THE PHYSICAL REALITY
Mongolia is a developing country in terms of infrastructure. The standard of the roads is very low, with no tarmac outside the capital. As a result be prepared for bumpy and dusty rides.
Travelling in a seldom-explored country, with very little infrastructure requires flexibility, tolerance, a spirit of adventure and respect and understanding for cultural differences. The trip itinerary is subject to changes due to weather, trail conditions, government restrictions, or other reasons beyond our control. We will however do every attempt to adhere to the given schedule.

CULTURE SHOCK - ULAAN BATAAR
Whilst UB is a fascinating city with plenty to do and see it can also be a confronting city for some travelers, its social problems difficult to deal with.

In 1990 Mongolia made the transition from a centrally planned socialist state to a democratic market economy. Many predicted that the sudden change would be hard, but few predicted the level of difficulties that would ensue. Inflation skyrocketed to above 300%, the economy contracted massively, food was rationed and the social security system feel into tatters. From this, a new urban poor evolved, ringing the outer fringes of Ulaanbaatar. Today the economy is back to around the same size that it was in 1990, but inequity has grown and today 36% of Mongolians are poor.

The country’s infrastructure was dependent on support from the Soviet Union which stopped, virtually overnight in 1992. With limited natural resources combined with the pullout of the Soviet Union, many Mongolians do not have access to even the most basic of social services. Capitalism is growing, however not everyone is able to take advantage of the few opportunities available.

Alcoholism is a major problem for Mongolians, particularly the men. Today almost all Mongolians drink heavily (many up to 10 liters per day!) – old and young, male and female. This is a recent vice (30 years ago abstinence was the norm) however under the faltering socialist economy with a shortage of both goods and services alcohol was seen as a way for the state to earn back wages paid to workers. In 1959 the first vodka distillery was build and a strong advertising campaign promoted “modest consumption”, Mongolian Youth League members travelled for months all across the country, promoting the benefits of drinking alcohol.

Unemployment is high in the capital as many nomads have left their traditional life, heading to UB in the hope of making money. They arrive and find it is difficult if not impossible to get work and, with their herds sold they cannot afford to return.

Prostitution is rife and many women see it as the only way they are able to make decent money. The numbers of abandoned, homeless and street children has also increased dramatically over the past 10 years. Many families do not have the resources to care for their children so many are abandoned on the street. Begging is common in the square and on some of the main streets, especially around the state department store (often children).

ACCOMMODATION & TRANSPORT
Accommodation in Ulaanbataar is in a good tourist-standard, centrally located hotel. Twin share with private facilities.
In the countryside you will overnight in Ger Camps or Tented Camp depending on the trip you choose.
Standard Tour - Ger Camp
Gers (Russian Yurt) are the traditional felt tents of nomadic herders. Each ger is furnished with a wood stove and beautifully painted furniture such as beds, a table and stools. Gers are based on twin occupancy.
Each ger camp has its restaurant, western style toilet and hot water showers. Most visitors find their stay in gers, which provide an authentic taste of Mongolian culture and adventure, their most enjoyable experience in Mongolia.
Budget Tour - Tented Camp
On camping tours western-style tents are used and camps set-up in scenic spots. All meals on camping tours are prepared by our camp cooks. Whilst we pride ourselves on the level of comfort we provide while camping in these remote areas, camping is not for everyone. It is important to remain open-minded and physically willing.

Transport in Mongolia is by private Russian 4WD military vehicle - jeep or van depending on group numbers.
Private car or minibus may be used for airport/station transfers and Ulaanbataar sightseeing. Our drivers are extremely experienced at navigating Monglia’s poor roads, and always do so with a sense of humor.