From Aotearoa to Mongolia — two extraordinary landscapes, one unforgettable journey.
New Zealand is known for its dramatic mountains, beautiful lakes, outdoor adventures and remarkable natural scenery. But imagine experiencing a country where the landscapes stretch even further, horses remain essential to rural life and traditional nomadic families move with the changing seasons.
Mongolia offers New Zealand travellers an entirely different kind of adventure.
Instead of developed walking tracks and established holiday parks, you can explore remote mountain valleys, ride across immense grasslands, stay in traditional Mongolian gers and discover the striking landscapes of the Gobi Desert.
If you're planning a Mongolia holiday from Auckland, Wellington, Christchurch, Queenstown or elsewhere in New Zealand in 2027 or 2028, this guide will help you plan flights, understand visa requirements, choose the best season and find a suitable adventure.
Because getting to Mongolia involves a long international journey, choosing the right trip duration and itinerary is particularly important.
At Nomadic of the Blue Sky, a locally operated Mongolian travel company established in 2010, we organise private journeys, small-group adventures, horseback expeditions and cultural tours across Mongolia.
1. How to Fly from New Zealand to Mongolia
There are currently no regular nonstop passenger flights between New Zealand and Mongolia.
Most travellers reach Ulaanbaatar through one or more international connections.
Your destination airport is Chinggis Khaan International Airport (UBN), located outside Mongolia's capital.
Auckland to Ulaanbaatar via Seoul
One of the flight routes worth comparing is:
Auckland (AKL) – Seoul Incheon (ICN) – Ulaanbaatar (UBN).
Seoul is an important international gateway to Mongolia, with connecting services to Ulaanbaatar.
This can be a convenient option if flight schedules align and the complete journey can be booked on one ticket.
Auckland to Ulaanbaatar via Beijing
Another possible route is:
Auckland (AKL) – Beijing (PEK) – Ulaanbaatar (UBN).
Beijing provides connections to Mongolia, although travellers should carefully check transit requirements and the airport used.
Beijing has more than one international airport, and changing airports can significantly complicate your journey.
Auckland to Ulaanbaatar via Tokyo
Tokyo Narita is another connecting possibility.
Travellers can investigate flights from Auckland to Tokyo before continuing on services to Ulaanbaatar.
The operating days and seasonal schedules should be checked carefully.
Flights from Christchurch, Wellington and Queenstown
Travellers departing from Christchurch, Wellington or Queenstown generally need an additional domestic or international connection.
Depending on your departure city, connecting through Auckland or an Australian airport may provide a suitable route to Asia and onward to Mongolia.
If your itinerary involves more than one airline, confirm baggage arrangements and whether the flights are issued on a single ticket.
How Long Does It Take to Reach Mongolia from New Zealand?
Auckland–Ulaanbaatar itineraries with one connection can take approximately 19–21 hours or longer, depending on the route and layover.
Additional connections may increase the total travel time considerably.
Because Mongolia is a long-haul destination from New Zealand, we recommend allowing enough time for the journey to be worthwhile.
Our recommendation: Plan approximately 12–16 days in Mongolia, plus the time needed for your international flights.
After arrival, spend your first night in Ulaanbaatar before beginning a demanding countryside expedition.
2. Do New Zealand Citizens Need a Visa for Mongolia?
New Zealand passport holders are included in Mongolia's temporary tourist visa exemption for visits of up to 30 days during 2026.
However, the published exemption currently applies only through 31 December 2026.
If you are planning to visit Mongolia in 2027 or 2028, check whether this visa exemption has been officially extended before booking your trip.
Entry requirements may change, and visitors should confirm passport validity, permitted stay and any applicable visa procedures.
Official information:
Mongolia Official E-Visa Portal
New Zealand residents travelling on passports issued by other countries may be subject to different visa requirements.
3. Why Mongolia Is Worth the Long Journey from New Zealand
New Zealand already offers some of the world's most beautiful outdoor destinations.
So what makes Mongolia worth travelling such a long distance to experience?
The answer lies in the combination of immense wilderness, traditional nomadic culture and the opportunity to discover landscapes shaped by a very different history.
Experience a Living Nomadic Culture
In many parts of Mongolia, herding families continue to move seasonally with their animals.
Horses, sheep, goats, cattle, yaks and camels remain important to rural livelihoods.
Visiting a nomadic household provides insight into a way of life closely connected to the land and changing seasons.
These experiences are particularly rewarding when sufficient time is allowed for meaningful interaction.
Discover Extraordinary Open Spaces
While New Zealand is famous for its mountains, forests and coastlines, Mongolia offers an exceptional sense of openness.
In some countryside regions, you can travel for hours across vast grasslands and see only a few scattered gers or herds of animals.
The scale and quietness of the landscape are part of the experience.
Explore a Different Mountain Environment
Mongolia's mountains are unlike New Zealand's Southern Alps.
In Northern Mongolia, forested mountains surround enormous freshwater lakes.
In Western Mongolia, the Altai Mountains rise above remote valleys and communities with distinctive cultural traditions.
Experience the Gobi Desert
The Gobi introduces another extraordinary contrast.
It is a landscape of towering sand dunes, rocky mountains, colourful cliffs and wide desert plains.
For travellers accustomed to New Zealand's green landscapes, the Gobi offers an especially striking change of scenery.
4. New Zealand Winter, Mongolian Summer: The Perfect Seasonal Escape
One of the most convenient aspects of planning a Mongolia holiday from New Zealand is the difference between the two countries' seasons.
When New Zealand is experiencing winter, Mongolia is enjoying its main summer travel period.
June – Green Valleys and Early Summer Adventures
June brings greener grasslands and the beginning of the main countryside travel season.
It is particularly attractive for horseback riding, cultural journeys and nature photography.
Temperatures can remain cool in mountain and northern regions, so suitable clothing is still important.
July – Naadam Festival and Summer Culture
July is one of Mongolia's most exciting months.
The national Naadam Festival begins on 11 July and celebrates Mongolia's traditional sports: wrestling, horse racing and archery.
Visitors can experience cultural celebrations while combining their trip with the Gobi Desert or Central Mongolia.
Advance booking is recommended during the main festival period.
August – Lakes, Horseback Riding and Multi-Region Journeys
August is an excellent month for longer Mongolia holidays.
Travellers can explore Lake Khuvsgul, Central Mongolia, the Gobi Desert and suitable mountain regions.
This can be particularly convenient for New Zealand visitors who want to escape their winter and enjoy an extended outdoor holiday.
September – Quieter Travel and Golden Landscapes
September offers changing colours, cooler weather and attractive conditions for landscape photography.
It is also a rewarding period for travellers interested in cultural experiences in Western Mongolia.
October – Golden Eagle Festival Season
Early October is associated with major Golden Eagle Festival celebrations in Western Mongolia.
The traditions of Kazakh eagle hunters and the dramatic scenery of the Altai Mountains create memorable cultural experiences.
Temperatures can become cold, especially in the mornings and evenings.
November to March – Winter Mongolia
Travellers who want to experience Mongolia's winter can discover frozen lakes, snow-covered valleys and remote cultural traditions.
However, winter temperatures are extremely low, and these journeys require specialist preparation.
5. Lake Khuvsgul: A Natural Highlight for New Zealand Travellers
If you enjoy beautiful lakes, mountain scenery and outdoor activities, Northern Mongolia deserves serious consideration.
Lake Khuvsgul is one of Mongolia's most spectacular natural destinations.
Surrounded by forests and mountains, it offers an environment that feels both familiar and distinctly Mongolian.
What Can You Do at Lake Khuvsgul?
Depending on the season and itinerary, activities may include:
Walking along the lakeshore
Landscape photography
Gentle hiking in the surrounding mountains
Horseback experiences
Visiting local communities
Relaxing in a countryside ger camp
Rather than visiting Lake Khuvsgul for just a few hours, we recommend allowing enough time to appreciate the scenery.
Combine Lake Khuvsgul with Central Mongolia
A journey through Central and Northern Mongolia can include historic Kharkhorin, Erdene Zuu Monastery, Tsenkher Hot Springs, Khorgo Volcano and Terkhiin Tsagaan Lake.
Together, these destinations offer a rewarding combination of culture, geology, forests, mountains and freshwater landscapes.
6. Best Mongolia Tours for New Zealand Travellers
For travellers investing time and money in a long international journey, we recommend choosing a tour that offers meaningful exploration rather than an overly rushed itinerary.
Mongolia Heartland & Khuvsgul Lake Adventure – 13 Days
Best for: Lakes, mountains, cultural experiences and first-time visitors
This journey combines Central Mongolia's historical heartland with the beautiful landscapes of the north.
Explore Kharkhorin and Erdene Zuu Monastery, relax at Tsenkher Hot Springs and discover the volcanic scenery of Khorgo.
Continue to Terkhiin Tsagaan Lake and the magnificent Lake Khuvsgul.
Along the way, experience traditional countryside life, scenic walking opportunities and Mongolia's remarkable natural diversity.
Published starting price: USD 2,150 per person.
Explore the 13-Day Mongolia Heartland & Khuvsgul Adventure
Kherkhluur Three Lakes Horseback Expedition – 10 Days
Best for: Outdoor enthusiasts, horseback riding and wilderness camping
This ten-day expedition explores remote landscapes in the Khan Khentii region.
The journey includes four days of riding and three nights of wilderness camping.
Travel through forests, rivers, wetlands and mountain valleys with local horse guides.
The programme also includes cultural and natural attractions in Central Mongolia.
This is a genuine outdoor expedition, suitable for travellers comfortable with multi-day riding and basic camping conditions.
Published starting price: USD 2,490 per person.
Explore the Kherkhluur Three Lakes Horseback Expedition
Golden Voyage Tour – 11 Days
Best for: First-time visitors wanting desert scenery and cultural heritage
This journey combines Mongolia's legendary Gobi Desert with the historic heartland of the country.
Visit dramatic desert cliffs, towering sand dunes, mountain valleys and traditional herding communities.
Continue towards Central Mongolia for monasteries, historical landmarks and beautiful steppe landscapes.
The tour offers an excellent introduction to Mongolia's diversity.
Published starting price: USD 2,390 per person.
Explore the 11-Day Golden Voyage Tour
Golden Eagle Festival & Gobi Desert Expedition
Best for: Travellers seeking two extraordinary regions
If you want to experience both Western Mongolia's eagle-hunting traditions and the spectacular Gobi Desert, this combined journey offers an exceptional adventure.
Meet Kazakh eagle hunters, explore the Altai region and discover the vast desert landscapes of Southern Mongolia.
Domestic flights are included for the Western Mongolia festival portion of the published programme, subject to the tour's confirmed arrangements.
Because these regions are far apart, the exact itinerary and duration should be reviewed carefully before booking.
Explore the Golden Eagle Festival & Gobi Expedition
Mongolia Photography Expedition – 17 Days
Best for: Dedicated photographers and travellers seeking an extensive expedition
Discover three extraordinary regions of Mongolia in one journey.
Travel into the northern taiga to photograph reindeer-herding communities, continue west to encounter Kazakh eagle hunters and explore the Gobi Desert's remarkable dune landscapes.
This expedition is designed for photographers interested in cultural portraits, remote environments and Mongolia's extraordinary geographical diversity.
Explore the 17-Day Mongolia Photography Expedition
7. A Suggested 14-Day Mongolia Adventure for New Zealand Travellers
For a first-time visitor who enjoys nature and culture, a Central and Northern Mongolia route can offer a rewarding experience.
The following is a suggested private itinerary, not a fixed departure. Final driving stages, overnight stops and transport arrangements would be confirmed before booking.
Day 1 – Arrival in Ulaanbaatar
Meet your local guide and transfer to your hotel.
Rest after the long journey from New Zealand.
Day 2 – Travel to Elsen Tasarkhai
Leave Ulaanbaatar and travel west.
Explore the beautiful landscape where dunes, grasslands and rocky hills meet.
Enjoy your first countryside ger camp experience.
Day 3 – Historic Kharkhorin
Discover the region associated with the ancient capital of the Mongol Empire.
Visit Erdene Zuu Monastery and learn about Mongolia's historical heritage.
Day 4 – Orkhon Valley
Travel through the scenic Orkhon Valley.
Enjoy the countryside and opportunities to learn about nomadic life.
Day 5 – Orkhon Valley Exploration
Spend an additional day enjoying the landscape.
Activities may include walking, cultural visits or a supervised horseback experience depending on your interests.
Day 6 – Tsenkher Hot Springs
Travel to Tsenkher.
Enjoy forested scenery and relax at a camp with hot spring facilities.
Day 7 – Khorgo Volcano
Continue towards the volcanic landscapes of Central Mongolia.
Explore the surroundings of Khorgo Volcano where access and conditions permit.
Day 8 – Terkhiin Tsagaan Lake
Spend time enjoying the lake's scenery, walking opportunities and peaceful countryside environment.
Day 9 – Journey Towards Northern Mongolia
Begin travelling north with suitable sightseeing and rest stops.
Overnight at an appropriate location along the route.
Day 10 – Lake Khuvsgul
Reach Lake Khuvsgul and settle into the lakeside environment.
Enjoy the magnificent mountain and forest scenery.
Day 11 – Full Day at Lake Khuvsgul
Spend the day walking, photographing landscapes or enjoying suitable outdoor activities.
Day 12 – Lake Khuvsgul and Local Culture
Enjoy another day in the region, allowing time for cultural experiences and relaxed exploration.
Day 13 – Return to Ulaanbaatar
Travel to Murun Airport for a confirmed domestic flight to Ulaanbaatar if a suitable service operates.
If no practical flight is available, the itinerary would need to be adjusted in advance with additional overland travel time.
Day 14 – International Departure
Private transfer to Chinggis Khaan International Airport.
Our planning advice: For New Zealand travellers who can spare additional time, adding a buffer day in Ulaanbaatar can make international connections more comfortable.
Request a Custom Mongolia Itinerary
8. Horseback Riding in Mongolia: What New Zealand Travellers Should Know
Mongolia is famous for its horse culture, but horseback riding here can be very different from a short guided ride at a tourism attraction.
The Mongolian Horse
Mongolian horses are generally smaller and stockier than many modern riding breeds.
They are well adapted to local terrain and have played a central role in Mongolia's herding traditions for centuries.
Beginner Experiences
Short, guided horseback activities may be suitable for beginners with appropriate supervision.
Always discuss your ability and comfort level with your guide.
Multi-Day Expeditions
Longer horseback journeys require more preparation.
Daily riding hours, terrain, weather conditions and camping arrangements can affect the level of difficulty.
Even experienced riders should understand the specific demands of a wilderness expedition.
Horse Welfare and Safety
We recommend suitable riding equipment, appropriate distances and respect for the horses' condition.
Multi-day routes may need to change because of weather, river levels or ground conditions.
Explore Mongolia Horseback Riding Tours
9. How Much Does a Mongolia Holiday from New Zealand Cost?
Because international travel from New Zealand is substantial, the overall holiday budget should be planned carefully.
International Flights
Auckland–Ulaanbaatar journeys generally require at least one connection.
Airfares depend on travel dates, airline availability, baggage and the selected route.
Travellers from Christchurch, Wellington and Queenstown should also account for any additional flight connections.
Tour Costs
Journey.mn currently lists the following starting prices:
Tour | Starting Price |
|---|---|
Kherkhluur Three Lakes Horseback Expedition – 10 Days | USD 2,490 |
Golden Voyage – 11 Days | USD 2,390 |
Mongolia Heartland & Khuvsgul Lake – 13 Days | USD 2,150 |
These are published per-person starting prices and may change according to departures, group size or customised arrangements.
International flights and other exclusions should be reviewed on the individual tour page.
New Zealand Dollars
Journey.mn generally displays tour prices in US dollars.
The amount you pay in New Zealand dollars depends on the exchange rate and any bank or payment-provider charges.
Private Tours vs Small Groups
Small-group tours can reduce per-person travel costs.
Private tours provide more flexibility in routes, accommodation and daily activities, but are generally more expensive for smaller groups.
10. Practical Travel Advice for New Zealand Visitors
Weather and Clothing
Mongolia has a strongly continental climate.
Summer days may be warm, but evenings can be cool, particularly in northern and mountain regions.
Pack layered clothing, comfortable walking shoes, a windproof jacket and sun protection.
Accommodation
Hotels in Ulaanbaatar offer modern facilities, while countryside accommodation varies.
Traditional tourist ger camps may have shared bathrooms.
Selected deluxe camps provide private facilities, while remote family stays are generally simple.
Currency
The local currency is the Mongolian Tögrög (MNT).
Cards are accepted in many urban establishments, while cash is useful in rural areas.
Food
Traditional Mongolian cuisine commonly includes meat, dairy products, noodles and flour-based dishes.
Vegetarian and other dietary preferences should be discussed before booking.
Internet and Mobile Coverage
Internet is available in Ulaanbaatar and many provincial towns.
Remote countryside areas may have unreliable or no mobile service.
Travel Insurance
Comprehensive insurance is strongly recommended.
For horseback riding, trekking or remote adventures, confirm that your policy covers these activities and medical evacuation where necessary.
Time Difference Between New Zealand and Mongolia
Ulaanbaatar uses UTC+8.
Mainland New Zealand uses UTC+12 during standard time and UTC+13 during daylight saving time.
Therefore, New Zealand is generally four or five hours ahead of Ulaanbaatar, depending on the season.
11. Frequently Asked Questions
Are There Direct Flights from New Zealand to Mongolia?
No regular nonstop passenger flights currently operate. Travellers generally connect through airports such as Seoul, Beijing or Tokyo.
Do New Zealand Citizens Need a Visa for Mongolia?
New Zealand passport holders are covered by the temporary 30-day tourist visa exemption during 2026. Entry requirements for 2027 and 2028 should be checked once confirmed by the authorities.
What Is the Best Time to Visit Mongolia from New Zealand?
June to August offers Mongolia's main summer travel season and coincides with New Zealand's winter. September is excellent for autumn landscapes and photography.
Is Mongolia Similar to New Zealand?
Both countries offer striking natural scenery and outdoor experiences. However, Mongolia is known for its vast grasslands, Gobi Desert, nomadic culture and exceptionally remote countryside.
Is Mongolia Suitable for Experienced Hikers?
Yes. Mongolia offers hiking opportunities in its mountain and lake regions. Remote trekking routes require appropriate local support, equipment and realistic planning.
Can I Go Horseback Riding in Mongolia?
Yes. Both short guided experiences and longer wilderness expeditions are available, depending on riding experience and fitness.
How Many Days Should I Spend in Mongolia?
For New Zealand travellers, approximately 12–16 days is a rewarding duration because of the long international journey. Shorter itineraries are possible when concentrating on one region.
Can I Visit the Gobi Desert and Lake Khuvsgul in One Trip?
Yes, but they are far apart. Allow sufficient travel time and consider a longer itinerary rather than attempting an excessively rushed journey.
Are Private Mongolia Tours Available?
Yes. Private itineraries can be designed around your dates, preferred travel pace, accommodation standard and personal interests.
Can I Join a Scheduled Mongolia Group Tour in 2027?
Yes. Journey.mn lists scheduled small-group departures, including cultural festival tours and horseback expeditions. Availability should be confirmed before booking international flights.
12. Plan Your Mongolia Adventure from New Zealand
From the mountains of Aotearoa to the endless horizons of Mongolia — discover an extraordinary new adventure.
Whether you dream of riding through remote wilderness, exploring the historic heartland of the Mongol Empire, hiking beside Lake Khuvsgul or watching sunset over the Gobi Desert, Mongolia offers remarkable experiences for adventurous travellers.
At Nomadic of the Blue Sky, we have been organising journeys throughout Mongolia since 2010.
Our local team can help you choose a scheduled small-group departure or create a private journey designed around your travel dates, preferred comfort level and interests.
We understand that travelling from New Zealand is a major commitment of time and money, which is why we focus on carefully planned itineraries and realistic travel arrangements.
To receive a personalised proposal, tell us:
Your preferred travel dates in 2027 or 2028
Your departure city in New Zealand
Your preferred trip duration
The number of travellers
Whether you are interested in horseback riding, hiking, culture or photography
Your preferred accommodation style
Your approximate budget
We will help you choose a rewarding journey through Mongolia.
Discover Mongolia Horseback Riding Tours
Explore Lake Khuvsgul & Northern Mongolia
View 2027–2028 Small-Group Departures
Contact Our Local Mongolia Travel Team
Email: info@journey.mn
Nomadic of the Blue Sky — Mongolia Travel Specialists Since 2010
Flight schedules, visa requirements, tour prices, domestic flights and local travel conditions may change. Always verify current information before making final bookings.
