Mongolia, one of the world’s last truly nomadic cultures, offers a unique glimpse into a way of life that has persisted for millennia. For centuries, pastoral herders have moved across the vast Mongolian landscape, living in harmony with nature, following the seasons with their livestock. Many still live in traditional felt Ger tents, subsisting on the milk and meat of their animals, and embracing the freedom of Mongolia’s vast, open spaces.
In today’s fast-paced world, Mongolia stands out as one of the few exotic destinations, designed for nature and culture lovers. With its stunning, untouched landscapes and rich nomadic heritage, Mongolia promises an unmatched experience of hospitality that has been preserved through centuries.
Air Travel from Belgium to Mongolia
Mongolia is a landlocked country, and the primary international gateway is Chinggis Khaan International Airport (ULN), located 15 kilometers southwest of the capital city, Ulaanbaatar.
Though there are no direct flights from Belgium to Mongolia, you can fly to Mongolia through the following connecting flights:
Berlin or Frankfurt – Ulaanbaatar: MIAT Mongolian Airlines
Istanbul – Ulaanbaatar: Turkish Airlines
Moscow – Ulaanbaatar: Aeroflot
Beijing – Ulaanbaatar: Air China
For travelers seeking the best flight connections, booking through popular platforms like Skyscanner or Google Flights will provide the most convenient options.
Useful Tips for Travel to Mongolia from Belgium:
Transit Time: Plan for layovers in cities such as Frankfurt, Istanbul, or Moscow. Flights via Beijing offer the fastest transit time from Europe to Mongolia.
Baggage Allowance: Check with your airline for baggage policies, especially when connecting through different airlines for international flights.
Train Travel from Belgium to Mongolia
For those looking for a more adventurous journey, the legendary Trans-Siberian Railway offers a thrilling experience. The world’s longest continuous rail line (7,925 km) connects Ulaanbaatar with Moscow, Irkutsk (Baikal Lake), and Beijing.
Moscow to Ulaanbaatar: Approximately 5 days
Irkutsk (Baikal Lake) to Ulaanbaatar: About 24 hours
Beijing to Ulaanbaatar: Around 28 hours
The Trans-Siberian Railway journey offers a rich cultural adventure, passing through diverse landscapes like Mongolia’s vast steppes, the shores of Lake Baikal, and the Great Wall of China.
Useful Tips:
Booking in Advance: Train tickets can sell out quickly, especially during peak travel seasons. Be sure to book your tickets in advance through the official railway websites or trusted travel agencies.
Cabin Types: There are different cabin classes on the Trans-Siberian Railway, including first-class private compartments and more affordable second-class shared cabins. Make sure to pick the option that suits your comfort and budget.
For more detailed train information, check out Mongolian Tour Guide - Train Travel.
Visa Requirements for Belgian Passport Holders
If you are a Belgian passport holder, you will need a visa to visit Mongolia. You can apply at the Embassy of Mongolia in Brussels.
Documents Required for a Tourist Visa:
A passport valid for at least 6 months from the start of travel
Completed visa application form (download it here)
One passport-size photo (3.5×4.5cm)
Copy of your flight/train tickets
Letter of invitation from your host company in Mongolia
Visa fee (check the current rates with the Embassy)
The visa officer may ask for additional documents to verify the purpose of your visit.
On Arrival Visa: Belgian travelers are not eligible for an on-arrival visa in Mongolia, as this visa is only available for travelers from countries without a Mongolian embassy or consulate.
Transit Visa: If you are transiting through Mongolia for up to 10 days, you can apply for a transit visa at one of the following borders: Chinggis Khaan International Airport (Ulaanbaatar), Sukhbaatar (Russia-Mongolia), or Zamiin-Uud (China-Mongolia). Required documents include:
A valid passport
Onward flight/train ticket
Visa application form
Passport-size photo
Visa fee (around USD 50)
Embassy of Mongolia in Belgium:
Address: Avenue Besme 18, 1190, Forest Bruxelles
Telephone: +32-2-344-6974
Email: brussels@mfa.gov.mn
Website: www.brussels.embassy.mn
For further visa details, check out the Mongolian Tour Guide Visa Section.
Mongolia Customs Regulations
You can bring foreign currencies into Mongolia without restrictions, but amounts over EUR 4,500 or USD 5,000 must be declared. You may export the amount declared upon entry. Local currency cannot be imported or exported.
Be mindful that customs officials inspect for items such as antiques, rare minerals, fossils, metals, and hunting trophies when departing Mongolia. Hunters are allowed to import and export their personal hunting weapons, including ammunition. For more detailed information, visit Mongolia's Customs Regulations.
Useful Tips:
Souvenirs: Be cautious when buying souvenirs, especially items made of rare minerals or metals. Make sure to get proper certification to avoid issues with customs when departing.
Declaring Currency: Always declare any large sums of cash you bring into the country to avoid penalties.
Mongolia Weather: Best Times to Visit
Mongolia is famously known as the “Land of the Eternal Blue Sky,” with 257 sunny days each year. The best time to visit Mongolia is during the summer months, from early June to early September, when the weather is warm and ideal for exploring the country’s vast, beautiful landscapes.
If you prefer cooler weather and fewer crowds, late September to October provides stunning autumn colors. Alternatively, winter (November to February) brings unique experiences like Mongolia's famous Ice Festival or the Golden Eagle Festival, but be prepared for extremely cold temperatures, which can drop as low as -30°C.
Useful Tips:
Packing: If visiting in summer, pack lightweight clothing but also bring a jacket for cool evenings. If visiting in winter, thermal layers, a heavy jacket, and waterproof boots are essential.
Altitude: Some parts of Mongolia, such as the Altai Mountains, are at high altitudes. Be mindful of altitude sickness if planning to trek or travel to these regions.
Explore the best times and tips for visiting Mongolia on Mongolian Tour Guide - Best Time to Visit.
