FAQ

Journeys are ten nights in length.

Journeys run on set dates between May and October. 

Private departures can be arranged.

The horses are locally bred Kyrgyz Mountain Horses, used by shepherds for herding livestock. They stand between 14.2 and 15.2hh, and are strong, adaptable and extremely sure-footed. Horses in Kyrgyzstan are not usually gelded, so many are stallions, but they are accustomed to working and riding together without fuss.

Traditional Kyrgyz saddles are used, as by the local horsemen. These are wooden framed, with a high pommel, and designed for long days in the mountains. Riders sit on velvet pads for comfort, and the horses are ridden using neck reining. Large local saddlebags are provided.

There are six riding days, usually with around six hours in the saddle each day. 

There is a picnic lunch stop of around two hours for riders and horses to rest. Otherswise, stops can be made at any time if needed.

All luggage and camping equipment is transported by the back-up vehicles.

The weight limit is around 90kg. If you are close to this, please let us know well in advance so arrangements can be made for a suitable horse.

The pace is steady and governed by the terrain. There are opportunities to trot and canter where the ground allows. Some sections, including a mountain pass, are taken on foot.

Journeys are led by experienced English-speaking guides and supported by a long-standing local team including horsemen, drivers, cooks and camp staff, many of whom have worked together for years.

Riders should be confident at walk, trot and canter, and comfortable spending long hours in the saddle over varied terrain.

A good level of general fitness is important. If you do not ride regularly, we recommend building up in advance.

Much of the riding follows shepherds’ paths through remote mountain landscapes, with very little sign of modern life.

In spring and early summer, the mountains are covered in wildflowers including tulips, irises and peonies. Later in the season, fruit ripens across the valleys. Wildlife includes eagles and vultures, with wolves, Marco Polo goats and bears high in the mountains, though rarely seen.

Kyrgyzstan is a safe and welcoming country. It is traditionally Muslim, but in a relaxed and secular way, and visitors are warmed with great warmth. Infrastructure remains simple and flexibility is important as weather and conditions in the mountains can be unpredictable.

UK, EU, US and Australian passport holders do not require a visa for stays of up to 60 days. Other nationalities should check requirements in advance.

The first and final nights are spent in Bishkek in a small, comfortable hotel with a garden and swimming pool. All other nights are spent camping along the route in the movable camp.

The camp is moved each day by the team and set up ahead of the riders. There is a mess tent for meals, with tables and chairs, long drop loo tents, wast tents and hot water on arrival in camp. Spacious British-made tents are supplied for sleeping and comfortable camp beds.

Meals are prepared throughout the journey by three local cooks. The food is a mix of Russian and Central Asian cooking, with plenty of vegetables and fruit, and nearly all ingredients are local and organic. Breakfast, picnic lunch and dinner are all provided.

In Bishkek we eat in local restaurants, including an atmospheric Georgian restaurant.

Yes, all dietary requirements can be accommodated but please let us know in advance.

Journeys run between May and October, when conditions are generally at their best. Temperatures vary with Bishkek very hot in summer, and weather in the mountains is less predictable. Rain is possible at any time.

A full packing list will be sent on booking.

Please get in touch and we can help.

Alexandra Tolstoy Travel supports Uplift Aufwind, an NGO working with children with disabilities in Kyrgyzstan and helping families keep them at home rather than in state institutions.