The best time to travel in Mongolia

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The best time to go to Mongolia is between May and October, so as to avoid the bitter cold. However, avoid high summer if you're heading to the Gobi Desert, which gets scorching hot. It tends to rain between July and September but it doesn't downpour. Be warned that during the Nadaam in July and August, flights and hotels are quickly booked up, so reserve in advance!

Art and craft holidays

Mongolia has a wealth of creative treasures, such as workshops that produce bows and arrows. You'll no doubt be tempted by the traditional Kazakh crafts as well as paintings by the better known Mongolian artists. The Mongolian Quilting Shop has a great collection of quilted fabrics. Go between May and October to avoid the cold and make your shopping sprees even more enjoyable.

Hiking holidays

Mongolia is a hiking fan's dream destination. One of the best in the country is the Renchinlkhumbe trek, which leads to the village itself. You can also explore the Gorkhi-Terelj National Park and the plains of Otgon Tenger Uul. Whether its across glaciers or around lakes, hikers of all levels can choose from a wide range of trails. It's best to go between May and October.

Sports and activity holidays

Hiking aside, visitors can go fishing or kayaking, notably at Lake Khövsgöl Nuur, which also has great potholing sites. Go between May and October so as to avoid the cold. If you enjoy winter sports, go in January and February for good downhill or cross country skiiing.

Nature holidays

Get up close to Mongolia's wildlife in its many national parks. Don't miss out the Ikh Nartiin Chuluu Natural Reserve or the protected Dornod Mongol, home to herds of gazelle. Explore Nömrög or Mongol Daguur, inhabited by bears, otters, elan, yacks and numerous bird species. You'll find stunning wild flowers growing on the Mongolian prairies and kilometres of shrubland stretching across the Gobi Desert. The best time to go is between May and October.

Horseriding holidays

If there's one country in the world where horse riding is legendary, it's Mongolia. Mongolians get around a lot on horseback and you'll be spoilt for choice. You'll find great treks in rural areas around Ulan Bator, in the Gorkhi-Terelj National Park, or, if you're looking for longer treks, the Khövsgöl Nuur. Find yourself a tame Mongolian horse and explore the country preferably between May and October.