Drones, camera gear imports, photographing monks and nomads, Naadam festival press access. The real rules of photography in Mongolia, updated for 2027.
Tuvshinjargal Batbayar
Legal but require a registration and flight permit from the Mongolian Civil Aviation Authority. Process takes 3-5 days and costs 50,000 MNT (15 USD). We handle this for our photography guests. Flying without permit risks confiscation and a 500 USD fine.
Over government buildings, airports (5 km buffer), military installations, and over ceremonies (Naadam, Tsagaan Sar). Check our permitted flight zone map before each trip.
If you are creating content for commercial publication or sale, the rules differ. Permit fee 500 USD per week. We handle if advised 60 days before trip.
Generally allowed outside. Usually not during chanting. Always ask first before photographing inside. A respectful silence before raising the camera is the Rara Avis standard.
Always ask before photographing. Our guides facilitate. Most Mongolian hosts are pleased to be photographed by respectful guests, but consent must be explicit.
Double consent: host parent AND the child if old enough to understand. Never photograph children without the parent being present.
The National Naadam in UB has limited press access. Countryside naadams (smaller town versions) are open. We hold press credentials at certain district naadams as a long-standing operator.
The public area is open. The photographer ring (close to the arena) requires a festival press badge. Rara Avis holds a photographer allocation. First-come basis.
No restrictions on personal equipment. Professional multi-body kits may trigger customs questions at Chinggis Khaan Airport, particularly on departure if you are suspected of commercial intent. Carry itineraries and booking confirmations.
We work with Snow Leopard Conservation Mongolia for our snow leopard trips. The park ethics rules apply: no baiting, no flash, no playback audio. Our guides will stop any shot that violates these rules.
Our Mongolia Photographer's Circuit (14 days, September) includes drone permits, monk-blessed monastery shoots, and private host family access. 8,900 USD per person, max 6 guests.