Next departure: 06.02.2027
Meeting point: Bishkek
Embark on a winter horseback ride across Kyrgyzstan, where snow-covered mountains and timeless semi-nomadic traditions come alive. Journey from the lively streets of Bishkek to the remote borderlands of Enilchek, riding alongside herders and experiencing daily life with local families and share stories over tea in traditional Kyrgyz homes. Along the way, you’ll meet eagle hunters, and explore frozen mountain rivers few travelers ever reach. This immersive adventure offers a rare glimpse into the spirit of the Kyrgyz nomads — a world of warmth, resilience, and connection amid the mystic winter landscape.
We’ll ride over frozen rivers. In a wild corner of Kyrgyzstan where the horses live wild in winter as a herd.
Horselovers in for a great and of the beaten track discovery trip in Kyrgyzstan, home of real horsemen.
Perfect for those who want to combine a wintertrip with riding and exploring a new country.
It will be cold. Warm clothing is necessary. This trip is suitable intermediate to experienced riders. Beginner riders are welcome to join to if they are willing to skip the Ak sai traverse ride ( long ride, includes longer, faster galloping).
Day 1 – Arrival in Bishkek
Welcome to Bishkek!
We recommend arriving one day before the journey officially begins, giving you time to rest after your flight and explore the city at your own pace. If you arrive early, we’ll gladly suggest comfortable hotels to make your stay pleasant and relaxing.
Day 2 (Sunday) – Bishkek to Karakol
Today we travel to Karakol, the starting point of our adventure. The drive takes approximately six hours, but the constantly changing landscapes make it a scenic and enjoyable journey. It’s the perfect opportunity to relax, take a nap after your long flight, and admire the beautiful surroundings.
Overnight: Local guesthouse in twin rooms with private bathrooms.
Day 3 – Kerege Tash & Jergalan
This morning we begin our first horse riding session in the flat farmlands of Kerege Tash. With mountain panorama’s on both sides. We ride among local Kok Boru riders. Who will be eager to show of to us their riding skills. A real direct deep into the Kyrgyz horse culture.
After the ride, we transfer to our yurt camp in the mountain village of Jergalan.
Driving time: approx. 2 hours
Riding time: 3–4 hours
Day 4–7 – Remote Kaindy Valley Adventure ( jeeptour + horseriding)
After breakfast, we board Jergal’s truck for a scenic journey to his yak farm. The drive is long but spectacular, with plenty of opportunities to stop for photos.
We cross the 3,800-meter-high Chon Asuu Pass before descending 80 km toward the abandoned mining town of Enilchek.
The following day, we continue our off-road adventure into the wild and beautiful Kaindy Valley. After a hot lunch, we saddle up for a mountain ride, even crossing a frozen river on horseback. Upon return, a traditional banja (local sauna) awaits — the perfect way to relax and unwind.
On the third day, we head out for another ride in Jergal’s mountains. As a former ranger, he and his brother are experts at spotting wildlife tracks — including ibex and, if we’re lucky, even snow leopard footprints.
On our final day in the valley, we return to Karakol. Along the way, we stop at the natural hot springs of Enilchek for a rejuvenating soak. For the brave, ice bathing is possible!
We spend the night again at our basecamp guesthouse in Karakol.
Day 8 – Bokonbaevo & Eagle Hunters
Today we travel to Bokonbaevo, in the region famous for its traditional eagle hunters.
After lunch, a local hunter introduces us to the ancient art of hunting on horseback with a golden eagle and Taigan dog. This centuries-old tradition remains a powerful part of Kyrgyz culture.
We overnight at a local farm near the Baiboosun Nature Reserve. Camera trap footage sometimes reveals fascinating glimpses of snow leopards roaming the nearby mountains.
Day 9 – Ak Sai Traverse to Issyk Kul
Today’s ride is truly special. We journey from our yurt camp toward the shores of Issyk-Kul. Along the way, we pass through a stunning sandstone canyon. In summer this area can be busy, but at this time of year, we often have it all to ourselves.
A gallop session is planned for today — a thrilling highlight of the journey.
Day 10 – Return to Bishkek
We bid farewell to the Kyrgyz countryside as we drive approximately four hours back to Bishkek. After checking into our hotel, we explore some of the city’s main sights before gathering for a memorable farewell dinner.
Day 11 – Departure
Time to fly home — or extend your stay!
We’re happy to arrange additional experiences upon request.
We ride in cold temperatures. Luckily our hosts will make sure we can heat up in their warm houses afterwards.
We sleep in simple guesthouses or home stays. A wonderful experience but you’ll share your room with the your travelbuddies. Basic sanitary.
Only for intermediate to advanced riders that are used to ride in all weather conditions.
Only for intermediate to advanced riders that are used to ride in all weather conditions.
A packlist will be provided.
Bring warm outdoorsy riding clothes:
including rainclothes.
(possible to travel with handluggage only – no camping gear necessary)
The following equipment can be rented from us.
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Bishkek
Bishkek Airport
tunduk operates a structured risk management concept that applies to every trip. Prevention is the priority – we mitigate risk with conservative route decisions, timing, and group management. When conditions change, plans change.
All participants are required to read the tunduk Emergency Concept. It covers prevention, decision-making in the field, and emergency procedures.
On all trips in remote areas without mobile coverage we carry a Garmin inReach satellite communicator for emergency communication.
general travel safety information on our destination pages →
Wearing a riding helmet is your own responsibility. While we highly recommend wearing one, it is not mandatory.
Insurance is the responsibility of each participant. Coverage must include health (illness and accident), rescue and evacuation in the destination country, and repatriation. We may ask for proof of insurance prior to departure.
Travel insurance is not mandatory but strongly recommended. It should cover trip cancellation, lost equipment, and any activity-specific risks relevant to the trip.
Participants are responsible for their own insurance (rescue, evacuation, health, travel cancellation, etc.) and a proof has to be presented to the organizer prior to the trip.
Full travel information for
Up to 120 days before departure
Up to 60 days before departure
50%
Up to 30 days before departure
80%
Less than 30 days before departure
100%
Any costs already incurred on your behalf at the time of cancellation – such as for train tickets, reservations, or permits – will be charged in full, regardless of the above schedule. In exceptional cases tunduk may offer a full refund minus a handling fee of CHF 200 at its discretion. Only upon request and without guaranteed right.
10 days · 4-6 pers. · from CHF 1850.-
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