A horse riding tour with Kyrgyz eagle hunters in the mountains above Issyk-Kul. In 4 days you ride about 55 km through the Terskey Ala-Too foothills with berkutchi – the hunters who still train golden eagles – and their families. You learn how the birds are cared for and trained, hold an eagle on your own arm and join a real winter hunt for foxes and hares. Two nights in a shepherd’s house in the mountains, one in a village guesthouse in Bokonbaevo. Small group of up to 6 riders, October to April.
The price is calculated individually: it depends on group size, dates and accommodation level. Send a request and we will prepare an offer for your group.
Request your datesMoments with the eagle hunters
Included
Not included
Accommodation Simple family houses: basic but clean rooms, shared by 2–3 people, warm blankets and a stove. The toilet is outside (drop toilet); a hot shower or banya is available in Bokonbaevo. Route and weather The riding route on the map shows a typical hunt. On days 2–4 the eagle hunters may change it depending on the weather, snow conditions and where foxes and hares are found – this is a real hunt, not a fixed trail. Daily distances and riding times may therefore differ from the map. Season and group October to the end of April, when the eagles hunt. Private trip or small group of up to 6 riders. Price on request – it depends on group size and dates. What to bring Warm layers (thermal underwear, fleece, down jacket), windproof trousers, warm boots that fit in a stirrup, gloves, hat and buff, sunglasses, sunscreen, headlamp, a thermos and personal medicine. Helmets are available on request.
Basic riding experience is recommended, as you spend 5–6 hours a day in the saddle. The horses are calm local mountain horses, you ride mostly at a walk, and horsemen stay with you all the time.
Yes. From October to April the berkutchi hunt foxes and hares with their golden eagles, and you ride with them. It is a real hunt, not a show, so a catch is never guaranteed. The route of the hunt changes with the weather and the game. For a short eagle demonstration see our Golden Eagle Hunting Experience.
Night 1 in a guesthouse in Bokonbaevo, nights 2 and 3 in shepherd’s houses in the mountains. Rooms are basic but clean, with warm blankets and a stove; the toilet is outside. Hotels in Bishkek are not included.
In October and April days are mild; from December to February expect −5 to −15 °C during the day and colder nights in the mountains. Days are often sunny. Bring good winter clothing – see the list above.
The price depends on group size (1–6 riders) and dates, so we quote on request. Send us your dates and number of travellers; we confirm the program and send an invoice.
Tell us your dates and group size. You get a personal offer within 24 hours, no commitment.
