Chaar Horse Trail Expedition: In the Nomads’ Footsteps.

This trip is best suited for those with a passion for horses and outdoor adventures. Previous outdoor riding, trekking and camping experience is important as this is a truly remote experience. 7 days will be spent camping in the mountains with tents or yurts, no bathrooms, no electricity and often no cell phone signal. We hope you are the kind of person who will see this as a positive, a real chance to disconnect with your day-to-day life and find new perspectives in the mountains.

There will be an experienced guide and horseman but you should be happy to take care of yourself in a remote outdoor environment.

Even though it is summer, many parts of the trip are at high altitude (over 3000m) so you will need to prepare for both high and low temperatures, wind, and rain. Much of the riding is at a walk because we will be climbing and descending steep mountain passes, so there is a lot of opportunity to enjoy the scenery. If you are looking for a fast paced ride, it may not be the right fit for you. Kyrgyzstan is a generally safe country and the horses are well trained.

We will do our absolute best to put together a group of horse-loving people and hope we will all leave with some great new friends. Those with a curious, friendly attitude are the most welcome to join!

To ensure your expectations match up with the reality of what this trip will be like, we'll schedule a call before confirming all participants. This is to ensure everyone's safety and enjoyment on the trip. :)

Day 1.

Upon your arrival in Bishkek, you’ll be greeted at the airport and transferred to your hotel. After some time to rest, we’ll embark on a tour of the city, exploring its wide avenues, Soviet-era architecture, and bustling bazaars. We’ll also take time to prepare your personal belongings for our riding adventures ahead. Get ready to immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Bishkek!

Overnight stay at the hotel

Day 2.

After breakfast, we will transfer to the Suusamyr Valley, a journey that will take approximately 3 to 4 hours from Bishkek. Along the way, we will cross the Too-Ashuu Pass, which rises over 3,000 meters above sea level. Suusamyr is one of the largest valleys in the region, located at 2,400 meters, and is known for its rich pastures. Farmers from various regions spend the summer here with their livestock, living in yurts and traditional tents. Upon arrival in Suusamyr Valley, we will stop at a yurt camp where we will meet our horsemen and horses. You will have a one-hour ride to familiarize yourself with the horses and get comfortable before continuing the adventure.

Overnight stay in yurt.

Riding: 1 hour

Day 3.

Today, we will spend 5 hours riding chaar horses, exploring the vast landscape of Suusamyr Valley. Along the way, we’ll pass herds of grazing livestock and encounter shepherds’ yurts, where families are immersed in their daily routines. We’ll also ascend nearby peaks, offering a chance to spot wildlife in its natural habitat. In the evening, we’ll return to the same yurt camp for the night, experiencing the peaceful atmosphere of the valley.

Overnight in yurt.

Riding: 5 hours

Day 4.

Today, we embark on an exciting journey to Ters Pasture, where our herds of chaar horses are roaming, pasture where we are conducting chaar horse preservation program. To reach this pristine destination, we will traverse the Suusamyr Valley and ascend the dramatic Jaisan Pass, soaring 3,800 meters above sea level. Our goal for the day is to arrive at the foot of the pass, where we will set up camp under the stars, surrounded by the breathtaking landscapes of the Kyrgyz mountains, ready for the adventure ahead.

Overnight stay in the tents

Riding: 5 hours

Day 5.

After breakfast, we’ll ready our horses, break down our tent camp, and set off to conquer the Jaisan Pass. As we ascend, we’ll encounter ancient petroglyphs etched into the stones, depicting scenes of hunting and wildlife, transporting us back through the centuries. Once we cross the 3,800-meter pass, we’ll descend into the serene Ters Pasture, where a yurt camp awaits. Here, we’ll meet the local shepherds who call this valley home, immersing ourselves in their traditional way of life and the beauty of this remote wilderness.

Overnight stay in yurt

Riding: 4 hours

Day 6.

The day has arrived! Today, we will ride towards Borukorboz Lake, situated at 3,200 meters, to visit some of our herds of chaar horses. We’ll spend peaceful moments alongside these magnificent creatures, enjoying the serenity of the high-altitude landscape. Afterward, we’ll have a picnic on the shores of the crystal-clear glacial lake, surrounded by breathtaking mountain views, making for an unforgettable experience. End of the day we will return to the same yurt camping.

Overnight in yourte

Riding: 5 hours

Day 7.

Today, we embark on a thrilling ride to a new valley, home to yet another majestic herd of chaar horses. Our path will take us past the awe-inspiring Sharkyratma Waterfall, where crystal-clear waters cascade down, surrounded by colossal rocks and towering peaks that seem to touch the sky. The raw beauty of this untouched landscape will leave us in awe at every turn. As the day draws to a close, we’ll descend back to our yurt camp, where the tranquil surroundings will offer the perfect end to an unforgettable day, allowing us to rest and reflect on the wonders we’ve witnessed.

Overnight stay in yurt

Riding: 5 hours

Day 8.

Our adventure continues, and today’s challenge is truly remarkable. We will conquer two high passes, each towering over 3,400 meters, and cross the untamed Japyrtmakty wilderness. This journey will test the strength, patience, and endurance of both you and your horse, requiring mutual care, focus, and teamwork. As we trek through the rugged terrain, you will be mesmerized by the raw beauty of the wilderness, with the immense power of the mountains surrounding us at every step. Our destination for the day is the breathtaking Jylaan Bazaar, where we will set up our tent camp amidst this wild, untouched landscape, resting in the heart of nature’s grandeur.

Overnight stay in the tents

Riding: 7 hours

Day 9.

On the final day of our ride, we will gradually descend into the serene Ketmen Tobo Valley, where the warmth of the sun begins to embrace us. As we make our way through the valley, we’ll pass beekeepers, farms, and fields of corn and barley—signs of civilization slowly emerging after our time in the wilderness. Our journey will lead us to the vibrant town of Toktogul, where we will stop at a cozy guesthouse. Here, we will bid farewell to our loyal horses and the dedicated horsemen who accompanied us, and indulge in a refreshing shower and the sweetness of fresh fruits, savoring the comfort after an unforgettable and challenging ride.

Overnight stay in the guest house

Riding: 4 hours.

Day 10.

Today is a free day, giving you the opportunity to explore the charming town of Toktogul, home to over 20,000 residents. Wander through its dusty streets, visit the bustling bazaar, and watch as old cars weave through the town, offering a glimpse into the rhythm of local life. This vibrant town, with its unique character, will give you the chance to immerse yourself in the culture and create your own impression of life in this lively corner of the world.

Overnight stay in the guest house

Day 11.

Transfer to Bishkek (5 hours)

Hotel accommodation

Farewell dinner

Transfer to airport (1 hour).

Price includes:

• Organization and coordination of stay

• All accommodation and food during the stay (except drink alcohol)

• English speaking guide, horse guide(s)

• Horses for baggage

• Transport for transfers and assistant transport

• Fees for sightseeing and museums

It does not include:

• International air ticket

• Insurance and repatriation.

• Soft and alcohol drinks

• 1 small backpack for personal belongings for a day

• 1 bag with your luggage (only one per person) which will be transported when we travel by minibus

• 1 sleeping bag (0 C degree comfort) and inflatable mattress.

• Warm clothes, shorts and pants, cloak for the rain

• Mountain footwear, tennis shoes and summer open shoes

• Water bottle (1 litre)

• Protection against sun, bob hat, glasses, cream…

• Battery lamp

• Waist bag for papers, documents, and other personal items

• Personal pharmacy: blister prevention products, gastrointestinal medications, disinfectant, analgesic.

Essential: personal water purifiers for travelling. (The guide has a collective pharmacy for emergency care)

Note on the problems of health and pharmacy: It is the responsibility of each of you to warn the Chaar Appaloosa association before the start of the tour about any medical problems (allergies, medical history, drug reactions, etc…). And to take, if necessary, drugs that are specific to you.

Early Bird Pricing - €2,300 (approx $2500 USD)
Pay in Full Before Aug. 31st 2024

The price per person is €2,300 (approx $2500 USD) if you book & pay in full before the early bird deadline of August 31st 2024.

All proceeds from the trip go directly to support the horses, and winter is the most difficult time for us. We need to purchase food, veterinary care, and horsemen to look after the herd during the long, cold winter months. For this reason we offer a €300 discount if you pay in full by August 31st. 2024.

If you wish to pay in installments, get in touch and we may be able to offer this depending on demand.

Regular Price - €2,600 pp