Mongolia Self Driving Car Rental

Requirements for self-drive car renter

21 and above years

Previous rough road driving experience and skills

Countries and driving licenses eligible to drive in Mongolia

Have travel insurance covers car rental and health insurance

Have abilities to maintain the car to ensure safety and keep the vehicle in good condition, such as changing tires, oil, brake pads, spark plugs, and checking fluids, lights, air filters, etc.

Tips for self-driving in Mongolia

Do not drive out of the trials in the Gobi Desert during and after rain

Previous rough road driving experience and skills

Fuel up the tank wherever gasoline stations are available. You do not know the road conditions if the remote gasoline stations have electricity or fuel

In Mongolia, we drive on the right side of the road even though many cars have driving wheels on the left side

Get different operator sim cards to maximize the chance of connections. Unitel, Mobicom, and G-Mobile are recommended. Different operators have different reception ranges.

Do not drive tired or sick

Do not drive into a raging river

Before crossing a river or mud, check the depth, and cross where other cars have crossed after waiting for the local cars to cross first

Do not expect the river level the same after rain even in a few minutes

Don’t follow only Google map trials. Also use other apps/GPS or ask for directions from a local

Take the more trodden trail always

Never drive after dark. You can get lost, or the pasture animals graze on the road

Flashing of a passing car means police

When driving up mountain passes, be careful. A car coming from the opposite side drives left to pass the ovoo (a pile of stone/teepee) clockwise way, which breaks the traffic rule

If you visit a nomadic family, check the car's surroundings before leaving. Animals/dogs could lay in your car shade

How does Mongolia 4x4 rental work?

Self-driving car rental is a relatively unpopular travel option in Mongolia, as this experience is mainly for adventure seekers and overlanders who have some self-driving ability, especially on rough roads and isolated places.
You will find out it is not easy to find reliable cars and reliable car providers that help you make the trip happen as smoothly as possible. That is to say, there are limited numbers of reliable self-driving vehicle providers.
Therefore, we suggest you plan and book the vehicle as early as possible from a reliable supplier.
Trying to find a car or book a trip after arrival in Mongolia has been the worst idea the travelers to Mongolia ever have

Accommodation options while self-driving in Mongolia

If we list the self-driving accommodation types by popularity

1) Wild camping is the most popular option as it allows you to enjoy Mongolian wilderness and scenery without rushing and depending on others.

2) Ger camps are a comfortable and western-friendly option where you can charge batteries, eat in their restaurants, have a shower, and enjoy traditional accommodation. In terms of price, the ger camps cost more than the other accommodation options. The ger camps are usually full from June through late September. Therefore, you better book in advance.

3) Guest gers are usually extra gers of locals near the attractions for an additional income. You should not expect electricity, charging options, or a shower. The advantage of staying in a guest ger is they are cost-effective, plus offer a little cultural insight as the local families usually build the guest gers beside their home.

Local hotel and hostel options are usually in towns. The bigger the town, the more decent the hotel would be. If you miss the convenience of things at home on your Mongolian road trip, the local hotel could be an option for a break from the wilderness.

4) Nomadic family stay is the most experiential, but least popular version as you should find a nomadic family on site who will allow you to stay at their home.

Mongolia self-driving cost

* Self-driving vehicle Rental Fee is USD 110 to USD 250, depending on the vehicle type
* Please expect the following expenses while overlanding around Mongolia
* Gasoline cost
* Accommodation cost unless you camp
* Meals and groceries are relatively cheap if you eat in local eateries and cook on your own
* Road tolls are relatively cheap
* Entrance fees are relatively cheap
* Optional Activities
* Rescue fee if you get help from locals
* Overall, self-driving car rental fees are higher than hiring a car with a driver. But the experience will be worth it, and the fee balances if you camp and cook on your own

Roads to expect in Mongolia

Random boggy roads

Random sandy valleys

Muddy roads, especially after the rain

Washing board-like roads in the Gobi Desert

Volcanic rock valleys

Paved roads could have potholes