Discover the Wild Beauty of Song-Kol on Horseback
Step into the heart of Kyrgyzstan’s nomadic culture with a breathtaking 3-day horseback adventure to the high alpine lake of Song-Kol. Ride through stunning mountain passes, sleep in cozy yurts under the stars, and experience the true spirit of the Kyrgyz steppe.
Tour Prices:
1 person – $540 USD
2 persons – $340 USD per person
3 persons – $300 USD per person
4 persons – $270 USD per person
5 persons – $240 USD per person
6 persons – $220 USD per person
Included:
Private round-trip transfer from Bishkek to Kyzart and back
Local English-speaking guide
Horseman support (included for groups of 4+ people)
Horse rental with full equipment (saddles, helmets, etc.)
2 nights in traditional yurt camps (shared 2–3 beds per yurt)
Meals: 2 breakfasts, 3 lunches, 2 dinners
Not Included:
Accommodation in Bishkek
Single yurt supplement: $60 USD (on request)
👉 Book your private tour today and ride where the road ends — into the soul of the mountains!
Early morning (08:00 AM) pick-up from your hotel in Bishkek and transfer to Kyzart village, located about 3–4 hours away by car. Upon arrival, enjoy a warm welcome and lunch at a local guesthouse.
After lunch, meet your local guide and horses, and begin your horse trek from the village toward Kilemche Jailoo. Today’s ride is relatively gentle, taking you along the scenic Bazar-Turuk gorge. In the afternoon, arrive at a cozy yurt camp in Kilemche, where you’ll enjoy traditional hospitality. Dinner and overnight in the yurt camp.
Driving time: 3–4 hours
Horseback riding distance: ~15 km
After breakfast, continue your journey on horseback toward the Tuz-Ashuu Pass (3,200 m). From the top, you’ll be rewarded with breathtaking views of the Song-Kol Valley. Descend to the lakeshore, where your yurt camp is located amidst the pristine beauty of the nomadic lands.
Arrive in time for lunch. The afternoon is free to explore the surroundings and relax by the peaceful shores of Song-Kol Lake. Dinner and overnight in the yurt camp.
Horseback riding distance: ~15 km
After a hearty breakfast, begin your final ride, crossing the Kok-Kiya Pass (3,360 m) on your way back to Kyzart village.
Arrive by lunchtime and enjoy a farewell meal with your hosts. Afterward, transfer back to Bishkek by car.
Horseback riding distance: ~15 km
Driving time: 3–4 hours
All service providers are local families and horsemen from the region.
The local guides are experienced and specialize in horseback trekking.
Yurt camps are operated by warm and hospitable nomadic families.
Horses are calm and well-suited for beginners.
This is a private tour—start dates are flexible and tailored to your schedule.
Best travel months: June to September
Kyrgyzstan is an incredible place to explore on horseback! With vast, untamed landscapes, riding offers a unique and adventurous way to experience the country. Our experienced guides and skilled horsemen will ensure your safety and enjoyment—follow their instructions carefully and feel free to ask questions anytime.
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:
1. Keep Your Feet in the Stirrups: This will help you maintain balance, especially over rough terrain.
2. Sit Straight and Centered: Align your body with the horse’s mane to stay balanced.
3. Reins Are Your Control: Use the reins to steer and stop. Pull back to slow down and to one side to turn.
4. Get the Horse Moving: Say “chu” to urge the horse forward. If needed, give a gentle kick or tap with the whip.
5. No Snacking: Horses might try to eat while riding, but this slows everyone down. Pull their head away and keep them moving.
6. Adjust Your Position: Lean forward going uphill and lean back when going downhill.
7. 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.
For Families with Children:
• We recommend children be at least 7 years old for short rides and 10 years old for overnight trips. Younger children can enjoy short, guided “pony rides” under supervision.
• Kyrgyz culture values horse-riding skills from a young age, and we encourage children to experience this in a safe, guided environment.
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!
Kyrgyz Republic. Bishkek city
Mon – Sat 9.00 – 18.00 Sunday CLOSED
© Kyrgyzstan tourism
