Guide to Staying in a

Mongolian Ger Camp

A stay in a traditional Mongolian ger (yurt) is a highlight of any trip, offering an immersive cultural experience in the heart of Mongolia's breathtaking landscapes. Camps typically consist of 20-30 gers around a central dining hall. A ger is a marvel of engineering, with a wooden lattice frame, thick felt insulation, and a canvas cover. This keeps it surprisingly well-insulated against the elements. However, it's crucial to set the right expectations: this is a comfortable but rustic experience, not a hotel.

You are in the wild. It is common to see insects (especially in summer near water), spiders, and sometimes rodents like pikas or mice. Keeping your ger door closed, especially when the light is on, helps minimize visitors.

Ger Etiquette and Daily Life

Living in a ger, even for a few days, comes with its own customs and practicalities.

Security: Gers do not have keyed locks. They are secured from the inside with a simple latch. When you are away from your ger, it's best to keep valuables with you or stored securely in your locked vehicle if you have one. That said, theft in these camps is extremely rare.
Ger Etiquette: To show respect, always step over the wooden threshold of the door, never on it. Inside, it is considered impolite to lean against the two central support poles, which are sacred.
Space and Noise: A ger is a single, round room. Luggage is typically stored under your bed or against the wall to maximize space. The felt walls dampen sound but are not soundproof; you will hear the wind, nearby animals, and other camp activities. Earplugs are highly recommended for light sleepers.
The Scent: A ger has a unique, earthy smell—a mixture of dry grass, woodsmoke from the stove, and felt. This is an integral part of the authentic experience.

Meals and Dining at the Ger Camp

Dining is a communal affair in the central lodge at set times.

Typical Dishes: Expect hearty meals of mutton or beef with potatoes, carrots, and rice or noodles. Classic dishes include buuz (steamed dumplings), khuushuur (fried meat pastries), and tsuivan (noodle stew).
Water: Do not drink the tap water. Camps will provide ample bottled or filtered water for drinking. It's a good idea to have your own reusable water bottle to refill.
Practical Tips: Meal times are generally fixed. If you are out exploring, plan to be back on time. It's wise to bring your own favorite snacks (granola bars, nuts, etc.) for long drives or for moments between meals.

Electricity, Heating, and Power

Most ger camps operate off the main power grid.

Electricity: A generator provides power for a few hours each evening (e.g., from 7:00 PM to 11:00 PM). This is your only chance to charge devices. Sockets are the European two-pin Type C or E. A portable power bank is not a recommendation; it is essential.
Heating: The central wood stove heats the ger quickly but the fire will burn out overnight. Mornings will be cold. Staff typically come by in the early morning to restart the fire for you. Don't hesitate to ask for extra blankets.

Bathroom and Shower Facilities

Facilities are in a separate, shared building, a 50-150 meter walk from your ger.

The Midnight Walk: The path to the bathroom is usually unlit overnight to save power. A headlamp is absolutely critical for navigating this walk safely in the dark.
Facilities Spectrum: Most tourist camps have Western-style flush toilets and hot showers. However, in more remote or basic camps, you might find long-drop toilets.
Water Conservation: Hot water may be limited by solar or generator capacity. Keep showers short and be mindful of your water usage. In shoulder seasons (April, May, Sept, Oct), pipes can freeze, so confirm water availability with your guide.

WiFi and Internet Access

Expect no WiFi. This is an opportunity for a true digital detox. For emergencies, a Mongolian 4G SIM card (from Unitel or Mobicom, purchased in Ulaanbaatar) offers the best chance of finding a signal, you will have network in most camps except the nomadic family one.