Nomadic Horseback Riding: Discover the Spirit of Kyrgyzstan

The Best Sustainable Tour of Kyrgyzstan 2023 – Award Winner

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: Fixed 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: about 188 km on horseback
Max Elevation: 3,537 m
Min Elevation: 1,876 m
Total Ascent: 8,251 m
Total Descent: 7,994 m

Day-by-Day Horseback Riding Program

Scenic drive from Bishkek via Too-Ashuu Pass and the wide Suusamyr Valley.
Lunch in the traditional village of Kyzyl-Oi.

In the afternoon enjoy your first gentle horseback ride (approx. 2 hours) through peaceful mountain landscapes.

Overnight in a local family homestay.

Meet your horses and begin the ascent into the remote Oi-Kaying summer pastures.
Pass ancient rock inscriptions hidden in the mountains.

Camp near nomadic shepherd families at around 3,000 m altitude.

Distance: approx. 21 km

Cross a scenic mountain pass at 3,411 m with panoramic alpine views.
Ride through green meadows, forests and open valleys.

Camp beside the beautiful high-mountain Sary-Kol Lake.

Distance: approx. 20 km

Continue riding across remote valleys, rivers and vast jailoos.
Gradual ascent into the quiet Kashka-Suu pastures.

Wild camping near the picturesque Kokondu Lake.

Distance: approx. 20 km

Long riding day through untouched nomadic landscapes.
Meet shepherd families and taste traditional kymyz (fermented mare’s milk).

Camp near a traditional shepherd’s yurt.

Distance: approx. 25 km

Ride through the wide Sandyk Valley towards the alpine jewel Lake Sarkol.
Camp near Kumbel Pass with spectacular mountain views.

Distance: approx. 20 km

Cross the high Kumbel Pass (3,600 m) — one of the expedition highlights.
Descend into the remote Kundu-Suu valley.

Camping near shepherd yurts. Traditional dinner in the yurt.

Distance: approx. 15 km

 

Cross several scenic passes and enter the vast open landscapes of Kilemche Valley.
Warm welcome at a traditional yurt camp.

Distance: approx. 16 km

Ride over Jalgyz-Karagai Pass (3,300 m) and reach the legendary alpine lake Song-Kol.

Overnight in a cozy lakeside yurt camp.

Distance: approx. 16–20 km

 

Final horseback ride via Tuz-Ashuu Pass with panoramic views over Song-Kol.
Lunch in Kyzart village.

Afternoon transfer back to Bishkek (approx. 4–5 hrs).

Distance: approx. 15 km

FAQ

The tours start upon request. The itineraries can be adjusted individually to fit into your schedule and provide you with the best experience. Furthermore, we are happy to create tailor-made tours according to your wishes.

After having solved all the questions and programs confirming we issue an invoice for payment. You can make a bank transfer or pay upon your arrival time in Bishkek before the trip starts.

To better convey the pricing of individual tours along this route, consider the following revision: “The cost of each tour is determined through individual negotiations that take into account factors such as the duration of the tour, your specific needs and preferences, and the size of your group. This allows for a personalized and tailored experience that reflects your unique requirements and ensures a fulfilling and enjoyable journey.”

The price of the tour varies based on the number of participants and the season. We are happy to discuss your specific interests and requirements to negotiate an optimal price that fits your budget.

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.

The horseback riding rules. 

 

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!

Kirgisistan hat eine visumfreie Einreise für viele Länder. Bitte überprüfen Sie Ihre Verfügbarkeit im Online-Service für E-Visa – http://www.evisa.e-gov.kg/

Tour details
Type Horse Riding Tours
Duration 10 Day
Group max 12
Difficulty
Accommodation Tent & Yurtcamp
Season Jun, Jul, Aug, Sept
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