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Last Update: 06 Aug 2010

Riding Holidays | Kyrgyzstan

Over 80% of Kyrgyzstan is covered by the Tien Shan mountain range and for this reason, Kyrgyzstan is often referred to as the ‘Switzerland of Central Asia’. This alpine landscape means that transport is severely restricted, with roads snaking up steep valleys and crossing passes over 3,000m - and so horse riding remains an important mode of transport, especially in rural areas.

The traditional national sport also reflects the importance of horse-riding in Kyrgyzstan. Ulak Tartysh (also known as Buzkachi) is a team game resembling a cross between polo and rugby where two teams of riders wrestle for possession of a headless goat carcass and attempt to deliver it across the opposition’s goal line!!

Historically the Kyrgyz people have been semi-nomadic herders, living in round tents called yurts and tending sheep, horses and yaks in the mountains. A horse-riding holiday in Kyrgyzstan therefore centres around experiencing this nomadic lifestyle and immersing yourself in the culture of the Kyrgyz people.

For riders with some prior experience it is possible to join trail rides through the Tien Shan mountain ranges, visiting remote lakes and crossing wide open pastures. These trail rides in Kyrgyzstan offer long hours in the saddle and some challenging riding – some days will be slow as you climb up through snow-filled passes, whilst other days offer canters of up to 20 minutes across seemingly endless grasslands. Along the route it will be necessary to camp although these trail rides are usually supported by 4WD vehicle.

As horses are so central to Kyrgyz culture, even relative beginners can experience horse-riding in Kyrgyzstan - for less experienced riders there are options to stays in yurts on the summer pastures and arrange daily horse riding with the local herdsmen.

Riding holidays in Kyrgyzstan are only possible during the summer months when access to the mountain pastures are not blocked by snow.