What is a Mongolian Ger (Yurt)?
The Mongolian Ger, also known internationally as a yurt, is the traditional home of Mongolia’s nomadic people. This round, felt-covered dwelling has been used for centuries and is perfectly adapted to the harsh climate and nomadic lifestyle of the steppe.
A Ger is built from a wooden frame, central columns, and a crown opening at the top for light and ventilation. The walls and roof are covered with thick layers of felt made from sheep’s wool, secured by ropes crafted from horse or yak hair. This natural design makes the Ger warm in winter, cool in summer, and highly portable — it can be dismantled, packed onto camels or horses, and reassembled in just a few hours.
For Mongolians, the Ger is not only a shelter but also a symbol of harmony between people, nature, and tradition.
Tourist Ger Camps in Mongolia
Today, travelers to Mongolia can experience this unique way of life by staying in tourist Ger camps, which are the local equivalent of hotels near national parks, the Gobi Desert, Lake Khuvsgul, and other attractions. These camps allow visitors to enjoy the authenticity of nomadic living while still benefiting from comfort and hospitality.
A typical Ger camp includes 15 to 40 guest Gers, a restaurant (often in a larger Ger or building), and sometimes additional facilities such as a bar, showers, and even saunas. Many camps also organize activities such as horseback riding, camel trekking, hiking, wildlife spotting, and evening folk performances — offering not just accommodation, but a cultural experience.
Accommodation and Facilities
Inside each guest Ger, you will usually find two to four single beds, a central stove for heating, and simple but functional furniture such as a table and chairs. Guests can choose between different arrangements: twin, double, triple, or family-sized Gers.
There are 2 types of Ger in Ger camps.
Standard Ger
(which is sole Ger without private bathroom.)
Ensuite Ger
(which has private bathroom attached to its Ger.)
Inside
Public bathroom
Inside
Private bathroom
Note: Ger camps have a limited number of ensuite gers, making them difficult for tour operators to book. Since bookings can only be secured after clients confirm, these ensuite gers may be reserved earlier by others. Once they are fully booked, your tour operator will not be able to secure one for you. If you wish to stay in an ensuite ger camp, it is highly recommended to book well in advance through a tour operator.
Sanitary Ware
Many camps have fully equipped sanitary facilities such as hot and cold showers, sauna, laundry (some ger camps) and comfortable toilet separate building. For standard Ger, flush toilets and showers are located in separate blocks from the ger accommodations.
Electricity
Almost all tourist Ger camps near Ulaanbaatar and big settlement are connected to central electricity line and has 24 hours’ electricity. But some of the tourist ger camps which are located far away from the settlement area have a generator and thus have limited electricity.
Why Stay in a Ger Camp?
Staying in a Ger camp is more than just finding a place to sleep — it’s a chance to experience the nomadic lifestyle of Mongolia in comfort. You’ll wake up to breathtaking views of endless steppes, sand dunes, or mountain valleys, and fall asleep to the quiet sounds of nature.
For many travelers, spending a few nights in a Ger camp becomes the highlight of their journey, combining authentic tradition with modern hospitality. Whether you are exploring the Gobi Desert, the Orkhon Valley, or Lake Khuvsgul, a Ger camp offers the perfect balance of cultural immersion and relaxation.
