This Kyrgyzstan horseback tour starts at the red rocks of Jeti-Oguz and climbs into a hidden corner of the Tien Shan. Of the 4 days, 3 are spent in the saddle on a loop of more than 60 km: through the green Kok-Jaiyk valley to a camp at the foot of Oguz-Bashy peak (5,168 m), over the Archa-Tor pass at 3,903 m to the wild Jyluu-Suu hot springs, and back to Jeti-Oguz. On the drive from Bishkek you meet an eagle hunter and walk through the Skazka canyon. A private tour on your own dates, for fit travellers with basic riding skills.
Price per person, depends on group size
Included
• Private transfer Bishkek → Jeti-Oguz
• Eagle hunting demonstration in Bokonbaevo
• 1 night in a guesthouse in Jeti-Oguz (B&B)
• All meals during the horseback trek
• English-speaking guide and a team of local horsemen
• Riding horses and pack horses
• Tents and sleeping mats
• Entrance fees according to the program
• Transfer from Jeti-Oguz to Karakol after the ride
Not included
• Hotel in Karakol after the tour
• Personal expenses (drinks, souvenirs, tips)
• Services not mentioned in the program
Season and weather
July to September. Mountain weather changes fast: sun, wind, rain and even snow can come on the same day, and nights at the camps are cold.
What to bring
• Warm sleeping bag (comfort around 0 °C)
• Layers: fleece, down jacket, waterproof jacket and trousers
• Long trousers for riding, sturdy closed shoes, gloves
• Sun hat, sunglasses, sunscreen
• Swimwear for the hot springs
• Headlamp, power bank, personal medication
Luggage
Your main luggage travels on pack horses in saddle bags. During the day you only carry a small backpack with water, camera and a warm layer.
Altitude
The Archa-Tor pass is 3,903 m high. Drink plenty, ride at the guide’s pace and tell him if you feel unwell.
After the tour
The tour ends in Karakol. We can book your hotel there or continue with another trip around Issyk-Kul.
No. It is a private tour for your own party, with no fixed departures — we organise it on the dates you choose and can adapt the pace to your group.
Basic riding skills are recommended. The Kyrgyz mountain horses are calm and sure-footed, and experienced local horsemen ride with you the whole time.
It is physically demanding: 3 riding days of 15–30 km over mountain terrain and the Archa-Tor pass at 3,903 m. You should be fit and in good health.
1 night in a guesthouse in Jeti-Oguz and 2 nights in tents: below Oguz-Bashy next to a nomad yurt and at the Jyluu-Suu hot springs. Tents and sleeping mats are provided; please bring a warm sleeping bag.
The price per person depends on group size: $1,450 for 2 travellers, $900 for 4, $750 for 6 and $600 for 10. It includes transfers from Bishkek and to Karakol, all meals on the trek, horses, guide and camping gear.
Mountain weather is unpredictable: sun, wind, rain and even snow are possible on the same day, even in summer. Good outdoor clothing in layers is essential.
Tell us your dates and group size. You get a personal offer within 24 hours, no commitment.
