Imagine Mongolia in the summer as a time when nature and culture come together to make something truly special. As the sun graces the vast steppes with almost continuous daylight, a world of exploration and adventure unfolds.

From the nomadic lifestyle on the move to the grandeur of the Naadam Festival and the unexpected blooms of the Gobi Desert, Mongolia’s summer beckons travelers to immerse themselves in a world where the past meets the present under the boundless blue sky.

1. Abundant Sunshine

Mongolian summers are characterized by an abundance of sunshine, with daylight lasting approximately 16 to 18 hours per day. With all that extra daylight, you can have a ton of fun outside and go on adventures.

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2. Nomadic Lifestyle

During the summer months, many Mongolian families continue their traditional nomadic way of life.

They move their herds of livestock to fresh grazing pastures, setting up their iconic white felt tents known as “gers” in different locations.

The nomadic way of life is a big deal in Mongolian culture and gives us a neat peek into their interesting history and traditions.

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3. Naadam Festival

The highlight of the Mongolian summer is undoubtedly the Naadam Festival, which typically takes place in July. This big event is all about Mongolia’s ‘Three Manly Games’: wrestling, horse racing, and archery.

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4. Diverse Landscapes

Mongolia’s summer landscapes are incredibly diverse. From the vast open steppes that stretch as far as the eye can see to the rolling hills, lush river valleys, and pristine lakes like Khövsgöl Nuur in the north, the country offers a breathtaking range of natural beauty.

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5. Pleasant Temperatures

Unlike the harsh winters, Mongolian summers offer pleasant, mild weather, perfect for exploring the country. Daytime temperatures usually hang around 20-30°C (68-86°F), making it comfy for outdoor adventures.

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6. Animals

Summer is the best time for folks who love wildlife. Mongolia has all kinds of animals, like wild horses, Bactrian camels, and even sneaky snow leopards in the Altai Mountains. Birdwatching is also popular, with various species of eagles, vultures, and waterfowl to spot.

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7. Dairy Delights

Mongolian cuisine during the summer prominently features dairy products. You can savor traditional treats like “airag,” a fermented mare’s milk, and “aaruul,” dried curd snacks that provide sustenance during long journeys across the steppe.

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8. Tsaatan Reindeer Herders

In the far north of Mongolia, you can encounter the Tsaatan people, a unique community of reindeer herders. During the summer months, they migrate to higher pastures to ensure their reindeer have access to fresh grazing land.

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9. Gobi Desert Blooms

Even in the seemingly inhospitable Gobi Desert, summer brings life. Surprisingly, you can witness colorful wildflower blooms and unique desert landscapes that defy the desert’s arid reputation.

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10. Warm Hospitality

Mongolians are renowned for their warm hospitality, and this is especially evident during the summer.

Travelers are often welcomed into Mongolian gers with open arms, offered traditional food and beverages like salty milk tea, and invited to share in the warmth of their culture and traditions.

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Mongolian summers are this amazing mix of stunning nature, rich culture, and friendly folks.

Whether you’re exploring the nomadic way of life, witnessing the grandeur of the Naadam Festival, or immersing yourself in the stunning landscapes, a summer visit to Mongolia promises a memorable experience.

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