About
Ömnögovi Province lies in the south of Mongolia and covers the largest area of any province in the country. Much of its territory is part of the Gobi Desert, so a visit here is first of all a visit to wide, open desert country, where the horizon often seems to stretch on without interruption.
What to expect
The province is known for its mining operations, which shape the economy and the activity you are likely to see around its towns. Travellers who come here tend to be interested in the landscape itself, the scale of the land, and the working life of a region that is set apart from the more densely populated north.
- Landscape: expansive Gobi desert terrain covering much of the province.
- Setting: a southern province, reached by travellers who want to see the country beyond its capital.
- Economy: mining is a defining feature of the area.
Planning a visit
Because the province is so large and sparsely settled, it suits travellers who are comfortable with long distances and who plan their route in advance. Distances between places can be considerable, so allow time for travel across the desert. Before setting out, check the current conditions for the area and make arrangements for transport and accommodation, as services can be limited outside the main centres.
For someone drawn to remote, open landscapes and an unhurried pace, Ömnögovi Province offers a very different experience from Mongolia's busier regions, and one that rewards those who come with time and a clear sense of purpose.
