I recently went horse riding in Karakol in Kyrgyzstan and I was not sure what to expect from my journey into the Kyrgyz mountains. But my experiences opened my eyes to the ground reality of horse riding.
Upon return I decided to put together a quick guide about my Kyrgyzstan horse trekking experience as well as what to expect before you go, what to bring, and more!
What to know before horse riding in Kyrgyzstan
So, my two day horse-riding holiday to Altyn Arashan was meant to be a treat to myself. I had been assured that at the end of the journey, I could soak up in the hot springs at Altyn Arashan that would wash away all the fatigue of riding a horse up in the mountains. I had time on hand and was eager to indulge in what I wanted to be a holiday to remember.
So off I went.
I am terribly fond of horses and knowing well Kyrgyzstan’s love for horses, it seemed to be a great decision too. Well, horses play an important role in the country’s cultural scene and there exists a close bond between horse and man.
I was eager to learn more about the animal’s importance to the nation and I was also excited to ride one through the mountains.
This is what I learnt at the end of a two-day, back-breaking but immensely satisfying holiday.
- Horse riding is not exactly a piece of cake
- If you respect your horse, you will never have to walk (a local saying).
So true!
How I found my horse
Google. Of course. I spend time looking for a company that provided such a possibility. I had to consider the fact that I was travelling solo and there would be “no group” to join in, so I had to be doubly sure of what I was getting in to. The cost, safety and most importantly which company was going to accommodate my itinerary.
Thus I ended up with Hiking Kyrgyzstan.
The prices were quite affordable (low season helped too) and I was set up with a skilled and knowledgeable guide, Aidar.
All set to ride!
But, here is a tip: If you’re a beginner and simply want to ride because “you love the feel of the horse under you,” I strongly recommend taking a shorter tour in a flatter area so you can learn how to control the horse and your balance when on it for the first time.
My horse riding tour was in the mountains and valley of Altyn Arashan and it lasted two days, 16kms one way. While this was still a trek for novice horse riders, it wasn’t always easy to control the horse, my balance, and snapping photos. But Aidar handled it all so well and assured me that, for a novice rider, I was doing very well.
My horse, I was glad to note, was well rested and well fed, strong and used to the rugged mountains, just the kind of horse you’d want under you for your first time.
***Another important thing to keep in mind when riding in the mountains is altitude sickness. Kyrgyzstan is one of the highest countries in the world and going higher into the mountains might cause altitude sickness – if that is the case, do be sure to bring some altitude sickness pills.
Things to bring with you on your adventure
To be honest, it really depends on the number of days you set aside for your Kyrgyzstan horse riding adventure. but consider bringing with you the following –
- Sunscreen: The sun is no joke in Kyrgyzstan and even if it is below freezing, the sun will still burn you, especially in the mountains where you’re closer to it.
- Moisturizer: Winds are strong and tend to dry out and chap your skin and it helps to rehydrate your skin from time to time.
- Hiking boots: While you will be on a horse for your journey, you will still want to wear durable hiking boots. It will help you feel secure but it will also allow you the chance to hike if needed if you struggle on the horse unexpectedly. I had to get off in places – we went through two avalanches (that occurred weeks earlier but pretty much closed certain sections of the way) – and lead the horse through rock-strewn paths.
- Sunglasses
- A warm hat and rain jacket
- Thermals: There is no saying when the cold will set in.
