# What Ottawa Travellers Need to Know About the Latest Mongolia Travel Advisory
Planning a trip to Mongolia from Ottawa? Whether you’re drawn to the vast steppes, nomadic culture, or the vibrant capital of Ulaanbaatar, Canada’s latest travel advisory update should be on your reading list before you pack your bags.
On April 23, 2026, the Government of Canada updated its travel guidance for Mongolia, maintaining a **Level 1 risk rating — Take Normal Security Precautions**. This is the lowest advisory level, meaning Mongolia remains a relatively safe destination for Canadian travellers. The update was editorial in nature, but it’s still important for Ottawa travellers to understand the security landscape and health preparations needed for this unique destination.
## Understanding the Security Situation
While Mongolia carries Canada’s lowest risk rating, that doesn’t mean you can let your guard down completely. Petty crime remains the primary concern, particularly in Ulaanbaatar and other major cities. Pickpocketing and purse snatching frequently occur in tourist hotspots, including the Gandantegchinlen Monastery, State Department Store, and public transportation hubs.
More concerning are reports of violent crimes, including assaults and robberies, especially during major holidays like the July Naadam Festival and Mongolian Lunar New Year. There have even been cases of individuals impersonating police officers to rob foreigners near Sukhbaatar Square. If someone claiming to be an officer approaches you, always request credentials or suggest going to an official police station.
Travellers should avoid walking alone after dark, keep belongings secure, and stay especially vigilant during festival periods when crime rates spike.
## Essential Health Preparations Before You Go
Beyond security concerns, proper health preparation is critical for Mongolia travel. The country’s remote regions, extreme climate variations, and different disease profiles compared to Canada mean you need more than just vigilance—you need medical readiness.
A pre-travel health consultation should be your first step. Mongolia may require or recommend vaccines such as hepatitis A and B, typhoid, rabies (especially if you’ll be in rural areas near animals), and Japanese encephalitis depending on your itinerary and season of travel. Your routine vaccinations should also be current.
Consider medications for traveller’s diarrhea, altitude sickness if heading to mountainous regions, and a comprehensive medical kit. A travel health specialist can assess your specific itinerary, medical history, and activities to create a personalized health plan.
Don’t leave your health to chance when exploring one of Asia’s most adventurous destinations. Professional guidance ensures you’re protected against both common and destination-specific health risks.
Travelling to Mongolia? Before you go, speak with one of our ISTM-certified travel health physicians – virtually, 7 days a week. A pre-travel consultation covers vaccines, medications, and destination-specific health risks. Book your virtual consultation at Orleans Travel Clinic Pharmacy.