The Silk Road Horseback

About this tour

An 8–9 day the Silk Road Horseback journey into the heart of nomadic Kyrgyzstan. We ride from the capital, Bishkek, into the high valleys around Koshkor, cross mountain passes to reach the alpine lake of Son Kol, and continue on to Kol Ukok and Kol Tor. Along the way we stay in yurts, guesthouses and small hotels, sharing space with local families who still move with their herds each season. Nomad Games, long days in the saddle and quiet nights in camp replace staged shows and mass tourism. The trip can be done in 8 days (returning to Bishkek after Kol Tor) or in 9 days with an extra night of rest in Koshkor.

highlights

• Multi-day horseback riding through valleys and mountain passes on the way to Son Kol
• Nights in yurts, guesthouses and hotels run by or connected to local families
• Nomad Games and everyday camp life, organized for locals rather than bus tours
• High-altitude camps at Son Kol and Kol Ukok, far from resort areas
• Local games and traditions not prepared for tourists

What’s included

• Accommodation in yurts and guesthouses
• Professional tour guide
• Breakfast, lunch, and dinner.
• Transfers between destinations
• Custom itinerary
• Entrance fees to museums
• Entrance fees to natural areas
• Flights
• Alcoholic beverages
• Insurance

Itinerary

The journey begins in Bishkek, with time to adjust to the country and explore the city before driving to Koshkor, stopping at Burana Tower and mountain viewpoints along the way. From Koshkor the horseback route starts towards Son Kol, crossing open valleys and gradual high passes until reaching the lake and the yurts of nomad herders. A full day is spent at Son Kol, sharing nomadic life and Nomad Games. The return to Koshkor follows a different trail, then the route continues to the valley of Kol Ukok and its high-mountain yurt camp. From there, riders follow mountain paths up to Kol Tor. At the end of the trip, guests can either return directly to Bishkek the same day for an 8-day itinerary, or spend an extra night in Koshkor and travel back to the capital the following day for a 9-day version.

DAY 1 -Arrival in Bishkek and first contact with Central Asia.

Your journey begins in Bishkek, walk through the city center, Ala-Too Square and the market to soak up the local atmosphere.

DAY 2 -Drive to Koshkor

Drive to Koshkor through mountains and open plains. Along the way there are stops at viewpoints and natural spots to pause, breathe in the landscapes and slowly ease into the country’s pace. Visit to Burana Tower and overnight in a guesthouse with a traditional dinner.

DAY 3 -Start of the horseback route

Start of the horseback route towards Son Kol. Day of riding through open valleys and a gradual ascent to higher areas, unhurried, with time to adapt to the terrain and the horses’ rhythm. First encounters with nomad families.

DAY 4 -Son Kol

Ascent towards the mountain passes and arrival on the shores of Son Kol. Day of long horseback rides along the lake shores and meadows, surrounded by herds and yurts, before spending the night in a nomad camp.

DAY 5 -Nomad Games

Full day at Son Kol living alongside the nomads. Nomad Games (traditional horseback games and local contests) are organized so you can watch and, if you wish, take part in an authentic experience of Kyrgyz culture.

DAY 6 -Return to Koshkor

Return to Koshkor on horseback following a different route. After several hours of riding, we’ll arrive back at Kako’s home, where the whole family will welcome us for a friendly meal. Last views of the lake and the steppe before coming back to the village to rest.

DAY 7 -Kol Ukok valley

After breakfast in Kochkor, we’ll prepare to ascend into the mountains leading to Lake Kol-Ukok, one of the most beautiful and least-visited corners of the region.

DAY 8 -Excursion to Kol Tor lake along high-mountain trails.

Option 1 (8-day trip): direct return by road to Bishkek at the end of the day, closing the trip in the capital and preparing for departure from the country.

Option 2 (9-day trip): relaxed return to Koshkor in the afternoon and overnight in the village.

DAY 9 -Back to Bishkek (only if choosing the longer option)

Journey back to Bishkek by road. Free time in the city to stroll around, wrap up the trip calmly and say goodbye to the country.