Audley in Mongolia
The great expanses of Mongolia offer incredible opportunities to explore one of the world’s last true wildernesses. This is a land three times the size of France with a population less than that of Wales. The Mongols are naturally a nomadic people, and it was only during the Communist years of the 20th-century that urbanisation began in earnest. Over a third of the population now live in the capital, Ulaan Baatar, the political and cultural hub for the region and entry and exit point for the great majority of foreign visitors.
With no direct flights from the UK, connecting flights via Beijing or Seoul offer the most convenient and frequent option, while a slower but more atmospheric journey brings you to Ulaan Baatar on the famous Trans-Siberian railway, offering the ideal opportunity to disembark and explore the city and beyond. Domestic flights radiate from the capital to the provinces (aimags), and though much of the infrastructure beyond the capital is very basic, travelling by private vehicle allows you to explore the stunning hinterland in as much comfort as possible.
Accommodation
Mongolia’s capital Ulaan Baatar boasts a range of modern hotels with standards approaching those of more developed nations. Head beyond the city, however, and the lack of developed infrastructure means camping in traditional nomadic ger (felt yurt tents) is often the only option. Most popular destinations, especially in the Gobi Desert, offer semipermanent encampments with comfortable facilities. The further you venture off the beaten track, however, the more basic conditions become, with shared washing facilities the norm.