In Kyrgyzstan the horse is still part of everyday life. Shepherds move their herds to the high summer pastures (jailoo) on horseback, children learn to ride almost before they can walk, and many valleys are easier to reach in the saddle than by car. A riding tour is the most natural way to experience this nomadic landscape of alpine meadows, clear rivers and wide lakes.
Our riding tours use calm local horses that are used to mountain trails, and are led by experienced horsemen together with a guide. Most routes are suitable for beginners with reasonable fitness; experienced riders can ask for longer days in the saddle. The classic route crosses a pass to Son-Kul lake at about 3,000 m, with nights in yurt camps run by herding families.
The riding season usually runs from June to September, when the high pastures are green and the passes are free of snow. Tours can be booked privately or combined with other travellers, and we are happy to adapt the length of the ride to your experience.
Astana, Turkistan, Shymkent and Almaty
From the futuristic capital Astana to the medieval caravan cities of the south – Turkistan, Otrar and Sauran – and on to Almaty.
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