Horse Riding

10-Day Bishkek to Naryn Nomad Circuit

CUSTOM
Duration 10 days
Difficulty Moderate
Max Altitude 3,016 m
Season June – Sep
Group Size 2–8
Starts Bishkek

Overview

The Bishkek to Naryn Nomad Circuit is a ten-day horseback journey through the centre of Kyrgyzstan — from the Chon-Kemin valley east of Bishkek, through genuine nomadic territory around Kochkor, up to the Son-Kul plateau at 3,016m, and south to Naryn. It covers more ground and more cultural territory than any of our shorter horse riding tours.

This is a custom tour — the route and pace are adjusted to your group's riding experience and interests. Cultural elements include felt-making demonstrations, kumiss production, eagle hunting encounters, and multiple nights with different nomadic families along the route.

Suitable for riders with previous multi-day riding experience. Beginners should consider HR01 or HR03 first.

Itinerary

Drive from Bishkek to Chon-Kemin valley. Meet horses and begin the first short ride through the wildflower-filled lower valley. Yurt camp overnight.

Full day riding through the Chon-Kemin valley. Explore the riverside trails, meet local herders, and settle into life on horseback. Second night at yurt camp.

Ride over the pass into the Kochkor region — true nomad country. High grasslands open up around you. Watch felt-making demonstrations at a local family's camp.

Deeper into nomad territory. Kumiss culture, traditional hospitality, and remote valley camping far from any road. No other tourists in sight.

Begin the ascent to Son-Kul, the high-altitude lake at 3,016m. The landscape shifts from valley grasslands to open plateau. Arrive and set up camp.

Full day on the Son-Kul plateau. Ride across the open steppe alongside wild horses. Meet nomadic families who have summered here for generations.

Begin the ride south toward Naryn. Dramatic descent through a series of river valleys. The terrain narrows as you drop in altitude. Camp in the valley.

Continue the descent. Arrive in Naryn — a remote provincial town surrounded by canyon country. First guesthouse night of the trip.

Explore Naryn and the At-Bashi ruins — ancient fortifications in a striking high-valley setting. Final full day of the journey.

Return to Bishkek via the scenic At-Bashi valley. Arrive in the capital by afternoon. Tour ends. Drop-off at hotel or airport.

What's Included

Included

  • Horse & equipment all 10 days
  • English-speaking nomad circuit guide
  • All accommodation
  • Full board all days
  • All transport

Not Included

  • Personal riding gear
  • Travel insurance
  • Gratuities

Route Map

Interactive route map — Phase D