From the Swiss Alps to the Mongolian Altai — discover a different kind of mountain adventure.
Switzerland is famous for its extraordinary alpine landscapes, scenic mountain railways, beautiful lakes and well-maintained hiking trails. Mongolia offers something different: vast mountain wilderness, remote valleys, a living nomadic culture and landscapes where tourism infrastructure remains limited.
Imagine photographing Kazakh eagle hunters beneath snow-capped Altai peaks, exploring remote mountain valleys, meeting families who have lived alongside their animals for generations or watching the morning light illuminate the enormous Gobi Desert.
For travellers from Zurich, Geneva, Basel, Bern and other Swiss cities, Mongolia can be a remarkable destination for nature, culture, mountain adventures and photography.
Whether you're planning a private photography expedition, a Golden Eagle Festival journey or an extended countryside holiday, this guide will help you understand flights, visas, travel seasons, suitable itineraries and practical arrangements for Mongolia in 2027 or 2028.
At Nomadic of the Blue Sky, a Mongolia-based travel company established in 2010, we organise private journeys, cultural expeditions, small-group adventures and specialist photography experiences across Mongolia.
1. How to Travel from Switzerland to Mongolia
Most travellers from Switzerland fly to Mongolia with one international connection.
Your destination is Chinggis Khaan International Airport (UBN), which serves Ulaanbaatar.
There are currently no regular nonstop passenger flights between Switzerland and Mongolia.
Flights from Zurich to Ulaanbaatar via Istanbul
A practical itinerary to investigate is:
Zurich (ZRH) – Istanbul (IST) – Ulaanbaatar (UBN).
Turkish Airlines operates flights to Ulaanbaatar through Istanbul.
This can be a convenient option for Swiss travellers, depending on the available departure times and connection.
Check the full itinerary, baggage allowance and transfer duration before purchasing your ticket.
Zurich to Ulaanbaatar via Frankfurt
Another possibility is travelling from Zurich to Frankfurt and continuing on MIAT Mongolian Airlines' nonstop Frankfurt–Ulaanbaatar service.
This routing may offer an attractive alternative if the airline schedules connect conveniently.
Flights from Geneva to Mongolia
Travellers departing from Geneva International Airport (GVA) can investigate connecting flights through Istanbul, Frankfurt or other major international hubs.
The best routing depends on your preferred travel dates, price and connection arrangements.
Travelling from Basel and Other Swiss Cities
Travellers from Basel, Bern, Lausanne and surrounding regions can compare departures from Zurich, Geneva, Basel EuroAirport and nearby airports in neighbouring countries.
For a longer expedition, it is worth choosing the most reliable flight connection rather than simply the lowest available fare.
Arrival in Ulaanbaatar
After arriving in Mongolia, we generally recommend spending the first night in Ulaanbaatar.
If your international flight arrives in the morning, a relaxed city introduction and lunch may be arranged.
For late arrivals, a direct transfer to your hotel is usually the most comfortable option.
Your main countryside expedition can begin the following day.
Travel planning tip: If your journey includes Western Mongolia, do not automatically assume that a domestic flight to Bayan-Ölgii will connect with your international arrival. Domestic flights are limited, can change seasonally and may not operate every day.
2. Do Swiss Citizens Need a Visa for Mongolia?
Swiss citizens holding ordinary Swiss passports are included in Mongolia's temporary tourist visa exemption for stays of up to 30 days during 2026.
However, the officially published exemption currently covers travel only through 31 December 2026.
For 2027 and 2028, the applicable visa requirements must be confirmed before travelling.
The temporary exemption should not be assumed to continue automatically.
Before making final bookings, check passport validity, permitted stay, visa requirements and any transit rules applicable to your flight itinerary.
Official sources:
Swiss Federal Department of Foreign Affairs
Official Mongolia E-Visa Portal
If you live in Switzerland but hold a passport from another country, different entry requirements may apply.
3. Swiss Alps vs Mongolian Altai: What Makes the Experience Different?
Both Switzerland and Mongolia offer spectacular mountain landscapes.
However, the travel experience can be very different.
Mountain Infrastructure
The Swiss Alps are known for excellent walking trails, mountain railways, cable cars and accessible accommodation.
In the Mongolian Altai, many remote valleys have limited tourist infrastructure.
Access may involve long drives on rough tracks, local guides, horses and simple countryside accommodation.
This makes careful planning particularly important.
Wilderness and Isolation
One of the Mongolian Altai's greatest attractions is its extraordinary sense of remoteness.
Rather than moving between busy alpine resorts, travellers can experience immense valleys, distant mountains and communities whose livelihoods remain closely connected to the surrounding landscape.
Living Mountain Cultures
Western Mongolia is home to Kazakh communities with distinctive cultural traditions, including the practice of hunting with trained golden eagles.
The experience is not simply about mountain scenery; it is also about the people who live there.
Travel Comfort
A remote Mongolia expedition should not be compared with staying in a fully serviced Swiss alpine resort.
Comfort varies by destination, and some areas offer only basic accommodation.
Travellers who prefer greater comfort can choose carefully planned private journeys with selected hotels, suitable vehicles and available upgraded accommodation.
4. Discover the Altai Mountains of Western Mongolia
The Mongolian Altai is one of the country's most spectacular mountain regions.
Located in Western Mongolia, it offers a combination of high peaks, broad valleys, remote settlements and traditional Kazakh culture.
Bayan-Ölgii Province
Bayan-Ölgii is particularly well known for its Kazakh communities and golden eagle-hunting heritage.
The provincial capital, Ölgii, serves as an important gateway for journeys into the surrounding mountain country.
From here, travellers can visit selected eagle-hunting families, explore scenic valleys and plan cultural or photography experiences.
Tsambagarav Mountain
The Tsambagarav region is an outstanding destination for mountain scenery and cultural photography.
The mountain provides a dramatic backdrop for traditional horseback experiences and eagle-hunter portraits.
Journey.mn also organises a private eagle-hunter cultural and photography experience at a seasonal ger camp beneath Tsambagarav.
Altai Tavan Bogd Region
The Altai Tavan Bogd area is known for its high mountain landscapes, glaciers and remote wilderness.
It can appeal to experienced outdoor travellers interested in multi-day mountain exploration.
However, trekking routes, access permissions, weather conditions and accommodation arrangements need careful planning.
For a demanding mountain expedition, an experienced local trekking team and suitable equipment are important.
Is the Mongolian Altai Suitable for Everyone?
Not every Altai journey requires technical mountaineering experience.
Cultural tours and photography-focused journeys can be designed around accessible valleys and scenic locations.
More demanding hiking or trekking routes require an assessment of fitness, experience, weather and local conditions.
Our team can help distinguish between scenic mountain travel and a more challenging wilderness expedition.
5. Golden Eagle Hunters: One of Mongolia's Most Remarkable Cultural Traditions
The traditional practice of hunting with golden eagles remains an important part of Kazakh cultural heritage in Western Mongolia.
Eagle hunters, known as berkutchi, train and work with golden eagles using knowledge passed down through generations.
For visitors, meeting an eagle hunter provides an opportunity to learn about a remarkable relationship between people, birds and the mountain environment.
The Golden Eagle Festival
During the autumn festival season, Kazakh eagle hunters gather for competitions and celebrations.
Events commonly include displays of horsemanship, traditional dress and eagle-handling skills.
The dramatic Altai Mountains create a spectacular setting for photography.
When Is the Golden Eagle Festival?
Major Golden Eagle Festival events take place during September and early October.
Journey.mn currently lists a 14-day Golden Eagle Festival Tour scheduled for 26 September–9 October 2027.
The published starting price is USD 3,750 per person, with a group size of 4–14 travellers.
Availability and final festival arrangements should be confirmed before booking flights.
Explore the 14-Day Golden Eagle Festival Tour
Photography Beyond the Festival
The main festival is exciting, but it can also attract visitors and photographers.
For travellers who want more time to create portraits or photograph eagle hunters in mountain settings, private experiences can provide additional flexibility.
Photography arrangements should always respect the hunters, their families and the welfare of the eagles.
6. Private Eagle Hunter Photography Beneath Tsambagarav Mountain
For photographers and travellers who prefer a more personalised experience, Journey.mn offers a private eagle-hunter gathering beneath Tsambagarav Mountain.
Unlike the large public Golden Eagle Festival, this experience is organised for a private group.
What Makes the Experience Special?
Our seasonal camp has 11 traditional guest gers and can host a private gathering involving approximately 10–15 Kazakh eagle hunters, subject to arrangements and availability.
Activities may include:
Portrait photography with eagle hunters
Traditional clothing and cultural photography
Horses and golden eagles in mountain settings
Eagle-calling demonstrations
Cultural exchanges with local participants
Opportunities for sunrise and sunset photography
Traditional countryside accommodation
The actual programme is organised according to the group's priorities, local conditions and agreed arrangements.
Private Eagle Festival Photography Tour – 10 Days
Journey.mn's ten-day private eagle photography programme combines Western Mongolia with other cultural highlights.
Depending on the itinerary, visitors may experience eagle-hunter photography beneath Tsambagarav, the landscapes of Elsen Tasarkhai and the historic region of Kharkhorin.
The published starting price is USD 4,990 per person.
Discover the Private Eagle Festival & Photography Experience
This journey can be attractive for photographers who value smaller groups, carefully planned sessions and greater flexibility.
7. Best Mongolia Tours for Swiss Travellers
Different journeys suit different priorities. These four Journey.mn experiences provide a useful starting point.
Golden Eagle Festival Tour – 14 Days
Best for: Culture, Altai landscapes and autumn photography
Travel across Western Mongolia and experience the traditions of Kazakh eagle hunters.
The programme combines cultural encounters, scenic landscapes and the Golden Eagle Festival.
2027 scheduled departure: 26 September–9 October.
Starting price: USD 3,750 per person.
Explore the Golden Eagle Festival Tour
Private Eagle Festival Photography Tour – 10 Days
Best for: Private photography, mountain backdrops and cultural portraits
A personalised journey focused on eagle hunters, traditional horsemanship and the landscapes surrounding Tsambagarav Mountain.
This is an attractive option for travellers interested in photography with more flexibility than a large public festival.
Starting price: USD 4,990 per person.
Explore the Private Eagle Photography Experience
Mongolia Photography Expedition – 17 Days
Best for: Dedicated photographers seeking diverse landscapes and cultures
This extended expedition connects three remarkable regions.
In Northern Mongolia, photograph reindeer-herding communities and their traditional environment.
In the west, experience Kazakh eagle-hunter culture against the Altai Mountains.
In the south, explore the Gobi Desert and photograph Bactrian camels among spectacular dunes.
The itinerary includes opportunities for cultural portraits, landscape photography and carefully planned photography sessions.
Starting price: USD 5,990 per person.
Explore the 17-Day Mongolia Photography Expedition
Golden Eagle Festival & Gobi Desert Expedition
Best for: Travellers wanting mountain culture and desert scenery
Combine the Golden Eagle Festival in Western Mongolia with the unforgettable landscapes of the Gobi Desert.
This experience can include eagle-hunter traditions, dramatic mountain scenery, Khongor Sand Dunes and Bayanzag Flaming Cliffs.
Domestic flights help connect the distant regions where schedules allow.
Because these flights can be limited during festival season, early planning is important.
Explore the Golden Eagle Festival & Gobi Desert Expedition
8. Photography in Mongolia: From Alpine Light to Desert Sunsets
Mongolia is an exceptional destination for landscape and cultural photography.
Its enormous variety of landscapes creates opportunities that are difficult to find within a smaller geographical area.
Mountain Landscapes
The Altai Mountains offer dramatic ridgelines, broad valleys and snow-covered peaks.
Weather can change quickly, creating shifting light and atmospheric conditions.
Eagle Hunter Portraits
Traditional Kazakh clothing, horses, golden eagles and mountain backdrops can create powerful photographic subjects.
A thoughtful itinerary allows time for respectful interaction and suitable photography conditions.
Gobi Desert Photography
The Gobi offers an entirely different visual experience.
Khongor Sand Dunes are particularly beautiful in early morning and late afternoon light.
Bayanzag Flaming Cliffs and the colourful formations of Tsagaan Suvarga also provide striking photographic opportunities.
Wildlife and Cultural Photography
Depending on the region and itinerary, travellers may encounter wild horses, Bactrian camels, nomadic livestock and traditional countryside communities.
Wildlife sightings cannot be guaranteed.
Private Photography Arrangements
For dedicated photographers, our team can help design a journey around preferred subjects, sunrise and sunset opportunities, transport and realistic travel times.
Drone flights may be restricted in certain locations and can require permissions.
Explore Mongolia Photography Tours
9. Best Time to Visit Mongolia from Switzerland
June – Green Valleys and Early Summer
June is attractive for travellers who enjoy green landscapes and countryside experiences.
It can be a rewarding time for cultural visits, nature photography and selected hiking routes.
Higher mountain regions may still experience cold weather, snow or restricted access.
July and August – Mountain Adventures and Summer Travel
Summer is a popular season for countryside expeditions.
Many visitors explore Central Mongolia, Northern Mongolia and suitable mountain regions during these months.
July also includes the Naadam Festival, one of Mongolia's most significant cultural celebrations.
September – Autumn Photography
September offers beautiful light, changing colours and often cooler conditions.
This can be an excellent month for landscape photography and cultural journeys in Western Mongolia.
Early October – Golden Eagle Festival
Early October is particularly attractive for travellers interested in eagle-hunting culture.
The Altai region can become very cold, especially during the early morning and evening.
Warm layers, gloves and weather-resistant photography equipment are recommended.
Winter – Snow-Covered Landscapes
Winter offers spectacular scenery but can be challenging.
Temperatures can become extremely low, particularly in remote mountain regions.
Winter photography expeditions require careful planning, suitable vehicles and experienced local support.
10. How Many Days Should Swiss Travellers Spend in Mongolia?
Because Mongolia is a vast country, the ideal trip duration depends on the regions you want to experience.
7–9 days: Suitable for a shorter cultural journey, Ulaanbaatar and nearby countryside destinations, or a focused regional experience.
10–12 days: A good option for selected destinations in Western Mongolia or a private photography journey.
13–16 days: Suitable for longer overland trips, cultural festivals and multi-region exploration.
17 days or longer: Recommended for extensive photography expeditions, remote regions or combining the Gobi, Altai and Northern Mongolia.
For travellers interested primarily in mountains and photography, we often recommend concentrating on one or two regions rather than attempting to see the entire country.
11. Private Mongolia Tours: Comfort, Flexibility and Local Expertise
For travellers who want to experience Mongolia's remote landscapes without joining a large group, private journeys can provide significant advantages.
A Dedicated Vehicle and Driver
Private transport offers more flexibility for scenic stops, photography and daily departure times.
Vehicle selection depends on the route, group size, luggage and road conditions.
Accommodation Choices
In Ulaanbaatar and larger towns, comfortable hotels can be arranged.
In the countryside, accommodation varies from tourist ger camps to basic family stays.
Selected deluxe camps may provide private bathrooms and upgraded facilities.
However, such facilities are not available in every remote destination.
Customised Daily Activities
A private journey can be organised around the interests of the group.
This may include photography, cultural experiences, selected walks or visits to eagle-hunting communities.
Realistic Travel Planning
Remote travel in Mongolia requires careful coordination.
Driving distances, flight schedules, weather conditions and the availability of accommodation all influence the final itinerary.
Our priority is to design a journey that is practical rather than simply including as many destinations as possible.
12. Practical Travel Advice for Swiss Visitors
Swiss Francs and Mongolian Currency
Mongolia uses the Mongolian Tögrög (MNT).
Journey.mn generally displays tour prices in US dollars.
Travellers paying in Swiss francs should consider exchange rates and potential bank or card charges.
Bank cards are widely accepted at many businesses in Ulaanbaatar, while local cash is useful for countryside travel.
Languages
Mongolian is the official language.
English-speaking guides are available on our tours.
German- or French-speaking guiding services may be requested, depending on the itinerary, travel dates and guide availability.
Weather and Equipment
Mongolia has a strongly continental climate.
Temperatures can vary significantly between day and night.
For mountain travel, pack layered clothing, comfortable walking boots, a waterproof or windproof jacket and suitable sun protection.
Dedicated photographers should consider spare batteries, memory cards and weather-resistant camera protection.
Travel Insurance
Comprehensive travel insurance is strongly recommended.
For trekking, horseback riding or remote expeditions, confirm that your insurance covers the activities, applicable altitude, medical expenses and emergency evacuation.
Health and Fitness
Remote journeys can involve long driving days, rough terrain and limited access to medical facilities.
Discuss any physical limitations or accessibility requirements before booking.
Mobile Internet
Internet access is widely available in Ulaanbaatar and many provincial centres.
Remote mountain valleys may have little or no mobile coverage.
Time Difference
Ulaanbaatar operates on UTC+8.
Mongolia is seven hours ahead of Switzerland during Central European Time and six hours ahead during Swiss summer time.
13. Frequently Asked Questions
Do Swiss Citizens Need a Visa to Visit Mongolia?
Swiss citizens are included in Mongolia's temporary tourist visa exemption for up to 30 days during 2026. The applicable regulations for 2027 and 2028 must be verified before travelling.
Are There Direct Flights from Zurich to Mongolia?
There are currently no regular nonstop passenger flights between Zurich and Ulaanbaatar. Travellers can compare connections through Istanbul or Frankfurt.
Is the Mongolian Altai Similar to the Swiss Alps?
Both regions offer dramatic mountain landscapes, but the travel experience is different. The Mongolian Altai is more remote, with fewer developed trails, limited infrastructure and strong cultural traditions connected to the mountain environment.
Can I Visit the Altai Mountains Without Technical Mountaineering Experience?
Yes. Scenic cultural and photography journeys can explore accessible mountain valleys without requiring technical climbing.
More demanding trekking routes require appropriate experience, fitness and equipment.
Is Mongolia Suitable for Landscape Photography?
Yes. Mongolia offers mountain scenery, vast grasslands, desert dunes, alpine lakes and remarkable cultural subjects.
Can I Arrange a Private Eagle Hunter Photography Session?
Yes. Journey.mn offers private eagle-hunter experiences in Western Mongolia, subject to local arrangements and availability.
What Is the Best Month for the Golden Eagle Festival?
Major eagle-hunting festivals are generally held in September and early October. Confirm the specific event dates for your travel year.
How Much Does a Private Mongolia Photography Tour Cost?
The price depends on duration, destinations, number of travellers, accommodation and specialist arrangements.
Our published private eagle photography experience starts from USD 4,990 per person, while customised trips are quoted individually.
Can I Travel with a German- or French-Speaking Guide?
Language-specific guiding services may be requested, subject to availability. Confirm your requirements when making an enquiry.
Should I Combine the Gobi Desert and Altai Mountains?
Yes, if you have sufficient time and the domestic flight schedules support a practical itinerary.
These regions are far apart, so careful logistical planning is essential.
14. Plan Your Mongolia Adventure from Switzerland
Discover a mountain country where wilderness, culture and extraordinary landscapes meet.
Whether you dream of photographing Kazakh eagle hunters, exploring the Mongolian Altai, experiencing traditional nomadic culture or travelling across the vast Gobi Desert, Mongolia offers remarkable opportunities for discovery.
At Nomadic of the Blue Sky, we have been organising journeys throughout Mongolia since 2010.
Our local team can help arrange private cultural journeys, photography expeditions, carefully planned mountain experiences and scheduled small-group adventures.
We understand the importance of suitable accommodation, experienced guides, comfortable transport and realistic itineraries when exploring remote regions.
Tell us:
Your preferred dates in 2027 or 2028
Your departure city in Switzerland
The number of travellers
Your preferred trip duration
Whether you are interested in photography, culture or mountain experiences
Your preferred accommodation standard
Any guiding language requirements
Your approximate budget
We will help you choose a suitable journey or prepare a personalised itinerary based on your interests.
Discover Altai Mountains Tours
Explore Private Mongolia Photography Tours
View Golden Eagle Festival 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, festival dates, tour prices and local travel conditions may change. Always verify official information before confirming your booking.
