Best SIM and eSIM for Mongolia: data plans, Wi-Fi and phone tips

For most travellers the safest bet is a prepaid physical SIM from Unitel or Mobicom bought at Ulaanbaatar airport; it gives 4G on main routes and costs about MNT 5,000‑10,000 per GB (≈ $1.5‑3). eSIMs are usable in the capital but often lack coverage in the Gobi or Altai, so keep a backup SIM for remote legs.

All four major Mongolian operators sell prepaid SIMs at the international airport and in city shops; you must show your passport for registration. Packages typically include 1 GB of data for 30 days; larger bundles (5‑10 GB) cost proportionally more.

eSIM support is limited to newer iPhone and Android models. Providers list eSIM QR codes on their websites, but the coverage maps show gaps outside Ulaanbaatar, especially in the Gobi desert and remote aimags.

If you plan multi‑day treks in off‑grid areas, consider a satellite messenger (e.g., Garmin inReach) as a backup, since many aimags have no mobile signal at all.

Wi‑Fi is widely available for free in hotels, cafés and internet cafés in Ulaanbaatar; ger camps that offer Wi‑Fi rely on satellite links and can be slow. Carry a power bank, as outlets may be scarce in rural guesthouses.

Mobile numbers are eight digits after the country code +976.

Cash (MNT) is preferred for SIM purchases; cards work at larger shops.

Check each carrier’s coverage map before relying on eSIM for a specific route.