For an experience you’ll never forget, join us on our incredible horse riding holiday in Kazakhstan. This vast and breathtaking country is home to sweeping open steppes, beautiful mountains, and a long standing tradition of equestrianship. Horses are at the heart of Kazakh culture, and riding is more than just a skill, it’s a way of life. For centuries, local people have been expert riders, and it’s often said that many Kazakh children learned to ride before they could walk. Few people know that stirrups and chariots originated with the Kazakhs. As you explore the landscape on horseback, you’ll not only ride through impressive scenery but also gain a true appreciation for the rich heritage and spirit of this proud equestrian nation.
The Kazakhstan terrain extends west to east from the Caspian Sea to the Altay Mountains and north to south from the plains of Western Siberia to the oases and deserts of Central Asia. One-third of the country is occupied by the world's largest dry steppe region, which is characterized by large areas of grasslands and sandy regions. The Atlatau Mountains are remote but rich in picturesque mountain forests, emerald Alpine meadows and populated by nomads, grazing herds of sheep, horses and yaks. Experience magnificent mountain panoramas, gray glaciers and the most northerly peaks (over 7,000 meters) on the planet, travelling along passes only accessible on horseback.
Our Horse Riding Tour in Kazakhstan
The Kazakhstan Explorer takes riders into Katon-Karagay National Park, a hidden gem in eastern Kazakhstan. This beautiful region of forests, lakes and mountains is perfect for exploring on horseback. The tour lasts 17 days with 12 days of riding, and riders will usually spend 4-6 hours in the saddle each day. Local park rangers will guide visitors on sturdy, sure-footed horses, and this tour works well for both new and experienced riders. Those with more experience can enjoy fast rides on forest trails and mountain grasslands and less experienced riders can go at a slower pace that suits them. The horses are a local breed with some Thoroughbred influence. They stand about 15 to 16 hands high and are tough yet easy to handle. The saddles used are similar to the English style but have a horn at the front for extra security, which makes them comfortable for long days of riding.
This horse riding tour in Kazakhstan has no fixed route. It's about exploring the area and finding the best paths through this untouched landscape. Each day brings new sights as you travel through forests and over mountain passes. At night, you'll camp under the stars in hiking tents, and solo travelers will get their own tent. When possible, a yurt is set up as a shared space for everyone. Meals are simple but filling, and basic supplies are carried by pack horses. The team trades for fresh yogurt, cheese, and milk when they meet local people, and fresh bread is baked over the campfire each evening. If you enjoy fishing, the rivers have excellent fish to catch and cook. Part of what makes this equestrian holiday in Kazakhstan special is the chance to see wildlife and ancient archaeological sites. Meeting local people and learning about their culture is also a highlight of the journey.
Getting to Kazakhstan
For horse riding holidays in Kazakhstan, you'll need to fly to Ust-Kamenogorsk (UKK) airport, located in the eastern part of the country. Most flights from the UK and US involve one or two stops, usually in major cities like Moscow or Almaty, depending on your airline and route. Once you arrive, the tour includes transfers from the airport to the starting point. If you need any help with flights or travel arrangements, our friendly team is always happy to assist you.
The Best Time of Year for Horseback Riding in Kazakhstan
The best time for a horseback riding vacation in Kazakhstan is between May and September, when the weather is most pleasant. End April through to June is especially beautiful as the steppe blooms with flowers and birds arrive for the season. July is the start of hiking season when all the trails are most accessible, but while summer days are warm, the evenings can still be cool, especially in the mountains. The weather can also change quickly, so it's wise to bring extra layers, even in the summer.
Book Your Horseback Riding Vacation in Kazakhstan with Unicorn Trails
Unicorn Trails specializes in creating wonderful equestrian tours all over the globe, and we're proud to offer an exceptional riding adventure in this undiscovered part of Central Asia. Our Kazakhstan Explorer holiday has everything you need for a great adventure, including knowledgeable guides who know both the land and horses, comfortable camping equipment including tents and sometimes communal yurts, and good meals featuring a wide range of local foods.
When you book your horse holiday in Kazakhstan with Unicorn Trails, you’re choosing an adventure that combines cultural experiences with stunning landscapes and excellent equestrianship. From your first enquiry to the moment you return home, our dedicated team is here to support you every step of the way. We offer honest, independent advice and share our expertise to help you make the most of your journey. Get in touch today and let us help you plan a horseback riding vacation in Kazakhstan that you’ll never forget.
As one traveller commented:
“An adventurous trip in the vast wilderness of Kazakhstan - a journey I will never forget. Be ready to be amazed by the flowers, the vast empty areas and the contagious happiness of the crew.”
and
“I'm still quite in shock at being home. It was the best time of my life, but I miss my fellow trekkers dreadfully :( All the information provided to us was great in preparing us for the trek, but there was nothing to prepare us for coming home.”
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