Introduction

I've been asked this question before almost every expedition I've led. The short answer is yes — and after fourteen years of traveling across this country, I've never had reason to think otherwise. But "safe" means different things depending on where you are and what you're doing, and Mongolia deserves a more specific answer than a single word.

According to the 2025 Global Peace Index, Mongolia ranks 37th out of 163 countries and 5th in Asia, ahead of France, South Korea, China, India, and the United States. The U.S. State Department, Canada, and Australia all issue Level 1 travel advisories for Mongolia — their lowest risk category.

Mongolia's government actively supports and invests in tourism as a national priority. That commitment shows in how the country receives visitors — with infrastructure, oversight, and a genuine interest in making the experience good.

In the City

Ulaanbaatar is a normal modern city. Petty theft exists, as it does in any city anywhere in the world — be aware of your belongings in crowded areas and around major festivals like Naadam. That's the extent of what most visitors need to think about.

Outside of the standard city awareness, most travelers move through Ulaanbaatar without any issues.

In the Countryside 

Crime is simply not a feature of rural Mongolia. The nomadic culture here is built around hospitality — welcoming strangers, offering tea, leaving doors unlocked. Visitors are treated as guests, and that tradition runs deep.

The things worth paying attention to in the countryside are practical and weather-related: Mongolia's landscape is vast, conditions can change quickly, and distances are long. Travel with someone who knows the terrain and you won't have anything to worry about. 

For Women

Mongolia is a safe destination for women. The government's active development of tourism has brought better infrastructure and higher standards across the industry.

Women traveling in groups have consistently positive experiences. Solo female travelers — as anywhere in the world — should simply be aware of their surroundings and trust their instincts. That's good advice in any country, not a specific warning about this one.

The Bottom Line

Mongolia is peaceful, hospitable, and well worth visiting. The people are welcoming, the countryside is open and calm, and the country is actively working to be one of Asia's great travel destinations.

Come prepared for the landscape and the weather. Everything else will take care of itself.