A Summer Adventure to Lake Issyk-Kul on Horseback | From Almaty, 6 Days / 5 Nights Riding Tour with Camping [Beginners Welcome]

Departure
Almaty Airport
Season
7/1〜9/30
Destinations
Almaty, Chon-Kemin Valley, Kalmak-Ash Gorge, Lake Issyk-Kul, Burana Tower, Bishkek
Accommodation
Guesthouses (Almaty, Issyk-Kul), Ashu Guesthouse, hotel
Riding level
Beginner Beginner About riding levels
Riding distance
10〜km* Per riding day

Tour Highlights

  • Camping as you travel through the gorges on horseback
    Ride from Chon-Kemin Valley over Kalmak-Ash Gorge to Lake Issyk-Kul. The riding is not as long as on the Kol-Kogur tour, so beginners can feel at ease. Moving on horseback and pitching tents along the way feels just like traveling as nomads. Nights around the campfire under a sky full of stars are truly special.

    * If you prefer less riding, we recommend the 5 days / 4 nights plan
    * If you want even more riding, we recommend our riding tours to Kol-Kogur Lake or Kol-Ukok Lake.
    * If you'd like an eagle hunter experience or hot springs, please consider our Issyk-Kul tours starting and ending at Manas Airport.
  • To Lake Issyk-Kul, the world's second-largest alpine lake
    A blue lake opens up after you cross Kalmak-Ash Gorge on horseback. The effort it takes to get there makes the moment all the more moving. Enjoy this mysterious lake at 1,609 m that never freezes, even in winter.
  • From Almaty across the border to Kyrgyzstan on foot and by car
    Depart from Almaty in Kazakhstan and cross the border into Kyrgyzstan on foot and by car. A two-country journey, unlike our Issyk-Kul tours starting and ending at Manas Airport.
  • Accommodation, meals, transfers and guide included: just bring yourself
    From pick-up at Almaty Airport to drop-off at Almaty Airport, leave everything to us.
Tour price (per adult)

$1,700–$4,150

  • 1 pax$4,150+ pp
  • 2 pax$2,400+ pp
  • 3 pax$1,900+ pp
  • 4 pax$1,700+ pp
  • 5 pax$1,700+ pp
  • The final price is fixed 3 weeks before the tour.
  • Until then, the price changes as travelers join or cancel. We will email you whenever it changes.

Included in the price

  • Hotel & guesthouse accommodation throughout
  • All meals
  • Horse riding (horses & instructor)
  • Boorsok-making experience
  • Burana Tower admission
  • English-speaking guide throughout
  • Vehicle, driver & fuel throughout

Not included

  • Round-trip flights
  • Insurance
  • Alcoholic drinks

Schedule

Tour Price

  • 1 pax $4,150+ pp
  • 2 pax $2,400+ pp
  • 3 pax $1,900+ pp
  • 4 pax $1,700+ pp
  • 5 pax $1,700+ pp
* ASHU TRAVEL tours are “shared tours” by default, so they are easy to join even if you travel solo. A shared tour means several travelers share the same itinerary. You can book new dates and let others join you, or join a tour that is already confirmed. The more people join, the lower the price per person, so you save money and meet fellow travelers to explore Central Asia with. The final price is fixed 3 weeks before departure.Learn more

Destinations

  • Almaty, Chon-Kemin Valley, Kalmak-Ash Gorge, Lake Issyk-Kul, Burana Tower, Bishkek

Riding distance

5–20 km/day * Per riding day

20–30 km in total

Day 1
Close
Meals
None
Horse Riding
None
Elevation
700
Charging
○
wifi
○
Toilet
Flush toilet
Hot shower
Hot shower
Pool
×
  • Tour photo
    A driver holding an ASHU TRAVEL sign will meet you at the arrival gate of Almaty Airport
    (The sign may show your name instead)

    * On this tour you stay in Almaty on Day 1, so afternoon arrivals in Almaty are also fine
  • Tour photo
    Overnight at a hotel in Almaty

    * Dinner is not included, as you may arrive on a late-night flight
    * If you'd like dinner, we can recommend nearby cafes and restaurants
Day 2
Open
Meals
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Horse Riding
5+
Elevation
1200
Charging
○
wifi
○
Toilet
Flush toilet
Hot shower
Hot shower
Pool
○
  • Tour photo
    Depart for Chon-Kemin Valley

    On the way, cross the border between Kazakhstan and Kyrgyzstan
  • Tour photo
    Lunch at a cafe recommended by your guide
  • Tour photo
    Arrive at Ashu Guesthouse

    Try making boorsok, traditional Kyrgyz fried bread

    The village cook will show you how

    Freshly fried, they are delicious
  • Tour photo
    Outside of activities, relax with a walk or in the heated pool

    ASHU TRAVEL guests can use the pool for free (please bring a swimsuit)
  • Tour photo
    Dinner homemade by the village cook

    Ashu's food is so popular that some guests come back just for it

    Everything is homemade, from the bread to the dishes

    Enjoy traditional dishes full of the rich flavors of vegetables and meat
  • Tour photo
    Campfire on request if the weather is clear

    Watch it quietly or chat with other guests

    Enjoy an evening in Chon-Kemin
  • Tour photo
    Rest well in a comfortable room with the warmth of wood, ready for the next day
Day 3
Open
Meals
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Horse Riding
10–20
Elevation
1700
Charging
×
wifi
×
Toilet
None
Hot shower
None
  • Tour photo
    Fuel up with a breakfast full of good things like freshly baked bread and honey
  • Tour photo
    After a briefing, leave the guesthouse and ride toward Kalmak-Ash

    Enjoy 3 to 4 hours of horse riding
  • Tour photo
    Picnic lunch at a scenic spot

    Take a breather with fresh air and beautiful views
  • Tour photo
    After 2 hours of riding in Kalmak-Ash, arrive at the campsite
  • Tour photo
    Pitch the tents and have dinner

    On clear nights the stars are beautiful

    Enjoy a quiet night
Day 4
Open
Meals
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Horse Riding
10+
Elevation
1200
Charging
○
wifi
○
Toilet
Flush toilet
Hot shower
Hot shower
  • Tour photo
    Breakfast at the campsite
  • Tour photo
    Pack up camp and get ready to go

    Continue riding for several hours and cross Kalmak-Ash Gorge

    Take a break with a picnic lunch along the way
  • Tour photo
    After 3 to 4 hours, arrive in Balykchy on Issyk-Kul, then transfer to Lake Issyk-Kul
  • Tour photo
    Have dinner and stay at a guesthouse on the shore of Lake Issyk-Kul
    * Showers may run lukewarm at busy times (body wipes are handy)
Day 5
Open
Meals
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Horse Riding
None
Elevation
800
Charging
○
wifi
○
Toilet
Flush toilet
Hot shower
Hot shower
  • Tour photo
    After breakfast, depart for Bishkek
  • Tour photo
    Visit Burana Tower, a Silk Road UNESCO World Heritage Site

    Learn about the history of Balasagun, capital of the Karakhanid dynasty
  • Tour photo
    Lunch of traditional Kyrgyz home cooking at a local home

    Guests love it and often tell us they'd like to go back

    Enjoy warm, home-style flavors
  • Tour photo
    Arrive in Bishkek

    If you have time and energy, shop for souvenirs at TSUM department store or a shopping mall

    * Shopping time depends on traffic
  • Tour photo
    Transfer to your hotel in Bishkek and check in

    After dinner, get some good rest
Day 6
Open
Meals
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Horse Riding
None
Elevation
700
  • Tour photo
    Souvenir shopping at Bishkek bazaars, honey shops and more

    We'll do a city tour as far as possible, keeping flight times and traffic in mind
  • Tour photo
    Cross the border to Almaty

    On the way, lunch at a cafe recommended by your guide
  • Tour photo
    Cross the border to Almaty

    On the way, dinner at a cafe recommended by your guide

Important Notes

* Day 3 is a night of camping in tents. Toilets are outdoors in nature, and there are no showers. Thank you for your understanding.

* The riding route may change depending on the weather and the number of participants.

* We can accommodate food allergies to some extent if you let us know in advance. Feel free to ask.

* The order of tour activities may change depending on the weather and traffic.

* City sightseeing is affected by traffic and museum opening hours, which vary with the season and departure date, so your guide will take you to recommended places based on the time and weather. We will accommodate requests where possible.

* Safety comes first in our horse riding. Cantering is possible where the terrain allows, but the instructor may call it off if they judge it difficult based on the horse's compatibility with the rider or its condition.

* The English-speaking guide may change partway through, depending on the route.

* Tour fees are, as a rule, paid locally in cash in US dollars.

* If you prefer to pay by international bank transfer, please make the transfer within a few days after the price is finalized 3 weeks before departure. Please note that an additional $30 fee applies for withdrawal in Kyrgyzstan.

* The itinerary and contents may change depending on the weather and local conditions.

* Children under 5 cannot join this tour.

* Showers at yurts and guesthouses may run lukewarm at busy times. Bringing body wipes is a good idea.

* If we arrive late due to traffic or vehicle trouble, the hot water in the tank may have run out and the shower may be unavailable. The hot water often comes back after a while, so please let your guide know. We do our best to keep you comfortable, but unexpected situations like this may cause some inconvenience. Thank you for your understanding.

* To keep prices as low as possible, rooms are generally shared, men with men and women with women. Families and friends will be placed in the same room, so please let us know when you book.

* If you do not pay the single supplement, you may share a room with 2 to 5 people.

* Private rooms are available for an extra charge (hotels in Bishkek can be arranged as private rooms free of charge). Please select a private room in the options section when you send your booking request. For accommodation not shown in the options, please ask us when you book.

* Yurt and tent accommodation cannot be made private due to the facilities. Thank you for your understanding.

* Answers to common questions about our tours are collected in our FAQ, which we update regularly based on the questions we receive. Please take a look if anything is unclear.
https://ashu-travel.com/en/attention/

About the Accommodation

Photos of each place you will stay: facilities, highlights and the food you can enjoy there.

Central hotels, great for city walks

DAY1

Hotels in Almaty

City hotels used on arrival in and before departure from Almaty. We provide 3- to 4-star hotels with Wi-Fi, hot showers, flush toilets and breakfast.

All are centrally located, within walking distance of Panfilov Park, home to Zenkov Cathedral, and the Green Bazaar, with its dried fruit sold by weight and horse-meat sausages. Metro stations are also nearby, so we recommend exploring the city in your free time on arrival day or before departure. The airport is about 20 to 30 minutes away by car.

Charging
○
wifi
○
Toilet
Flush toilet
Hot shower
○
Sauna
×
Pool
×

*The specific hotel is not decided in advance; it depends on hotel availability at the time of your trip.

A comfortable guesthouse amid stunning scenery

DAY2

Ashu Guesthouse

Rated 4.5 stars on Google! (*) A guesthouse with stunning views, stylish private rooms and delicious food that keeps guests coming back.

Set in the rich nature of Chon-Kemin National Park, this comfortable guesthouse has heating, a flush toilet and a private shower in every room. With stylish, warm wooden interiors and rooms decorated with charming Kyrgyz patterns, it's a place to truly recover from your travels. There's also a cool pool in summer and a heated pool in winter. Enjoy the luxury of doing nothing in the calm air of the village.
*Google Maps rating based on 412 reviews as of February 2026

Please note that shower water may be lukewarm at busy times. Hot water is still available, so shifting your shower time a little will make it more comfortable.

Charging
○
wifi
○
Toilet
Flush toilet
Hot shower
○
Sauna
×
Pool
○
More details

*A cool pool is available in summer and a heated pool in winter
*Please bring a swimsuit
*The pool may be unavailable during maintenance

A nomad camp amid stunning scenery

DAY3

Camping in tents

Charging
×
wifi
×
Toilet
Outdoor
Hot shower
×
Sauna
×
Pool
×

A style of accommodation exclusive to our riding tours, crossing the mountains of Kyrgyzstan on horseback like nomads.
Our staff set up the tents and get everything ready in advance, so after a long day in the saddle you can simply arrive at camp and relax (we may occasionally ask for a little help).

Each night, the tents are pitched in the most scenic, comfortable spot possible. It's a special night of authentic nomadic life that no hotel can offer.

Chosen by your guide to suit the season and itinerary

DAY4

Guesthouse at Issyk-Kul

Guesthouses on the shore of Lake Issyk-Kul, an alpine lake embraced by the Tian Shan mountains. From several lakeside options, we choose the one that best suits the season and your itinerary.

With stunning views of the clear lake and mountains close at hand, it's a relaxing stay toward the end of your tour. If you have time, enjoy a walk along the beach with the lake breeze and the sound of the water.

Please note that shower water may be lukewarm at busy times. Hot water is still available, so shifting your shower time a little will make it more comfortable.

Charging
○
wifi
△
Toilet
Flush toilet
Hot shower
○
Sauna
×
Pool
×

*Images are examples and include photos of several guesthouses
*On summer tours, we can arrange a stay in a tourist yurt on request

Start and end your trip in comfort

DAY5

Hotels in Bishkek

City hotels used on arrival in Bishkek. With Wi-Fi, hot showers, flush toilets and breakfast, they offer the functional, comfortable setting you'd expect in the city. Facilities and amenities vary by hotel, but we carefully select convenient hotels where you can fully recover from your journey.

So that we can respond quickly in an emergency, we choose hotels as close to our guide's home as possible.

Charging
○
wifi
○
Toilet
Flush toilet
Hot shower
○
Sauna
×
Pool
×
More details

*The specific hotel is not decided in advance; it depends on hotel availability at the time of your trip.

What You Will Experience

Lake Issyk-Kul, the world's second-largest alpine lake

Lake Issyk-Kul, the world's second-largest alpine lake

A mysterious lake at 1,609 m that doesn't freeze even in winter. Enjoy the blue lake also known as the "Pearl of Central Asia."

Burana Tower, a Silk Road UNESCO World Heritage Site

Burana Tower, a Silk Road UNESCO World Heritage Site

A Karakhanid minaret built in the 9th century. See the ancient tower rising against the mountains and the balbal stone figures scattered around it.

Souvenir shopping at a Bishkek bazaar

Souvenir shopping at a Bishkek bazaar

Visit your guide's recommended spots and look for Kyrgyz souvenirs at honey shops and bazaars. Enjoy the city's buzz at the end of your trip.

Refresh in the pool

Refresh in the pool

After riding or walking, head to the pool at Ashu Guesthouse. ASHU TRAVEL guests can use the pool for free. A cool pool in summer, a heated pool in winter. A pleasant time to refresh and loosen up in the mountain air.

Freshly fried and delicious! Making boorsok

Freshly fried and delicious! Making boorsok

Make by hand the fried bread that villagers eat every day, together with local staff. A heartwarming time to experience Kyrgyz food culture.

Village riding in Chon-Kemin Valley

Village riding in Chon-Kemin Valley

Ride slowly through a beautiful valley surrounded by the Tian Shan mountains. Riding instructors and guides give you a lesson first, so even those with no riding experience can start with confidence

Ashu's popular homemade food

Ashu's popular homemade food

Every dish is homemade with nothing unnecessary added, letting the ingredients shine. Kyrgyz food culture centers on meat, but at Ashu we serve plenty of vegetables too. Many guests come back, and some even travel from overseas every year just for the food.

A nomad-style horse journey, camping in tents

A nomad-style horse journey, camping in tents

Sleep in tents and load your gear onto horses to move to the next camp. Cross passes, ride through highlands and pitch a new camp by a lake. Without lodgings, you gain a real sense of freedom as a traveler. At Kol-Kogur Lake, an unforgettable night awaits around the campfire under a sky full of stars.

Options

Pre- or post-tour stay at an Almaty hotel (2 people per room) $120 / room (2 people) / night

A hotel in central Almaty.
Within walking distance of Panfilov Park, home to Zenkov Cathedral, and the Green Bazaar, with a metro station nearby.
About 20 to 30 minutes from the airport by car.

Breakfast included. Twin room for 2 people. The price is per room and covers 2 people.

*The specific hotel is not decided in advance; it depends on hotel availability at the time of your trip

*Please select the quantity as "number of rooms × number of nights"
Example: 2 people, 1 night (1 room) → 1 / 2 people, 2 nights → 2 / 4 people, 1 night (2 rooms) → 2

Pre- or post-tour stay at an Almaty hotel (1 person per room) $100 / room (1 person) / night

A hotel in central Almaty.
Within walking distance of Panfilov Park, home to Zenkov Cathedral, and the Green Bazaar, with a metro station nearby.
About 20 to 30 minutes from the airport by car.

Breakfast included. Single room for 1 person.

*The specific hotel is not decided in advance; it depends on hotel availability at the time of your trip

*Please select the quantity as "number of rooms × number of nights"
Example: 1 person, 1 night → 1 / 1 person, 2 nights → 2 / 2 people in separate rooms, 1 night → 2

Post-tour transfer | Hotel to Almaty Airport $65 / time

For your post-tour stay, a transfer from your self-booked hotel to Almaty Airport

*Discounted to $40 if others need a transfer at the same time

*We will make the arrangements after you book

Pre-tour transfer | Almaty Airport to hotel $65 / time

For your pre-tour stay, a transfer from Almaty Airport to your self-booked hotel

*Discounted to $40 if others need a transfer at the same time

*We will make the arrangements after you book

Kazakhstan excursion: Charyn Canyon + Kaindy + Kolsai, 2 days / 1 night Contact us / varies by group size & season

A luxurious 2 days / 1 night trip to Charyn Canyon, the Grand Canyon of Central Asia; Kaindy, the mysterious sunken forest; and the emerald-green Kolsai Lakes.

Kazakhstan day tour: city sightseeing & Kok-Tobe cable car $150+ / varies by group size & season

A day tour combining Almaty city sightseeing with stunning views from Kok-Tobe Hill, reached by cable car

Enjoy both the city and nature

*1 person $380, 2 people $250, 3 people $200, 4 people $150, 5 people $150

*We will adjust the price based on group size after you book

Kazakhstan city & Medeu cable car tour, 2 days / 1 night Contact us / varies by group size & season

A 2 days / 1 night trip with the cable car at Medeu, the world's highest skating rink, and city sightseeing. Enjoy the refreshing air of a mountain resort.

Cancellation Policy

Changes or cancellations may incur fees set by our company. For tours we operate, the following fees apply:

  • - From 18:01, 20 days before the tour, until 18:00, 10 days before: 20% of the tour price
  • - From 18:01, 10 days before the tour, until 18:00, 3 days before: 30% of the tour price
  • - From 18:01, 3 days before the tour, until the start time on the tour day: 50% of the tour price
  • - After the start time on the tour day: 100% of the tour price

* Because of the arrangements required for horses and vehicles, if we notify you of a separate cancellation policy at the time of booking, that policy shall take precedence.

Travel Insurance

Insurance Is a Must for Central Asia Horse Riding Tours! How to Choose Coverage for Falls and Emergency Evacuation [Must-Read Before You Travel]

Insurance Is a Must for Central Asia Horse Riding Tours! How to Choose Coverage for Falls and Emergency Evacuation [Must-Read Before You Travel]

Salamatsyzby! This is Sugi from ASHU TRAVEL, scenic horse riding tours in Central Asia. "I want to ride a horse across Central Asia all the way to the horizon!" Many people find ASHU TRAVEL with that dream in mind. But to make sure your dream riding experience becomes a lifelong memory, there's one thing you must never forget... And that is overseas travel insurance. At ASHU TRAVEL, we require everyone joining our horse riding tours to have overseas travel insurance. In this article, we'll explain from our staff's point of view why insurance is essential for a riding trip and how to choose the right one! Why Is Overseas Travel Insurance Essential for a Riding Trip? Our horse riding tours, centered on Kyrgyzstan, call for a different kind of risk management than city sightseeing. Horses are living animals. There's no such thing as 100% safe The horses on our tours are carefully raised by local riding instructors and nomads. Our director, Nuriya, always takes a strict look at how the horses are raised and where they ride whenever she inspects a site. But however well trained they are, horses are living creatures. They can be startled by a barking dog or a small animal darting out and move unexpectedly. Even if you think, "I have riding experience," you never know what might happen in untouched wilderness. That's exactly why being prepared for a possible fall is a must. Evacuation from remote areas can cost an enormous amount Some of our tours visit spectacular spots that can only be reached on horseback. If you get injured there and need to be rescued by a special vehicle, the cost can easily exceed what an individual can pay. Even bigger is the cost of transport back to Japan. For injuries or illnesses that can't be fully treated locally, you'd be flown back to Japan on a chartered plane accompanied by a doctor and nurse. In one case of transport from neighboring Mongolia to Japan, it cost about ¥16 million. There is also a record of ¥10.76 million for transport from Shanghai, China, and there have been cases where insurance payouts involving overseas transport exceeded ¥40 million. Local treatment costs themselves are often cheaper than in Japan, but once you need to be transported, the cost jumps by orders of magnitude. Be well prepared so that, if the worst happens, you can get the best medical care without worrying about the cost. Japan's Ministry of Foreign Affairs also says "¥10 million is far from enough" The ¥30 million figure isn't something ASHU TRAVEL came up with on its own. The Overseas Safety website of Japan's Ministry of Foreign Affairs clearly warns about Kyrgyzstan. There are very few medical facilities that meet adequate standards in terms of hygiene and technology. Even for short stays, it is recommended that you take out overseas travel insurance with sufficient coverage that includes emergency evacuation services (for transport to Japan, a limit of around ¥10 million is far from sufficient, so unlimited coverage is desirable). Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Japan, Overseas Safety website: "Kyrgyzstan: Basic Safety Data" (updated July 17, 2025) It even says "unlimited coverage is desirable." ASHU TRAVEL's requirement of ¥30 million or more is the minimum line based on this. Don't Get It Wrong! 3 Points for Choosing Insurance for a Riding Trip To choose insurance that works even deep in the mountains of Central Asia, check the following criteria. ① "Medical treatment + rescue costs" totaling ¥30 million or more At ASHU TRAVEL, medical treatment and rescue coverage of ¥30 million or more is required. If you're worried, a plan with unlimited coverage gives the most peace of mind. There's one tip for checking this.Depending on the insurance product, the policy document is written in one of two ways. Combined type: "Medical treatment & rescue costs: ¥XX" → judge by that amount Separate type: "Medical treatment costs: ¥XX" and "Rescuer costs: ¥XX" → judge by the sum of the two With many products, the cost of medical transport to Japan falls under "rescuer costs." If you only look at one item and decide "I have ¥10 million, so I'm fine," it won't be enough when you actually need it. Be sure to check both. ② Coverage in the countries you visit Choose insurance that covers you if something happens in the countries you visit, such as Kyrgyzstan, Kazakhstan or Uzbekistan. If the coverage area is set to all of Asia or worldwide, it's usually fine, but check just in case. ③ Japanese-language chat support for emergencies Even if you panic in an emergency, it's reassuring to have a contact point where you can consult in Japanese via LINE or a dedicated app. Even if phone calls don't go through, you may be able to send messages if you have Wi-Fi. How Much More Does ¥30 Million Coverage Cost? Hearing "¥30 million," you might think the premium will be much higher. I thought so too at first. But when I actually got quotes on a comparison site, the difference was tiny. Example: 8 days, 1 person, age 50, sightseeing (as of August 2026) PlanMedical treatment & rescue costsPremiumCompany A, P1Treatment ¥10M / Rescue ¥10M¥2,770Company A, P2Treatment ¥30M / Rescue ¥20M¥3,400Company A, P3Treatment Unlimited / Rescue ¥30M¥4,230 Going from ¥10 million to ¥30 million only costs ¥630 more. Even unlimited coverage is only ¥1,460 more. Since these are different plans, things like death benefits also go up, but that's the difference including all of that. Compared with the tour price, it's about the cost of one or two cups of coffee. I don't think there's any good reason to cut corners here. * Premiums vary by insurance company, age, number of days and destination. Please check the actual amount for your own conditions. Isn't horse riding excluded as a "dangerous sport"? We get this question from time to time. In general overseas travel insurance, we rarely see leisure horse riding listed as a "dangerous activity" in the exclusions. The "dangerous activities" that insurers list as exclusions include, for example: Mountaineering (using ice axes, crampons, ropes, etc.) and rock climbing Skydiving, hang gliding and piloting aircraft Luge, bobsleigh and skeleton Competitions, races or practice using cars, motorcycles, motorboats, etc. Many insurers don't include horse riding on this list, but the scope of exclusions differs by insurer and product. Treatment can also vary depending on conditions, such as competitive riding. To be sure, check the policy terms or key information document before signing up, or ask the insurer. Is credit card travel insurance enough? This is the most common pitfall. Here's a rough guide to the coverage amounts of credit card travel insurance. Coverage itemStandard cardGoldPlatinumInjury treatment costs¥0.5–1 million¥1–3 million¥3–5 million or moreIllness treatment costs¥0.5–1 million¥1–3 million¥3–5 million or moreRescuer costs¥1–2 million¥1.5–3 million¥3–5 million or more Against the ¥30 million standard, that's short by two orders of magnitude. Even with a gold card, a single card almost never meets the requirement. If you have several cards, treatment and rescuer costs can often be combined, so adding up the cards you have is one option (there are also rules such as death and permanent disability benefits not being combined, with only the highest amount applying). For whatever is still lacking, top up with insurance that covers just the shortfall. [Real Story] Insurance Advice from Our Staff Member Sugi I currently live in Kyrgyzstan on a visa, so my travel insurance isn't the usual kind. Here I'll share my experience from when I traveled around Central Asia as a tourist. Check the activation conditions of your gold card's insurance! When I traveled to Kyrgyzstan, I used my gold card's included insurance as a base. However, even with a gold card, treatment coverage is often only around ¥1–3 million, which is nowhere near enough on its own. For tours that included riding, I always added extra coverage. One thing to watch out for is the "usage-based" condition, where the insurance only becomes valid if you pay for things like your plane ticket with that card. I always made sure to pay for things like transportation to the airport with that card so the insurance would be activated. Be sure to check whether your card's insurance is "automatic" (valid just by having the card). Cover the shortfall with top-up insurance Card coverage alone almost never brings medical treatment and rescue costs up to a total of ¥30 million. In that case, top up just the shortfall with online insurance costing a few thousand yen. A little effort multiplies your peace of mind. As for the specifics, I consulted an insurance agent I know and signed up through them. You can sign up cheaply online, but the conditions of top-up insurance are hard to understand and a hassle, so it was easier to get advice (personal experience). Before You Go! Be Sure to Prepare These A credit card with plenty of room on its limit You may need to pay up front at a local hospital, so be sure to carry at least one. A copy of your insurance certificate (both on paper and on your phone) Prepare a paper copy and a screenshot so you can see it even without a signal. Fully Prepared, Off to the Views from Horseback! Insurance is essential for a trip you can truly enjoy. It's the peace of mind of being well prepared that lets you enjoy the winds of Central Asia to the fullest. Prepare in advance and dive into the most amazing scenery with confidence! For horse riding tours in Central Asia, choose ASHU TRAVEL At ASHU TRAVEL, we offer moving, scenic horse riding tours through the magnificent nature of Kyrgyzstan and other parts of Central Asia. A Japanese- or English-speaking guide accompanies you, so there's no need to worry about language Meals, accommodation and transfers are all included, so first-timers can relax Scenery you won't find on ordinary sightseeing tours and deep experiences of nomadic culture https://ashu-travel.com/tour/ Sway on horseback into untouched nature. Your own "map" of the world is sure to be redrawn. 📸 Latest updates on Instagram 📩 We also welcome questions and inquiries on LINE ▶︎ Instagram here → @ashutravel_jp ▶︎ Ask on our official LINE → Add us on LINE here

Terms of Travel

Please read our Terms of Travel.

Flights

How to Book Flights for Central Asia: Choosing the Right Route for Your Tour Itinerary [Latest Edition]

How to Book Flights for Central Asia: Choosing the Right Route for Your Tour Itinerary [Latest Edition]

Salamatsyzby! This is Sugi from ASHU TRAVEL, a travel company specializing in Central Asia. "I want to go to Central Asia, but I don't know how to look for flights." "Where should I even start with my plans?" Many people probably feel this way. In fact, choosing your route is extremely important for a trip to Central Asia. Based on the flight situation as of January 2026, here's how to book flights without regrets, plus tips for putting together a smooth itinerary. Latest Flight Information for Kyrgyzstan, Kazakhstan and Uzbekistan (as of January 2026) To answer the question "How do you get to Central Asia?", let's first go over the typical routes to each country. In 2026, air travel to Central Asia is at a major turning point. By Destination: Typical Ways to Get There Uzbekistan: There's a direct flight from Narita (Tokyo) to the capital, Tashkent (Uzbekistan Airways), so access is excellent. If comfort is your priority, this is the way to go! Kazakhstan: Connections via South Korea, China or Uzbekistan are the norm. However, there are reports that a long-awaited direct Narita–Almaty flight (Air Astana) is scheduled to launch in spring 2026! If this happens, traveling to Kazakhstan from Japan will become much easier. Kyrgyzstan: Unfortunately, there are no direct flights from Japan. The usual way is to connect via South Korea, China, Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan or elsewhere. So for now, the typical style is to fly smartly to Uzbekistan on a direct flight, and to reach Kyrgyzstan or Kazakhstan by combining connecting flights with a bit of an adventurous spirit. Watch Out for Peak-Price Seasons Flights to Central Asia are by far the most expensive in summer (June to August). It's the best season, so if you don't book early, you may go over budget... Winter is the off-season and tends to be cheaper, but keep in mind that there may be fewer flights. Which Should You Choose? "Reliable via Korea" or "Budget via China" When choosing a connecting flight, pay special attention to the difference between routing via South Korea and via China. This is an important point that affects not only your budget but also the comfort of your trip. "Via Korea": Excellent Stability Connecting via South Korea (Incheon) is definitely the convenient choice. The biggest appeal is how comfortable Incheon Airport is and the large number of flights. The airport is clean, Japanese is understood in many places, and enjoying delicious Korean food during your layover is one of the joys of the trip! Using "Trinity Airways (formerly T'way Air)," which has many flights between Japan and Korea, you can get to Central Asia smoothly. "Via China" If Budget Is Your Priority For those who say, "I just want to go as cheaply as possible!", connecting via China is also an option. Depending on the season, you can sometimes find very cheap tickets. However, be careful with transfers at Chinese airports: some flights require you to enter the country first, and some have very short connection times. Plan Your Itinerary Together with Flight Prices and Days of the Week Once you have a rough idea of where you want to go, the next thing to consider is "when, and which flights are operating." Many Central Asia routes don't fly daily, and it's not unusual for flight availability to dictate your travel schedule. Beware of Big Price Swings on LCCs! Take the popular "Trinity Airways (formerly T'way Air)," for example. In the off-season you can sometimes get a round trip for around ¥80,000–150,000, but recently the price differences between seasons have become quite extreme. The other day, when I checked prices for a family member's trip, it showed a whopping ¥230,000 round trip...! Just because it's an LCC doesn't mean it's always cheap, so checking early is essential. Changing Your Route Can Save You Tens of Thousands of Yen Screenshot If flights on your preferred dates are expensive, try looking at things from a slightly different angle. For example, even in the same period, instead of searching for flights straight to Bishkek (Kyrgyzstan), you might find fares of ¥130,000–150,000 by flying via Almaty (Kazakhstan). In that case, you could think, "Why not see Kazakhstan too before heading into Kyrgyzstan!" and build a better-value, richer itinerary around your flights. Smart Ways to Search for Flights and Two Booking Options Where you buy your flights affects the whole trip. There are two main options: ① Search and Book Yourself Use sites like Google Flights or Skyscanner and book with a few clicks yourself. Pros: If you're lucky, you can find really cheap tickets! Cons: If there's a delay or cancellation, you have to handle everything yourself. Budget sites often have no Japanese support, so you may end up negotiating in English... ② Package Tours Including Flights Plans sold by major Japanese travel companies and others that bundle flights and accommodation. Pros: Everything is taken care of, so it's easy. Cons: The downside is limited flexibility. You may not be able to choose your flight times, and itineraries can include stops at souvenir shops you don't want to visit. How to Book a Tour with ASHU TRAVEL You may be wondering, "Should I book flights first or the tour first?" Either way, feel free to consult us first. At ASHU TRAVEL, we flexibly adjust our plans to match your flight schedule. Step ①: Start with a "Booking Request" First, send a booking request (free) through the form on each tour page. It's perfectly fine if you're at the stage of "I haven't booked flights yet, but I'd like to go around this time." Of course, you're welcome to consult us before sending a booking request too! Flights to Central Asia can be a bit tricky, so don't try to figure it all out alone — rely on us. Step ②: Arrange Flights and Adjust the Plan After your booking request, we'll decide which specific flights you'll take. Depending on your flights, such as "arriving late at night" or "return flight moved a day earlier," we fine-tune the length and contents of the tour. Together we'll create the best schedule for you, matched to your flights. Step ③: "Confirmed Booking" Once Everything Is Set Once your flights and tour contents fit together perfectly, your booking becomes a confirmed booking. Enjoying the Journey by Air Is the Central Asian Way Getting gradually closer through connection after connection is one of the joys of traveling abroad. Imagine the scenery waiting for you, and enjoy the views and encounters at each airport along the way. It may be a bit of a detour, but enjoying the whole process is the key to traveling in Central Asia. When you're ready for your adventure, let us know! 📸 Latest flight information and local updates Posting on Instagram ▶︎ Instagram here 📩 Tour booking requests and flight consultations Here ▶︎ Ask us on our official LINE ▶︎ Contact form

Confirmed Departures (Shared Tours)

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On the booking request page, go to “Select dates” → “Confirmed departures”
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2027

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From Booking
to Tour Day

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    Booking request

    Send a booking request from the tour page. There is no charge.
    Please arrange your flights before your booking is confirmed.

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    Confirmed booking

    Check the tour details on My Page.
    If everything looks good, confirm your booking from My Page to complete your application.
    * The cancellation policy applies from this point.

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    Payment

    You can pay on arrival or by international bank transfer. We will send you the details by email.
    You can check your tour details on My Page at any time.

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    Tour day

    We will pick you up at the pick-up point you chose when booking.
    Let’s enjoy Central Asia together!