RIDE THE ANCIENT SILK ROAD
OVERVIEW
Follow in the hoofprints of the most adventurous of our ancestors on this ride through the Tien Shan ‘Celestial’ Mountains.
Kyrgyzstan is known as ‘Switzerland of the East’. Blue alpine lakes, snowy mountain peaks and not a fence in sight. This beautiful country might be a mirror reflection of Switzerland - but one from hundreds of years ago.
We’ll cross mountain passes, gallop along a lake shore, witness a game of Kok Boru played with the headless body of a goat, dine in yurts while seated on the floor, dance around bonfires and swim with our horses in glacial waters.
Escape back in time to this heavenly paradise.
TRIP HIGHLIGHTS
Explore two mountain-scapes that feel like Switzerland and the Steppe
Stay mostly in comfortable yurt camps or guesthouses
Venture to Kel-Suu close to the Chinese border
Spot Ibex, Marco Polo Sheep and large herds of Yaks
Swim with your horses in Song Kol Lake
Witness the traditional game of Kok-Boru
See the Milky Way with your own eyes at night
Stay at a premium hotel in Bishkek
Benefit from an air-conditioned transfer and support vehicle
OVERVIEW
RIDE GUIDE
Duration: 10 Days / 9 Nights / 6 Days Riding
Cost: €2,450 sharing
Guide languages: English, Russian, Kyrgyz
Max Riders: 8
Departing: Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan, pick up from airport included if arriving on recommended flight.
Riding Level: Our rides are for experienced riders who are balanced on their horses and in control galloping in open spaces.
Weight Limit: Maximum of 85kg/187lbs
Time in the saddle: 3 to 7 hours a day
HORSES
Kyrgyz ponies typically smaller and perfectly adapted for the high altitude however it’s now fashionable to have larger horses and most of our horses will be above 15hh.
You will ride stallions (who don’t realise they’re still intact). The horses are typically very docile though some can become forward in gallop. Our guides will assign your a horse to match your need for speed.
Tack is a lower quality that what we are used to in the west but very comfortable. A metal or wooden saddle tree is balanced on layers of thick felt saddle pads and covered with a cushion for comfort. Bridles are simple canvas or leather and bits sit loose in the horses mouth.
ACCOMMODATION
Four nights are spent in traditional yurts. These are round felt lined tents. You will sleep in layers of bedding on the ground in traditional Kyrgyz style or in single beds. Yurts have cowpat fuelled stoves to keep you warm at night.
Three nights are spent in ensuite rooms in small hotels.
One night is spent in simple dome tents. There are no showers.
One night is spent at 5* Orion Hotel in Bishkek.
WHAT'S INCLUDED
All meals, accommodation, horses, guides, support vehicle around Song Kol Lake, entry for landmark sights, banya, bottled water.
WHAT’S EXCLUDED
The price does not include international or domestic flights, alcohol, mandatory travel insurance, or staff tips (which are optional but appreciated).
ATMs are available near the two markets on the tour where you can buy souvenirs. It’s a good idea to carry about 2,000 soms in small notes for buying incidentals and paying for public toilets at rest breaks during driving sections.
It may be possible to pay a single supplement of €320 for the additional charge for up to four nights depending on availability.
RIDING
You must be an experienced, confident rider to join this ride. Because of the mountainous terrain most of the ride is at walk with some opportunities to gallop at Song Kol Lake.
The horses work hard at high altitude and so we only accept well balanced, experienced riders that will not push them unnecessarily and ride in a long loose rein on the mountain.
TRAVEL & VISAS
Since 2012 British, USA and most European nationals don’t need a visa to enter and stay for up to 60 days.
TRANSFERS
Transfers from Manas Airport in Bishkek are included if arriving and departing on arrival and departure dates.
If arriving a day early as recommended you can catch a taxi into town. Manas Airport is a 30-40 minute drive from the city. A reasonable price for a taxi from the airport is 1000 som ($11), your hotel will charge around 2000 som ($25). There is an atm at airport.
MEALS
Kyrgyz food includes a lot of bread, soups, meat dumplings served with buckwheat and vegetables.
Breakfast on trail always includes hot green tea that the locals drink instead of water. You will eat porridge (rice and oat), yogurt, crepes, small pancakes, eggs and fresh bread.
Lunches and dinners are picnic style with cold cuts, breads, and canned fish while on trail and fresh cucumber and tomato salads, hot soups, pasta, dumplings, and meat on potatoes while at Song Kol.
You will have an opportunity to drink kumis - fermented mares milk. It’s an acquired taste for foreigners but a daily drink for locals. You might have the opportunity to drink fresh mares milk too. It’s surprisingly sweet!
Kyrgyzstan is a muslim country though alcohol is readily available to purchase at supermarkets. This is a dry trip though you are welcome to bring your own alcohol.
WHAT TO PACK
Refer to our FAQ for what to pack on a horse riding holiday.
The key to packing well for riding in the mountains, even in summer, is layers. We recommend you pack:
A down jacket, a warm jumper, a very warm sleeping bag effective to 0 degrees, silk sleeping bag liner, rain gear (waterproof trousers should have an opening on the outside at the bottom of the leg in order to put on and take off without removing your trekking boots), 2-3 pairs of warm socks, waterproof trekking boots, underwear, gloves, sunglasses, sun cream with high UV-protection, lip balm with UV-protection, torch, personal medicine, metal water bottle (0.75 L), riding chaps, Micropure (or any other water purification).
We always recommend you wear hiking boots and half chaps when on a riding holiday. Always wear boots you are happy to walk in.
The weather can range from 40 degrees in Bishkek to almost zero at night on the mountain in Chong Kemin. The mountains are usually 10 degrees cooler than Bishkek.
INTERNET
You will be out of cell range for portions of the ride. We recommend purchasing a O! sim card on arrival at the airport. The store is located to the left after customs. Unlimited internet for two weeks will cost around €15.
If your phone doesn’t take sims, or if you would prefer to organise a sim ahead of time, download an e-sim from Airalo and install before you arrive to be connected at all times.
Use our code BLACKS3976 to receive $3 off your e-sim credit.
Your guest houses will have wifi.
DATES + RATES
All departures are €2,450 per person sharing. Your saddle is secured with a 30% deposit. The balance is due 90 days before the ride.
A single supplement of €320 for your own room at hotels is subject to availability.
2025
15 - 24 June 2025 (Spring wild flowers) Waitlist only
26 June to 5th July 2024 (including Kyzart Festival) Waitlist only
17 - 26 July 2025 (peak summer) Waitlist only
12 - 21 August 2025 (driest weather)
We can organise private groups on request with a minimum of 6 riders. Prices will be adjusted for the number of riders if the group is less than 8 riders.
To make an enquiry you can fill in an obligation-free Rider Profile and we will get back to you with loads of information and availability.
KYRGYZSTAN
Travelling to Kyrgyzstan is like jumping in a time machine. You land in soviet Bishkek with street signs all in Cyrillic. Russian is widely spoken in the capital city. Though the republic gained independence from the ex-USSR in 1991, Lenin still stands in front of the Natural History museum. The main street is a wide soviet boulevard that once had military parades down it but is now filled with families enjoying cool evenings watching concerts, playing fair games and buying helium balloons for the kids.
Outside of Bishkek Kyrgyz speak their own language. It’s Turkic and partially intelligible with people from Turkey. A lingual link as both peoples originated from Siberia where petroglyphs and the names of the lakes and mountains there are recognisably similar.
Malls look like ours did in the 80s and 90s with cigarettes displayed over the checkout counters. Weed is illegal but it grows wild here. Alcohol isn’t sold in most local restaurants as Kyrgyz have been Muslim since the Arabs beat the Chinese in the Battle of Talas in the 8th century. You can still easily pick up litres of beer from the store though and small bottles of apricot cognac for a mere £3.50. It’s so delicious you don’t need any mixer.
Kyrgyz are very friendly and the country is generally very safe. You can walk around the capital Bishkek with your phone out with no issues which is more than what you can say for London!
ITINERARY
Rides are intended to be run as shared but Kyrgyzstan is mountainous and weather can be unpredictable. Your guide may need to adapt your itinerary according to weather conditions.
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As 90% of flights arrive around between 2am and 5am we recommend arriving a day early to rest from the flight and enjoy exploring Bishkek.
We organise an optional dinner the night before where you can try local cuisine, visit a supermarket and meet other guests.
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The tour starts at 9am from a central hotel. We start the day with a city tour learning about the complex relationship the Kyrgyz have with the Russians.
We have lunch in premium local restaurant Navat, where you can try national dishes such as borsak (fried bread), lagman (stirfry), manti (dumplings), fresh salads and lemonade.
After lunch we will enjoy the scenic drive to Kochkor, crossing briefly into Kazakhstan, before transitioning from the bustling city to Kyrgyzstan’s stunning countryside.
You are free to explore and discover the Kochkor’s soviet relics - statues of Lenin, soviet stars and mosaics are scattered all around the town.
No Riding Today. Driving distance/time: 196km, 3 hours.
Overnight and dinner in Kochkor with wifi and minimal cell reception.
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We start start with a one hour drive from Kochkor to Kyzart Pass, 1-hour.
Your guide Ryskul will be waiting for your with your horses to begin your journey. Ride across the open grasslands of Kyzyl-Kiya Jailoo, then cross the Chaar-Archa Pass (3,061 m) into the scenic Chaar-Archa Valley with stunning views of Baba-Ata Mountain (4,400 m). After crossing the river, follow the trail over green hills to Kilemche Jailoo.
We will pause for lunch at Kilemche Yurt Camp, surrounded by the areas lush, carpet-like grassy slopes.
After lunch we summit Tuz Ashu Pass to reveal Song-Kol Lake.
We enjoy dinner and overnight stay at Azamat Yurt Camp in traditional yurts and the chance to try a mountain banya (sauna).
4-5 Hour Riding. 28 kilometres.
Overnight in yurts
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Start your day with breakfast at Azamat Yurt Camp before setting off on a scenic ride along the shores of Song-
Kol Lake. Enjoy views of grazing livestock, herders’ yurts, and the lake’s tranquil waters framed by rolling hills.
Stop for lunch at Tulpar Tash Yurt, where you’ll savor a traditional Kyrgyz meal and take a well-deserved break.
After lunch, continue riding through vast jailoos (summer pastures) toward the southwestern shore of the lake.
Arrive at Kyr Jol Summer Camp in the evening, where you can relax with tea, explore the camp’s surroundings, or try Kok Boru, a traditional Kyrgyz horseback game. Finish the day with a hearty dinner and an overnight stay yurt.
Riding distance/time: 31 km, 6- hours,
Ascent/Decent: 582m / 579m
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Bid farewell to your host as you embark on a journey ascending towards Oiurma Pass (3337m).
The climb offers breathtaking views of the surrounding mountain landscapes as Song Kol Lake slowly fades into the background.
Once atop the pass, take in the awe-inspiring panorama of the vast valley below, a stunning showcase of Kyrgyzstan's natural beauty. From there, the descent leads you down to a tranquil campsite along a small stream nestled in the gorge covered with evergreen trees. After completing the ride, meet your driver and enjoy a comfortable drive to Naryn City to conclude the day’s adventure.
Riding distance/time: 20km, 6-hours
Ascent/Decent: 459 m / 871m
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After an hour's drive from Naryn, we take a scenic ascent over the switchbacks of Bosogo Pass. The landscape unfolds into the vast **Ak-Sai Valley, flanked by snow-capped peaks and dotted with summer nomadic yurts. We drive about 3 hours in this valley. Arrival at our yurt camp.
Lunch will be served at our camp, followed by some time to relax. In the afternoon, enjoy a gentle hike to nearby hills for panoramic views of the valley, where yaks and sheep graze peacefully.
Don’t forget your camera—this is a perfect opportunity for wildlife photography and capturing authentic moments of nomadic life.
Driving distance/time: 140km, 3 hours
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After breakfast, meet your horse and receive a short riding briefing from the guide.
We ride into the small valley following a trail that crosses rivers and winds through high meadows. The ascent to Sazduu Pass (3,770 meters) offers a thrilling bird’s-eye view of the surrounding snowy mountains.
Keep your binoculars ready—we often encounter Marco Polo sheep or ibexes grazing near the pass.
Descend into a lush Ak Sai Uru Valley where clear streams wind between grassy slopes, home to more wild goats and sheep. We set up camp near the river. You will have a chance to learn how to prepare simple meals with your guides in this beautiful wilderness setting.
Riding distance/time: 13km, 5-6 hours, Ascent/Decent: 514m / 414m
Dinner and overnight in yurts with no cell reception.
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Continue your journey deeper into the wilderness, crossing a second mountain pass named Car Pass at 3,791 meters.
From the summit, take in sweeping views of the remote mountain range beyond—untouched nature at its best.
Descend along narrow paths through a valley, where the sound of horse hooves is the only thing that breaks the silence.
We cross a river and ascend gently towards Eshek Tor Pass at the foot of a snow-capped peak that looms majestically over our route. Watch for grazing yaks, sheep, and goats along the hillsides.
As we arrive at our yurt camp “Bars”, enjoy some time to relax and soak in the peaceful surroundings before nightfall.
Riding distance/time: 18 km / 6 hours, Ascent/Decent: 470m / 488m
Overnight in a yurt camp.
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After breakfast, mount your horse and set off toward the hidden gem of Kel Suu Lake.
This surreal alpine lake is tucked between dramatic cliffs and rocky outcrops. Its emerald waters are a stunning contrast to the jagged grey peaks surrounding it. Spend time walking along the lake’s shores, taking photos, and soaking in the magical atmosphere.
Return to the yurt camp for a farewell lunch before driving back to Kochkor.
Upon arrival, enjoy some free time to explore the town or visit local markets.
Riding distance/time: 12 km / 3- hours, Driving distance/time: 260 km, 6-hours, Ascent/Decent: 180 m / 261m
Overnight in a guesthouse.
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After breakfast we set off for the drive back to Bishkek. Along the way, we stop at scenic spots for breaks and photos.
Arrive in Bishkek by early afternoon, where you’ll have time to relax at your hotel or explore the city at your leisure.
Optional farewell dinner at a local restaurant can be arranged to celebrate the completion of your adventure.
No riding today. Driving distance/time: 196 km / 3-hours
Overnight at Orion Hotel.
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After breakfast it's time to return home and start planning the next adventure!
No Riding Today
PRICES & AVAILABILITY
All departures are €2,450 per person sharing. A single supplement of €320 for your own room at hotels is subject to availability.
15 - 24 June 2025 (Spring wild flowers) Waitlist only
26 June to 5th July 2024 (including Kyzart Festival) Waitlist only
17 - 26 July 2025 (peak summer) Waitlist only
12 - 21 August 2025 (driest weather)
We can organise private groups on request with a minimum of 6 riders. Prices will be adjusted for the number of riders if the group is less than 8 riders.
To make an enquiry you can fill in an obligation-free Rider Profile and we will get back to you with loads of information and availability.
HOW TO BOOK
Your saddle is secured with a 30% deposit. The balance is due 90 days before the ride.
Cancellation Terms
More than 90 days in advance the full deposit is returned net of bank charges and a €250 cancellation fee per rider to cover our time spent organising your holiday.
90 - 61 days in advance the deposit or 50% of the full amount is forfeited.
60 – 0 days in advance 100% of the full amount is forfeited.
WEATHER + CLIMATE
Kyrgyzstan is 85% mountainous and for more than half of the year the alpine meadows and mountain passes we ride through are covered in snow. We time our rides to make the most of the good weather. Riding in the mountains can bring any weather at any time of year and you should bring many layers to make sure you stay warm and dry on your holiday.
Bishkek lies at 800 meters above sea level and can reach temperatures of 40 degree celcius in summer. It’s much cooler in the mountains, usually not exceeding 25 degrees.
June: Animals are well fed and gorging on the new grass and having their young. We love this time of year as it’s when fields of wildflowers pop up all over the mountains. Yurts are surrounded by fields of forget-me-nots, perfect for lying in for sunny afternoon naps.
July: By July most of the animals have been moved up to Song Kol and you will see thousands of horses living by the lake. There are less rainy days in July and the warmest temperatures for the year.
August: August has the lowest rainfall. There may be the odd storm but it never lasts long. The animals have grazed the grass down and shepherds are preparing to take their animals back down to the villages for the start of winter.
We recommend a sleeping bag effective to 0 degree celcius to stay warm at all times, especially for the two nights you will spend on the mountain in Chong Kemin National Park.
TEMPERATURE
RAINY DAYS
RAINFALL
ACCOMMODATION
Small Hotels
Nights 1, 4, 8
Three nights are spent in twin rooms in ensuite rooms at hotels.
Modern and clean, hotels have been chosen to give the most comfort while maintaining a local experience.
All hotels have wifi and cell reception.
Yurts
Nights 2,3,5,7
Three nights are spent three to a yurt in traditional felt yurts.
All have a cowpat fired stoves for heat. Meals are taken in a dining yurt, usually seated on cushions on the floor. Toilets are in separate blocks. Some are flushing, some are long drop, squat loos.
One yurt has a banya - mountain steam rooms.
All the yurts are completely off-grid.
SIMPLE DOME TENTS
Night 6
On the mountain you will sleep in simple dome tents on camping mattresses. A short drop loo will be dug.
Camp is close to a steam for water for a face wash. You guides will boil water for drinking though we recommend you also bring micropur tablets or a filter water bottle for drinking water.
Biodegradable wipes can be used for washing and disposed of in the campfire.
ORION HOTEL
Night 9
Huge, grand, soviet, like something out of Wes Anderson film, this hotel welcomes heads of state and celebrities. The building also houses the Swiss and German embassies.
Each room has a bathtub to wash away the mountain. There is an excellent onsite spa, a gym, bar and restaurant.
MEALS
Meal times in Kyrgyzstan start with decadent table-scapes of sweets, dried fruit, nuts, bread, fruit, jams and cream. In nomad times everything available was put onto the table and offered to guests.
Main meals usually consist of meat and onions over potatoes, buckwheat or rice with carrot, tomato, cucumber, peppers or cabbage. Often you are served meat and vegetable soup as a starter.
Plov is a very popular buttered rice served with vegetables and meat dish. Also popular is pasta with cabbage and steamed or fried dumplings stuffed with meat or stir-fry noodles with meat. Watermelon is often served as dessert.
They are not that familiar with making vegetarian dishes though are learning to adapt. Vegetarians be beware that sometimes they think that picking meat out of the group dish will be acceptable to you!
The meals are typically carb-heavy. Gluten-free diets might want to bring their own bread to supplement meals as yurt camps will typically only make one dish for all guests.
Hot chai (black tea) is served at every meal. We provide bottled water every day.
