Getting the best Mongolia SIM cards for travelers is important to easily navigate locations, access travel information and keep in touch with friends and family.
This discussion covers where tourists can purchase SIM cards upon arrival in Mongolia, such as airports or cities, with the most updated price information. It provides a guide on which prepaid options offer the best value from network providers to suit light data needs while exploring destinations. Finding the most convenient way to buy a Mongolia SIM card and stay connected while traveling will ensure a smooth trip.
In this article
You have 04 main ways to buy a tourist SIM card for Mongolia:
You can buy a tourist SIM card for Mongolia before departure by selecting a package that fits your need from a prestigious travel provider on the Internet. Then, the SIM card will be shipped to your address after about 5-10 days. Remember to carry the SIM card package with you to Mongolia and insert it on arrival.
Pros:
Cons:
In summary, online buying is most organized but risks of delays exist. Proper planning is needed if choosing this option.
Mongolia SIM cards are available at Chinggis Khaan International Airport in Ulaanbaatar and other airports throughout Mongolia. Stands at airports sell SIM cards of all carriers like Mobicom, Unitel etc.
The price will be on average 10-20% more expensive than local stores in cities.
It is convenient as you can buy it upon arrival without any preparation.
Pros: No delays, instant activation.
Cons:
It is estimated that over 90% of stores in main cities like Ulaanbaatar sell SIM cards. If using this way, you had better check official carrier stores or shops like grocery stores for best rates.
Prices are 10-15% lower than airports but require moving to the city.
Pros: Cheapest option, cash payment accepted.
Cons:
This new version of SIM card is suitable for people with eSIM-supported devices. Though the price is a little bit higher than physical ones, it is worth the price. You can buy it before departure from anywhere, at any time you want. Buy and set it up online 100%. No need to go to the stores to queue up the line or wait for SIM delivery. Things can be done just at your comfort zone.
Pros:
Cons: Only work with eSIM-supported mobile devices
▶ Our recommendation: We would recommend buying an eSIM online before departure if your device works with digital SIM. While buying a physical SIM card at the airport or in the cities is convenient, eSIM provides the easiest setup without waiting in lines. As long as you have an eSIM-compatible phone, you can purchase a plan from anywhere and activate it immediately upon arrival in Mongolia through the emailed QR code. An eSIM also provides added security over carrying a physical SIM card throughout your travels. This is best for travelers who want hassle-free connectivity throughout their trip without any disruptions.
There are three the best SIM cards for travelers to choose, including: Mobicom, Unitel, Skytel.
Here are 03 MobiCom carrier SIM card plans for tourists:
These tourist SIM cards from MobiCom provide you data and call credits to use during your trip to Mongolia.
Regular MobiCom SIM cards start from 5,000 MNT which provides the basic connectivity.
Unitel TourSIM plans have 03 plan options for travelers to Mongolia:
Along with data, these plans also provide local call minutes within the Unitel network in Mongolia.
Here is the information about 03 Skytel SIM card plans for tourists:
All the plans include unlimited calls within Skytel network. The data can be used for social media apps, messaging, navigation etc.
Yes. The reasons for getting a prepaid Mongolia travel SIM card are:
For convenience and cost effectiveness during a short trip focused on Mongolia, purchasing a SIM card from Mobicom or Unitel would likely be best. Being prepared with the right connectivity option will help you get the most from your rewarding trip to Mongolia.
When buying a SIM card in Mongolia, youu have to prepare some important things such as: passport, ID card. In some cases, you may also need to show your visa. Ensure both documents are readily available.
For payment, you can use credit or debit cards, but make sure they are enabled for international transactions. It’s also a good idea to have some cash on hand as a backup. Being prepared with these items will help you purchase a SIM card in Mongolia.
There are 02 common types of Mongolia SIM card for tourists, divided by form. See details below.
A physical SIM card that you insert into your phone upon arrival in Mongolia. You can buy it offline/online before departure at stores/websites providing travel SIM cards. If buying offline after arrival, it must be registered by showing your passport.
An eSIM is a digital SIM profile that can be installed on compatible smartphones without a physical SIM card.
You can purchase plans online before travel. Simply scan a QR code to install it on your mobile device. It only works in eSIM-equipped mobile devices.
▶ Our recommendation: Physical SIM cards are easily commonly available for Mongolia through both in stores or online. Virtual SIM cards (eSIM) will likely be more suitable for digital nomads or people on short trips.
If you want to buy an eSIM for Mongolia travel, then choose Gigago as your eSIM provider.
For Mongolia, Gigago offers multiple data plan options, starting from 1GB for 7 days with $9.90 . What is great about Gigago’s Mongolia eSIM is that its plans’ costs are diversifying, vary between $9.90 – $47.50 . Thus, it does not matter how Internet users you are and how long your trip is in Mongolia, there is always option for you with Gigago.
Some benefits you will receive when buying Mongolia eSIM of Gigago:
These plans are prepaid and can be purchased directly from Gigago eSIM Mongolia.
Tourist SIM card validity in Mongolia depends on the specific plan you choose. Here’s a breakdown:
This flexibility allows you to choose a plan that best fits the length of your stay and ensures you can easily extend your service if needed.
Follow these steps to use Mongolia travel SIM cards effectively:
Here are the steps to use a Mongolia tourist eSIM card:
Yes, data rates in Mongolia are very affordable due to competition. Prepaid plans offer 1-3GB for $5-10 valid 30 days. Daily data bundles from 500MB-1GB are also cheap starting at $1-2.
Yes, your phone needs to be factory unlocked or network unlocked for international use in order to accept a Mongolian SIM card.
Yes, the major network operators MobiCom and Unitel have nationwide coverage beyond the capital Ulaanbaatar. Reception is generally available throughout the country along main roads and tourist attractions. Remote areas may have poorer signals.
To sum up, using a prepaid SIM card for Mongolia travel gives affordable and convenient connectivity for tourists visiting Mongolia. On the other hand, an eSIM is a handy option for instant data access upon arrival. With both physical and virtual SIM solutions available, you will have reliable choices to stay connected while exploring Mongolia.
Tourists planning a trip to Mongolia should not ignore this blog, as it will explore data roaming in Mongolia and compare the costs and features of roaming versus the best alternatives to get Internet for tourists. By learning about available alternatives and how to enable or disable roaming, travelers can choose the most cost-effective solution to stay connected while exploring Mongolia.
With limited cell service and few Internet cafes, a pocket Wifi in Mongolia can be a lifesaver for tourists who need to navigate tourist spots as well as unfamiliar terrain.
Unitel SIM cards or eSIM offer reliable connectivity for calls, texts, and Internet access nearly anywhere in the country.
Getting MobiCom SIM cards or eSIMs is an easy way to stay connected while exploring the vast grasslands and cultural gems of this beautiful country.
There are several cellular internet providers and Skytel is one of the major ones. Tourists may buy affordable Skytel SIM cards and eSIMs for easy Internet access during their trips to Mongolia.
Getting a SIM card is a great way to stay connected with your family and friends back home and use navigation, transport, delivery, and social media apps for a wonderful trip in Ulaanbaatar.
