A former annex to the former Soviet Union, Mongolia is still finding its way as a democratic society. With a territory three times the size of France but with less than three million people, it remains one of the least densely populated areas of the world. As a result, it has a pristine environment, vast stretches of open space, and a great diversity of ecosystems with rare and endangered wildlife. Its horse-based culture has been preserved here for hundreds of years and is the foundation for one of the last remaining nomadic lifestyles in the world.
Many people have heard of the legendary warlord Genghis Khan, who conjures up images of a barbaric race of people. In reality, things are very different. Mongolians have been described as one of the world's most friendly and hospitable peoples. Mongolia has had a peaceful transition to democracy, while other nations in Central Asia and the Far East have experienced political and religious uprisings. It is socially and politically stable and is a very safe place to visit.
Although the greatest developments in Mongolia's tourism industry have taken place in the last five years, tourists have been visiting for the past 50 years. There are now a large number of tour operators with many years of experience, providing quality services to thousands of happy customers.
Unless you seek resorts, sand, scuba diving or deep sea fishing, Mongolia is likely to offer the resources you need to provide you with the experience of a lifetime. Mountaineering, trekking, horse riding, camel riding, canoeing, rafting, fishing, mountain biking, motorcycling, 4x4 and even hot air ballooning can be all arranged, often in combination. The range of ecosystems makes the country ideal for photo safaris, bird watching, nature watching, and both research and paleontology tours.
The main tourist attractions include the nomadic way of life, Mongolian customs, and opportunities to explore Mongolian art, history, music, dance, craftsmanship and games, as well as the Tibetan Buddhist and Shamanistic religions still practiced here. Aside from the enormously popular Naadam festivals, which take place all over the country, a number of other festivals and events have grown in popularity in recent years, including an Eagle Festival, a Yak Festival and numerous Polo matches played on camels.
Those who visit here find it is the combination of the nature, pursuits and culture that makes a trip to Mongolia so spectacular.
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