The massive country is one of the world's most isolated with as many horses as people

This country is the 19th largest in the world but has one of the smallest populations.

By Rosie Jempson, US News Reporter

Animal Migration Scenery in Terlji National Park, Mongolia

The massive country that's one of the world's most isolated with as many horses as people (Image: Getty)

This beautiful landlocked country, with stunning landscapes and rich history, has such a small poulation that there are as many horses as there are humans. 

Mongolia ranks as the 19th largest country in the world, yet it remains one of the least densely populated.

The landscape is dominated by vast steppes, deserts, and rugged mountains. With a population of 3.2 million people and an equal number of horses, the local saying "a Mongol without a horse is like a bird without wings" rings true.

Mongolia is known as the "land of blue sky," thanks to its dry climate, which brings clear skies and up to 250 days of sunshine annually - but due to its high altitude and continental climate, Mongolia offers few warm days.

Summer lasts just a few weeks and winters are harsh - with temperatures plummeting to minus 35 degrees Celsius.

Group of Kazakh eagle hunters riding horses in Bayan Olgii, West Mongolia

Mongolia is the 19th largest country in the world (Image: Getty)

Mongolia is also home to one of the world's last remaining nomadic cultures.

More than 25% of the population live as nomads, moving their livestock in harmony with the seasons.

Visitors to this unique country might also catch a glimpse of endangered wildlife, such as the elusive snow leopard. While these creatures are not typically aggressive toward humans, caution is advised, as they are known for their silent presence.

Mongolia is also home to the two-humped camel, which, like the the snow leopard, are an endangered species. 

A human settlement in the Mongolian steppe with houses, huts, yurts and plots of land marked out by picket fences

Many locals live in yurts (Image: Getty)

The country also has its own Olympics. 

One of Mongolia’s most celebrated traditions is the Naadam festival, held every summer in major cities across the country.

With roots in ancient history, this festival showcases Mongolia’s "three manly games": archery, horse racing, and wrestling.

Alongside the sporting events, attendees can enjoy traditional Mongolian music and dance, making Naadam one of the most important cultural and social occasions of the year.

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