Is Ulaanbaatar Safe for Solo Female Travelers?

Ulaanbaatar is relatively safe for solo female travelers, though precautions are certainly necessary. Petty theft, such as pickpocketing, is common, especially in crowded places like markets, public transportation, or major tourist attractions, so awareness of your belongings and surroundings is crucial. At night, it's advisable to avoid walking alone, especially in less busy areas. Locals are generally friendly and helpful, but ensure you have arranged safe and reliable transportation. Learning a few phrases in the local language can also be helpful.

Safety rating

3.5 /5

Based on our research and crime data

Ulaanbaatar is currently ranked #2 safest place in Mongolia for solo female travellers, with an overall safety rating of 3 out of 5. . Check the full ranking.

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How safe is Ulaanbaatar?

Safety at night:Moderate

Ulaanbaatar is moderately safe at night. Like most big cities around the world, it has both safe and less safe areas. Public areas in districts like Sukhbaatar, which are lively with restaurants and shops, are generally safe. However, it is recommended to avoid poorly lit areas or walking alone late at night especially since the city's street lighting isn't very reliable. Using licensed taxis or reputable ride-hailing services is generally preferred over walking alone, especially after dark.

Public transportation:Moderate

Public transportation in Ulaanbaatar such as buses or shared taxis are generally safe and frequently used by locals. However, it can be crowded and confusing for first timers, especially with language barriers and lack of clear signage. Pick pocketing or petty theft can occasionally occur in crowded situations so staying vigilant about personal belongings is crucial. Distances can be vast and some routes may not be well serviced outside of the city center. Familiarizing yourself with frequent routes and planning your journey during daylight hours is advisable.

Street harassment:Low

Ulaanbaatar, the capital city of Mongolia, is predominantly calm and relatively safe for solo female travelers. Street harassment is not a common occurrence and people are generally respectful. However, as with any large city worldwide, exercise standard caution, avoid isolated areas after dark, and stay vigilant against opportunistic petty crimes.

Petty crimes:High

In Ulaanbaatar, the occurrence of petty crimes such as pickpocketing, purse snatching, and theft, particularly in crowded areas like the markets and public transport, is relatively high. Tourists are often seen as easy targets. Therefore, vigilance and taking preventive measures such as nondisplay of valuables and avoiding secluded areas at night is recommended.

Is Ulaanbaatar worth visiting?

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Is Ulaanbaatar safe for women?

Purevmaa

As a local Mongolian who have not lived in country for long, I feel that it’s safe but like anywhere else you got be careful and be aware of your surroundings. Good to find a local people that want to make foreign friends rather than someone who is working as a tour guide. That’s just my opinion. I apply this whenever I travel overseas.

Posted: August 5, 2024

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Vati

It’s a safe place in general, but I’ve heard and witnessed stories of sexual assault on the street (grabbing someone’s butt as they were walking), my mom being pickpocketed, drunk people fighting on the street. All of these events happened at night, so if you pay attention during dark hours, it will be okay!

Posted: July 31, 2024

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