Visiting Mongolia in Autumn (September to October)
Autumn (September–October) is one of the most beautiful and peaceful times to visit Mongolia. As summer fades, the countryside transforms into golden, red, and copper tones, offering stunning scenery and quieter travel experiences. Early September remains pleasantly warm with some occasional rain, while October brings cooler, crisp air and crystal-clear skies.
In Ulaanbaatar, schools and universities reopen, making the city livelier than in summer. Meanwhile, the countryside becomes more tranquil as tourist crowds thin out, allowing for more immersive experiences with nature and nomadic culture.
Autumn is also the prime season for the iconic Eagle Hunting Festivals in Western Mongolia, held in late September and early October. For warmer weather, the Gobi Desert remains a great destination during this time, with comfortable temperatures perfect for exploring.
What Is the Weather Like in Mongolia in Autumn?
Autumn is a transitional season, with mild days and cooler nights:
September: Warm, sunny days with occasional rainfall; perfect for hiking and outdoor activities
October: Cooler temperatures with crisp air and minimal precipitation; ideal for photography and exploring mountains and forests
Daylight hours gradually shorten from about 12–14 hours in September to 10–11 hours in October, allowing for full sightseeing while enjoying the golden light of autumn.
What Does Mongolia Look Like in Autumn?
Rolling steppes and valleys painted in gold, red, and amber
Clear blue skies creating perfect contrast with colorful landscapes
Nomadic herder families preparing for winter, moving livestock, and tending to animals
Fewer tourists, making popular sites and natural landmarks more serene
Wildlife preparing for winter, offering great opportunities for photography
Autumn is arguably the best season for photographers seeking dramatic scenery and quieter, more intimate cultural experiences.
Things to Do in Autumn
Autumn offers a combination of adventure, cultural immersion, and nature experiences:
🐎 Horseback riding through golden valleys and open steppe
🐫 Camel trekking in the Gobi Desert, enjoying warm daytime temperatures
🛶 Kayaking and boating on rivers and lakes before winter
🥛 Tasting Mongolian Airag, the traditional fermented mare’s milk
🐐 Visiting nomadic families and observing their preparations for winter
🤲 Helping nomads with daily tasks, including feeding and caring for animals
🦌 Meeting reindeer herders (Tsaatan) in northern Mongolia
🌄 Sunrise and sunset photography over colorful landscapes
🏕️ Camping in serene autumn weather, with fewer crowds
🦅 Attending Eagle Hunting Festivals in Western Mongolia
Autumn provides ideal conditions for off-road adventures, wildlife spotting, and cultural exploration, all with comfortable temperatures and fewer tourists.
Events & Festivals in Autumn
Autumn is festival season in Mongolia, especially in September and early October:
🦅 Eagle Hunting Festivals – Held in Bayan-Ölgii province, showcasing the ancient Kazakh tradition of hunting with golden eagles
🥛 Tasting traditional Airag – A seasonal highlight for travelers visiting nomadic families
🎶 Local Harvest Festivals – Regional celebrations featuring music, dance, and traditional cuisine
These festivals offer visitors an authentic glimpse into Mongolia’s rich traditions and nomadic lifestyle before winter sets in.
Why Visit Mongolia in Autumn?
Golden Landscapes – Steppe, forests, and mountains at their most colorful
Fewer Tourists – Peaceful travel and better access to attractions
Cultural Immersion – Experience nomadic life during seasonal preparations
Outdoor Adventure – Comfortable temperatures for horseback riding, hiking, and camel trekking
Festival Season – Eagle Hunting Festivals provide rare cultural experiences
Photography Opportunities – Perfect for landscapes, wildlife, and nomadic life
Practical Travel Tips for Autumn
Accommodation: Ger camps remain open; fewer crowds make booking easier than in summer
Clothing: Layered clothing is recommended; days are warm, evenings can be chilly
Transport: Roads are mostly accessible; a 4x4 vehicle with an experienced driver is still recommended
Weather: Prepare for occasional rain in September and cooler, crisp weather in October
Crowds: Autumn is quieter than summer; September is slightly busier than October
