Description

Adventure Travel, Mongolia, Ecotourism, Culture

Jan Wigsten
Founder
360° Mongolia

360° Mongolia is a collection of extraordinary bespoke experiences in Mongolia, designed by Jan Wigsten.  Jan has been engaged in Mongolian tourism since 1980.  Since 1993 as a local entrepreneur.  He is widely recognized as Mongolia’s sustainable tourism pioneer.

Our approach to travel in Mongolia has always focussed on the places where we develop long-term partnerships with local communities and conservation initiatives. These favourite places have what can only be described as 360° landscapes with unspoiled views in every direction – an immersive experience in another world.

To visit these remote locations in comfort and style we have developed a unique travel philosophy utilizing small mobile private camps, comprising of well-appointed traditional Mongolian Gers.


https://www.360degreesmongolia.com/

Summary

Jan Wigsten, the founder of 360 Degrees Mongolia, discusses his company's promise of a 360-degree landscape view around private foldable camps. He shares insights into the unique experiences his company offers, such as walking or riding across the vast Mongolian landscape and camping with nomads. Jan also talks about his background in tourism and his involvement in community-based tourism projects around the world. He highlights the importance of understanding the individual choices and strategies of local communities in tourism development. Jan addresses concerns about geopolitical issues and emphasizes the safety and deposit policies of his company. In this conversation, Jason Elkins interviews Jan Wigsten, the founder of 360 Degrees Mongolia, about travel and fly fishing in Mongolia. They discuss the concerns around deposits and booking trips, particularly for future dates. Jan explains the unique aspects of fly fishing in Mongolia, including the high demand and limited spots available. They also delve into the importance of tourism for conservation and the local communities. 

Takeaways

• 360 Degrees Mongolia offers a unique camping experience with a promise of a 360-degree landscape view around private foldable camps.
• Community-based tourism projects should focus on understanding the individual choices and strategies of local communities rather than treating them as a single entity.
• The tourism industry is experiencing changes due to factors such as the COVID-19 pandemic and resource scarcity.
• Mongolia's geopolitical situation with Russia and China is not a major concern for tourism, and the country maintains a friendly relationship with its neighbors.
• Safety is a priority for 360 Degrees Mongolia, and the company has flexible deposit policies to address concerns. When booking trips, particularly for future dates, it's important to consider the deposit policies and potential risks involved.
• Fly fishing in Mongolia is a popular and sought-after experience, with limited spots available and a high demand.
• Fly fishing can contribute to conservation efforts and benefit local communities by creating value around the resource and incentivizing protection of the rivers.
• Mongolian rivers have a natural balance due to the presence of apex predators, such as the Taiman, which regulate the fish population.

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