Mongolia in April
April weather, activities, events & insider tips
April Weather in Mongolia
Is April Right for You?
Advantages
- Spring awakening begins - first wildflowers appear in southern regions and temperatures start climbing above freezing during midday
- Extremely low tourist numbers mean you'll have major sites like Kharkhorin and Flaming Cliffs virtually to yourself, plus accommodation rates are 40-60% lower than summer
- Clear, dry air provides exceptional visibility for photography - the stark landscape contrasts are at their most dramatic before green vegetation appears
- Perfect timing for eagle hunter experiences in Bayan-Ölgii - hunters still have their golden eagles before releasing them in late April, and snow-capped Russia provide impressive backdrops
Considerations
- Nights remain brutally cold at -5°C to -15°C (23°F to 5°F) - heating costs are high and many ger camps remain closed until May
- Spring mud season makes many rural roads impassable, particularly to northern regions like Khövsgöl Lake, limiting access to remote attractions
- Unpredictable weather swings from sunny 15°C (59°F) afternoons to sudden snowstorms that can strand travelers for 1-2 days
Best Activities in April
Gobi Desert Archaeological Tours
April is ideal for exploring dinosaur fossil sites and Flaming Cliffs before summer heat becomes unbearable. Daytime temperatures reach comfortable 10-15°C (50-59°F) while nights are crisp but manageable with proper gear. The desert's dramatic red rock formations are most photogenic in spring's clear, dry air, and you'll encounter virtually no other tourists.
Ulaanbaatar Cultural Immersion Tours
April weather is perfect for walking tours of the capital as temperatures climb to 8-13°C (46-55°F) during day. Spring cleaning traditions are active, monasteries hold special ceremonies, and you can experience daily life without summer dust storms. The National Museum and Gandantegchinlen Monastery are comfortable to visit without heavy winter clothing.
Traditional Ger Stays with Nomadic Families
April is calving season for livestock, providing real feels of nomadic life during their busiest time. You'll witness newborn horses, sheep, and goats while staying warm in heated gers. Families are preparing for summer migration, offering insight into 1,000-year-old traditions. Cool weather makes ger stays comfortable without summer's flies and heat.
Bayan-Ölgii Eagle Hunter Expeditions
Late April is the final opportunity to see Kazakh eagle hunters with their golden eagles before they release them back to the wild in May. Snow-covered Russia create spectacular photographic backdrops, and hunters are eager to demonstrate their skills before the season ends. Weather is challenging but manageable with proper preparation.
Buddhist Monastery Meditation Retreats
April's quiet season allows for intimate monastery experiences without crowds. Spring ceremonies welcoming the new season are particularly meaningful, and monks have more time for genuine cultural exchange. Cool weather makes meditation halls comfortable, and you'll experience authentic monastic life as communities prepare for busy summer pilgrimage season.
Wildlife Photography Expeditions
April offers exceptional wildlife photography opportunities as animals emerge from winter habitats. Snow leopard tracking is still possible in early April, while ibex, argali sheep, and various raptors become more active. Clear, dry air provides perfect visibility for telephoto photography, and animal tracks are easily visible in remaining snow patches.
April Events & Festivals
Mongolian New Year (Tsagaan Sar) Aftermath Celebrations
While the main festival occurs in February/March, extended family celebrations and regional observances continue into early April. This provides opportunities to witness traditional foods, wrestling demonstrations, and horse racing preparations without peak festival crowds.