Horseback Riding Tour To Song-kul Lake
About this tour
Discover the breathtaking beauty of Kyrgyzstan on this unforgettable horseback adventure from Kyzart to Song-Kul Lake. Ride along ancient nomadic trails through alpine meadows, cross spectacular mountain passes, and experience the authentic lifestyle of Kyrgyz shepherds. Spend your nights in a cozy mountain yurt or A-frame lodge and a traditional lakeside yurt while enjoying genuine Kyrgyz hospitality and homemade local cuisine.
This tour is perfect for travelers looking to combine adventure, culture, and stunning natural scenery at a comfortable pace.
Tour Format: Private Small Group
Duration: 3 Days / 2 Nights
Season: June β September
Activity Level: Moderate (Beginner-friendly with basic fitness)
Starting Point: Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan
Accommodation: Traditional yurt or A-frame mountain house in Kilemche, traditional yurt camp at Song-Kul Lake
Transportation: Private vehicle and horseback riding
π Horseback riding in the Tian Shan
β°οΈ 3,365 m mountain pass
ποΈ Song-Kul Lake
ποΈ Traditional Kyrgyz yurts
π΄ Nomadic lifestyle & shepherd families
π² Authentic homemade cuisine
π Mountain nights under the stars
π₯ Private experience for 2
Day-by-day itinerary
Day 1: Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan to Kilemche, Kyzart, Kyrgyzstan
Your adventure begins with an 8:00 AM departure from Bishkek. Enjoy a scenic drive through picturesque valleys and mountain landscapes before arriving in Kyzart Village around 1:00 PM. After a traditional Kyrgyz lunch, you'll meet your local horse guide, receive a safety briefing, and be introduced to your horse before beginning your ride. Today's horseback journey covers approximately 20 km and takes around 4 hours, gradually ascending through green valleys, rolling hills, and beautiful alpine pastures to Kilemche Jailoo. Along the way, enjoy magnificent mountain scenery and experience the peaceful atmosphere of Kyrgyz summer pastures. Upon arrival, settle into your accommodationβa traditional yurt or a cozy A-frame mountain house - and enjoy a delicious homemade dinner prepared by your hosts. Meals: Lunch, Dinner
Day 2: Kilemche, Kyzart, Kyrgyzstan to Song-Kul, Kyrgyzstan
After breakfast, continue your horseback adventure toward the spectacular Song-Kul Lake. Today's ride covers approximately 22 km and takes around 4β5 hours. The trail gradually climbs to the Jalgyz Karagai Pass (3,365 m), the highest point of the route, where you'll enjoy breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding Tian Shan Mountains. From the pass, descend toward the vast alpine lake, passing grazing horses, sheep, and yaks while witnessing the traditional nomadic lifestyle that has existed here for centuries. Arrive at the yurt camp around lunchtime. The afternoon is free to relax by the lake, walk along the shoreline, take photographs, visit nearby nomadic families, or simply enjoy the peaceful atmosphere of one of Kyrgyzstan's most iconic destinations. Enjoy a traditional dinner and spend the night in a lakeside yurt under the star-filled mountain sky. Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 3: Song-Kul, Kyrgyzstan to Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan
Wake up to the peaceful beauty of Song-Kul Lake and enjoy a traditional breakfast with panoramic lake views. Depending on the group's preference, depart after breakfast or close to lunchtime for the scenic drive back to Bishkek. The journey takes you across mountain passes, open valleys, and charming villages before arriving in the capital in the afternoon or early evening. Meals: Breakfast
What's included
Private transportation from and to Bishkek βοΈ Accommodation in a traditional yurt or A-frame house in Kilemche (1 night) βοΈ Accommodation in a traditional yurt camp at Song-Kul Lake (1 night) βοΈ Horse rental for two riding days+ 1 day returning βοΈ Experienced local horse guide βοΈ Safety briefing and helmets available βοΈ Meals according to the itinerary: * Breakfasts β 2 * Lunches β 2 * Dinners β 2
β International flights to and from Kyrgyzstan β Visa fees, if applicable β Travel insurance β Personal expenses and souvenirs β Alcoholic and additional drinks β Additional activities or services not mentioned in the itinerary β Tips for the horse guide and local hosts β Personal horseback riding equipment, if required β Any expenses caused by unforeseen circumstances, weather conditions, or changes to the itinerary outside the tour operator's control
Languages spoken
What to know
* Trip Style: Horseback Riding Adventure * Duration: 3 Days / 2 Nights * Horse Riding Distance: Approximately 42 km * Day 1: 20 km (around 4 hours) * Day 2: 22 km (around 4β5 hours) * Total Horse Riding Time: Approximately 8β9 hours * Group Size: 2 persons or small groups * Total Ascent: 1,584 m * Total Descent: 1,589 m * Highest: 3,365 m (Jalgyz Karagai Pass) * Lowest Elevation: 2,126 m * Difficulty: Moderate Difficulty & Safety This tour is suitable for travelers with a reasonable level of fitness. Previous horseback riding experience is helpful but not essential, as calm and well-trained horses are provided. Beginners are welcome and will receive guidance before the ride. For your safety, experienced local horse guides accompany the group throughout the journey. A comprehensive safety briefing is provided before riding, and helmets are available upon request.
Route & locations
Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan to Kilemche, Kyzart, Kyrgyzstan