Kyrgyzstan is known for its nomadic traditions, Kyrgyzstan offers a distinctive cultural immersion. With most of its population being ethnically Kyrgyz, the enduring nomadic heritage is visible in the scattered traditional yurts across the countryside. Horse trekking stands out as a favoured activity, allowing travellers to submerge themselves in the breathtaking natural landscapes It is often mentioned that among the Kyrgyz people, the ability to ride a horse comes before the skill of walking.

Explore the rugged beauty of Kyrgyzstan by horse trekking through crossing mountains and camping in Yurts, where every hoofbeat resonates with the country's nomadic spirit. Journey across untamed landscapes, ascend breathtaking mountains, and relish the immersive cultural experience of camping in traditional yurts, summarise the essence of Kyrgyz hospitality and the timeless bond between rider and steed.Do you want to learn more about the Horse Trekking in Kyrgyzstan? Let's hop on the horse and try to explore.

Best Horse Trekking In Kyrgyzstan and Camping In Yurts

Kochkor will be our starting point for the two-day horse trek to Song Kol. Upon reaching Guesthouse, we unloaded our bags and were promptly summoned for dinner. There, we were treated to a captivating traditional music performance by a multi-generational band. Although the Kyrgyz lyrics were unfamiliar to us, before each song, the troupe's leader provided insights into the themes—ranging from guiding animals to summer pastures and tales of young love to legends and national epics.

Freshly arrived in Kyrgyzstan the night before, this marked our initial immersion into the local culture. With wide-eyed fascination, we observed as the musicians unveiled previously unknown instruments and even incorporated throat-produced guttural sounds, seamlessly blending with the music.On the next day, we ventured into the mountains. Following a brief drive, we reached our initial camp, where our host family treated us to the previously mentioned feast. Laden with the essentials in our daypacks, we said our goodbyes and set off into the valley, starting our gradual ascent into the mountains.

First Day of Trekking in Kyrgyzstan

On the inaugural day, we rode for approximately 5 hours. The journey unfolded leisurely, navigating through zig-zagging switchbacks, offering ample time to relish the breathtaking surroundings. The landscapes we traversed brought to mind a fusion of the Scottish Highlands, the Drakensberg Range in South Africa, and the enchanting vistas of Iceland captured solely in photographs. What makes the experience even more beautiful? Watching eagles gracefully flying through the valleys, perfectly at ease in their natural habitat!Nomadism was once a general way of life in Kyrgyzstan. Although many have transitioned to urban living, some families continue the tradition of relocating their homes to the pastures during summer, allowing their animals to graze and fatten up for winter. Life in the pastures is basic and presents its own challenges, yet it exudes tranquillity and allure, attracting travellers from afar.

Within our yurt, another delicious dinner awaited, accompanied by endless cups of tea and a continuous flow of food. As the sun set, we all retired early, nestling under layers of blankets without mattresses. This marked my inaugural experience sleeping in a yurt and was one of the most restful nights I've ever had. Despite the absence of a rigid bed, the piled blankets provided both comfort and warmth, enabling me to enjoy a solid 10-hour sleep. The following morning, I awoke to the peculiar sound of goats hoarding—an unusual yet amusing wake-up call.

Following a hearty breakfast, it was time to mount our horses and resume our journey. Interestingly, our horses had managed to wander off overnight despite having their front legs tied, prompting our guides to venture down the valley and round them up.

Second Day of Trekking in Kyrgyzstan

The second day of riding took us across the Kimliche Pass, treating us to expansive views of the surrounding valleys. This particular morning proved to be the most challenging for me as the downhill stretches were taking a toll on my knees. Opting to give both my legs and the horse a break, I ended up walking a few kilometres.

Upon reaching our lunch stop at another yurt camp, It was at this camp that I savoured the most delightful meal of the entire trip! Imagine a freshly baked loaf of bread emerging from a wood-burning stove, accompanied by a generous serving of home-churned cream and raspberry jam—a nomadic take on afternoon tea.

Though somewhat reluctantly, I climbed back onto the horse after that delicious meal, embarking on the final two hours of our ride along the shores of Song Kol Lake.

During my three-week stay in Kyrgyzstan, my favourite destination was Song Kol Lake. Bordered by rugged mountains on one side and a row of snow-capped peaks along the lake on the other, the expansive plain in between was dotted with pristine white yurts. It was already a scene straight from a postcard, but when the sunset bathed the mountains in a soft, glowing light, it transformed into the most breathtaking sight I had ever witnessed. We lingered by the lake's edge until our fingers grew numb, captivated as the sun slowly descended behind the clouds. Even the dogs we had befriended at the camp joined us in soaking in the mesmerising view.

Things to Know Before Horse Riding

These are the basics that you should know before riding the Horse.

• Never walk directly behind your horse.
• Ensure your safety by always wearing a helmet.
• Use the reins to guide and control your horse.
• Encourage your horse to go faster by kicking your heels and saying "TCHU TCHU."
• Slow down your horse by pulling on the reins and saying "BRE BRE."
• Turn left by pulling the reins to the left.
• Turn right by pulling the reins to the right.
• When riding uphill, lean your body forward to assist your horse.
• Conversely, lean backwards when descending downhill.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Kyrgyzstan's horse trekking offers a cultural immersion, weaving through nomadic traditions and captivating landscapes. From traditional music to yurt camping and mountain rides, the journey culminates at Song Kol Lake, a postcard-perfect scene of white yurts against majestic mountains. In this Central Asian gem, horse trekking is an odyssey, revealing the timeless bond between rider and steed amidst the beauty of nomadic heritage.So, pack your bag and explore Kyrgyzstan on a horse. You can’t hold the time so, hurry up!