Horse Riding to Song-Kol Lake
Ride through alpine landscapes to a celestial lake
Kyrgyzstan horse trek is a guided journey through Kyrgyzstan. This 7-day journey takes you through the wild heart of Kyrgyzstan. Ride horses to the celestial alpine pastures of Song-Kol Lake, explore the dramatic red rock canyons of Ysyk-Kol's southern shore, trek to the natural hot springs of Altyn Arashan, and discover the forested beauty of Chong-Kemin National Park. Experience authentic yurt stays, eagle hunting traditions, and the warm hospitality of nomadic culture. With flexible trekking options, this tour adapts to your comfort level while delivering an unforgettable adventure.
Kyrgyzstan horse trek is a guided journey through Kyrgyzstan. This 7-day journey takes you through the wild heart of Kyrgyzstan. Ride horses to the celestial alpine pastures of Song-Kol Lake, explore the dramatic red rock canyons of Ysyk-Kol's southern shore, trek to the natural hot springs of Altyn Arashan, and discover the forested beauty of Chong-Kemin National Park. Experience authentic yurt stays, eagle hunting traditions, and the warm hospitality of nomadic culture. With flexible trekking options, this tour adapts to your comfort level while delivering an unforgettable adventure.
Ride through alpine landscapes to a celestial lake
Trek to natural hot springs in a pristine alpine valley
Skazka Canyon, Jeti-Oguz, Barskoon Waterfall
Sleep in traditional nomadic yurts under the stars
Ancient nomadic tradition with golden eagles
Forested valley, mountain rivers, panoramic views
Explore the capital's Soviet-era architecture and vibrant bazaars
No horse riding experience required!
Open each day to explore the route, experiences and practical details.
Your journey begins with a morning pickup from your hotel in Bishkek. Next, drive south toward the dramatic Too Ashuu Pass (3,200m). The winding road offers spectacular views of alpine meadows, rugged peaks, and winding valleys. Stop at the summit for breathtaking photos. Descend through the pass and continue to Kyzyl-Oi Village, a charming mountain settlement nestled in a valley, off the main tourist trail. Check into a local guesthouse, then take a leisurely walk around the village – an authentic glimpse into rural Kyrgyz life. Enjoy a home-cooked dinner and overnight at the guesthouse.
After breakfast, drive 1 hour to Kyzart Village, the gateway to Song-Kol Lake. Here you'll meet your horse and guide for the next two days. Afterward, no horse riding experience is required! Our horses are calm and well-trained. Today's ride to Song-Kol Lake is 5-6 hours through alpine landscapes. The trail ascends gradually, rewarding you with breathtaking views of the turquoise lake set in a bowl of green meadows, surrounded by snow-capped peaks. Settle into a traditional yurt camp on the lakeshore. Enjoy a hearty Kyrgyz dinner and spectacular stargazing.
After breakfast, enjoy a final morning ride back to Kyzart Village (4-5 hours gentle descent). In addition, bid farewell to your horses and horseman. Enjoy lunch in Kyzart, then board your vehicle for the drive to Bokonbaevo on the southern shore of Ysyk-Kol Lake (approximately 3-4 hours). Check into a guesthouse with beautiful views of the "Pearl of Central Asia."
Today you'll explore the spectacular southern shore of Ysyk-Kol Lake. Along the way, start with a captivating eagle hunting demonstration with a local berkutchi – an ancient nomadic tradition passed down through generations. Continue to Skazka Canyon ("Fairy Tale Canyon") – a surreal landscape of wind-sculpted sandstone in vibrant red, orange, and yellow hues, resembling castles, dragons, and mythical creatures. Visit Barskoon Waterfall – a powerful cascade in a lush gorge. A short hike brings you close enough to feel the refreshing mist. Drive to Jeti-Oguz Valley, famous for its dramatic red rock formations – the iconic "Seven Bulls" and the legendary "Broken Heart" rock. Drive to your hotel in Karakol for overnight.
After breakfast, drive to Ak-Suu Village – the starting point for your trek. Finally, begin your trek to Altyn Arashan Valley (approximately 4-5 hours). The trail follows the Arashan River upstream through dense pine forests, past glacial streams and waterfalls, with increasingly dramatic mountain views. Upon arrival in the pristine Altyn Arashan Valley (2,500m), you'll find the famous natural hot springs. Soak in the mineral-rich waters surrounded by snow-capped peaks including Palatka Peak (5,200m). This is the perfect reward after your trek. Stay overnight in a guesthouse in the valley. Note:Optional 4x4 drive for extra fee
After breakfast, enjoy a final morning soak in the hot springs, then trek back to Ak-Suu Village (approximately 4 hours descent).
Transfer to your vehicle and drive to Chong-Kemin National Park (approximately 3-4 hours). This protected natural area is known for its pristine beauty – forests, rivers, and dramatic mountain scenery.
Check into a forest guesthouse, offering a tranquil setting surrounded by pine trees and mountain views. Enjoy dinner and the peaceful atmosphere.
After breakfast, depart Chong-Kemin and drive to Bishkek. En route, stop at the historic Burana Tower, an 11th-century Silk Road minaret. Climb the tower for panoramic views and explore the ancient balbal stones.
Upon arrival in Bishkek, enjoy a city tour exploring the capital's highlights:
• Ala-Too Square – Main square with Independence Monument
• Oak Park – Shaded alleys with bronze sculptures
• Victory Square – Memorial to WWII heroes
• Osh Bazaar – Vibrant market for last-minute souvenirs
The tour concludes with drop-off at your hotel or Manas International Airport.
Discover the landscapes, culture and unforgettable moments of this journey.
The right gear makes your journey more comfortable and enjoyable. Here’s what we recommend for this tour.
Major towns and cities accept credit and debit cards, but in villages and remote areas cash in Kyrgyz Som (KGS) is essential.
Mobile internet works well in cities but can be unstable or unavailable in high mountain regions. A local SIM card is recommended.
Kyrgyzstan uses 220V electricity with Type C and Type F sockets. Bring an adapter when required.
Kyrgyz and Russian are the main languages. English is increasingly common in tourism, while a few local words are useful in rural communities.
Travel insurance should include emergency medical care and the outdoor or adventure activities in your itinerary.
Choose a tour that matches your mobility and fitness level. Some itineraries include long drives, walking, trekking or horse riding.
Many journeys reach high elevations. Hydrate well, pace yourself and tell your guide if you feel unwell.
Mountain weather changes quickly. Pack layers and weather-resistant clothing for sun, wind, rain and cold temperatures.
Find answers to the most common questions about this tour.
The 7-day Magical Kyrgyzstan itinerary is ideal for travelers who want mountain scenery, nomadic culture, and a genuine horse-riding experience in Kyrgyzstan.
It combines horse riding with walking or hiking. Basic fitness is recommended, while the guide can adjust the pace to the group.
The program uses traditional yurt camps, local guesthouses and hotels, depending on the day. Exact facilities are shown in the detailed itinerary and may be simpler in remote mountain areas.
The standard Best Season is March–November. Mountain conditions vary by altitude, so the exact route and activities may be adjusted for weather and local conditions.
Meals are included as specified for each day in the itinerary. Please tell Kyrgyz Wonders in advance about vegetarian meals, allergies, or other dietary requirements.
Coverage is generally better in towns and villages, while remote valleys, mountain passes, yurt camps, and high-altitude areas may have weak or no signal.
Bring layered clothing, sun and weather protection, a refillable water bottle, personal medication, and closed-toe shoes suitable for riding, comfortable hiking shoes, a swimsuit, warm layers for cool yurt-camp evenings. Use the 8 What to Pack categories in the Tour Builder for the complete checklist.
Yes. Private tours can be adjusted for your dates, group size, preferred pace, accommodation level, and selected activities, subject to weather and local conditions.
Send your preferred dates and group size. We’ll confirm availability and the next steps.