6 DAYS HORSE RIDING TOUR IN KYRGYZSTAN
HORSEBACK RIDING HOLIDAY IN KYRGYZSTAN
TOUR DETAILS
-
Period
April - October -
Tour length and Participants
6 days, 5 nights, 1 - 4 participants -
Price from
$672 / person (group of 4 ppl)
Kyrgyzstan Horse Riding Tour information
Enjoy a breathtaking horseback adventure through the heart of Kyrgyzstan’s wild landscapes.You’ll journey on horseback to remote and stunning locations such as the high-altitude Song Kul Lake and the tranquil Tulpar-Tash pasture, staying overnight in traditional yurts and experiencing the warmth of Kyrgyz nomadic hospitality.
 For those seeking extra cultural enrichment, optional experiences include a visit to the whimsical Fairy-Tale Canyons or an impressive eagle hunting demonstration. This tour is perfect for nature lovers, cultural explorers, and adventure seekers looking to connect deeply with the landscapes and traditions of Kyrgyzstan.


Horse trek Itinerary
Day | Highlights | Overnight at |
---|---|---|
Day 1 | Drive to Kyzart. Horse riding to Kilemche | Yurt |
Day 2 | Horse riding to Song-Kol Lake | Yurt |
Day 3 | Horse riding to Tulpar-Tash pasture show | Yurt |
Day 4 | Horse riding back to Kyzart. Road trip to Ysyk-Kol Lake | Yurt |
Day 5 | Horse riding to Boz-Salkyn Valley | Yurt |
Day 6 | Horse riding back to Bokonbaev Village. Drive back to Bishkek. | – |
- Begin your journey early in the morning from Bishkek
toward Kyzart Village near Song-Kol Lake. - After lunch, at a local homestay in the village, you’ll meet
your horse and guide. The ride starts with a gentle, easy
trail following the Chaar-Archa River, giving you time to gain
confidence and become familiar with the horse. - By the early evening, you’ll arrive at Kilemche pasture, a
serene area where locals graze their livestock. Here, you
can relax and enjoy the peaceful environment while
observing the traditional nomadic way of life. - As the sun sets, settle into a yurt for the evening. You’ll
enjoy a dinner prepared by local hosts, with a chance to
interact with them and learn more about their culture. The night will be spent in the comfort of the yurt, surrounded by nature, offering a peaceful and authentic experience of rural Kyrgyzstan.Transfer & Horse Riding Day
Total Transfer Distance: 280 km (approx. 4 hours)
Road Type: 280 km asphalt, 0 km dirt road
Horse Riding: 22 km (approx. 4–5 hours)
Meals Included:
Lunch: At guesthouse
Dinner: At yurt
Accommodation:
Overnight: Traditional yurt stay
Toilet Facilities: Shared outdoor WC
Internet Access: Not available
- Today’s route takes you toward the Jalgyz-Karagay Pass,
which rises to 3400 meters, offering a challenging yet
rewarding climb. - Once you reach the top of the pass at 3400 meters, you’re
treated to a breathtaking vista of the Song-Kol Lake
below, nestled between majestic mountain ranges. - After a break to relax and allow the horses to graze, you
begin your descent toward the yurt camp by Song-Kol
Lake. As you reach the lakeshore, you arrive at the
traditional yurt camp, where you’ll be welcomed with a
warm lunch. - After the meal, you’ll have the opportunity to take a
relaxed ride along the lake’s western shore. The terrain is
gentle and scenic, offering beautiful views of the crystal
clear waters and the surrounding natural beauty. - As you ride further west along the lake, you reach another yurt camp, home to a local nomadic Kyrgyz family. This visit provides a chance to observe their traditional way of life, from herding livestock to producing dairy products. After this peaceful ride, you return to the yurt camp for a hearty Kyrgyz dinner, served with the warmth of local hospitality. The day ends with a restful overnight stay in the yurt, surrounded by the serene landscape of Song-Kol Lake.
Horse Riding Day
Distance: 24 km
Duration: 5–6 hours
Meals Included:
Breakfast: At the yurt
Lunch: At the yurt
Dinner: At the yurt
Accommodation:
Overnight: Traditional yurt stay
Toilet Facilities: Shared outdoor WC
Internet Access: Not available
- Start your day with a horseback ride from a designated
point on the western side of Song-Kol Lake.
• As you ride along the lakeside, there will be
opportunities for periodical running with the horses,
allowing you to feel the exhilaration of galloping
through the open plains.
• Midway through the journey, you’ll stop for lunch at a
traditional yurt in Tulpar-Tash Valley.
• After lunch, you have free time to explore more of the
area on horseback, whether that means riding along
the lake’s edge or venturing into the nearby valleys.
Alternatively, you can observe the daily nomadic
Kyrgyz life, watching local herders as they tend to their
livestock and practice ancient traditions. In the late
afternoon, return to the yurt for a traditional Kyrgyz
dinner, and relax in the peaceful ambiance of the yurt
camp, surrounded by the stunning beauty of Song-Kol
Lake.
Horse Riding Day
Distance: 17 km
Duration: 3–4 hours
Meals Included:
Breakfast: At the yurt
Lunch: At the yurt
Dinner: At the yurt
Accommodation:
Overnight: Traditional yurt stay
Toilet Facilities: Shared outdoor WC
Internet Access: Not available
- Depart from Song-Kol Lake early in the morning, riding
along a scenic trail towards Kara-Kiya Pass (3400m). The
ride offers breathtaking views of the lake, surrounding
alpine meadows, and grazing animals. As you ascend,
the terrain becomes steeper, with Kara-Kiya Pass standing at 3,400 meters. - After reaching the top of Kara-Kiya Pass, descend
towards Kyzart village, passing through lush valleys and
rolling hills. The gentle descent provides a pleasant end to the horse ride, allowing you to enjoy the panoramic views of the valley below - Enjoy a hearty Kyrgyz meal at a local guesthouse and
embark on a 3-hour drive to Bokonbaev village, located
on the southern shore of Ysyk-Kol Lake. The route offers
stunning views of the lake, framed by the Tien Shan
Mountains provide a relaxing conclusion to your day of adventure. - Upon arrival at Bokonbaev, enjoy a warm and welcoming
dinner at the guesthouse, featuring traditional Kyrgyz
dishes.Transfer & Horse Riding Day
Total Transfer Distance: 200 km (approx. 3 hours)
Road Type: 200 km asphalt
Horse Riding: 16 km (approx. 4 hours)
Meals Included:
Breakfast: At the yurt
Lunch: At guesthouse
Dinner: At guesthouse
Accommodation:
Overnight: Guesthouse
Toilet Facilities: Shared WC
Internet Access: Wi-Fi available
Notes:
In the evening, you have the option to visit the famous Fairy-Tale Canyons. Please coordinate with the tour manager for timing and details.
- The day begins early in the morning as you meet your
guide and the horses in the village of Bokonbaev. After
getting acquainted with your horses, you’ll set off through
lush summer fields dotted with wildflowers and traditional
farmhouses. - You’ll take a break near a tranquil river, the perfect spot
for a relaxing picnic - After the break, the ride continues as you start ascending
toward Karaly-Archa Pass. As you reach the top, you’ll be
rewarded with panoramic vistas of Ysyk-Kol Lake,
shimmering in the distance, and the towering Tien Shan
Mountains surrounding you. - Once you’ve reached the top and taken in the
breathtaking views, you’ll begin the descent into the Boz
Salkyn Valley. The path winds through lush forests, where
the towering trees provide shade and a sense of
tranquility. - Your day of exploration concludes with a warm welcome
at the yurt of a local shepherd. - You’ll enjoy a hearty dinner, perhaps featuring locally
sourced ingredients and traditional dishes. As night falls,
you can watch the sunset cast golden hues over the
valley, with the mountains and fields bathed in the fading
light.
Horse Riding Day
Distance: 22 km
Duration: 5–6 hours
Meals Included:
Breakfast: At guesthouse
Lunch: Picnic
Dinner: At yurt
Accommodation:
Overnight: Traditional yurt stay
Toilet Facilities: Shared outdoor WC
Internet Access: Not available
After a light breakfast, it’s time to saddle up and begin the
last day of your journey. The ride today is relatively easy
as you descend from the valley, following trails that
meander through the tranquil countryside- On your way, you’ll meet the local eagle hunter –
Burkutchu for a demonstration of the eagle hunting process.
This captivating experience offers a unique glimpse into
Kyrgyzstan’s cultural heritage and the enduring art of
Eagle hunting. - You’ll eventually arrive at Bokonbaev Village and you’ll
enjoy a well-deserved lunch at a local guesthouse. - After lunch and some time to rest, it’s time to leave the
village behind and drive back to Bishkek, the capital of
Kyrgyzstan - As you arrive back in Bishkek, the 6-day horse riding
adventure comes to a close. Whether you’ve marvelled
at the majestic mountains, ridden across vast fields, or
spent a peaceful night in a shepherd’s yurt, the memories of this unforgettable experience will stay with you.Transfer & Horse Riding Day
Transfer Distance: 270 km (approx. 4 hours)
Horse Riding: 15 km (approx. 4 hours)
Meals Included:
Breakfast: At the yurt
Lunch: At the guesthouse
Tour Information
Included
Private transfers
English-speaking guide for horse riding
Accommodation as mentioned in the program
Full board (set menu)
Horse riding
Visits mentioned in the program
Entrance fees
Not Included
International flights
Airport transfers
Personal expenses
Single room supplement
Insurance
Tips for guide, driver, etc.
Optional activities
Hotel in Bishkek
Breakfast on Day 1 & Dinner on the last day
Water and alcoholic drinks
Services not mentioned as included
Eagle hunting show – $60 per group
Visit to Fairy-Tale Canyons – $30 per group
PRICE 2025
Number of People | Total Price (USD) | Price per Person (USD) |
---|---|---|
1 | 1,142 | 1,142 |
2 | 1,456 | 728 |
3 | 1,848 | 616 |
4+ | 2,688 | 672 |
WHAT TO BRING WITH YOU
- Comfortable walking/hiking shoes
- Warm clothes
- Rain clothes
- Sunscreen
- Cap for the sun and sun glasses
- Personal medications
CHECK YOUR VISA POLICY FOR KYRGYZSTAN
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If you would like to customize your tour please don’t hesitate to contact us. We are happy to organize a custom tour or to provide a modified itinerary based on one of the tours provided by the tour operators or to have a one fully custom made for your needs.
Kyrgyzstan travel information

Money & costs

Safety

Entry & exit

Best time to go

Health

Money & costs
Money & costs
The official currency is the Kyrgyz som (KGS). In the capital, Bishkek, an abundance of ATMs can be found, some of which dispense US dollars in addition to local soms. Beyond the city limits, ATMs are increasingly prevalent in few largest towns but are mostly not available in smaller towns except at the northern shore of Issyk Kul.
Mastercard is universally accepted at all ATMs but Visa is still the more widely accepted card of choice in Kyrgyzstan. Maestro or other cards might be accepted in few select machines. Demirbank with their red colored ATMs has been the best option lately for all foreign cards with moderate fees.
Currency exchange services are readily accessible in major cities, ensuring seamless exchange of rubles, US dollars, and euros into soms. It is imperative that foreign currency banknotes remain pristine, fresh, and devoid of any signs of wear. Larger banknotes from 50 USD and 50 EUR are favored by the cash exchange services and are sometimes the prerequisite for a better exchange rate.
While credit cards face limited acceptance nationwide the convenience of utilizing debit or credit cards extends to major hotels, restaurants, expansive supermarkets, and selected museums in Bishkek and Osh and rarely even in taxis. However, outside these two prominent cities and Northern Shore of Issyk Kul, the practicality of card payments remains unfeasible.

Safety
Safety
Kyrgyzstan is generally considered safe for travelers, but adherence to standard precautions is crucial. The country is experiencing an active surge in tourism. Key recommendations encompass:
- Always have your passport or a notarized copy with you, as lacking proper identification may lead to arrest by the police.
- Incidents of robberies, some of which can be violent, and thefts are commonplace especially in crowded places like the bazars. Caution is advised, particularly when venturing out after dark. Instances of sexual violence and harassment have been reported in public transportation.
- Steer clear of crowds and demonstrations to ensure personal safety.
- Show respect for local traditions, customs, laws, and religious practices at all times.
- The possession or use of narcotics is strictly prohibited.
- Photography of anything related to the armed forces or security services is not allowed.
- While same-sex relationships are legal, they are not widely discussed and lack public recognition.
- Avoid solitary walks or travels, especially during nighttime.
- Utilize established taxi services in advance to ensure reliability.
- The southern regions are susceptible to smuggling activities, rendering the security situation unstable and hazardous along the southern border zones with Uzbekistan and Tajikistan.
- Mind where you step in the cities as there are sometimes large holes on the streets and the pavements are not in pristine condition on the pedestrian areas.

Entry & exit
Entry & exit
Kyrgyzstan extends a visa-free arrangement to travelers from 69 countries. Alternatively, others can opt for the electronic visa system or submit applications through the embassy. Comprehensive information about visas is available here. For a tourist visa in Kyrgyzstan, a majority of passport holders require an invitation letter from a tourism company. Since September 1, 2017, Kyrgyzstan has introduced an electronic visa system. Special authorization is mandated for visits to border regions in Kyrgyzstan.

Best time to go
Best time to go
The optimal time to experience Kyrgyzstan is during the summer months of July and August. Despite the temperatures reaching approximately 30°C, this period witnesses the liveliest bazaars in the country. It is also the perfect season to delve into the mountainous landscapes and trekking routes that may be inaccessible during other times of the year. In July and August, you have the opportunity to explore Kyrgyzstan’s mountains either on foot or horseback, immersing yourself in traditional yurt accommodations with local families. Additionally, this time of the year hosts annual festivals celebrating Kyrgyz traditions.
While the winters in the highlands are prolonged, limiting passage through the elevated mountain passes, it presents a captivating season for exploring Kyrgyzstan. Engaging in various activities, akin to those enjoyed in summer (with the exception of rafting), such as hiking, horseback riding, or skiing in the mountains, allows for a unique experience. Accommodations in traditional yurts are also available during this season.

Health
Health
The overall state of healthcare in this country is recognized as relatively subpar, prompting a strong recommendation for travelers reliant on regular medications to carry ample supplies. Locating necessary drugs locally might pose challenges or incur significant costs. Medical facilities are anticipated to be scarce, underscoring the importance of securing comprehensive medical and travel insurance prior to arrival. In the event of a serious accident or illness, emergency air evacuation to a neighboring country may be necessary.
It is imperative to treat tap water and other local water sources as contaminated, necessitating thorough boiling before consumption. Opting for bottled water throughout the entire duration of stay in the country is a prudent choice. Exercise particular caution when consuming unpasteurized dairy products or animal products that may be susceptible to contamination.
Before entering the country, obtaining additional vaccinations against polio and tuberculosis is recommended, and other vaccinations may also be deemed necessary. Malaria poses a risk in the country, predominantly in the southern regions.
Other tours in Kyrgyzstan
Tour updated 20.6.2025