Horse riding in Kyrgyzstan, Truly Nomadic Land
Gallery image 2
Gallery image 3
Gallery image 4
Gallery image 5

Horse riding in Kyrgyzstan, Truly Nomadic Land

Active
(42 reviews)
5d
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Manual confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Spend five days on horseback like a Kyrgyz nomad, exploring the heart of the rugged Alay mountains in the south of Kyrgyzstan. Spend four nights in yurts with Kyrgyz host families who spend their summers tending and protecting their herds of sheep, cattle, and horses. On the fourth day, summit Ak Tor Pass and enjoy the sweeping expanse of the Alay Valley unfolded on all sides.
-Scenic mountain views at Airy Bell (2956 m) and Ak Tor (4,185 m) mountain passes where you’ll feel as though you’ve landed on another planet.
-Sleeping in a traditional yurt where you’ll have an opportunity to meet Kyrgyz shepherds, learn about traditional nomadic culture, and enjoy home-cooked meals.
-Community-Based Tourism. Your use of us will contribute to local communities.

Available options

Horse riding in Kyrgyzstan, Truly Nomadic Land

Pickup included

What's included

Private transportation
Horseman
Horses
Gas with stove for hot tea/coffee
English speaking guide
Lunch
Dinner
Breakfast
Horse to carry your gear 15 kg/person

What's not included

Hotel and meals in Osh city
Services outside of the standard program
Alcoholic drinks
Travel and health Insurance
Flights or other domestic/international transport
Tips
Sleeping bags

Available languages

Guide guide
RU EN

Reviews breakdown

Viator 5.0
1 reviews
5★
1
4★
0
3★
0
2★
0
1★
0
Tripadvisor 5.0
41 reviews
5★
41
4★
0
3★
0
2★
0
1★
0

Important information

Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
Not recommended for pregnant travelers
Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
Note: No prior horseback riding experience necessary.

About Osh

Osh is the second-largest city in Kyrgyzstan and one of the oldest cities in Central Asia. It is known for its rich history, diverse cultural influences, and the stunning Sulayman Mountain, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The city offers a unique blend of ancient traditions and modern life, making it a fascinating destination for travelers.

Top Attractions

Sulayman Mountain

Sulayman Mountain, also known as Takht-i-Suleyman, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a significant religious and cultural landmark in Osh. It is believed to be the burial place of King Solomon and has been a place of pilgrimage for centuries.

Historical/Cultural 2-3 hours Free (Museum entry fee: 50 KGS / 0.75 USD)

Osh Bazaar

Osh Bazaar is one of the largest and most vibrant markets in Central Asia. It offers a wide variety of goods, including fresh produce, spices, textiles, and traditional crafts. The market is a great place to experience the local culture and sample traditional Kyrgyz cuisine.

Market/Cultural 1-2 hours Free to enter (Prices vary depending on what you buy)

Alay Gate

Alay Gate is a historic gateway located in the center of Osh. It was built in the 16th century and is one of the few remaining examples of ancient architecture in the city. The gate is a symbol of Osh and a popular gathering place for locals and visitors alike.

Historical 30 minutes to 1 hour Free

Ayuut-Koshoy Kayen

Ayuut-Koshoy Kayen is a historic complex located on the outskirts of Osh. It consists of a mosque, a madrasah, and a mausoleum, and is a significant religious and cultural site in the region. The complex is believed to date back to the 16th century and is an important example of Islamic architecture in Kyrgyzstan.

Historical/Cultural 1-2 hours Free (Donations are welcome)

Osh Regional History Museum

The Osh Regional History Museum is a fascinating place to learn about the rich history and culture of the Osh region. The museum houses a wide range of exhibits, including artifacts from the Bronze Age, Islamic manuscripts, and traditional Kyrgyz crafts.

Museum 1-2 hours 50 KGS (0.75 USD)

Must-Try Local Dishes

Beshbarmak

Beshbarmak is the national dish of Kyrgyzstan, consisting of boiled meat (usually horse or lamb) served with noodles and a rich broth. It is typically eaten with the hands and is a communal dish.

Main Course Contains meat and gluten (from the noodles)

Manty

Manty are steamed dumplings filled with meat (usually beef or lamb) and spices. They are a popular street food and can be found in many markets and food stalls throughout Osh.

Main Course/Snack Contains meat and gluten (from the dough)

Lagman

Lagman is a hearty noodle soup with a rich, flavorful broth, chunks of meat (usually beef or lamb), and vegetables. It is a popular dish in Kyrgyzstan and can be found in many restaurants and cafes.

Main Course Contains meat and gluten (from the noodles)

Samsa

Samsa are baked pastries filled with meat (usually beef or lamb) and spices. They are a popular street food and can be found in many markets and bakeries throughout Osh.

Snack Contains meat and gluten (from the dough)

Popular Activities

Hiking Horseback riding Mountain biking Tea house visits Spa and wellness treatments Picnicking in parks Visiting museums and historical sites Attending local festivals and events

Best Time to Visit

May to September

This is the best time to visit Osh as the weather is warm and pleasant, ideal for outdoor activities and sightseeing. The city is vibrant with various festivals and cultural events.

20°C to 35°C (68°F to 95°F) 68°F to 95°F

Practical Information

Language

  • Official: Kyrgyz, Russian
  • Widely spoken: Russian, Uzbek
  • English: Limited

Currency

Kyrgyz Som (KGS)

Time Zone

GMT+6

Electricity

220VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Osh is generally a safe destination for travelers, but it is essential to be aware of your surroundings and take precautions to protect yourself and your belongings. Petty crime, such as pickpocketing and bag snatching, can occur in crowded areas, so it is crucial to keep your valuables secure and be cautious when using public transportation.

Important Precautions:
  • • Keep your valuables secure and be cautious when using public transportation.
  • • Be aware of your surroundings and trust your instincts when it comes to interacting with strangers.
  • • Use reputable tour operators and avoid scams targeting tourists.

Getting there

By air
  • Osh Airport • 10 km (6 miles) from city center
By train

Osh Railway Station

By bus

Osh Western Bus Terminal, Osh Eastern Bus Terminal

Getting around

Public transport

Buses are the primary mode of public transport in Osh. They are affordable and cover most parts of the city. However, they can be crowded during peak hours.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Yandex.Taxi

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Central Osh Ayuut-Koshoy Kyrgyzstan Avenue

Day trips

Alay Valley
100 km (62 miles) from Osh • Full day

The Alay Valley is a stunning region located in the Pamir Mountains, offering breathtaking landscapes, crystal-clear lakes, and traditional Kyrgyz villages. It is a great place for hiking, horseback riding, and experiencing the local culture.

Kyrgyz-Ata National Park
50 km (31 miles) from Osh • Half day to full day

Kyrgyz-Ata National Park is a beautiful protected area located near Osh, offering stunning landscapes, hiking trails, and a variety of wildlife. It is a great place to escape the city and enjoy the great outdoors.

Uzgen
50 km (31 miles) from Osh • Half day to full day

Uzgen is a historic town located near Osh, known for its ancient architecture, museums, and traditional markets. It is a great place to learn about the region's rich history and culture.

Festivals

Osh Food Festival • July Osh City Day • September Kurmanjan Datka Festival • April

Pro tips

  • Learn a few basic phrases in Kyrgyz or Russian to enhance your interactions with locals and show respect for their culture.
  • Bargain politely when shopping at markets, as it is a common practice and can help you get a better deal.
  • Try local specialties, such as Beshbarmak, Manty, and Kumys, to fully immerse yourself in the culinary culture of Kyrgyzstan.
  • Visit Sulayman Mountain early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid the heat and crowds, and to enjoy the stunning views of the city.
  • Explore the vibrant Osh Bazaar to experience the local culture and find unique souvenirs, such as traditional crafts, spices, and dried fruits.
From $25 per person

Price varies by option

Adults
Age 15-60
1
Booking requirements:
  • Min travelers: 1
  • Max travelers: 6
Secure booking
Free cancellation available

Similar Experiences

Similar on Klook