Horseback Riding Almaty

Discover Horseback Riding in the Mountains of Almaty

Almaty, the former capital of Kazakhstan, is a gateway to the majestic Tian Shan mountains. Among its most accessible ranges is the Zailiysky Alatau, whose northern slopes rise just a short drive from the city. Horseback riding here offers an intimate way to explore alpine meadows, forested gorges, and panoramic viewpoints that are otherwise unreachable by car. The tours featured in this section are built around this ancient mode of travel, connecting you to the nomadic heritage of the Kazakh steppe and mountains.

Whether you are a beginner or an experienced rider, the programs below are designed to showcase the diversity of the region. From a half-day excursion in the Ile-Alatau National Park to a multi-day expedition to the foot of Belukha, each journey provides a unique perspective on the landscape and culture. Riders are accompanied by experienced guides and horses accustomed to mountain trails, ensuring a safe and memorable experience.

Geography and Climate of the Region

The Zailiysky Alatau is a northern branch of the Tian Shan, stretching over 350 kilometers south and east of Almaty. Its peaks reach heights of 4,000 to 5,000 meters, with the highest point, Talgar Peak, standing at 4,979 meters. The mountains act as a natural barrier, protecting the city from cold northern winds and creating a diverse climate. Summer temperatures in the foothills range from 20°C to 30°C, while higher elevations remain cooler, making riding comfortable even in July and August.

The vegetation changes dramatically with altitude: from steppe and orchards at the base to dense spruce forests at 1,500–2,500 meters, and then to alpine meadows and rocky slopes. Rivers such as the Malaya Almatinka and Bolshaya Almatinka carve deep gorges, offering scenic routes for riders. The best months for horseback riding are from May to October, when the trails are free of snow and the weather is stable. However, even in summer, sudden thunderstorms are possible, so rain gear is essential.

Preparation for a Horseback Ride

Physical preparation is key to enjoying a ride. Even a two-hour excursion requires basic stamina and balance, as you will be sitting in a saddle and controlling the horse. It is advisable to engage in light exercise such as walking or cycling in the weeks before your tour to strengthen your legs and core. For longer rides, such as the 10-day expedition, endurance training is crucial, as you will spend 6–7 hours in the saddle daily.

What to wear? Long trousers, preferably without thick seams, protect your legs from chafing. Sturdy boots with a small heel prevent your feet from slipping through the stirrups. A hat is recommended. Layers of clothing are recommended to adapt to changing temperatures. Bring sunscreen, sunglasses, and a small backpack with water and snacks. For multi-day tours, a sleeping bag and personal items are necessary, but detailed packing lists are provided upon booking.

Horseback Ride and Archery in the Ile-Alatau Mountains

This tour combines a gentle two-hour ride through alpine meadows with an archery masterclass, all set against the backdrop of the Zailiysky Alatau. It is an ideal introduction to both horseback riding and traditional skills, suitable for beginners with no prior experience. The program runs on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays, departing at 09:00 from Almaty, and lasts approximately six hours.

Itinerary and Highlights

After a transfer of about 45 minutes from Republic Square, you will arrive in the Kok-Zhailau gorge. Here, you will meet your horse and guide-instructor and receive a safety briefing. The two-hour ride follows Ile-Alatau trails through alpine meadows to a waterfall. The pace is relaxed, allowing you to absorb the scenery and take photographs.

After the ride, a hot lunch is served in a meadow (plov or kuyrdak, tea and flatbread). Then an archer introduces you to the traditional bow: stance, nocking and aiming, with 10 shots at targets and a small competition. A photo session in national costumes is available on request for $7.

The group leaves at 15:00 and is back in Almaty at approximately 15:30. This is a perfect choice for families, couples, or solo travelers who want a taste of adventure without committing to a multi-day trip. Remember to bring your camera, as the photo opportunities are abundant.

What's Included and What to Expect

The price of $54 per person covers the horse ride, the archery masterclass, instruction by a professional, and all necessary equipment. Transfers from Almaty to the trailhead and back, a hot lunch and bottled water are also included. The group format means you will ride with other participants. The total duration of the ride is two hours, with the remaining time dedicated to transfers, briefing, archery, and breaks.

No prior experience is required for either activity. The horses are calm and well-trained, and the guides are attentive to safety. However, there are some restrictions: participants should be in good health and able to mount and dismount a horse with assistance. Weight limits may apply, so it is advisable to inform the operator of any concerns at the time of booking. If you would like to go with your own group only, we will check what is possible for your date on WhatsApp.

Best Time to Go and What to Bring

Departures run on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays at 09:00, which helps you avoid the midday heat and catch the morning light for photography. The weather decision is made on the day of departure; if we cancel, your booking is moved or cancelled free of charge.

For this trip, bring a light jacket, as it is windy in the mountains. Wear closed-toe shoes, such as sneakers or boots. Sunscreen, sunglasses and a hat are essential, as the sun at altitude is intense. Horses, tack, the bow and arrows are provided on site.

Golden Eagle Hunting and Horseback Riding

For a deeper immersion into Kazakh traditions, this tour offers a unique combination of hunting with a golden eagle and a horseback ride across the steppe and hills of the foothills. It is an individual tour, meaning the experience is tailored to your group, with flexible timing to suit your schedule. The duration is about seven hours, and the price is $112 per person.

The Art of Berkutchi

Golden eagle hunting, or berkutchi, is an ancient practice among the Kazakhs, passed down from generation to generation. The eagles, trained to hunt foxes and hares, are powerful birds with a wingspan of over two meters. In this tour, you will visit a family of berkutchi who will demonstrate the bond between hunter and bird. You will learn about the training process, the history of this tradition, and have the opportunity to hold the eagle on your arm, under the guidance of the master.

The demonstration takes place in the foothills, where the terrain resembles the hunting grounds of the past. The berkutchi will release the eagle to fly and return, showcasing its agility and obedience. The hunt itself is a demonstration (an imitation), but the falconry tradition behind it is a genuine living heritage, recognized by UNESCO as an Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity. The experience is intimate, as it is just your group and the eagle keeper.

Horseback Riding Through Gorges

After the eagle demonstration, you will mount horses for a ride of about one hour across the steppe and hills. The horses are calm, and the pace suits beginners; everyone decides for themselves whether to get in the saddle.

This tour is ideal for those interested in cultural heritage and nature. It is more than a simple ride; it is an educational experience that connects you to the nomadic lifestyle of the Kazakhs. Since it is an individual tour, the itinerary can be adjusted to your preferences, but the core elements remain the same. The timing is flexible, with departures available daily upon request.

Logistics and Recommendations

The tour includes transfers from Almaty in a comfortable vehicle, as the shepherd’s camp in the Berkuty area is about 60 km from the city. The price covers the services of the berkutchi, the masterclass, a one-hour horse ride, breakfast, a Kazakh lunch and a photo with the eagle; accident insurance is optional and not included. It is advisable to wear layered clothing, as the weather can change quickly.

This experience is suitable for adults and children over a certain age, but please confirm the age and weight restrictions with the operator when booking. The golden eagle is a wild animal, and safety instructions must be strictly followed. Do not wear loose clothing or dangling accessories that might attract the bird. Listen carefully to the guide's instructions to ensure a safe and enjoyable encounter.

Horseback Tour to the Foot of Belukha

This is the ultimate adventure: a 10-day group expedition through the Katon-Karagay National Park to the foot of Belukha, the highest peak of the Altai Mountains. Belukha, at 4,506 meters, is a sacred site for many and a challenging destination for trekkers. This tour offers a unique way to approach it on horseback. The price is $911 per person, and the tour operates from June to September.

The Route and Terrain

The group meets at the start of the route on day one for a safety briefing and horse allocation, then drives by jeep to Katon-Karagay; all transfers along the route are included. From there, you will ride through the park's diverse landscapes: dense taiga forests, alpine meadows, and rocky passes. The route includes several river crossings, where horses wade through cold, clear waters. You will camp at designated sites, under a sky full of stars.

Each day involves 6 to 7 hours in the saddle, covering 30 to 40 kilometers. The trails are not technically difficult but require stamina and a good seat. You will ascend gradually, reaching altitudes of up to 2,500 meters. The culmination is day 7, when the group reaches the foot of Belukha, sets up camp there and, if possible, approaches the glaciers. The sense of accomplishment and the raw beauty of the Altai make this a trip of a lifetime.

Logistics and Accommodation

The price includes transfers along the route, an experienced guide, the organisation of the route with camps, and a horse, saddle and handler for the group. You sleep in tents and meals are cooked over a campfire; meals not specified in the programme and personal expenses are paid separately, and we will confirm the details for your dates on WhatsApp.

No prior riding experience is required: there are adaptation days and a briefing on handling the horse. But the daily rides last 6–7 hours over passes and fords, so good physical condition matters. There is a strict rider weight limit of 110 kg. The weather in the Altai is unpredictable, with possible frosts even in summer, so warm clothing is a must.

What to Expect in the Altai

The Katon-Karagay National Park is a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, home to rare species such as the snow leopard, ibex, and golden eagle. The area is sparsely populated, with occasional herders' camps and small villages. You will have the chance to interact with local Kazakh and Altai people, learning about their traditions and hospitality. The silence and vastness of the landscape are humbling.

This tour is a true expedition, requiring a spirit of adventure and a love for the outdoors. The reward is an unforgettable journey to one of the most remote and beautiful corners of Kazakhstan.

Comparison of Our Horseback Tours

To help you choose the right adventure, here is a comparison of the three tours based on key characteristics. Please note that prices are per person.

As seen, the tours differ in duration, price, and intensity. The first is a perfect introduction, the second offers cultural depth, and the third is a serious expedition. Consider your fitness, experience, and the time you have available.

Seasonality and Weather

The archery ride runs on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays and the golden eagle tour daily; weather decisions are made on the day of departure. The Belukha expedition runs from June to September, when the passes are free of snow. Even in summer, temperatures can drop below freezing at night, so a warm sleeping bag is essential.

Essential Packing List

Regardless of which tour you choose, the following items are recommended:

• Long trousers (jeans or riding pants) and a long-sleeved shirt
• Sturdy boots with a small heel
• Rain jacket or poncho
• Warm fleece or down jacket for evenings
• Sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat
• Personal water bottle and snacks
• Camera or smartphone for photos
• Basic first-aid supplies (blister plasters, painkillers)

For multi-day tours, add: sleeping bag (rated for -5°C), headlamp, personal toiletries, and a change of clothes. We will confirm on WhatsApp what camping gear and meals are covered for your dates.

Safety and Health Considerations

Horseback riding carries inherent risks, and it is essential to follow the guide's instructions at all times. Do not approach horses from behind, and avoid sudden movements. If you have any medical conditions, inform the operator in advance. Pregnant women and individuals with back or knee problems should consult a doctor before participating.

Altitude sickness is a potential concern, especially on the Belukha tour, where you may reach 2,500 meters. Symptoms include headache, nausea, and fatigue. To prevent it, ascend gradually, stay hydrated, and avoid alcohol. The guides are trained to handle emergencies, but you should carry any personal medications.

Age and health questions are discussed individually: the golden eagle tour suits families with children, while the Belukha expedition has a strict rider weight limit of 110 kg. Always confirm these details when booking.

Booking and Additional Costs

To book any of these tours, contact our office in Almaty. We will confirm availability, provide detailed itineraries, and answer any questions. Prices listed are per person and include the services mentioned in the description. Transfers for the Belukha tour are included; personal expenses and meals not specified in the programme are paid separately.

We do not offer discounts or promotions, but we strive to provide the best value for your money. No prepayment is needed to secure your reservation — you pay on the day of the trip. Cancellation is free. We recommend purchasing travel insurance that covers adventure activities.

For private tours, such as the golden eagle excursion, you can request a specific date and time. The price is $112 per person.

Embark on a journey that connects you with the nature and traditions of Kazakhstan. Whether it's a few hours in the mountains or a week-long expedition, the memories will last a lifetime. We look forward to hosting you on our horseback adventures from Almaty.