Tipping while travelling in Mongolia

If you’re planning a trip to Mongolia, you might wonder: Should I tip? If so, how much?

Traditionally, tipping is not part of Mongolian culture, but as tourism grows, tipping has become increasingly accepted — especially in urban centers and the travel industry.

When and How to Tip in Mongolia

✅ Tour Guides and Drivers

If you’re joining a guided tour and have had a great experience, tipping your tour guide and driver is a thoughtful gesture. While not mandatory, it is greatly appreciated. A common tip:

• 10–20% of the total tour price (shared among the guide and driver).

For example, on a $1,000 tour, tipping $100–200 total would be generous and well received.

✅ Restaurants and Cafés

In casual eateries, tipping is not expected. However, in mid-range or fine dining restaurants—especially in Ulaanbaatar—leaving a 5–10% tip for good service is welcome.

Waitstaff in tourist-friendly establishments are accustomed to Western practices.

✅ Hotels and Services

For hotel porters, bellhops, and housekeepers, small cash tips (₮5,000–10,000 or $1–3) are polite if service is helpful. Tipping is less common in budget hotels or guesthouses.

💸 Currency Tips

• Mongolian currency is the tugrik (₮), sometimes written as MNT.

• Tipping in local currency or USD is best.

• U.S. dollars may be accepted by some tour staff but are not commonly used for tips in shops or restaurants.

🇲🇳 Mongolian Tugrik (MNT) Exchange Rates – June 4, 2025

Note: These rates are indicative and may vary slightly between banks and exchange services.

Final Word

While tipping isn’t expected in Mongolia, it’s always appreciated—especially in the tourism sector. If you’ve received great service, a small tip is a great way to show gratitude and support local workers.