Essential Information - Mongolia Bulgan

Before booking your holiday with us, please check the status of your chosen tour. We strongly advise against booking any flights or making other travel arrangements until the tour is marked as Guaranteed. 

To confirm your place, simply register online and pay the deposit. This deposit is fully refundable up until the tour status changes to "Guaranteed", at which time it becomes non-refundable. Your final balance will be due 56 days before the tour start date. 

When you make a tour booking, you are also agreeing to our booking conditions – please take a moment to read them in full. 

Each tour requires a minimum number of participants to go ahead. As bookings come in, the status will update from Available, to 2 More to Guarantee, and finally to Guaranteed once the minimum number is met. You can always check the current status on the ‘Dates and Prices’ section of the tour page. 

Tour status definitions: 

✅ Guaranteed – The tour is confirmed and still open for bookings. 

✅ Guaranteed – Limited – The tour is confirmed to run, but only a few spaces left. 

 ⏳ Available – 2 More to Guarantee – The tour is open but needs just 2 more bookings to confirm.  

🟢 Available – Open for booking but not yet confirmed to run. 

 📩 Contact – Please get in touch if you are interested in this tour. 

❌ Fully Booked – This tour is no longer open for bookings. 

Once a tour is marked Guaranteed, you can go ahead with booking your flights and making other travel arrangements. We do not cancel trips once they reach guaranteed status, except in rare and exceptional circumstances. 

🚐 Support Vehicle – Full vehicle support throughout the tour

🏨 Accommodation – All overnight stays included

🍽️ Most Meals – Refer to itinerary for meals provided marked as B,L,D.

🚰 Snacks & Mineral Water – Provided during cycling days

✈️ Airport Transfers – On the first and last day of the tour

🧑‍🏫 Local Professional Guides – English-speaking cycling and cultural guides

🏕️ Camping Equipment – Sleeping mats, dining, shower, and toilet tents provided

🍳 Expedition Cook & Gear – Full camping and cooking equipment with experienced expedition cook(s)

🎟️ Sightseeing & Permit Fees – All visits, national park fees and permits included

🚚 Overland Transport – Included for all land-based travel during the tour

🔧 Mechanical Support – On-tour mechanic and essential spare parts provided for hire bikes

Please note that the following items are not included in the price of your redspokes cycling holiday:

✈️ International Flights
You are responsible for arranging your own international travel to and from the tour destination.

🍷 Alcoholic Drinks
Alcoholic beverages are not included with any meals or accommodation.

🍽️ Meals Not Stated on the Itinerary
Meals that are not explicitly mentioned in the itinerary will be at your own expense.

🛂 Visa Fees
You must obtain and pay for your own visa (if required) for entry to the destination country.

🛡️ Travel Insurance
Comprehensive travel insurance is mandatory and must be arranged prior to the tour.

💰 Tips for Guides and Support Staff
Gratuities for our local team are not included and are at your discretion.

🚴 Bike Hire
Bikes are not included in the tour price but are available to hire upon request.

🛌 Sleeping Bags
You will need to bring your own sleeping bag as the itinerary includes camping.

📍 Your redspokes Mongolia tour begins and ends in Ulaanbaatar.

✈️ Please plan to arrive in Ulaanbaatar on Day 1 of your itinerary.

🗓️ Your return flight should be booked for the final day of the itinerary.

🚐 Airport Transfers
We understand that redspokes customers join us from all over the world. Whatever time your flight arrives on the trip start date, we will meet you and transfer you and your luggage to the joining hotel. 

🕒 Note: If you arrive before midday, your room may not be immediately available.

🏨 Arriving Early or Staying Longer?
Want to come early or stay on after the tour?

redspokes can assist with:

🛏️ Booking extra accommodation

🚖 Arranging extra airport transfers

(Additional costs will apply)

🌍 International Flights
Please note: International flights are not included in your tour package.

To check flight options and prices, try:
🔗 www.kayak.com
🔗 www.opodo.co.uk

Mongolian Currency
The local currency in Mongolia is the Mongolian Tögrög (also spelled Tugrik or Tugrug), with the currency code MNT.

What to Bring
Travellers from the UK, EU, US, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand should bring USD or Euros. These are widely accepted and preferred for exchange in Mongolia.

Where to Exchange
You’ll get the best exchange rates at licensed money exchange offices and ATMs in Ulaanbaatar

❌ Avoid exchanging money at the airport or in hotels, as rates are often less favorable.
✔ Your local redspokes guide will help you find the best exchange options and ATMs during the trip.

💸 Spending Money
Spending needs vary based on personal preferences, but we estimate that £200 / $270 will be more than enough for the 14-day tour.

🧭 Helpful Tips
Cash is essential, especially in rural areas where card machines may not be available.

Notify your bank before travelling to avoid any card blocks.

🚴‍♂️ Bike Hire
Don’t have your own bike?
We offer bike hire for most tours – you can request this at the time of booking or by adding this later.

🚪 Single Room Supplement
Prefer a room to yourself?  Single room options are available on most tours for an additional fee.

🏨 Extra Accommodation & Transfers
If you are arriving before the trip starts or staying on after the tour ends, we can help arrange:

🛏️ Additional hotel nights

🚖 Extra airport transfers

Just let us know your travel plans and we’ll be happy to assist.

Mountain bikes are recommended for this tour due to the mixed terrain.

Before departure, we strongly advise a full service of your bike to ensure it's in top condition. Be sure to:

🛠️ Adjust wheel spokes

🔧 Grease all bearings

⚙️ Check gear & brake cables

🔩 Tighten all nuts & bolts

🔗 Inspect the chain and quick-release clamps

🚴‍♂️ Fit new inner tubes

💡 Ensure wheel rims aren’t worn

🧰 What to Bring With Your Bike:  

We recommend you pack the following essential tools and spares:

🧰 Multi-tool

🪛 Tyre levers

🔄 Pump

🔁 Spare inner tubes

🧵 Spare spokes

🧲 Chain links (a few extra links just in case)

🛑 Disc brake pads (check with your bike shop for compatibility)

🧪 Spare fluid or bleed kit (if your bike requires it)

⚙️ Any unique spares for your specific model

🛄 Luggage & Bike Transport
Your bike must be packed and transported as part of your checked luggage allowance.

A bike in a cardboard box typically weighs 15–20kg — please factor this into your airline baggage limits.

🚨 You may incur excess baggage charges depending on your carrier.

✈️ Always check your airline’s bike transport policy before booking your flight.

For this tour we have Giant XTC 3 bikes. A lightweight hardtail that combines 27.5 wheels with front suspension for a smooth, responsive performance in the following sizes: XS (14.5"), S (16"), M (18"), L(20").

🔧 Our support vehicle carries a complete toolkit, spare parts, and a track pump to handle any issues along the way.

⚙️ Customise Your Ride - All bikes come with standard flat pedals. If you prefer using SPD or clip-in pedals, feel free to bring your own. Similarly, if you have a personal saddle you’d like to use, you're welcome to bring it along. Our guide will be on hand to fit your pedals and saddle to your hire bike.

🪖 Helmet Policy - Please note that cycle helmets are not included in the bike hire.

🛑 You must bring your own helmet — helmet hire or purchase cannot be guaranteed on location.

✅ Wearing a helmet is mandatory while cycling. Failure to do so is at your own risk and may impact the validity of your travel insurance.

You will have the full support of a back-up vehicle throughout the tour, providing peace of mind as you ride. The support vehicle will:

🚐 Transport your main luggage between overnight stops

🪑 Offer a lift if you need a break from cycling

🛠️ Stop roughly every 12 miles (20 km) to offer assistance and refreshments

Our tour leaders carry a comprehensive tool kit and will assist with common bike issues. All you will need to carry is a small daypack for essentials like a camera, snacks, or a light jacket.

If you are bringing your own bike, please make sure it is in good working condition before the tour. We strongly recommend a full service by a professional bike shop prior to travel, as we cannot guarantee we will have the parts or tools for repairs to your particular bike.

Your comfort and safety on the road are our priority — whether you're riding or taking a breather in the van.

🍽️ Meals & Food on Tour
Most meals are included in your tour price, with the exception of non-cycling days and wherever indicated on the itinerary.  Please refer to your itinerary for where this is indicated — each included meal is shown using the following code:

B – Breakfast

L – Lunch

D – Dinner

🥣 Typical Daily Meals
We provide western-style meals with a touch of traditional Mongolian cuisine.

Breakfast: A variety of hot and cold options including:

Porridge (oatmeal, rice, semolina)

Fried or baked breads

Butter, spreads, eggs

Tea, coffee, sausages

Lunch: Usually starts with a light soup, followed by a main course such as:

Stir-fried meat and vegetables

Rice, pasta, or noodles

Dinner: Evening meals are hearty and satisfying:

Fresh vegetables and salads

A main course with meat or vegetarian options

☕ Snacks & Tea Stops: Around 11am each cycling day, we take a break with:

Dried fruit, nuts, crisps

Tea, coffee, or soft drinks

A daily granola bar is also provided

During “happy hour” at camp (post-ride), enjoy nibbles while relaxing before dinner.

🍺 Drinks
Canned beer, wine, and soft drinks are available on request at extra cost. Please let us know in advance if you would like these arranged.

🥦 Dietary Requirements
We can cater for vegetarian, vegan and gluten-free diets.

✅ Please inform us at time of booking if you have any special dietary needs.

A Taste of Mongolia
While meals are tailored to western preferences, you will also sample some local favourites:

Khuushur – Deep-fried mutton-filled pastry

Buuz – Mongolia’s national dish: steamed dumplings filled with mutton or goat, onion, garlic, and caraway

Salty Milk Tea (“War”) – A traditional Mongolian beverage

Fun Fact: Mongolian horsemen are thought to have invented ice cream 700+ years ago by shaking cream in winter while crossing the Gobi Desert!

Travel insurance is mandatory for all redspokes tours. Your policy must cover the entire duration of your trip and should include the following:

🚑 Personal injury and medical expenses

⚰️ Death and repatriation

🚁 Helicopter or aircraft rescue

🎒 Loss of luggage or equipment

❌ Trip cancellation or curtailment (including COVID-19 or other unforeseen medical events)

✅ All activities included in your tour (e.g. cycling, mountain biking)

✅ No exclusion clauses that could invalidate coverage during adventure travel

📌 Any claims must be made directly through your insurance provider.

⏳ When to Buy:  We strongly recommend purchasing travel insurance at the time of booking to ensure you are protected in the event of flight or tour cancellations. 

🧑‍🤝‍🧑 Who You'll Travel With
We welcome a wide mix of cyclists on our tours – from couples and friends to solo travellers.

🛏️ Accommodation
Our tour prices are based on twin-shared accommodation.  If you are travelling solo, we will pair you with another traveller of the same gender in the group.

👤 Prefer your own space?
Single room options are available on most tours for an additional fee.

Let us know your preference during booking!

At redspokes, we select accommodation based on comfort and character, not luxury. All prices are based on twin-room sharing.

🛏️ Prefer your own room? A single supplement is available on most tours.
➤ See our Dates & Prices page for full details on additional costs.

🛖 Accommodation Types on This Tour
Your Mongolia tour includes a variety of accommodation styles for a unique experience:

⛺ Tents – During remote sections of the tour - we provide 3-person Northface tents for both twins and singles.

🛖 Ger Camps – Traditional Mongolian yurts - all on a shared basis - no single occupancy

🏨 Hotels – Comfortable stays on the first and last night of the tour

Some hotels feature en-suite bathrooms and air conditioning

You must hold a valid passport in order to travel.  Your passport should be valid for at least 6 months from the date of your return from any overseas destination. 

Visa and entry requirements for most countries can and do change from time to time and so we strongly recommend that you consult the government travel website for where your passport was issued.

For UK nationals, please visit the gov.uk website for up to date information about entry requirements for Mongolia.  The website also provides vaccination advice as well as the option to sign up for Alerts so that you are aware if requirements have changed.

We strongly recommend contacting your doctor or local Travel Health Clinic at least 8 weeks before departure to discuss the vaccinations you may need for your trip.

For UK nationals, please visit the gov.uk website for up to date information about vaccination advice or go direct to National Travel Health Network and Centre (NaTHNaC) for the most up-to-date guidance.

🌦️ Weather & Best Time to Visit Mongolia:
☀️ Summer (June – August) Daytime: 20°C – 30°C/Evening: Around 10°C.  Expect some rain and occasional thunderstorms

🍂 Autumn (September – October):  Cooler days as temperatures begin to drop, ideal for those who prefer milder conditions

Staying Hydrated on Hot Rides – 6 Tips for Cyclists
As a cycling company, we know how important proper hydration is—especially when you're out riding in hot conditions. Below are some general hydration tips that riders find helpful for staying fuelled and feeling strong on the bike.Please note:  We are not medical professionals  and this information should not replace advice from a qualified healthcare provider. Each cyclist is different, so if you have specific health concerns or conditions,  it is always best to consult your doctor and adhere to their advice.

 1. Prioritize Gut Health

Why it matters: A healthy gut = better absorption of water and nutrients.
How to do it: Fuel your microbiome with probiotics (like yogurt, kefir, sauerkraut) and prebiotics (like garlic, onions, and bananas) to keep your digestion and hydration on point.

 2. Time Your Hydration

Why it matters: When you drink can be just as important as how much.
How to do it: Start your day with a big glass of water—add a splash of lemon or a pinch of sea salt for extra hydration power.

 3. Hydrate Beyond Water

Why it matters: Water isn’t the only way to hydrate.
How to do it: Mix in coconut water, bone broth, or other nutrient-rich drinks to stay hydrated and replenish lost electrolytes—especially during long rides or after sweating.

 4. Don’t Forget the Minerals

Why it matters: Minerals like sodium, calcium, and magnesium help your body retain water.
How to do it: Eat mineral-rich foods like salted nuts, seeds, and dairy—or consider a quality mineral supplement if needed.

 5. Absorb Water Better

Why it matters: Guzzling water too quickly can flush out nutrients and be poorly absorbed.
How to do it: Sip consistently throughout the day. Add a pinch of sea salt to your bottle, and include water-rich foods like watermelon, cucumbers, and pineapple.

 6. Keep Your Electrolytes in Check

Why it matters: Electrolytes help regulate fluid balance, nerve function, and muscle contractions.
How to do it: Eat foods high in potassium and magnesium like bananas, avocados, and leafy greens. Add electrolyte tablets or a pinch of sea salt to your water, especially after intense sweat sessions.

Your packing list may vary depending on personal preference. This guide is a general outline to help you prepare—tailor it to your needs. Remember, Mongolia’s weather can be unpredictable — as well as strong sun, you may also encounter rain.

Here are some recommendations for a safe and comfortable ride:

🚴‍♂️ Cycling & Clothing Essentials

 🪖 Cycling helmet (mandatory and to be worn at all times when cycling)

🕶️ Sunglasses / eye protection

💧 Water bottles or CamelBak

👟 Lightweight trekking boots or cycling shoes

👖 Lightweight trekking shorts

🧦 Thermal base layers (top & bottoms)

🚴‍♀️ Padded cycling shorts

👖 Long cotton trousers

👕 T-shirts

👔 Long-sleeved shirt

🧥 Fleece jacket or pullover

🌧️ Waterproof cycling jacket (breathable)

🧤 Fingerless biking gloves

🧤 Warm gloves

👒 Sun hat

🧣 Buff or neck gaiter

🧴 Sunscreen & lip balm

💤 Travel pillow (optional)

🛏️ 3 or 4 season sleeping bag (essential)

🩺 Personal First Aid Kit
Our guides carry a group first aid kit, but we strongly recommend you bring your own personal supplies:

💊 Paracetamol / Ibuprofen (pain relief)

💩 Lomotil or Diacalm (anti-diarrhoea)

💧 Rehydration salts (e.g. Dioralyte)

🧴 Antiseptic cream

🍬 Throat lozenges

🩹 Plasters (band-aids)

👃 Nasal spray

👁️ Eye drops

🎧 Ear plugs

✋ Antibacterial hand gel

🧻 Antiseptic wet wipes

🦟 Insect repellent

🩰 Blister pads (e.g. Compeed)

📱 Mobile Phone & SIM Card - see Electricity/Phones section for more information 

In Mongolia, the standard electricity supply is Voltage: 220 volts and Frequency: 50 Hz.

The power sockets in Mongolia are Type C and Type E sockets.

📱 Mobile Phone & SIM Card Info – Mongolia
Stay connected during your adventure with local SIM or eSIM options. Here's what you need to know:

✅ SIM Cards
Where to Buy: Ulaanbaatar airport, the State Department Store or provider shops (passport required).

A few providers:

MobiCom – best rural coverage

Unitel – reliable with eSIM support

Skytel & G-Mobile – good urban options

Tourist SIMs: available with data packages from 7 to 90 days.

🌐 eSIM Options
Use eSIMs like GoMoWorld, Yesim, or BNESIM—ideal for short stays.

Activate before or on arrival.

Make sure your phone supports eSIM.

💡 Tips
Download key apps offline before rural travel.

Consider a portable Wi-Fi device if constant connectivity is essential.