Active Kyrgyzstan horseback riding tour
Accommodation, guides, transport included. 15% deposit, balance one month before tour starting date.
Active Kyrgyzstan horseback riding tour Highlights
This 8-day active tour from Bishkek combines three days on horseback and a two-day trek with the nature and nomadic culture of Kyrgyzstan. The first day takes you over the Too-Ashuu Pass (3,600 m) and through the Suusamyr Valley to a picnic by the Kokomeren River and a night in a village guesthouse in Kyzyl-Oi.
From Kyzart you ride along the Chaar-Archa River to the Kilemche pasture and over the Jalgyz-Karagay Pass to Song-Kol Lake, sleeping in traditional yurts and meeting nomadic families who herd their livestock on the summer pastures. A third day in the saddle leads back over the Kara-Kiya Pass to Kyzart – no prior riding experience is needed.
On the south shore of Issyk-Kul you watch an eagle hunting demonstration near Bokonbaevo and explore Skazka (Fairy Tale) Canyon, the Barskoon waterfalls and the red rocks of Jeti-Oguz on the way to Karakol. Then trek to the hot springs of Altyn-Arashan, spend a night in the green Chon-Kemin valley and finish with the 11th-century Burana Tower and a city tour of Bishkek.
Difficulty: Moderate Three days of horse riding (21, 23 and 20 km, 4–6 hours a day, over passes of about 3,400 m; no riding experience needed) and a 2-day trek to Altyn-Arashan (12 km each way, 2,000–2,600 m, easy to medium). Nights in yurts at 2,700 m and 3,100 m, and drives of up to 200–300 km a day.
Tour Itinerary
Begin your journey early in the morning from Bishkek, the capital city of Kyrgyzstan, to make the most of the day. You head west, passing through villages, then start the ascent toward the Too-Ashuu Pass (3,600 m). This is a dramatic and scenic section of the road, where the steep slopes and breathtaking mountain views offer plenty of photo opportunities. After enjoying the view, continue the descent into the Suusamyr Valley. Beyond the valley you reach the Kokomeren River, a serene and scenic spot that is perfect for a picnic. Take a break, enjoy a meal and relax by the river, surrounded by nature. Continuing your journey, you pass through several picturesque Kyrgyz villages and by the afternoon reach the charming Kyzyl-Oi Village, a small rural settlement nestled among the mountains. In the evening, enjoy a traditional Kyrgyz dinner at a local guesthouse, followed by a restful night in the tranquil mountain setting. The tour can start until 1:00 pm. The drive is about 200 km (140 km asphalt, 60 km dirt road), 4–5 hours.
Suusamyr Valley, Kyzyl-Oi
- Bishkek → Kyzyl-Oi (200 km)
Overnight: Kyzyl-Oi (Guesthouse)
- Shower: Yes
- Toilet: Shared (indoor)
- Internet: Wi-Fi
Meals: Lunch, Dinner
Begin your journey early in the morning from Kyzyl-Oi toward Kyzart Village near Song-Kol Lake. After lunch at a local homestay in the village, you meet your horse and horseman. The ride starts on a gentle, easy trail along the Chaar-Archa River, giving you time to gain confidence and get familiar with your horse. By early evening you arrive at the Kilemche pasture, a serene area where locals graze their livestock. Relax in the peaceful surroundings and observe the traditional nomadic way of life. As the sun sets, settle into a yurt for the evening. Enjoy a dinner prepared by your local hosts, with a chance to interact with them and learn more about their culture, and spend the night in the comfort of the yurt. The drive to Kyzart is about 90 km (60 km asphalt, 30 km dirt road), 2 hours; the ride to Kilemche is about 21 km (4–5 hours). No prior horse-riding experience is required. Leave your large bag at the guesthouse in Kyzart and take only a small backpack with essentials and clothing for the next two days.
Kyzart starting point for Song Kul Tours, Kilemche
- Kyzyl-Oi → Kyzart starting point for Song Kul Tours (90 km)
- Kyzart starting point for Song Kul Tours → Kilemche (21 km)
Overnight: Kilemche (Yurt camp)
- Shower: No
- Toilet: Shared (indoor)
- Internet: None
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Today’s route climbs to the Jalgyz-Karagay Pass (about 3,400 m), a challenging yet rewarding ascent. From the top you are treated to a breathtaking view of Song-Kol Lake below, nestled between majestic mountain ranges. After a break to relax and let the horses graze, descend toward the lakeshore, where you are welcomed at a traditional yurt camp with a warm lunch. In the afternoon, take a relaxed ride along the lake’s western shore. The terrain is gentle and scenic, with beautiful views of the clear water and the surrounding landscapes. Further west you visit another yurt camp, home to a local nomadic Kyrgyz family, and see their traditional way of life, from herding livestock to producing dairy products. Back at the yurt camp, enjoy a hearty Kyrgyz dinner served with the warmth of local hospitality and a restful night in the yurt by the serene Song-Kol Lake. The ride is about 23 km (5–6 hours). Daytime temperatures at Song-Kol can be warm, but evenings get chilly, so bring warm clothing.
Song Kul
- Kilemche → Song Kul (23 km)
Overnight: Song Kul (Yurt camp)
- Shower: No
- Toilet: Outdoor (pit / drop toilet)
- Internet: None
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Leave Song-Kol Lake early in the morning, riding along a scenic trail toward the Kara-Kiya Pass (about 3,400 m). The ride offers breathtaking views of the lake, the surrounding alpine meadows and grazing animals, and the terrain becomes steeper as you climb. From the top of the pass, descend toward Kyzart Village through lush valleys and rolling hills. The gentle descent is a pleasant end to the horse ride, with panoramic views of the valley below. Enjoy a hearty Kyrgyz meal at a local guesthouse, then drive about 3 hours to Bokonbaevo Village on the southern shore of Issyk-Kul Lake. The route offers stunning views of the lake framed by the Tien Shan mountains, a relaxing end to your day of adventure. In Bokonbaevo, enjoy a warm and welcoming dinner of traditional Kyrgyz dishes at the guesthouse. The ride is about 20 km (4–5 hours) and the drive about 200 km on asphalt (3–4 hours). Bokonbaevo lies a little away from the lakeshore; if you prefer to stay closer to the lake, ask your tour manager about yurt accommodation by the lake.
Kyzart starting point for Song Kul Tours, Bokonbaevo
- Song Kul → Kyzart starting point for Song Kul Tours (20 km)
- Kyzart starting point for Song Kul Tours → Bokonbaevo (200 km)
Overnight: Bokonbaevo (Guesthouse)
- Shower: Yes
- Toilet: Shared (indoor)
- Internet: Wi-Fi
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Begin your day by meeting a local eagle hunter – a burkutchu – for a demonstration of eagle hunting. This captivating experience offers a unique glimpse into Kyrgyzstan’s cultural heritage and the enduring art of hunting with golden eagles. Then head to the Fairy Tale (Skazka) Canyon, known for its surreal, colorful sandstone formations. A short hike through the canyon lets you fully appreciate the rock formations, and it is a great place for photos. Enjoy a traditional Russian lunch with a local Russian family in Tamga Village. Continue to the Barskoon Gorge, known for its stunning views and impressive waterfalls. Walk along the gorge, enjoy the waterfalls and take a peaceful moment by the water. From Barskoon, drive to Jeti-Oguz, famous for its red sandstone cliffs that create a striking contrast with the green valleys – one of Kyrgyzstan’s most recognizable landmarks. Arrive in Karakol by late afternoon or early evening and round off the day with traditional Kyrgyz cuisine at the top-ranked Dastorkon restaurant. The eagle hunting demonstration is staged with explanations and animal skins; real hunting on horseback takes place only in winter. The demonstration is optional and can be skipped. The drive is about 150 km (120 km asphalt, 30 km dirt road), 3–4 hours.
Bokonbaevo, Skazka Canyon, Tamga village, Barskoon Valley, Jeti Oguz, Karakol
- Bokonbaevo → Karakol (150 km)
Overnight: Karakol (Hotel)
- Shower: Yes
- Toilet: Private (in the room)
- Internet: Wi-Fi
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
After breakfast at the hotel, drive to Ak-Suu Village, the starting point of your hike. From here, begin an easy trek toward Altyn-Arashan. The trail leads through picturesque valleys, across streams and beside lush green meadows, with views of snow-capped peaks in the distance. The trek is manageable and suitable for most fitness levels. After a few hours of walking, enjoy a relaxing picnic lunch by the river and take in the serene surroundings. Continue to Altyn-Arashan, a stunning alpine valley famous for its natural hot springs, and check in at a local guesthouse. After settling in, enjoy a soothing dip in the warm, mineral-rich hot springs – perfect for relaxing your muscles after the trek – followed by a hearty dinner at the guesthouse. The drive to Ak-Suu is about 30 km (30 minutes); the trek is about 12 km (5 hours) from 2,000 m to 2,600 m and of easy to medium level. Leave your large bag at the hotel in Karakol or in the car and take only a backpack with essentials for the 2-day trek. Instead of walking, you can ride a horse or take a ride in the famous Soviet 4x4 UAZ for an additional fee.
Ak Suu, Altyn Arashan
- Karakol → Ak Suu (30 km)
- Ak Suu → Altyn Arashan (12 km)
Overnight: Altyn Arashan (Guesthouse)
- Toilet: Shared (indoor)
- Internet: Wi-Fi
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
After breakfast at the guesthouse in Altyn-Arashan, begin your return trek to Ak-Suu Village. The hike follows the same picturesque route through lush valleys and across streams, with stunning views of the snow-capped peaks. The descent is easier, letting you enjoy the scenery from a different perspective and capture beautiful photos along the way. From Ak-Suu, drive to Karakol for a well-deserved lunch at a local restaurant before the next leg of your journey. After lunch, drive toward Chon-Kemin National Park along the northern shore of Issyk-Kul Lake. The scenic route offers breathtaking views of the lake, surrounded by dramatic mountains, and passes small villages, orchards and fields. Arrive at Chon-Kemin National Park, a beautiful nature reserve at the foot of the Kungey Ala-Too mountains known for its diverse flora and fauna, and end the day with a warm dinner at the guesthouse. The trek back is about 12 km (4 hours) and the drive about 300 km (4–5 hours), so the day is long – we recommend starting early from Altyn-Arashan.
Ak Suu, Karakol, Chon Kemin
- Altyn Arashan → Ak Suu (12 km)
- Ak Suu → Chon Kemin (300 km)
Overnight: Chon Kemin (Guesthouse)
- Shower: Yes
- Toilet: Private (in the room)
- Internet: Wi-Fi
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Begin early with the drive back to Bishkek. The first stop is the Burana Tower near Tokmok, an 11th-century minaret and part of the ruins of Balasagun, once a major center on the Silk Road. Explore the site, climb the tower for panoramic views and admire the ancient balbals (stone statues) nearby. Continue toward Bishkek with a lunch stop at a roadside restaurant. On arrival in Kyrgyzstan’s capital, enjoy a city tour of its highlights: Ala-Too Square, the central square with the impressive Manas Monument dedicated to the national hero, and Osh Bazaar, one of the most famous markets in Kyrgyzstan, where you can buy fresh produce, spices, local handicrafts and souvenirs. If you wish, conclude your trip with a farewell dinner with your guide at a local restaurant, enjoying traditional Kyrgyz cuisine while reflecting on your journey through Kyrgyzstan’s mountains, valleys and cultural landmarks. The drive is about 170 km on asphalt (3–4 hours). The farewell dinner is not included – please arrange it with your tour manager. Instead of the city tour you can take a relaxing walk in Ala-Archa National Park or a more challenging hike to Kol-Tor Lake on the way.
Burana Tower, Ala Too Square, Osh Bazaar (Bishkek), Bishkek
- Chon Kemin → Bishkek (170 km)
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Download the itinerary
Tour Price
Private Tour Price
| Price per person Group Size | Price |
|---|---|
| 1 traveler | $2,210 |
| 2 travelers | $1,461 |
| 3 travelers | $1,208 |
| 4 travelers | $1,127 |
Optional extras
Airport transfer (one way, per car for 1–4 people): $20 per group
Eagle hunting demonstration (per group): $70 per group
Share this tour privately
Travelling alone or as a couple? Join other travellers who want to take this tour privately, or post your own request. The private price per person drops as the group grows.
No open requests for this tour yet. Post the first one and we'll show it here and on the group requests page.
What's included
Included
- Transfers in a 4x4 vehicle with air conditioning
- English-speaking guide for the whole tour
- Accommodation as listed in the itinerary (7 nights)
- Full board (set menu), except breakfast on day 1 and dinner on day 8
- Visits and entrance fees as listed in the itinerary
- Horse riding to Song-Kol Lake and back to Kyzart (3 days)
Not included
- International flights
- Airport transfer (20 USD one way per car for 1–4 people)
- Hotel in Bishkek
- Breakfast on day 1 and dinner on day 8 (farewell dinner)
- Single room supplement
- Insurance
- Eagle hunting demonstration (70 USD per group)
- Optional horse riding or 4x4 UAZ ride instead of the trek to Altyn-Arashan
- Water and alcoholic drinks
- Tips for the guide
- Personal expenses
- Services not mentioned as included
Nargiza is the office manager of Central Asia Guide and mostly responsible for multi country "Stan" tours.
Where you'll stay
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Night 1
Kyzyl-Oi
Guesthouse in Kyzyl-Oi or similar
-
Night 2
Kilemche
Yurt camp in Kilemche or similar
-
Night 3
Song Kul
Yurt camp at Song Kol or similar
-
Night 4
Bokonbaevo
Guesthouse in Bokonbaevo or similar
-
Night 5
Karakol
Hotel in Karakol or similar
-
Night 6
Altyn Arashan
Guesthouse in Altyn-Arashan or similar
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Night 7
Chon Kemin
Guesthouse in Chon-Kemin or similar
Good to know
- Guidance: On the horse-riding days you are led by an experienced local horseman with basic English; guides with advanced English are available on request.
- Luggage: Large bags are stored safely at the guesthouse in Kyzart during the ride, while your essentials for the ride are carried in saddlebags on your horse.
What to bring
- Clothing: warm layers (fleece or down jacket) for chilly mornings and evenings, lightweight daytime clothing (t-shirts, long-sleeve shirts), a waterproof and windproof jacket, a hat or cap for sun protection, gloves and warm socks, a scarf or buff for wind protection
- Horseback riding: long pants suitable for riding, comfortable trekking pants and shorts, riding gloves (optional), lightweight and breathable clothing
- Other essentials: a small daypack for daily essentials, sunglasses and sunscreen, a reusable water bottle, personal toiletries and a towel, a basic first aid kit and any personal medications, a camera or smartphone, a power bank and charging cables, your passport, ID and copies of your travel documents
- Optional: binoculars for wildlife spotting, light snacks for trekking, a notebook or travel journal
Kyrgyzstan travel information
Practical essentials for travelling in Kyrgyzstan. Open a topic to read more.
Visa policy
Find your country from the list and check possible visa requirements for Kyrgyzstan before booking.
The official currency is the Kyrgyz som (KGS). Bishkek has plenty of ATMs, but outside the larger towns and the northern shore of Issyk-Kul cash is how almost everything is paid.
ATMs and cards
Some ATMs in Bishkek dispense US dollars as well as som. Beyond the capital, ATMs are found in the few largest towns but mostly not in smaller ones, except on the northern shore of Issyk-Kul. Mastercard works in all ATMs, but Visa is still the more widely accepted card. Demirbank's red ATMs have lately been the best option for foreign cards, with moderate fees.
Exchanging money
Exchange offices in the major cities change US dollars, euros and roubles into som. Notes must be clean, fresh and without any signs of wear. Exchange offices prefer larger notes from 50 USD and 50 EUR, and sometimes give a better rate for them.
Paying by card
Cards are accepted in major hotels, restaurants, large supermarkets and some museums in Bishkek and Osh, and occasionally even in taxis. Elsewhere, apart from the northern shore of Issyk-Kul, paying by card is not practical.
Kyrgyzstan is generally safe for travellers and tourism is growing fast, but the usual precautions matter.
Documents
Always carry your passport or a notarised copy. Without proper identification you can be detained by the police.
In towns
- Robberies, some of them violent, and thefts happen especially in crowded places such as the bazaars. Take care after dark.
- Sexual harassment has been reported on public transport. Avoid walking or travelling alone, especially at night.
- Book taxis in advance from established services.
- Stay away from crowds and demonstrations.
- Watch where you step: some streets have large holes and pavements are often uneven.
Laws and customs
- Respect local traditions, customs, laws and religious practices.
- Possessing or using narcotics is strictly prohibited.
- Do not photograph anything related to the armed forces or security services.
- Same-sex relationships are legal but not widely discussed or publicly recognised.
Border areas
Smuggling makes the southern border zones with Uzbekistan and Tajikistan unstable and best avoided.
Kyrgyzstan is visa-free for travellers from many countries. Others can apply for an electronic visa or through an embassy.
Visas
For a tourist visa, most passport holders need an invitation letter from a tourism company. Kyrgyzstan has had an electronic visa system since 1 September 2017.
Border regions
Visiting border regions requires a special permit.
The best times to visit Kyrgyzstan's lower areas are May–June and September. In the high mountains, July and August are best.
Lower areas: May–June and September
In late spring and early autumn the valleys, Issyk-Kul's shores and the towns are green or golden, days are pleasant rather than hot and there are fewer visitors.
High mountains: July and August
This is when the high pastures, yurt camps and mountain passes are open, and trekking and horse-riding routes that are under snow the rest of the year can be reached. Days in the valleys can reach about 30°C, and nights at altitude can still be close to freezing. Summer is also the time of festivals celebrating Kyrgyz traditions.
Winter
Winters in the highlands are long and close the high passes, but it is still a captivating season. Hiking, horse riding and skiing are all possible, and yurt stays are available too.
Healthcare in Kyrgyzstan is basic and medical facilities are scarce, so comprehensive medical and travel insurance is essential.
Medicines
If you rely on regular medication, bring enough for the whole trip: it can be hard or expensive to find locally.
Insurance
Arrange comprehensive medical and travel insurance before you arrive. A serious accident or illness may mean emergency air evacuation to a neighbouring country.
Food and water
Treat tap water and other local water as contaminated and boil it before drinking; bottled water is the safest choice throughout your stay. Be careful with unpasteurised dairy and other animal products.
Vaccinations
Vaccinations against polio and tuberculosis are recommended before entering the country, and others may also be advisable. Ask your doctor or travel clinic.
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