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.
Issyk-Kul, Karakol, Kochkor and Son-Kul
Eight days around Issyk-Kul and up to the high-altitude lake Song-Kul – with nights in yurts, an eagle hunter show and genuine nomadic hospitality.
Chuy valley: Burana Tower near Tokmok and the Konorchek canyons near the Boom Gorge
Silk Road history and red-rock scenery in one day: the 11th-century Burana Tower with its balbal stones, then a hike through the Konorchek canyons.
Kochkor district and Son-Kul lake, Naryn region
Ride from the village of Kyzart over a high pass to Son-Kul lake, sleep in yurts with herding families and return to Bishkek on day three.
Issyk-Kul region: Cholpon-Ata, Karakol, Jeti-Oguz and the south shore
A compact loop around Issyk-Kul: petroglyphs in Cholpon-Ata, the wooden cathedral and Dungan mosque of Karakol, the red rocks of Jeti-Oguz and Skazka canyon.
Bokonbaevo area, south shore of Issyk-Kul
A half-day cultural experience on the south shore of Issyk-Kul: meet an eagle hunter and his golden eagle, try traditional felt-making and cook a Kyrgyz meal with a local family.
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Kyrgyzstan
