mongolia in winter possible at all?
 

Hi all,
I really want to know if it is at all possible to get to Ulan-Bataar (from denmark), by mc, around december. It´s in the dead of winter, and I know it´s not for everyones liking, but it´s a personal "quest", and photographic project.
I have read the different threads, and it looks IMPOSSIBLE - but is it? Or is it "just" VERY HARD?.
Ofcourse taking all the precautions on dressing up, tires...ect.
Hope you can help. Thanks!

Best....rené

Rene,

Nothing is imposible!!! We see nomad's out here in Mongolia riding old Russian Planeta or Chinese bike's through out all winter and since you eager to do this trip you can ride from Altanbulag on paved road but riding out off the paved road is not recommended you can easily get stuck in snow or get lost in nowhere. Although we don't get much snow here in Mongolia the weather can be pretty chili especially at night!!! In December average temperature can be -12-17C during the day time and -20-27C at night no camping!! Only staying in small hotels along the road.

Hope this helps you.

Chinzo,

Thanks Chinzo. Helps a lot, and also the answer I was hoping for:-).
So the nothern route from west to east will be possible as long as you follow the main track?

Best....René

Rene,

I think it's wise to enter border from Altanbulak/Naushki and ride on the paved road to UB. To ride on the dirt road it's bit sketchy so I would advise you to come through Altanbulak.

Chinzo,

Hi René: I agree with Chinzo, do not take the offroad routes in Mongolia unless you REALLY know what you are doing and are prepared for dangerous cold. Although there is usually not much snow, it can build up in drifts big enough to get stuck in. Also the snow drifts into the frozen mud ruts so that it all looks flat and then your front tire goes into the rut and down you go.

There is much less local traffic on the tracks in the winter, so if you do get stuck, crash, or have mechanical trouble you could be a day or more exposed to the severe cold before anyone comes along to help you.

Your safest route in the winter is the paved road from Altanbulag to UB, but even with that be aware that there is very little done to clear ice from that road so take it very easy and look out for many icy sections.

If you are determined to do the west to east route in the winter I strongly suggest you tag along with one or more Mongolian vehicles, ideally large trucks, between towns. They will go slow but at least you will have help if you get stuck or break down. Use metal-studded tires if possible.

I would never tell anyone something is impossible, especially if you are on a personal quest to challenge yourself. But make sure you are prepared for the conditions and know what you are doing. Every winter there are Mongolians who die from the cold and exposure to the elements, and they have been living with it all of their lives.

Regards, Scott

I suggest you to don't go there in winter expecially on a motorbike, you should wait some month and go in the summer!
But Nothing is impossible ;)

Have you experience of travelling in these temps? If there is no snow or you have a sidecar and you do the right prep in terms of oil, battery and clothing I see no reason not to. If on the otherhand you were planning on just buying an electric vest and going (seen it done), small items like a 20-50% loss of electrical power really should be in your mind.

Good luck & Enjoy it

Andy

Hi Scott. Is this border open for Turist? I need a special invitation ?
Thanks
Simo

Hi Simo: Yes, the Mongolian western border crossing into Russia, NW of Ulgii city in Bayan-Ulgii province, is open to foreigners (tourists). The closest town on the Russian side of the border is Tashanta.

Scott