Countryside transportation in Mongolia

Countryside transportation in Mongolia

Planes offer the fastest way of getting around the country. Usually two or three flights per week are available to major province centers onboard of an old Antonov - 24 propeller plane. Recently a more modern Fokker plane has been brought by Air Mongolia private company to serve to some province centers. A plane ticket may cost more for foreigners, especially to such popular tourist destinations as Gobi Desert or Huvsgul Lake .

Intercity shuttle buses is the most common way of traveling for Mongols. Buses to all province centers depart daily from the Intercity Bus Terminal near the Central Railroad Station. From province centers one can rent out a sturdy, Russian made jeep or van to travel around. On the main roads small canteens and cafes are available offering basic noodle soup and fried meat with rice. It is possible to order boiled water and soft drinks like Cola, Pepsi, various juices.

Cars. It is possible to hire a Russian made military jeep or van for traveling in countryside. The price is usually Togrog 300 or $ 0.25 per kilometer but when the distance goes well over one hundreds it is possible to negotiate. Ride on bigger jeeps like Nissan, Land Cruiser or Cherokee will cost $ .50 per kilometer. The price includes the cost of petrol and a driver's pay.

It is crucial to find a reliable, experienced driver as well as to check the car. Missing this point may result in a few days long waiting amidst nowhere for a car to pass.