This Arabel Plateau horseback expedition takes you to one of the highest and least-visited corners of Kyrgyzstan. In 5 days you ride 96 km: up the green Juuku gorge from the village of Saruu, over the Juuku pass at 3,736 m and onto the Arabel plateau — a vast high-altitude tundra at 3,600–3,900 m, dotted with glacial lakes and ringed by the snowy Terskey Ala-Too. On the way from Bishkek you meet an eagle hunter in Bokonbaevo. Three nights in tents with local horsemen — a true wilderness ride for fit travellers who don’t mind cold nights.
Price per person, depends on group size
Included • Transfer Bishkek → Bokonbaevo (day 1) and Arabel plateau → Bokonbaevo or Karakol (day 5) • Local guide and team of horsemen • Riding horses and pack horses • Tents and sleeping mats • Meals on the expedition: 5 lunches and 4 dinners • 1 night in a guesthouse in Bokonbaevo (B&B) • Eagle hunting demonstration Not included • Accommodation in Bokonbaevo or Karakol after the tour (day 5) • Transfer back to Bishkek (shared taxis from Bokonbaevo or Karakol cost about $10 per person) • Sleeping bag and riding gear (available on request) • Personal expenses Prices are valid for the 2027 season.
Moments that stay with you
Season and weather
Mid-June to mid-September. On the plateau nights are near or below freezing, wind is strong and weather changes fast — sun, rain and even snow on the same day.
Altitude
Most of days 4 and 5 are spent at 3,600–3,900 m. Drink plenty, take it slowly and tell your guide if you feel unwell.
What to bring
• Warm sleeping bag (comfort −5 °C or rent one on request)
• Down jacket, warm hat, gloves, waterproof jacket and trousers
• Long riding trousers and sturdy closed shoes
• Sunglasses and strong sunscreen — the sun is intense at altitude
• Headlamp, power bank, personal medication
Luggage
Pack horses carry the camping gear and your bags. Pack soft bags, no hard suitcases.
Safety
In case of illness or an emergency we can send a 4×4 to accessible points on the route; our office stays in contact with the guides throughout the trip.
Flexible program
Daily distances and camp spots may be adjusted to the weather, the group’s pace and your plans.
Riding tips
Read our guide to horse riding in Kyrgyzstan.
No. The mountain horses are calm and well trained, and you get riding instructions before the start. But you need good fitness: the last two days are about 30 km each at high altitude.
Moderate to challenging because of the altitude: 96 km in 4 riding days, the Juuku pass at 3,736 m and the plateau at 3,600–3,900 m. The program can be shortened or adapted to the group’s pace.
1 night in a guesthouse in Bokonbaevo and 3 nights in tents — by the river, below the pass and on the plateau. It is a budget wilderness expedition: no showers, simple camp meals and cold nights. Bring a warm sleeping bag or rent one from us.
The local horseman speaks basic English, and our office supports you remotely 24/7 during the whole trip.
The price per person depends on group size: $1,300 for 2 travellers, $950 for 4, $750 for 6, $600 for 10 and $550 for 12 — see the price table above. Prices are valid for the 2027 season.
Safety comes first. If someone falls ill or something unexpected happens, we can send a 4×4 to accessible points on the route, and our office stays in contact with the guides throughout.
Tell us your dates and group size. You get a personal offer within 24 hours, no commitment.
