Nomadic Horseback riding tour in Kyrgyzstan’s Song-Kul region offer an off-the-beaten-path experience through breathtaking mountain lakes and nomadic jailoos (summer pastures). Riders can explore serene, remote lakes like Song-Kul and Sary-Kol, Kokondu-Kol surrounded by dramatic peaks and rolling grasslands. The journey takes you through untouched valleys where nomadic families set up their summer camps, offering an authentic glimpse into Kyrgyz culture. Stay in traditional yurts, enjoy local food, and experience the deep connection between Kyrgyz nomads and their horses. Best time for these tours is Mid-June to September.
In the afternoon we will plan a two-hour horseback ride through the peaceful valley surrounding Kyzyl-Oi, taking in the sweeping vistas of the mountains and the traditional nomadic way of life. End the day with a warm, home-cooked dinner and a cozy stay at a local family homestay, where you’ll experience true Kyrgyz hospitality.
Around the 6-kilometer mark, you’ll encounter a fascinating ancient rock with Persian inscriptions, a hidden gem for history and archaeology enthusiasts. As you continue along the trail for another 15 km, the landscape opens up to reveal expansive pastures dotted with nomadic shepherd camps.
By the time you reach your campsite, perched just below 3,000 meters, you’ll be treated to stunning views of the valley you ascended from. Here, you’ll settle near local Kyrgyz nomads, gaining insights into their traditional way of life while enjoying a delicious meal of local cuisine. Spend the evening learning about Kyrgyz customs and the deep bond between the nomads and their horses before a restful night under the stars.
As you descend from the pass, watch the landscape transform from high alpine meadows to dense forests. Leaving the main road behind, you’ll follow a smaller, winding trail that meanders through fir trees and alongside bubbling creeks, offering peaceful moments of solitude in nature.
After covering about 20 km, you’ll arrive at Sary-Kol Lake, a picturesque spot nestled in lush greenery and tranquil forests. Settle in by the serene lakeshore, surrounded by the beauty of Kyrgyzstan’s natural wilderness, and enjoy the peaceful ambiance before an evening of rest and relaxation in this idyllic setting.
As you ride, you’ll pass over rolling mountain hills that reveal ever-changing views of the nomadic pastures, dotted with herds of cattle and horses grazing freely. Immerse yourself in the nomadic spirit as you traverse this vast and rugged land, with opportunities to hone your horseback riding skills along the way.
After crossing the final uphill stretch before reaching Kokondu Lake, you’ll ascend into the Kashka-Suu Jailoo, where nomads traditionally herd their animals. The day concludes with camping in the wild, surrounded by the untouched beauty of Kyrgyzstan’s highland wilderness. Relax under the stars, enjoying the peaceful solitude of this remote area.
As you pass through this remote region, you’ll witness the authentic daily life of Kyrgyz shepherds, with herds of livestock grazing in the vast open valleys. Along the way, curious locals may greet you and, in true Kyrgyz hospitality, might even invite you to share a drink of kymyz—traditional fermented mare’s milk.
In the afternoon, you’ll set up camp near a local shepherd family’s yurt in the peaceful Ashairyk Jailoo. Spend the evening immersed in the nomadic culture, enjoying the simplicity of life in the mountains, and sleeping under the stars next to your newfound friends.
The day begins with a scenic ride up to Sandyk Jailoo, following a small mountain river winding through lush hills towards Ak-Shyirak. As you climb, the beautiful Sandyk Valley unfolds before you and you catch sight of the stunning Lake Sarkol, often referred to as the “mountain jewel” of the region.
Enjoy a relaxing lunch break near the lake and take in the spectacular scenery. After that, you continue your ride across the vast horizons of the Sandyk Valley, admiring the stunning views and lush landscape.
Finally, you reach the slope of the Kumbel Pass where you set up camp for the night. End the day relaxing and enjoy a peaceful evening under the stars surrounded by the tranquil beauty of the Kyrgyz mountains. Today’s riding distance is approximately 20 km.
Start your day by crossing the majestic Kumbel Pass at an altitude of 3,600 meters. From the summit, enjoy breathtaking views of the Jumgal Valley as you begin the long descent to the Kyzart Pass.
Upon arrival, a delicious lunch awaits you in a traditional nomad yurt where you can experience warm Kyrgyz hospitality first hand. After the meal, you will have time to relax and recharge your batteries. Enjoy the amenities of a hot shower and a comfortable overnight stay in a guesthouse in the village of Kyzart.
In the afternoon, you will be transferred to the village where you can relax in a cozy bed, enjoy a delicious dinner and recover after several days of intense riding. Today’s riding distance is about 15 km, followed by a short 30-minute car ride to the village.
After breakfast at the guesthouse in Kyzart, you will meet your team ready to continue your journey. Your adventure continues as you head towards Kyzart Pass, where your guides will have everything prepared for the next leg of the horse riding adventure.
Cross the vast Kyzyl-Kiya Jailoo and ride down the Chaar-Archa Pass at an altitude of 3,061 meters into the picturesque Chaar-Archa Valley. Take a break and enjoy a delicious lunch in the idyllic Kilemche Jailoo, surrounded by impressive nature.
After lunch, you will continue your ride, crossing the Jalgyz-Karagai Pass and climbing up into the magical Songkol Valley. Upon arrival at the yurt camp in Jaman-Rchki, you will receive a warm welcome from your hosts. Enjoy a sumptuous dinner and relax for the night in traditional yurts while you experience the nomadic way of life amidst the breathtaking mountain scenery. Today’s riding distance is approximately 30 km.
Today your ride offers a relatively easy and pleasant journey to the western part of Song-Kol Lake as you follow the scenic shoreline. This flat, open valley is an excellent opportunity to hone your riding skills while enjoying the stunning scenery.
As you explore the jailoo (summer pastures), you will gain valuable insight into the nomadic lifestyle of the Kyrgyz people and observe the daily routines of the local herders and their flocks.
In addition, you may have the unique opportunity to take part in traditional Kyrgyz horse games, adding a fun and interactive touch to your experience.
At the end of the day, you will spend the night at the Tulpar-Tash yurt camp where you can relax and enjoy a delicious dinner while reflecting on your adventures. Today’s riding distance is approximately 18-20 km.
On your last day, you will leave Tulpar-Tash, leaving behind the stunning Song-Kol Lake as you ride towards Kyzart village via the Uzbek Pass. The pass will reward you with stunning panoramic views of the entire Song-Kol Valley, creating a perfect backdrop for your final ride.
After descending to the village, you will enjoy a delicious lunch before the transfer to Kochkor village is organized. This marks the end of your horse riding adventure, which is full of unforgettable experiences and impressive landscapes.
You have the option to stay in Kochkor to plan your next trip to the Issyk-Kul region, or return to Bishkek by public transport. Today’s riding distance is about 15 km, and the journey to Bishkek will take about 4-5 hours.
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.
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exclusion:
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.
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.
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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!
Kyrgyzstan has a free visa entry for many countries. Please check your availability on the e-visa online service – http://www.evisa.e-gov.kg/
Kyrgyz Republic. Bishkek city
Mon – Sat 9.00 – 18.00 Sunday CLOSED
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