Group Horseback Tour In Ile Alatau With Yurt Stay
About this tour
A simple and soulful horseback journey into the open steppe and mountain landscapes. No crowds, only horses, nomadic life around, golden evening light, a cozy yurt camp, hot sauna, mountain air and two days of reconnecting with nature. This trip is perfect for beginners and experienced riders and anyone looking for a horseback adventure with comfort, nomadic atmosphere and beautiful wild scenery.
Group tours operate on fixed departure dates. Please contact us before booking to check the current schedule and availability.
Day-by-day itinerary
Day 1: Almaty, Kazakhstan to Kainazar, Kazakhstan
Almaty – Qainazar – Yurt Camp. Transfer from Almaty to Qainazar village (70 km). Meeting with horses and safety instructions. Start of the trip. Passing shortly through the settlement before heading into wide open fields and countryside trails. In autumn, after harvest season, riders can cross open farmland directly, making the route especially scenic and varied. During summer months, routes follow side trails around active fields. The ride is smooth and comfortable with no technical climbs, making it a great option for first-time riders. We move steadily with minimal stops, enjoying beautiful afternoon light and golden sunset views. Arrival at the mountain camp around dusk. After reaching camp, the team takes care of the horses while guests settle into cozy yurts with foldable beds and heating from diesel stoves. Evening activities in the camp: traditional hot sauna, outdoor heated bath tub under the stars, homemade dinner in the main guest yurt, tea, conversations, table games or movies. Overnight in yurts. Distance: 13 km Riding time: 3 hours Elevation gain/loss: +600 m / -100 m Camp altitude: 1330 m Start point altitude: 850 m Approximate Schedule: - 12:00 - Start from Almaty - 14:30 - Arrival to the village - 15:00 — Start riding - 17:00 — Arrival to camp - 17:30 — Sauna - 19:00 — Dinner - 22:00 — Rest time
Day 2: Kainazar, Kazakhstan to Almaty, Kazakhstan
Yurt Camp – Panorama – Yurt Camp – Qainazar – Almaty. Slow mountain morning, breakfast in the guest yurt and relaxed start of the day. Before departure, we saddle the horses for a short scenic ride above the camp to a panoramic ridge with wide views over the valleys and foothills. A perfect place for photos, drone shots and quiet moments in nature. After returning to camp, lunch is served. In the afternoon we ride back down to the village using another trail. There are several route options here, allowing the guides to choose the best and most scenic way depending on weather and trail conditions. Return to the village by late afternoon and transfer back to Almaty. Distance: 3.5 km Riding time: 1.5 hours Elevation gain/loss: +150 m / -150 m Camp to Finish Distance: 12 km Riding time: 2,5 hours Elevation gain/loss: +30 m / -500 m Total Day 2 Riding Time 4 hours Approximate Schedule: - 10:00 — Breakfast - 11:30 — Ridge ride - 13:30 — Lunch - 14:45 — Ride back to village - 17:00 — Ready to depart to the city - 19:00 - Return to Almaty
What's included
1. Return group transfer from Almaty. 2. English-speaking horseback guide. 3. Horse breeder services. 4. Environmental fees. 5. Meals: dinner on Day 1, breakfast and lunch on Day 2. 6. Horses. 7. Overnight in the 2-bed heated yurts. 8. Evening sauna and hot tub. 9. Drinking water. 10. Safety equipment: helmet and gaiters.
1. Personal and other expenses not specified in the program. 2. Insurance policy. 3. Food for snacks.
What to know
Group tours operate on fixed departure dates. Please contact us before booking to check the current schedule and availability. We recommend bringing: - Comfortable long trekking trousers or riding leggings - T-shirt and lightweight long-sleeve shirt - Thermal base layer - Warm fleece or sweater - Lightweight down jacket or vest - Waterproof and windproof jacket - Rain poncho - Waterproof hiking boots with good grip - Two pairs of warm/high socks - Sun hat or cap - Warm beanie - Neck gaiter - Thin and warm gloves depending on season - Sunglasses - High-SPF sunscreen - Headlamp - 1-1.5 L water bottle - Personal first-aid kit and medications - Insect and tick repellent - Personal hygiene items - Small towel - Swimming wear for sauna and hot tub - 20-30 L day backpack - Power bank and charging cables - Personal trail snacks Luggage and clothing that you do not need while riding can be packed separately and transported directly to the Yurt Camp by vehicle. During the ride, participants carry only a small day backpack with water, snacks, extra layers and personal essentials.
Route & locations
Almaty, Kazakhstan to Kainazar, Kazakhstan