How to Avoid Tourist Traps in Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia

1. Local Markets

Explore local markets for authentic goods and food without overpaying tourist prices.

Authenticity: Offers genuine Mongolian products, avoiding souvenirs made specifically for tourists.
Price Comparison: Prices are generally lower than in tourist shops due to lack of markup.
Interaction: Opportunity to interact with locals and learn about their culture.

Enjoy delicious street food at local stalls instead of touristy restaurants.

Affordability: Street food prices are significantly cheaper than sit-down restaurants.
Authenticity: Experience traditional Mongolian cuisine in its purest form.
Variety: Wide range of dishes and snacks to choose from.

Walk or use public transportation instead of taking a taxi in the city center.

Price Gouging: Taxis often charge higher prices to tourists in city center.
Convenience: Walking or using public transportation is usually faster and more affordable.
Safety: Reputable taxis can be found at taxi stands or pre-arranged with a trusted service.

Avoid crowds and long lines by visiting museums during off-peak hours.

Crowd Management: Museums can be overcrowded with tourists, especially during peak hours.
Learning Experience: Gain a better learning experience by having more space and time to explore exhibits.
Cost Savings: Some museums offer discounted admission during off-peak hours.

Experience family-run restaurants for a more authentic dining experience.

Local Culture: Family restaurants offer traditional Mongolian cuisine in a warm, welcoming atmosphere.
Price: Prices are often more affordable than touristy restaurants.
Authenticity: Fresh, homemade dishes made with love and care.

Skip shopping malls for authentic souvenir shops.

Authenticity: Shopping malls primarily cater to tourists, offering overpriced and non-authentic goods.
Variety: Limited selection of souvenirs and goods in shopping malls.
Price Comparison: Souvenir shops outside the mall offer better prices due to lack of markup.

Explore lesser-known attractions for a more authentic experience.

Authenticity: Attractions not frequented by tourists offer a glimpse into traditional Mongolian life.
Crowd Management: Avoid long lines and crowded attractions by visiting lesser-known sites.
Cost Savings: Off-the-beaten-path attractions often have lower entry fees or are free to visit.

Research restaurants, shops, and attractions through online forums and reviews.

Local Recommendations: Online forums provide recommendations from locals on authentic experiences.
Avoid Scams: Read reviews to identify potential scams or overpriced tourist traps.
Real-Life Experiences: Gain insight into other travelers' experiences before making a decision.

Choose local guesthouses over hotels for a more authentic stay.

Local Culture: Guesthouses offer an immersive experience into Mongolian culture.
Price Comparison: Guesthouses are generally more affordable than hotels.
Interaction: Opportunity to interact with locals and learn about their culture.

Take public transportation instead of private taxis or tour companies.

Cost Savings: Public transportation is significantly cheaper than private taxis or tour companies.
Cultural Exchange: Interact with locals during your commute and gain insights into their daily life.
Convenience: Public transportation is readily available and covers most areas of the city.

Participate in local festivals and events for an immersive cultural experience.

Cultural Exchange: Immerse yourself in Mongolian culture by attending local events.
Authenticity: Experience traditional music, dance, food, and customs during festivals.
Interaction: Opportunity to interact with locals and learn about their customs and traditions.

Exchange money outside of the city center for better exchange rates.

Price Comparison: City center exchange shops often offer poorer exchange rates.
Convenience: Exchange shops outside the city center are usually easier to find and more accessible.
Security: Reputable exchange shops can be found at banks or authorized money exchanges.

Ask locals for recommendations on restaurants, shops, and attractions.

Authenticity: Locals can provide genuine recommendations based on their personal experiences.
Cultural Exchange: Opportunity to interact with locals and learn about their culture.
Avoiding Scams: Locals can help identify potential scams or overpriced tourist traps.

Relax and enjoy nature in local parks and green spaces.

Cultural Exchange: Opportunity to observe locals enjoying their leisure time.
Authenticity: Experience the beauty of Mongolia's natural landscapes.
Cost Savings: Entrance fees to parks and green spaces are usually minimal or free.

Research attractions, restaurants, and accommodations before arrival.

Cost Savings: Planning ahead allows you to make informed decisions and avoid overpriced tourist traps.
Avoiding Scams: Research helps identify potential scams or overpriced tourist traps.
Cultural Exchange: Research provides insights into Mongolian culture and customs, enhancing your travel experience.