Nomadic horse trek

Nomadic Horse Trek

Departure End Status Price Book
Jul 13, 2027 - Tue Jul 22, 2027 - Thu Available 2000$
Group
0/12
Aug 13, 2027 - Fri Aug 22, 2027 - Sun Available 2000$
Group
2/12

Participants must be physically fit and mentally prepared for wilderness conditions.
Travel insurance covering horseback riding is mandatory.

The tour will operate only if the minimum group size of 4 participants is reached. If fewer than 4 participants join, the tour will be cancelled.

How to book
To reserve your place, a deposit of 300 USD per person is required. Pay it securely online with the “Pay deposit” button next to your preferred date. The remaining 1,700 USD per person is paid on arrival in Bishkek before the tour starts — in cash or by credit card.

Cancellation policy
– 30 days or more before departure: full refund of the deposit
– 15–29 days before departure: 50% of the deposit is refunded (minus bank charges)
– 14 days or less before departure: the deposit is non-refundable
If the tour is cancelled because the minimum group size of 4 participants is not reached, your deposit is refunded in full.

Price (per person): 2,000 USD

✅ Included

  • English-speaking tour guide
  • Services of local horse guides
  • Horse rental
  • Pack horses for camping equipment
  • Accommodation in guesthouses and yurt camps
  • Tent and sleeping mat rental
  • Full board during the trek (all meals except in Bishkek)

❌ Not Included

  • Hotel accommodation in Bishkek
  • International flights
  • Travel insurance
  • Sleeping bag rental

➕ Supplements

  • Single tent (SNG): 90 USD
  • Single room in guesthouse / yurt camp: 180 USD

The Best Sustainable Tour of Kyrgyzstan 2023 – Award Winner

Our Nomadic Horse Trek Kyrgyzstan tour is a group adventure through the heart of the Tian Shan mountains. Ride through alpine meadows, stay in traditional yurt camps, and experience authentic nomadic life with expert local guides.

Would you like to ride like a true nomad?
Awaken the nomad within you.

This authentic horseback expedition in the legendary Song-Kul region takes you deep into Kyrgyzstan’s untouched mountain wilderness — far beyond tourist routes.

Ride across vast alpine jailoos (summer pastures), along crystal-clear high mountain lakes such as Song-Kul, Sary-Kol and Kokondu-Kol, surrounded by dramatic peaks and endless grasslands.

This is not just a horse tour — it is a journey into the living nomadic culture of Kyrgyzstan.

You will:

• Cross remote valleys accessible only on horseback
• Stay in traditional yurts under star-filled skies
• Camp in pristine mountain landscapes
• Share tea with nomadic families in their summer camps
• Experience the deep bond between Kyrgyz people and their horses

Every day offers raw nature, silence, freedom, and authentic cultural encounters.


Overview

Format: Guaranteed Departure / Small Group
Duration: 10 Days
Region: Song-Kol & Central Tien Shan
Style: Nomadic Horseback Expedition
Accommodation: Guesthouse, Wild Camping & Traditional Yurts

Quick Facts

Distance: Approx. 188 km on horseback
Maximum Elevation: 3,537 m
Minimum Elevation: 1,876 m
Total Ascent: 8,251 m
Total Descent: 7,994 m

Difficulty & Safety

Difficulty Level: Moderate
Riding Experience: Basic riding experience is helpful (fit beginners are welcome)

Safety:
✔ Helmets available
✔ Safety briefing before the expedition
✔ Calm, well-trained horses
✔ Continuous support from experienced guides

Who Is This Tour For?

✔ Adventurous travelers (approximately 25–45 years old)
✔ Riders seeking an authentic nomadic experience
✔ Nature lovers who are comfortable with camping
✔ People who enjoy group dynamics and shared experiences
✔ Anyone looking for true wilderness rather than luxury tourism

We are currently assembling a small group for this unique expedition. Take a look at the detailed day-by-day itinerary and secure your place before all spots are taken.

Scenic drive over the Too-Ashu Pass through the Suusamyr Valley. Lunch in Kyzyl-Oi.

In the afternoon, enjoy a 2-hour horseback ride through peaceful mountain landscapes.

Overnight with a local host family.

Meet the horses and ride up to the summer pastures of Oi-Kaying.

Pass ancient Persian rock inscriptions along the way.

Camp near nomadic families at an altitude of 3,000 m.

Distance: approx. 21 km

Cross a 3,411 m high mountain pass with panoramic views.

Ride through alpine meadows and forests.

Camp beside the beautiful Sary-Kol Lake.

Distance: approx. 20 km

Ride through valleys, rivers, and open jailoos.

Climb up to the Kashka-Suu summer pastures.

Wild camping near Kokondu Lake.

Distance: approx. 20 km

Long ride through remote nomadic landscapes.

Meet local herding families and taste traditional kymyz.

Camp beside a yurt.

Distance: approx. 25 km

Ride through the Sandyk Valley to the “Mountain Jewel,” Sarkol Lake.

Camp near Kumbel Pass with sweeping alpine views.

Distance: approx. 20 km

Cross Kumbel Pass at an altitude of 3,600 m.

Descend to Kumdu-Suu.

Set up camp near a shepherd’s yurt.

Dinner in the yurt.

Distance: approx. 15 km

Cross several mountain passes and ride into the vast Kilemche Valley.

Receive a warm welcome at a traditional yurt camp.

Distance: approx. 16 km

Cross the Jalgyz-Karagai Pass at an altitude of 3,300 m.

Ride up to Song-Kol Lake.

Overnight at a traditional yurt camp.

Distance: 16–20 km

Final ride via the Tus-Ashu Pass with panoramic views of Song-Kol Lake.

Lunch in Kyzart, followed by a 4–5-hour transfer to Bishkek.

Distance: approx. 15 km

✅ Included

  • English-speaking tour guide
  • Services of local horse guides
  • Horse rental
  • Pack horses for camping equipment
  • Accommodation in guesthouses and yurt camps
  • Tent and sleeping mat rental
  • Full board during the trek (all meals except in Bishkek)

❌ Not Included

  • Hotel accommodation in Bishkek
  • International flights
  • Travel insurance
  • Sleeping bag rental

➕ Supplements

  • Single tent (SNG) – USD 90
  • Single room in a guesthouse / yurt camp – USD 180

FAQ

To confirm your participation, a 30% deposit is required via bank transfer.
The remaining 70% balance can be paid before the tour starts.

Upon your request, we will issue an official invoice with payment details.

Deposit Policy

The deposit is non-refundable.

As this is a fixed-departure group tour, the final price per person depends on the total number of participants. With each additional participant, the package price decreases. Many travelers confirm their booking based on the current group size and price level.

If any participant cancels after confirmation, we are unable to recalculate or adjust the price for the remaining group members. For this reason, the deposit cannot be refunded.

We strongly recommend purchasing travel insurance that covers trip cancellation.

As we form mixed international groups, we recommend participants to be between 25 and 45 years old.

This is a physically demanding and long-distance expedition, and we aim to create a group dynamic where everyone feels comfortable and connected. It is important for us that you are:

• Open to meeting new people
• Friendly and respectful
• Mentally prepared for challenges
• Positive and team-oriented

The right group atmosphere is essential for a successful expedition.

Long-distance horseback riding in the mountains always involves certain risks. Safety is our priority, but participants must understand the nature of the environment.

Horses

Horses can sometimes react unpredictably to sudden sounds such as thunder, birds, dogs, or unexpected movements.
Riders must always follow safety instructions and remain attentive and alert.

Nomadic Shepherd Dogs

Nomadic dogs often live semi-wild lifestyles and are protective of livestock.
They must not be touched, fed, or approached closely.
In rare cases, they may carry diseases, including rabies.

Altitude

Rapid elevation changes may cause altitude-related discomfort.
Proper acclimatization and hydration are important.

Weather

Mountain weather is highly unpredictable.
In a single day, you may experience rain, snow, hail, strong wind, and sunshine.

WATER

While trekking, you’re out in the wild to enjoy nature and the adventure it offers — and staying healthy is essential to making the most of that experience. Water plays a key role here, so it’s worth understanding a few things before you set off.

We provide boiled water, tea, and coffee at breakfast, lunch, and dinner. However, our capacity to boil water is limited, and it won’t always be enough to fill your bottles for the next day’s trek. Since water can be a source of stomach trouble on the trail, it’s important to know how to source it safely — while still drinking enough to stay properly hydrated.

In the mountains, water sources are also shared with local livestock and wildlife, so a few simple rules will help you stay safe:

  • Always fetch water from running streams — the faster-flowing, the better. Stagnant water carries a much higher risk of pathogens, regardless of how cold or clean it looks. Fast-moving water, by contrast, carries far fewer pathogens and much less sediment.
  • Natural springs are the best source of all. They act as a natural filter, so the water is typically very clean and low in particulates.

Local people and most tourists drink directly from these sources without any issues. That said, if you’d prefer extra peace of mind, we recommend bringing water purification tablets from home — these are not available for purchase in Kyrgyzstan.

It is Ok to do horse treks in Kyrgyzstan for beginners or the people who have never ridden before. The 90% of our visitors have no horseback riding skils but they can manage the horse treks because we use for our clients’ very quiet and calm horses with comfortable saddles and choose the relevant trek for horse tours. Our horseback guides will be your individual instructor to ride a Kyrgyz horse and help you to manage it.

Riding Tips:

  • Clothing: Wear closed-toe shoes and long pants to avoid chafing. Bring layers, as the weather can change quickly. Gloves are also a good idea.
  • Adjusting Layers: If you need to add or remove a jacket, let your guide know first. Sudden movements or sounds can startle horses, and our guides will help with animals prone to spooking.
  • Hydrate & Eat Well: Riding may not be aerobic, but it’s still physically demanding. Stay hydrated and eat properly to avoid fatigue.
  • Camera & Gear: Kyrgyzstan’s scenery is stunning from horseback! Keep cameras and water bottles securely fastened, as unexpected falling objects can frighten even the most experienced horses.
  • Safety Around Horses: Never walk directly behind a horse—stay at least 2 meters away. Horses have blind spots behind them and may kick if startled. Approach them from the side and speak out loud if you’re passing nearby.
  • Horse Behavior: Horses are intelligent and have unique personalities. If disagreements arise with your horse, remain calm and assertive to maintain control.

Riding Basics:

  • Keep Your Feet in the Stirrups: This will help you maintain balance, especially over rough terrain.
  • Sit Straight and Centered: Align your body with the horse’s mane to stay balanced.
  • Reins Are Your Control: Use the reins to steer and stop. Pull back to slow down and to one side to turn.
  • Get the Horse Moving: Say “chu” to urge the horse forward. If needed, give a gentle kick or tap with the whip.
  • No Snacking: Horses might try to eat while riding, but this slows everyone down. Pull their head away and keep them moving.
  • Adjust Your Position: Lean forward going uphill and lean back when going downhill.
  • Mind Group Dynamics: If you’re an experienced rider, keep in mind that others may not be. Ride at a pace that doesn’t cause unnecessary excitement among the horses, especially in mixed-experience groups.

Respect for Horses:

Our horsemen care deeply for their animals, which play a vital role in their daily lives and culture. We select gentle, surefooted horses for mountain terrain to ensure you have a safe, enjoyable ride.

Horseback riding in Kyrgyzstan offers an unforgettable way to connect with nature and Kyrgyz nomadic culture. Listen to your guides, treat the horses with respect, and enjoy the adventure!

This is a remote mountain expedition involving long-distance horseback riding in high-altitude terrain. While we take all reasonable measures to ensure safety — including experienced guides, trained horses, and proper route planning — participation in this tour involves inherent risks related to outdoor activities, animals, weather conditions, and altitude.

By joining the expedition, participants acknowledge:

  • They are physically and mentally fit for multi-day horseback riding.

  • They understand the potential risks associated with riding horses in mountainous terrain.

  • They agree to follow all safety instructions provided by the guide and local horsemen at all times.

  • They accept personal responsibility for their actions during the tour.

Travel insurance covering horseback riding and high-altitude activities is mandatory.

Our team is committed to responsible tourism, animal welfare, and guest safety — and we expect the same level of awareness and responsibility from all participants.

Tour details
Duration 10 days
Group max 12
Difficulty
Accommodation Homestay, tent, yurt
Season July & August
$2000
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