Horse Riding
Since ancient times horse breeding has been an important tradition of Kyrgyz people.
Due to Kyrgyzstan’s nomadic heritage, horse breeding and riding have been an integral part of Kyrgyz culture and livelihood since ancient times.This makes Kyrgyzstan an ideal place to go horseback riding. Not only are there horses all around the country, but everyone in the rural areas know how to ride and take care of them.Since horses are so closely tied to the country’s culture, horseback riding tours are a great way to see the country in a way that will help connect travelers to that culture.
Tours are available for novice as well as advanced riders and the duration of horseback tours can range anywhere from a couple hours to a couple weeks. It all depends on the desires of the traveler. Here are some examples of the kinds of horseback riding tours that are available.
Scenic Tours
Travelers interested in simply reveling in the beauty of Kyrgyzstan’s landscape can take tours that focus on traveling to various destinations in the countryside/mountains. Some people like to ride through gorges, some through mountain passes, and some to alpine lakes. Whatever the destination, there’s no way to go wrong with a scenic tour of Kyrgyzstan via horseback.
Culture Tours
Travelers interested in experiencing more of nomadic culture can go on tours that include visits to yurt camps where they can see the famous hospitality of nomadic families and try Kyrgyzstan’s national drink (fermented mare’s milk called kymyz) straight from the mountain pastures where it’s produced.
History Tours
Travelers interested in learning more about the country’s history can take horseback tours that include visits to historic sites. Kyrgyzstan is most famous for its position along the ancient Silk Road, so Silk Road sites are popular destinations for tours, but there are an abundance of other historical sites to visit as well.
