Fuel availability and planning

Fuel availability in Mongolia can be inconsistent. In Hovd, there is currently no gasoline. In Ulgii, only 92 octane was found at one station, and it is not sold in canisters. Travelers should plan fuel stops accordingly.

A traveler's experience refueling with 92 octane fuel in Darkhan involved spending 80,000 MNT, with the fuel dispensed in two separate transactions (60,000 MNT then 20,000 MNT). The total waiting time in the queue was 2.5 hours.

Reports suggest that concerns about Russian-plated vehicles being denied fuel in Mongolia are unfounded. Local explanations for past fuel shortages point to exceptionally high consumption during July holidays, depleting a four-month supply, rather than any policy against foreign vehicles. Fuel prices can fluctuate; for instance, 92 octane gasoline was recently priced at 5140 MNT per liter at the Karakurum station, with a waiting time of approximately 20 minutes.

Diesel fuel is available in Ulaanbaatar. However, finding Euro 5 standard diesel may require more specific searching, indicating it might not be universally available or in ample supply.

It is recommended to fill up the fuel tank in Mongolia before entering Russia due to potential price and queue issues at Russian gas stations. A Rosneft station in Shebalino had a queue of approximately 30 vehicles at night. It is advisable to refuel fully again after Ust-Sema. Queues in Novosibirsk can reach up to 100 vehicles.

Fuel availability in Mongolia can be challenging, especially in Ulaanbaatar, where queues at gas stations can be extremely long (50-60 vehicles), and some stations may have no fuel at all. Even in previously reliable locations like Darkhan, shortages of 92 and 95 octane gasoline can occur. It is advisable to refuel early in the morning, as the situation can deteriorate throughout the day. Sometimes, special arrangements or waiting for the next day might be necessary.

Fuel shortages are a recurring issue in Mongolia, especially in cities like Ulaanbaatar. Expect long queues, often 2-4 hours, for limited amounts of fuel (e.g., 20 liters for locals). Vehicles with Russian license plates may have different limits, sometimes allowing full tanks. Prices vary; 92 octane can be around 3500 MNT (~84 RUB), while diesel might be 5150 MNT. Some stations with higher prices have no queues. Drivers may resort to mixing fuel grades. It's advisable to carry extra fuel or be prepared for significant waiting times.

Current fuel supply status in Mongolia (as of July 2026): Gasoline (petrol) is experiencing shortages in several regions, resulting in long queues at filling stations. Diesel (DT) remains widely available with no queues, though prices are higher in rural areas (approx. 4190–5100 MNT). Travelers are advised to maintain high fuel levels in their tanks and not rely solely on the availability of gasoline at rural stations.

Fuel availability in Mongolia can be inconsistent, especially in smaller towns. While major brands like Petrovis operate, some stations may run out of fuel or have long queues. It is advisable to carry extra fuel in canisters for longer journeys. 92 octane is commonly available, while 95 octane is rare. Fuel prices were approximately 87 RUB per liter as of July 2026, but can fluctuate. Some stations may prioritize locals. Teso Petroleum is often mentioned as a more reliable option. Travelers should confirm fuel availability at their planned stops and consider carrying a reserve.

Traveling from Ulaanbaatar towards the Altai region (including Khovd and Ulgii) requires careful planning regarding fuel. After Bayankhongor, fuel availability in smaller settlements can be scarce, with some Petrovis stations being empty and others having queues. It is recommended to carry extra fuel in canisters. The common fuel type is 92 octane or 92 Euro-5; 95 octane is rarely found. Larger towns like Altai, Khovd, and Ulgii generally have better fuel supply, but it's still advisable to check availability and fill up whenever possible. The scarcity of Russian-plated vehicles might reflect local fuel logistics.

Mongolia is primarily an exporter of oil, not an importer. The country is in the process of launching its first oil refinery, which will improve domestic processing capabilities.

Mongolia primarily imports fuel, with Russia being a major supplier, but also sources from South Korea and China. The country is diversifying its fuel import strategy. While fuel availability can fluctuate, especially in remote areas, the situation in Ulaanbaatar in August 2026 showed signs of improvement, with stations operating normally, even at night.

Diesel fuel (DT) is available in Ulgii. Prices are approximately 4600 MNT (Ryszhan) and 4550 MNT (Petrovich) per liter. Fuel can be dispensed into canisters.