General Description

Part of the exotic Silk Route and close neighbour to the bustling markets and splendid temples of Samarkand and Bokhara, the Central Asian state of Kyrgyzstan is reknown for its tradition of horsemanship. Your guide on these rides is an Italian, now living in Kyrgyzstan and married into a Kyrgyz family. Together with a team of Kyrgyz horsemen he will lead you through the pristine Tien-Shan (‘celestial’) mountains, exploring their flower filled valleys, crossing high passes and picnicing on lakeshores surrounded by larch forest. Nights are spent camping amongst the high alpine pasture where nomadic people still live in felt ‘yurts’ herding their stock on the steppe. The rides are for the hardy and adventurous who are willing to trade luxuries for the thrill of visiting a little touristed area that has only recently emerged from communism. The rewards - the magnificent alpine and mountain scenery, the unspoilt nomadic people and their fascinating culture - are memorable and make any sacrifice of comfort worthwhile.

Rides will be run from fixed dates between May and August for 13 days. Private departures and tailor-made rides can be arranged for groups (minimum 4) on request.

Summary

Horses and Riding

The horses are of the tough local Kyrgyz breed, which are similar to Mongolian ponies although a little taller and finer often with some Akhal Tekhi blood. They are around 13.2hh to 15hh, sturdy, sure-footed and used to rough mountain terrain. They are easy and fun to ride and willingly canter for miles through open grassy meadows. Tack is local style and local horsemen are on hand to tack up, untack and look after the horses. Groups are normally a maximum of 8.

Hours: There is between 4 and 7 hours riding a day, moving from camp to camp, with breaks to rest and for lunch.

Pace and experience required: These rides suit riders of various abilities. The horses are small, easy and fun to ride so riders of all experience levels can take part although a reasonable level of experience and riding fitness means you will enjoy the rides all the more and will cope well with the hours in the saddle. The pace is varied though often slow as you ride through rugged terrain.

Accommodation

Accommodation is in good quality hotels in Bishkek and in simple temporary camps or traditional felt 'yurts' when riding. Hotels in Bishkek are an international 3 - 4* standard. Facilities at camps and when staying with local people are very basic. Where tented camps are set up, lightweight 2 man 'dome' tents are provided with karrimats for sleeping. You will need a sleeping bag. There is a central mess tent for meals but there are no showers or proper loos. This is a holiday for adventurous people who wish to experience nature and an untouristed destination. You must be prepared to 'rough it' and enjoy exploring off the beaten track where there are few tourist facilities.

Rates & Travel

Travel
The meeting point for the rides is Bishkek, capital of Kyrghyzstan. British Mediterranean have a direct flight from London to Bishkek 3 times a week. For flights from London budget around £650 to £700 economy return (varies with the season / availability).

Itinerary in Brief (Choch Korka to Son Kul)

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