Horse Riding
Issyk-Kul to Naryn 7-Day Traverse
RAREOverview
The Issyk-Kul to Naryn traverse is a genuine expedition — seven days on horseback crossing the Kyrgyz mountain range from the south shore of Issyk-Kul to Naryn city, following routes that only local shepherds know. No other commercial tour operator runs this route.
The crossing via the Kongur-Olong pass at 3,875m reaches the Solton-Sary plateau — home to semi-wild yak herds and ancient stone sculptures that predate written history. The Eki Naryn gorge, where two branches of the Naryn river meet in a dramatic geological junction, is one of the most extraordinary landscapes on the route.
This is a point-to-point tour ending in Naryn. Return transport to Bishkek is available but not included.
Itinerary
1h drive to Chetindi to meet horses or guide. Begin ride/trek up the gorge. Reach the meadow Julduz Tor — "place of the stars" — at sunset. The Milky Way is impossibly close. Camp.
Cross the Kongur-Olong pass at 3,875m. Descend to Tuiuk-Tor for lunch. Cross several rivers. Camp at Ak-Tash jailoo. 16km, +595m / -877m.
Trek/ride to Shamalduu Julga "windy pass" at 3,414m. Panorama of Solton-Sary. Spend night with shepherds in the valley near the gold quarry.
Leave Solton-Sary for Kara Bodur jailoo — home to a herd of half-wild yaks and ancient stone sculptures resembling Easter Island. Optional river fishing. Yurt overnight. 12km, +593m / -243m.
Climb to the Eki Naryn gorge — where two Naryn rivers meet, an extraordinary geological junction. Camp.
Descend to Kapchygai valley. Picnic lunch. Reach the Naryn river by afternoon. Camp in tents or yurts. 9km, +100m / -1000m.
Cross hills and forest to a fir-forest valley. Reach the bridge. Pickup by car to Naryn city. Tour ends.
What's Included
Included
- Horse + guide
- Yurt and tent accommodation
- All meals
- Pack support
- Transfer Bokonbaevo in / Naryn out
- Park permits
Not Included
- Bishkek transfer (Naryn → Bishkek extra)
- Travel insurance
- Gratuities
Route Map
Interactive route map — Phase D