Best Time of Year for Motorcycle Tours in Mongolia – Mongolia’s vast, open landscapes and unique culture make it one of the most exciting destinations for motorcycle tours.
The best time for motorcycle adventures in this country isn’t solely dependent on the weather but also on the rich cultural experiences and the breathtaking scenery that varies throughout the year.
Whether you’re looking to explore the nomadic lifestyle, enjoy local festivals, or ride through some of the world’s most untouched natural beauty, here’s a guide to the best time of year for motorcycle tours in Mongolia, based on cultural and scenic highlights.
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Late May to Early July: Witness the Awakening of Nature and Culture
The months of late May to early July are an ideal time for motorcycle tours if you’re interested in experiencing the dynamic Mongolian culture as it emerges from the long winter.
During this period, nomadic families return to the steppes after their winter stay, setting up their traditional yurts (ger), which makes this an excellent opportunity to engage with Mongolia’s ancient nomadic heritage.
- Cultural Interactions: Many motorcycle routes pass through rural areas where you’ll find nomadic families herding livestock such as yaks, horses, and camels. Riding during this time provides a chance to visit local families, participate in daily herding activities, and get a glimpse of authentic Mongolian hospitality.
- Scenic Highlights: The landscapes are particularly scenic, with blooming wildflowers and lush green pastures spreading across Mongolia’s valleys and plains. From the snow-capped Altai Mountains in the west to the open steppes of central Mongolia, the colors of the land are vivid and captivating, offering riders an unparalleled scenic experience.
This period also offers unique photography opportunities, capturing moments where the vast Mongolian wilderness meets traditional nomadic life.
July: The Time of Naadam Festival and Adventure
July is perhaps the most exciting month to embark on a motorcycle tour, thanks to the Naadam Festival, Mongolia’s largest national event that showcases the essence of the country’s culture.
Known as the “Three Manly Games,” the festival includes horse racing, wrestling, and archery — ancient sports that have been part of Mongolian history for centuries.
- Naadam Festival: Held nationwide in mid-July, with the main celebrations taking place in Ulaanbaatar, the festival allows riders to experience the vibrant energy of Mongolia’s most significant cultural event. The smaller, local Naadam festivals in the countryside provide a more intimate and authentic experience, as you may encounter them along your journey through remote towns.
- Scenic Beauty: July is also a great time to explore Mongolia’s diverse landscapes, from the golden dunes of the Gobi Desert to the serene beauty of Lake Khuvsgul in the north. The contrast between the vibrant festival atmosphere and the tranquil wilderness makes for a balanced and memorable motorcycle trip.
Riding through Mongolia during Naadam allows you to immerse yourself in the nation’s pride and identity while riding through the expansive plains.
August to Early September: Cultural Immersion and Nomadic Lifestyle
August to early September is a perfect time for those who wish to explore the deeper aspects of Mongolian nomadic culture.
This period is the height of the pastoral season, where nomadic families are fully engaged in their summer activities, such as milking animals, preparing dairy products, and moving their livestock to fresh pastures.
- Cultural Immersion: Motorcycle tours during this time often pass through regions rich in nomadic culture. You can stay with nomadic families in their gers, learn how to ride Mongolian horses, and experience the traditional ways of making dairy products like airag (fermented mare’s milk) and dried cheese curds.
- Scenic Rides: The rolling hills, valleys, and mountains are alive with pastoral activity, and the natural beauty of the landscapes peaks as nomads follow age-old migratory patterns. Riders can follow trails along the Orkhon Valley, a UNESCO World Heritage site, or the high plateaus of the Altai Mountains, where you may encounter eagle hunters preparing for the upcoming Golden Eagle Festival.
This time of year offers a unique blend of cultural engagement and scenic adventure, with an emphasis on Mongolia’s ancient ways of life.
Late September to Early October: Experience Autumn’s Splendor and Eagle Hunting Culture
Late September to early October is one of the most visually stunning times to ride in Mongolia. As autumn colors transform the forests and valleys, Mongolia’s wilderness takes on a golden hue that’s perfect for scenic motorcycle routes.
This period is also special because it coincides with the beginning of the eagle hunting season in the western provinces.
- Golden Eagle Festival: Held in late September or early October in Bayan-Ölgii province, the Golden Eagle Festival is one of Mongolia’s most unique cultural events. It celebrates the ancient Kazakh tradition of eagle hunting, where hunters display their remarkable bond with their birds of prey. Motorcyclists can travel to the Altai region to witness this spectacular event and even ride alongside eagle hunters through the rugged terrain of the Altai Mountains.
- Scenic Beauty: The landscapes are particularly striking, with the steppes and forests bathed in autumn’s warm colors. It’s a serene and peaceful time to ride, with fewer tourists and a calm atmosphere across the countryside.
The best time for motorcycle tours in Mongolia goes beyond just ideal riding conditions — it’s about immersing yourself in the country’s culture and experiencing its ever-changing landscapes.
Late May to October offers a wide range of cultural and scenic highlights, from nomadic lifestyle interactions to witnessing iconic festivals like Naadam and the Golden Eagle Festival. Regardless of when you ride, Mongolia promises a journey that’s as culturally enriching as it is adventurous.
Suggested tour:
MONGOLIA MOTORCYCLE TOUR IN ALTAI
Mongolia Self-Drive Tour
MONGOLIA BIKING TOUR IN THE BIG MOUNTAINS
ALTAI TREKKING TOUR IN MONGOLIA
MONGOLIAN NOMAD MIGRATION TOUR
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