Embark on an unforgettable Horse Riding Tour Around Lake Issyk-Kul, a perfect adventure designed for everyone, even those new to horseback riding. Over ten immersive days, you will traverse stunning landscapes and delve into the rich nomadic culture that has thrived along the shores of the magnificent Lake Issyk-Kul, the second-largest alpine lake in the world.
This tour will take you through breathtaking destinations such as the Ala Bel Valley and the enchanting Jety-Oguz Gorge, where you will witness the dramatic interplay of towering red cliffs and lush green valleys. Each day is filled with thrilling horse rides that will lead you deeper into the heart of Kyrgyzstan’s natural beauty, allowing you to experience its vibrant flora and fauna up close.
Throughout your journey, indulge in the delicious cuisine that has evolved over centuries along the ancient Silk Road. Sample local delicacies that highlight the unique flavors of the region while mingling with warm-hearted locals who will welcome you with open arms.
Your adventure begins in Bishkek, where you will explore the city’s iconic landmarks before heading to the serene shores of Lake Issyk-Kul. Join us on this incredible horseback riding journey and create lifelong memories as you ride through majestic landscapes, embrace the nomadic lifestyle, and immerse yourself in Kyrgyzstan’s captivating history and culture. Book your place today and prepare for an adventure of a lifetime!
Your adventure begins with your arrival in Bishkek, the capital city of Kyrgyzstan. After settling into your hotel and enjoying some rest, you will embark on a guided sightseeing tour. Explore notable sites such as Oak Park, Ala-Too Square, the Philharmonic Hall, the Statue of Manas, Victory Square, and the bustling Osh Bazaar. After lunch, you’ll head to Ala-Archa National Park, located just 40 kilometers away, where you’ll have the opportunity to hike through the picturesque gorge. After your hike, return to Bishkek for an overnight stay at your hotel.
Meals Included: Breakfast
After breakfast, set out on a scenic transfer to Barskoon village, situated on the southern shore of Lake Issyk-Kul. The drive covers approximately 330 kilometers, and en route, you’ll stop to visit the impressive Burana Tower, a remnant of the ancient city of Balasagyn dating back to the 9th-13th centuries. As you continue along the southern shore of the lake, you’ll pause in the village of Bokonbaevo for lunch. Here, you can choose to watch an enthralling eagle or falcon hunting demonstration. Your next stop will be at Skazka Gorge, known for its spectacular red rock formations. Conclude your day with dinner and an overnight stay in a cozy family-run guesthouse.
Meals Included: Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner
After enjoying breakfast, you will head towards the starting point of your trekking adventure in the Barskoon gorge and Ara-Bel Valley. Here, you’ll meet your experienced horsemen and receive a brief introduction to horse riding. Get ready for your first horseback ride as you journey into the breathtaking landscape, with your overnight accommodations set up in tents beneath the Juuku Pass at an altitude of 3,633 meters.
Meals Included: Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner
On this day, you will continue your horseback riding adventure through the stunning Juuku Gorge. Experience the thrill of riding for about five hours as you navigate the terrain over the Juuku Pass. Your journey concludes with an overnight stay in tents amidst the spectacular mountain scenery at an altitude of 2,800 meters.
Meals Included: Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner
After breakfast, you will set off on a horse riding excursion that lasts approximately 6-7 hours. Ride from Juuku Valley down to Juukuchak Valley, eventually reaching Saruu Valley, where you will discover a soothing hot spring. Spend the night camping in tents at an altitude of 2,400 meters, surrounded by the tranquility of nature.
Meals Included: Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner
Following breakfast, your journey continues as you ride for 3-4 hours from Saruu Valley to the Orto Bulak Pass at an elevation of 2,800 meters. After traversing the pass, you will descend into the Kichi-Kyzyl-Suu Valley, where you will spend the night camping in tents at 2,300 meters above sea level.
Meals Included: Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner
Your riding experience continues today with a 4-5 hour trek from Kichi-Kyzyl-Suu Valley to Chon-Kyzyl-Suu Valley. Upon arrival, you will set up camp and enjoy the serene mountain ambiance while you spend the night in tents at 2,300 meters.
Meals Included: Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner
On this day, you will ride for approximately 4-5 hours from Chon-Kyzyl-Suu Valley to the Svetlaya Polyana Pass at an altitude of 3,000 meters. After crossing the pass, you will descend into the picturesque Jety-Oguz Valley, Kok-Jaiyk, where your horseback riding adventure concludes. You will return to Karakol by vehicle for dinner and an overnight stay at a hotel.
Meals Included: Breakfast/Lunch
After breakfast, explore Karakol’s notable attractions, including the wooden Russian Orthodox Church, the Dungan Mosque, and the Prezhvalsky Museum, dedicated to the famous explorer. Later, you’ll transfer back to Bishkek, covering a distance of approximately 400 kilometers. On the way, stop in Cholpon-Ata to visit an open-air art gallery featuring petroglyphs that date back to 500 BC–100 AD. Arrive in Bishkek and spend the night in a guest house or hotel.
Meals Included: Breakfast
On your final day, you will enjoy a leisurely morning before your transfer to the airport for departure, marking the end of your extraordinary Horse Riding Tour Around Lake Issyk-Kul.
Meals Included: Breakfast
All transportation throughout the tour English speaking guide Horses for the client Twin/doubleroom accommodation Meals as per program Mineral water
Any Private Expenses Tips are not included, but would be appreciated Travel insurance Consular fees for tourist visa Horses for luggage
Pre-requisites: you are expected to be capable of mounting and dismounting unassisted, comfortable and in control at a walk with the saddle, trotting on the flat ground.
Recommended list of personal items: warm clothes, a coat, tracking-boots, sleeping bag, rucksack, flash light, hat, your own First Aid Kit, sunscreen and sunglasses.
Notes: during the tour a local guide and horseman will look after you and the horses. Riding time is approximately 5-6 hours per day. The altitude varies between 2000 – 3100 m above sea level.
