Sain baina uu! I’m Sugi from Tsogto Mongol Horse Riding Tour.
If you are joining a tour with tent nights in Mongolia in late summer — especially in September — please don’t pack the same clothes you would for midsummer. You will be cold.
Even when the days are warm, Mongolia has a huge difference between daytime and night-time temperatures, and it gets cold fast once the sun goes down.
September Mornings and Nights Are Cold
In Nalaikh, where our base is, the average low in September is about 2°C (36°F) and the average high is about 16°C (61°F). From mid-September some years see snow, and the landscape can suddenly turn wintry.
Already by late August, nights can drop into single digits Celsius, even when daytime highs are 15–29°C (59–84°F).
Forecasts change, so check the latest Ulaanbaatar forecast on AccuWeather before you leave. Keep in mind that the Ulaanbaatar forecast is only a guide to the region — it is not the temperature at the campsite itself.
Why Tents Are Colder Than Gers
On tour we use ordinary camping tents. They don’t hold heat nearly as well as a ger, which is covered in thick felt.
Campsites are in open places such as hilltops. There are some trees, but there is no building to escape into if it gets cold.
We provide a sleeping bag and a blanket in each tent. There is no extra bedding, though, so come prepared to stay warm with your clothing.
My Own Mistake: Fooled by a Warm Day
The first time I camped in Mongolia was in July. I wanted to pack light, so my only warm layer was one thin down jacket. The day was hot and I didn’t think twice.
That night it started to rain and the temperature dropped sharply — I had goosebumps all over. It was warm by the campfire, but at bedtime you leave the fire and go into the tent. Even with the sleeping bag and blanket I was cold, and I really regretted bringing just that one thin jacket.
If it was that cold in July, September is colder. Don’t be fooled by the warm afternoons!
What to Wear for September Tent Nights
Instead of a single thin down jacket, bring layers you can put on and take off.
- Upper body: thermal long-sleeve base layer, waterproof windbreaker, fleece, light down jacket
- Head and neck: a hat that covers your ears, a scarf or neck warmer
- Hands: warm gloves; riding gloves while on horseback
- Lower body: thermal leggings and windproof trousers
Above all, come prepared. If you are worried about luggage during the tent nights, you can leave some in the support vehicle.
For more on clothing, see our Mongolia summer packing list.
Everyone feels the cold differently. If you tend to get cold easily, take extra care to keep your hands, feet, neck and ears warm.
FAQ: Tent Camping in Mongolia in September
Is it cold camping in Mongolia in September?
Yes, mornings and nights get very cold. The average September low in Nalaikh is about 2°C (36°F). Even on warm days, bring warm clothes for the hours after sunset and before dawn.
Is a tent colder than a ger?
Yes. A ger is covered with thick felt, while we use regular camping tents, which don’t keep the heat in as well.
Are sleeping bags and blankets provided?
Yes, each tent has a sleeping bag and a blanket. There is no extra bedding, so please bring clothing you can layer.
Do I need warm clothes if the days are warm?
Yes. The temperature difference between day and night is large, and it drops quickly after sunset. Layers you can put on and take off are ideal.
Can it snow in September?
From mid-September it can snow. The weather varies from year to year, so check the latest forecast before you leave.
Stay Warm and Enjoy the Steppe at Night
If you only judge by the warm afternoons, you may end up regretting it at night like I did. Bring layers so you can enjoy both the campfire and a good night’s sleep in your tent.
