When is the best time to go on the Kyrgyzstan Horse Riding Expedition?

The Kyrgyzstan Horse Riding Expedition runs from late May through September when weather conditions are optimal for high-altitude horseback riding. This timing ensures the mountain passes above 3,500 meters are accessible and the alpine wildflowers in the Kilemche Valley are in full bloom.

How many days of actual horseback riding are included in the 12-day expedition?

The expedition includes six days of horseback riding split into three separate two-day treks across different regions of the Kyrgyz Tien Shan. Between riding days, the itinerary includes cultural exploration, canyon walks, and visits to sites like Burana Tower and Jeti-Oguz gorge.

What is the highest altitude reached on the Kyrgyzstan horse riding expedition?

The highest point of the entire expedition is Tash-Tar Ata mountain at approximately 3,600 meters, reached on the fourth riding day. The expedition also crosses several other high-altitude passes including Kalmak Ashu at 3,530 meters and Tuz Ashu at 3,400 meters.

Where do you sleep during the horse riding expedition in Kyrgyzstan?

Accommodation varies throughout the expedition and includes high-altitude tent camps on mountain passes, premium yurt camps at Issyk-Kul and Son-Kul lakes, and boutique hotels like the Orion Hotel Bishkek. You'll also stay with nomadic shepherds in authentic yurt camps on the highland jailoos at over 3,000 meters elevation.

What is included in the all-inclusive Kyrgyzstan Horse Riding Expedition price?

The expedition is completely all-inclusive with no hidden fees or additional payments necessary. This includes private 4x4 transfers for every overland leg, all accommodation, meals, horseback riding, and cultural activities like meeting the traditional berkutchi eagle hunter.

Can you meet real eagle hunters on the Kyrgyzstan horse riding tour?

Yes, near Bokonbaevo on Issyk-Kul's south shore, you'll meet a working berkutchi - a Kyrgyz eagle hunter who trains and hunts with golden eagles. This is a living nomadic tradition practiced using methods passed down through generations, not just a tourist demonstration.

What is the Kilemche Valley and why is it special for horse riding?

The Kilemche Valley, whose name means 'carpet' in Kyrgyz, is renowned for the alpine wildflowers that blanket its slopes every summer. It serves as the gateway to Son-Kul Lake and is considered one of the most visually striking stretches of riding on the entire expedition.

What cultural sites are visited between the horse riding days in Kyrgyzstan?

Between riding days, you'll explore the flame-red Seven Bulls of Jeti-Oguz, wind-sculpted Skazka Canyon, glacial gorges of Grigoriev and Semienov, and the 11th-century Burana Tower - remains of the ancient Silk Road city of Balasagyn. You'll also visit Karakol's unique Dungan Mosque built entirely of wood without a single nail.

How challenging is the horseback riding on the Kyrgyzstan expedition?

The riding covers terrain that's only reachable on horseback, including mountain passes above 3,500 meters and daily rides ranging from 10-17 kilometers. The longest riding day covers 17 km over 4-5 hours with minimal elevation change, while the most challenging day involves 7 hours of riding with nearly 1,700 meters of elevation gain.

What makes Son-Kul Lake special on the Kyrgyzstan horse riding expedition?

Son-Kul Lake is reached by crossing the Tuz Ashu pass at 3,400 meters, arriving the same way nomads have for centuries. You'll stay at authentic shepherds' yurt camps run by families using the area as their traditional summer pasture, experiencing genuine nomadic hospitality under some of the darkest skies in Central Asia.

Kyrgyzstan

Kyrgyzstan Horse Riding Expedition

Duration

12 Days

Price

$2,800

Discover More

Ecovoyager Experiences

Tour Highlights

The moments that make this journey unforgettable.

Three Two-Day Treks Across Three Mountain Regions

All Inclusive - No Hidden Fees or Additional Payments Necesary

Private 4x4 for Every Transfer and Overland Leg

Stay with Nomadic Shepherds on the Highland Jailoos

Ride the Flower-Carpeted Kilemche Valley

Red Canyons, Alpine Gorges & Silk Road Ruins

Hand-Picked Accommodation at Every Stop

Meet a Traditional Berkutchi Eagle Hunter

Kyrgyzstan Tour Overview

Kyrgyzstan Horse Riding Expedition

A 12-day all-inclusive expedition spanning 3 horseback treks across Kyrgyzstan’s Tien Shan: three mountain treks on horseback, nomadic yurt camps at Son-Kul, and alpine passes above 3,500 meters

Duration

12 Days

Price

$2,800

Difficulty

Moderate

Best Time

Late May – September

This 12 day expedition includes six days in the saddle across the Tien Shan, split into three two-day treks on terrain that’s only reachable on horseback: over Kalmak Ashu pass (3,530m) to Issyk-Kul’s north shore, up to the expedition’s high point at Tash-Tar Ata (3,600m), and through the flower-carpeted Kilemche Valley over Tuz Ashu pass to Son-Kul, arriving the way nomads have for centuries. Between rides: Silk Road ruins at Burana Tower, the flame-red formations of Jeti-Oguz and Skazka Canyon, and the alpine gorges of Issyk-Kul’s eastern shore. Nights are split between high-altitude tent camps on the mountain passes, premium yurt camps at Issyk-Kul and Son-Kul, and the Supara Chunkurchak Ethno-Resort in the Ala-Too foothills for the final night before Bishkek.

Kyrgyzstan Horse Riding Expedition

Your Kyrgyzstan Tour Itinerary

Route Overview 12 Days · Kyrgyzstan

Day 1

Arrival in Bishkek

Your expedition begins at Manas International Airport with a transfer to the Orion Hotel Bishkek, a locally-owned boutique hotel on Erkindik Boulevard. After settling in, explore the capital on a guided city tour: Ala-Too Square, Oak Park, and the vibrant Osh Bazaar, where mountains of spices, dried fruits, and handcrafted felt textiles reveal everyday Kyrgyz life. The day concludes with a welcome dinner of traditional Kyrgyz cuisine — beshbarmak, manti, and plov. Meals: D

Ala-Too Square

Bustling indoor market with vendors selling goods under arched metal roof in Kyrgyzstan

Osh Bazaar

Traditional Kyrgyz cuisine feast with lagman noodles, horsemeat sausage, manti dumplings and flatbread on authentic wooden table

Welcome Dinner

Day 2

Burana Tower & Chon Kemin Valley

After breakfast, visit the Burana Tower — the remains of the ancient Karakhanid city of Balasagyn, an 11th-century Silk Road settlement. Climb the restored minaret for steppe views and explore the field of stone balbals, ancient Turkic grave markers. Continue to Tar Suu village in the Chon Kemin Valley, a region renowned for its natural beauty and rich biodiversity. Evening walk through the village to experience the rhythm of rural Kyrgyz life before dinner at your guesthouse. Meals: B / L / D

Burana Tower

Stone Balbals

Chon Kemin Valley

Day 3

Chon Kemin to Kalmak Ashu — Riding Day 1

Begin the first of three two-day horse treks. Ride through the pastures of Akkytay with panoramic views across the Chon Kemin Valley, climbing steadily toward the Kalmak Ashu pass at 3,530 meters. Picnic lunch on the trail. Camp is set up at the base of the pass in a high alpine meadow surrounded by peaks. Tents and sleeping bags are provided. Meals: B / L / D

Horses grazing in pristine Chon-Kemin valley meadows surrounded by snow-capped Tian Shan mountains in Kyrgyzstan

Riding Day 1

Horseback riders traverse lush green mountain meadows in Kyrgyzstan's pristine alpine wilderness with snow-capped peaks

Ascending Kalmak Ashu

Green camping tents and trekkers overlooking mountain valleys in Kyrgyzstan wilderness

Camp at Altitude

Day 4

Kalmak Ashu to Issyk-Kul — Riding Day 2

Cross the Kalmak Ashu pass and descend toward Issyk-Kul Lake on the northern shore. Picnic lunch on the trail. Arrive at Balykchy by mid-afternoon where your driver meets you for the transfer to Tamchy on the north shore. After two days in the saddle at altitude, swim in the warm waters of Issyk-Kul — the second-largest alpine lake in the world, which never freezes despite the surrounding mountains. Meals: B / L / D

Horses grazing on lush mountain meadows during Kyrgyzstan horse riding expedition with snow-capped peaks and alpine valleys

Crossing Kalmak Ashu

Issyk-Kul Lake

Sandy beach with gentle waves meeting snow-capped mountains across blue lake waters in Kyrgyzstan

Rest at the Lake

Day 5

Grigoriev & Semienov Gorges to Karakol

Drive along the north shore to Grigoriev and Semienov gorges — two celebrated alpine valleys where glacial rivers cut through spruce forests beneath towering peaks. Walking trails through wild alpine scenery with opportunities to spot local wildlife. Continue along the eastern shore to Karakol. Visit the Dungan Mosque, built entirely of wood without a single nail in Chinese pagoda architecture, and the Russian Orthodox Holy Trinity Cathedral. Meals: B / L / D

Pristine mountain river flowing through green valley with evergreen forests in Kyrgyzstan wilderness

Grigoriev Gorge

Traditional wooden mosque with green tiled roof and ornate columns in Karakol, Kyrgyzstan

Dungan Mosque

Traditional wooden Russian Orthodox church with green domes and bell tower in Karakol, Kyrgyzstan

Holy Trinity Cathedral

Day 6

Jeti-Oguz, Skazka Canyon & Bokonbaevo

Visit Jeti-Oguz gorge, where seven massive red sandstone formations rise from green alpine meadows — the legendary Seven Bulls of Kyrgyz folklore. Continue to Skazka Canyon, where wind-eroded red clay formations take on surreal shapes stretching toward the turquoise waters of Issyk-Kul. Arrive in Bokonbaevo on the south shore. Dinner and overnight at a yurt camp on the shores of Lake Issyk-Kul. Meals: B / L / D

Jeti-Oguz

Skazka Canyon

Kazakh eagle hunter on horseback with golden eagle in Kyrgyzstan mountains

Eagle Hunting

Day 7

Bokonbaevo to Jazuu-Kechuu — Riding Day 3

Transfer to Kara Tumshuk village to begin the second two-day horse trek toward the highlands above Issyk-Kul. The trail climbs steadily through rolling highland pastures, crossing the Kyzyl-Kia area at 3,300 meters. Picnic lunch on the trail. Sunset views over Issyk-Kul Lake from high above the southern shore. Camp at Jazuu-Kechuu jailoo. Riding: 15 km, 7 hours, +1,695m / -580m. Meals: B / L / D

Three horseback riders overlooking snow-capped mountains in Kyrgyzstan's pristine wilderness on sustainable eco-tourism expedition

Riding Day 3

Horse riders exploring pristine green valleys beneath snow-capped mountains in Kyrgyzstan's remote wilderness

Highland Pastures

Wild horses grazing by pristine lake in Kyrgyzstan's Bokonbaevo region during golden hour sunset for luxury eco-tourism expedition

Camp at Jazuu-Kechuu

Day 8

Tash-Tar Ata & Kochkor — Riding Day 4

Ride to Tash-Tar Ata mountain at approximately 3,600 meters — the highest point of the entire expedition. Panoramic views of Issyk-Kul Lake unfold from the pass. Descend to Boz-Salkyn jailoo where your driver is waiting. Transfer to the village of Kochkor for a hot shower and rest after two days of highland riding. Riding: 10 km, 7 hours, +390m / -915m. Meals: B / L / D

Two riders on horseback traverse green mountain valley with rushing stream in Kyrgyzstan's Tien Shan range during eco-adventure expedition

Tash-Tar Ata 3,600m

Crystal clear mountain stream flows through pristine Kyrgyzstan alpine meadows with snow-capped peaks and blue sky

Views Over Issyk-Kul

Golden sunset over Kyrgyzstan mountains during eco-friendly horse riding expedition near Bokonbaevo

Descent to Boz-Salkyn

Day 9

Kochkor to Kilemche Valley — Riding Day 5

Transfer to Kyzart village, the starting point for the final two-day horse trek to Son-Kul Lake. The trail leads through the Kilemche Valley, whose name means "carpet" in Kyrgyz — alpine flowers and mountain grasses of every color blanket the valley slopes. Arrive at a shepherds’ yurt camp. Dinner is served in a traditional yurt under an impossibly starry sky. Riding: 17 km, 4–5 hours, ±200m. Meals: B / L / D

Pink wildflower meadow blooming across Kyrgyzstan mountains during horse riding expedition season

Kilemche Valley

Horse riding expedition through Kyrgyzstan mountains with rider on horseback overlooking green valleys and peaks

Riding Day 5

Traditional yurts nestled in green meadows beneath snow-capped mountains in Kyrgyzstan wilderness

Yurt Camp

Day 10

Kilemche Valley to Son-Kul Lake — Riding Day 6

The final day of horseback riding. Cross the Tuz Ashu pass at 3,400 meters. From the top, Son-Kul Lake appears deceptively small in the distance, but as you descend and approach, the lake reveals its full grandeur — a vast shimmering expanse surrounded by rolling green jailoos and grazing herds. Arrive at a yurt camp on the lakeshore and experience nomadic hospitality. Riding: 14 km, 5–6 hours, +800m / -400m. Meals: B / L / D

Wild horses grazing on pristine grasslands at Tuz-Ashu Pass during Kyrgyzstan eco-adventure expedition

Tuz Ashu 3,400m

Wild horses grazing by Song-Kul Lake with snow-capped Tian Shan mountains in Kyrgyzstan nomadic landscape

Son-Kul Lake

Traditional yurt on grassland beside lake with mountains in background, Kyrgyzstan

Nomad Yurt Camp

Day 11

Son-Kul to Supara Ethno-Resort

After a final morning at Son-Kul, drive back toward Bishkek descending from the Kalmak Ashu pass at 3,400 meters through the dramatic Boom Gorge. Lunch stop in Kochkor. Continue south into the Ala-Too foothills to Supara Chunkurchak Ethno-Resort, a mountain lodge built in traditional Kyrgyz style. Farewell dinner at the resort with panoramic views across the valley. Approximately 315 km, 5–6 hours driving. Meals: B / L / D

Staying in traditional yurts reflected in Son Kul Lake with dramatic mountains in background during tour of Kyrgyzstan

Farewell Son-Kul

Pristine turquoise river winding through golden autumn valley surrounded by mountains in Kyrgyzstan wilderness

Boom Gorge

Luxury yurt camp with traditional white yurts on green hillside beneath snow-capped Kyrgyzstan mountains for eco-tourism adventures

Supara Ethno-Resort

Day 12

Departure

Breakfast at Supara Ethno-Resort with views across the Ala-Too foothills, then transfer to Manas International Airport for your departure flight. Approximately 45 km, 1 hour driving. Meals: B

Kyrgyzstan Tour Details

What's Included

Everything included in the tour, and what to budget separately.

What's Included

Accommodations in hotels, guesthouses, tent camps, yurt camps, and ethno-resort based on double occupancy
All meals as indicated in the itinerary
Airport arrival and departure transfers
All land transportation in private vehicle as indicated in the itinerary
English-speaking driver/guide
Local horse guides on all riding days
Horses, saddles, and riding equipment for all horseback treks
Tents and sleeping bags for camping nights
All entrance fees as indicated in the itinerary
Welcome dinner with wine or beer at Orion Hotel Bishkek
Farewell dinner with wine or beer at Supara Chunkurchak
Bishkek city tour including Ala-Too Square, Oak Park, and Osh Bazaar
Karakol city tour including Russian Orthodox Cathedral and Dungan Mosque
Burana Tower entrance and guided visit
Mineral water (1 liter per person per day)

Not Included

International airfare
Travel insurance (required)
Personal expenses and personal laundry
Visa fees (if applicable)
Gratuities for driver, guide, and horse handlers
Extra night upon arrival in Bishkek (Orion Hotel: $310/night; 3-star alternative: $140/double or $110/single)
Single supplement ($450)
Alcoholic beverages beyond welcome and farewell dinners
Medical evacuation costs

Kyrgyzstan Tour Details

Tour Pricing & Departures

Transparent pricing, comprehensive inclusions, and exactly what to expect.

June 28 – July 9, 2026

12 days

Full

August 3 – August 14, 2026

12 days

Available

From $2,800 per person

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Starting From

$2,800

Based on group of 4

Single Supplement$450

Deposit$700

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Private Group Rates

Group Size	Per Person	Notes
Solo traveler	$6,600	Contact us for pricingSingle occupancy
2 travelers	$3,800	Per personDouble occupancy
3 travelers	$3,300	Per personGroup rate
4 travelers	$2,800	Per personGroup rate
5 travelers	$3,250	Per person2nd Car Needed
6 travelers	$2,900	Per personGroup rate
7 travelers-8	$2,800	Per personGroup rate

Deposit & Payment: A 25% deposit secures your place (credit card accepted). 50% balance due 90 days before departure. Final balance due 60 days prior. ACH bank transfer available at reduced fees. Bookings within 60 days require full payment.

Cancellation: 90+ days: full refund minus $500 admin fee. 60-89 days: 50% refund. Under 60 days: no refund. Comprehensive travel insurance covering emergency evacuation is required for all participants.

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Each stop on this journey through Kyrgyzstan, and the country that ties them together.

Kyrgyzstan

Where the Tien Shan meets living nomadic tradition. Trek to alpine lakes, sleep in yurts on high summer pastures, and witness eagle hunters practicing an art unchanged for centuries.

Explore Kyrgyzstan

Kyrgyzstan Horse Riding Expedition

Tour Highlights

Three Two-Day Treks Across Three Mountain Regions

All Inclusive - No Hidden Fees or Additional Payments Necesary

Private 4x4 for Every Transfer and Overland Leg

Stay with Nomadic Shepherds on the Highland Jailoos

Ride the Flower-Carpeted Kilemche Valley

Red Canyons, Alpine Gorges & Silk Road Ruins

Hand-Picked Accommodation at Every Stop

Meet a Traditional Berkutchi Eagle Hunter

Kyrgyzstan Horse Riding Expedition

Request More Information

Arrival in Bishkek

Orion Hotel Bishkek

Burana Tower & Chon Kemin Valley

Etno Kompleks Ala Kush

Chon Kemin to Kalmak Ashu — Riding Day 1

Kalmak Ashu to Issyk-Kul — Riding Day 2

Grigoriev & Semienov Gorges to Karakol

ToodoResort

Jeti-Oguz, Skazka Canyon & Bokonbaevo

Feel Nomad Yurt Camp

Bokonbaevo to Jazuu-Kechuu — Riding Day 3

Tash-Tar Ata & Kochkor — Riding Day 4

Kochkor to Kilemche Valley — Riding Day 5

Kilemche Valley to Son-Kul Lake — Riding Day 6

Nomads Dream Yurt Camp

Son-Kul to Supara Ethno-Resort

Supara Chunkurchak Ethno-Resort

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What's Included

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Tour Pricing & Departures

Private Group Rates

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What Our Adventurers Say

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