and steeped in ancient traditions—is a destination that beckons the world’s most intrepid travelers. Whether you’re drawn to the dramatic landscapes of the Gobi Desert, the age-old culture of the nomadic people, or the rare wildlife of the Altai Mountains, getting to this extraordinary country is the first step in an unforgettable journey. While Mongolia is a remote destination, it is more accessible than ever, with international flights connecting through key global hubs.
In this guide, we outline the best routes to Mongolia from North America, Europe, and beyond, ensuring a seamless and stress-free arrival.
Flying to Mongolia: Where to Begin
The primary gateway to Mongolia is Chinggis Khaan International Airport (UBN), located just outside the capital city of Ulaanbaatar. Opened in 2021, this state-of-the-art airport has enhanced connectivity and improved travel experiences for international visitors. Direct flights to UBN are limited, but convenient one-stop connections are available from major cities worldwide.
Best Routes to Mongolia by Region
North America (United States & Canada)
Travelers from the U.S. and Canada will typically fly to Mongolia with one connection via major international hubs. The most efficient routes include:
- Via South Korea (Seoul – ICN): Korean Air and MIAT Mongolian Airlines operate flights between Seoul and Ulaanbaatar, making Incheon International Airport (ICN) one of the most convenient transit points. Connecting flights are available from Los Angeles (LAX), San Francisco (SFO), New York (JFK), Toronto (YYZ), and Vancouver (YVR).
- Via Japan (Tokyo – NRT): Japan Airlines and MIAT offer flights from Narita (NRT) to Ulaanbaatar, with easy connections from most major North American cities.
- Via China (Beijing – PEK): Air China and MIAT operate flights between Beijing and Ulaanbaatar, though travelers should check visa and transit regulations before booking this route.
Europe
European travelers have a few options for reaching Mongolia, including direct flights and convenient one-stop connections:
- Direct from Germany (Berlin – BER): MIAT Mongolian Airlines operates a direct flight from Berlin, making it the only non-stop option from Europe.
- Via Turkey (Istanbul – IST): Turkish Airlines offers flights to Ulaanbaatar via Istanbul, a popular hub for European travelers coming from London, Paris, Frankfurt, and other major cities.
- Via Moscow (SVO) [Limited Availability]: Historically, some flights have operated through Moscow, though availability may vary depending on current travel restrictions.
Australia & New Zealand
Travelers from Oceania will need to connect through Asia to reach Mongolia:
- Via Seoul (ICN) or Tokyo (NRT): These routes offer the smoothest transit experience, with connections available from Sydney (SYD), Melbourne (MEL), and Auckland (AKL).
- Via Beijing (PEK): Another option for those traveling from Australia, though transit rules should be checked in advance.
Other Asian Gateways
For travelers already in Asia, Mongolia is easily accessible via regional hubs:
- South Korea (ICN): The most frequent flights to Mongolia depart from Seoul.
- China (PEK & PVG): Beijing and Shanghai offer connections, but travelers should confirm visa requirements.
- Japan (NRT): Tokyo is another convenient stopover for Asian travelers en route to Ulaanbaatar.
Visa Requirements & Travel Tips
Before booking your flight, it is essential to check Mongolia’s visa requirements. Travelers from the U.S., Canada, and several European countries can enter Mongolia visa-free for up to 30 days. For those requiring a visa, Mongolia offers both e-visa and embassy application options.
Essential Travel Tips for Flying to Mongolia
- Book Early: Flights to Mongolia can fill up quickly, especially in peak travel months (May–October). Secure your tickets well in advance.
- Choose the Best Connections: Seoul and Tokyo generally provide the most seamless transit experiences.
- Plan for Flight Delays: Given Mongolia’s remote location, flight schedules can occasionally shift. Allow buffer time for connections.
- Consider Travel Insurance: Nomadic Expeditions highly recommends comprehensive travel insurance to cover unexpected changes or cancellations.
Arriving in Mongolia: What to Expect
Upon landing at Chinggis Khaan International Airport, travelers will experience a smooth immigration process. The airport offers modern facilities, including currency exchange, ATMs, and reliable transport options into Ulaanbaatar. For a seamless arrival, Nomadic Expeditions can arrange private transfers from the airport to your hotel or directly to the start of your journey.
Make Your Mongolian Journey Effortless with Nomadic Expeditions
At Nomadic Expeditions, we curate seamless, luxury travel experiences to Mongolia’s most breathtaking destinations. From assisting with flight recommendations to organizing exclusive expeditions, we ensure that every aspect of your journey is as effortless as it is extraordinary.
Ready to embark on the adventure of a lifetime? Contact our expert travel specialists today to start planning your bespoke Mongolian expedition.