Ashu Guesthouse Yurt Hotel Guesthouse 7+ nights Novice riders (try cantering!) Intermediate riders Advanced riders Bishkek Chon-Kemin Valley Lake Issyk-Kul Song-Kul Lake Silk Road World Heritage Nomadic culture Stunning scenery Horse riding Cantering

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Canter Halfway Around Song-Kul Lake in the Sky, Plus Eagle Hunters & Hot Springs | From Bishkek, 8 Days / 7 Nights Riding Tour [Novice Riders and Up]

Departure: Manas Airport

Season: 6/1〜8/31

Destinations: Almaty, Chon-Kemin Valley, Kochkor, Song-Kul Lake, Burana Tower & Ak-Beshim ruins, Bishkek

Accommodation: Hotel, Ashu Guesthouse, yurt, guesthouse

Riding level: Can canter

Riding distance: 5〜20km* Per riding day

Tour Highlights

An adventure cantering halfway around the lake in the sky
Song-Kul Lake spreads out at approx. 3,000 m. On clear days the sky is mirrored in the lake, and the scenery changes from moment to moment with the time of day and the weather. Cantering halfway around the lake from the north shore to the south with these views beside you is truly exhilarating.
Experience nomadic culture to the full
Yurt stays, boorsok making, felt making, eagle hunters and more - a concentrated taste of nomadic culture. Blend into local life and enjoy experiences unique to Kyrgyzstan.
Eagle hunter experience & hot springs retreat at Lake Issyk-Kul
After 3 days of riding at Song-Kul Lake, head to Lake Issyk-Kul, the world's second-largest alpine lake. Enjoy an eagle hunter demonstration and souvenir photos, then unwind at a lakeside hot spring. Active adventure and quiet relaxation, all in one trip.
Accommodation, meals, transfers, activities and guide included
From pick-up at Manas Airport to drop-off on the last day, leave everything to us.

Tour price (per adult)

$1,800–$4,450

Check prices & request a booking (free)

Check prices

1 pax$4,450+ pp
2 pax$2,900+ pp
3 pax$2,300+ pp
4 pax$2,300+ pp
5 pax$2,200+ pp
6 pax$2,000+ pp
7 pax$1,900+ pp
8 pax$1,800+ pp
9 pax$1,800+ pp
10 pax$1,800+ pp
11 pax$1,800+ pp
12 pax$1,800+ 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 and yurt accommodation throughout
All meals throughout
Horse riding (horse and instructor)
Eagle hunting demonstration by an eagle hunter
Hot springs
Boorsok-making experience
Felt-making experience
Burana Tower admission
English-speaking guide throughout
Vehicle, driver and fuel throughout

Not included

Round-trip airfare
Insurance
Alcoholic drinks

Tour updates

The special tour for the Obon holidays (Aug 8-15, 2026) is fully booked.
https://ashu-travel.com/en/news/son-kul-horseback-half-loop-bishkek/

ScheduleSchedule Reviews Tour Experiences OptionsOptions

Schedule

Tour Price

1 pax $4,450+ pp
2 pax $2,900+ pp
3 pax $2,300+ pp
4 pax $2,300+ pp
5 pax $2,200+ pp
6 pax $2,000+ pp
7 pax $1,900+ pp
8 pax $1,800+ pp
9 pax $1,800+ pp
10 pax $1,800+ pp
11 pax $1,800+ pp
12 pax $1,800+ 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

Bishkek, Chon-Kemin Valley, Song-Kul Lake, Lake Issyk-Kul, Burana Tower

Riding distance

5-20 km/day * Per riding day

65-75 km in total

Day 1

Meals: None

Horse Riding: None

Elevation: 800

Charging: ○

wifi: ○

Toilet: Flush toilet

Hot shower: Hot shower

Pool: ×

On arrival

A driver holding an ASHU TRAVEL sign will meet you at the arrival gate of Manas Airport
(The sign may show your name instead)

* For T'way Air:
Summer: Incheon -> Bishkek flights operate on Tue, Thu and Sat only (dep. 18:50 -> arr. 23:15)

* If you are connecting to Bishkek via Tashkent or Almaty, we can meet arrivals between 17:00 and 23:15
* If you'd like an arrangement starting and ending in Almaty for an additional fee, please contact us
Night

Check in at a hotel in Bishkek

It's near your guide's home, so help is close by if anything comes up

Get a good rest before the journey begins tomorrow

Day 2

Open

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Horse Riding: 5+

Elevation: 1200

Charging: ○

wifi: ○

Toilet: Flush toilet

Hot shower: Hot shower

Pool: ○

After breakfast

After breakfast at the hotel, depart by private vehicle for Chon-Kemin Valley (approx. 2-3 hours)
Morning

Horse riding or a horse cart ride around the village

Take it slow and enjoy the scenery

* You can choose between horse riding and the horse cart
Midday

Arrive at Ashu Guesthouse
Time for lunch (depending on traffic, we may eat at a cafe along the way)
Afternoon

Try making boorsok, Kyrgyzstan's traditional fried bread

The village cook will show you how
Freshly fried, they're delicious
Afternoon

Outside of activities, relax with a walk or in the heated pool

ASHU TRAVEL guests can use the pool free of charge (please bring a swimsuit)
Around 19:00

Dinner homemade by the village cook

Ashu's meals are so popular that some guests come back just for the food

Everything is homemade, from the bread to the dishes

Enjoy traditional dishes full of the rich flavors of vegetables and meat
Night

Campfire on request if the sky is clear

Gaze quietly at the fire or chat with other guests

Enjoy an evening in Chon-Kemin
Rest well for the next day in a cozy room with the warmth of wood

Day 3

Open

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Horse Riding: 10+

Elevation: 3000

Charging: ×

wifi: ×

Toilet: Flush toilet

Hot shower: Hot shower

After breakfast

Fuel up with a hearty breakfast of freshly baked bread, honey and more
Morning

Depart for Song-Kul Lake

Felt-making experience in Kochkor on the way

Shyrdak, traditional Kyrgyz felt carpets, feature colorful and charming patterns

Watch the villagers happily at work, then try it yourself

* Since it's a long way from Ashu Guesthouse to Song-Kul, the felt-making experience also serves as a break
Midday

Enjoy Kyrgyz food at a cafe on the way

Arrive at the north shore of Song-Kul Lake around 15:00
Afternoon

Approx. 1-2 hours of riding along the lakeshore

A beautiful time of day when the evening light reflects off the water and the sky and lake become one

* On some routes, a vehicle follows alongside
If you get tired along the way, you can rest in the car, so feel free to tell your guide.

* Riding routes may change depending on the season and weather

* Safety comes first, so the guide or instructor may stop the ride partway if they judge it unsafe based on the horse's condition or compatibility
Thank you for your understanding
Evening

Overnight stay and dinner at a yurt camp

Feel like a nomad!

* There is a simple hot shower, but in busy tourist periods the water pressure may be weak or hot water may be limited

* Toilets are basic toilets or a dug pit with a roofed enclosure

* There is generally no Wi-Fi or charging, though some yurt camps offer them in the restaurant only

Day 4

Open

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Horse Riding: 20-40

Elevation: 3000

Charging: ×

wifi: ×

Toilet: Flush toilet

Hot shower: Hot shower

Morning

After breakfast in the yurt, set off from the north camp

A long ride of approx. 2 hours along the edge of Song-Kul Lake toward the south shore, with some cantering
Midday

Picnic lunch at a scenic spot
Afternoon

Another approx. 2 hours of riding, including cantering

Enjoy the changing views of Song-Kul Lake from midday into the evening
Evening

Arrive at the yurt camp on the south shore

Have dinner and rest up

* There is a simple hot shower, but in busy tourist periods the water pressure may be weak or hot water may be limited

* Toilets are basic toilets or a dug pit with a roofed enclosure

* There is generally no Wi-Fi or charging, though some yurt camps offer them in the restaurant only

Day 5

Open

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Horse Riding: 20-40

Elevation: 3000

Charging: ×

wifi: ×

Toilet: Flush toilet

Hot shower: Hot shower

Morning

After breakfast, ride to a hill overlooking Song-Kul Lake

Ancient rock carvings (petroglyphs) remain on the hilltop, traces of the people who have lived on these highlands
(1-2 hours of riding)
Morning

After a picnic lunch, enjoy more cantering along the lakeshore
(1-2 hours of riding)
Afternoon

With good timing, you may get to see locals playing nomad games (horseback contests)
Afternoon

Arrive at the yurt camp

Have dinner and spend your last night at Song-Kul Lake
* There is a simple hot shower, but in busy tourist periods the water pressure may be weak or hot water may be limited

Day 6

Open

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Horse Riding: None

Elevation: 1700

Charging: ○

wifi: ○

Toilet: Flush toilet

Hot shower: Hot shower

Morning

Leave Song-Kul Lake by car and head to Lake Issyk-Kul

Watch the scenery change from majestic mountains to a crystal-clear lake
Midday

After lunch at a cafe on the way, arrive at a lakeside hot spring

Soak away the fatigue from riding

* Hot springs in Kyrgyzstan are like heated pools: men and women bathe together wearing swimsuits
Afternoon

Enjoy a demonstration of eagle hunting, a Kyrgyz tradition, by an eagle hunter, and take souvenir photos

* The eagle hunter experience may need to be adjusted depending on the weather and the condition of the animals

* We will confirm this when you send your booking request

* For the tourist eagle hunting demonstration, a stuffed toy rabbit covered with fox fur is used as the lure, and the eagle is rewarded with chicken
Evening

Dinner and overnight at a guesthouse near Lake Issyk-Kul

If you have time, enjoy a stroll along the lakeshore

Day 7

Open

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Horse Riding: None

Elevation: 800

Charging: ○

wifi: ○

Toilet: Flush toilet

Hot shower: Hot shower

Morning

After breakfast, depart for Bishkek
Morning

Visit the ruins of Balasagun, the Karakhanid capital where Burana Tower, a Silk Road UNESCO World Heritage Site, stands
Midday

Lunch of traditional Kyrgyz home cooking at a local family's home

Enjoy warm, homestyle flavors that our guests praise every time
Evening

After dinner, check in at a hotel in Bishkek

Relax and get ready for your final day

Day 8

Open

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Horse Riding: None

Elevation: 800

Morning to evening

After breakfast, Bishkek city sightseeing

Photos in front of the Manas statue, souvenir shopping at the bazaar and a honey shop, and more

We will accommodate your requests as far as possible until your flight time

Along the way, have lunch at a cafe recommended by your guide
Night

Transfer to Manas Airport in time for your departure

We'll help you through check-in

* For T'way Air:
Summer: Bishkek -> Incheon flights operate on Wed, Fri and Sun only (dep. 00:30 -> arr. 09:35)

* If you are flying home with an airline other than T'way, we can take you together with other guests for flights departing between 00:00 and 1:30
* If you need to leave earlier, please contact us
You can either get to the airport yourself using Yandex or a similar app, or we can arrange a separate private transfer for an additional fee
* As ours is a package tour, we cannot offer a discount if you skip any part of the tour (such as activities) for personal reasons
This is because it would affect the price for other guests
Thank you for your understanding

Important Notes

* This tour is for riders who have cantered a few times. You don't need to be advanced, but as it involves long hours in the saddle, it is recommended for those confident in their stamina.

* Accommodation at Song-Kul Lake is in a yurt camp. Toilets are basic toilets or toilets with a roofed enclosure. Thank you for your understanding.

* At the Song-Kul yurt camps, there is generally no electricity for charging, except at some restaurants. Please bring a power bank.

* The route passes through high mountain areas at approx. 3,000 m, so there is a risk of altitude sickness. If you have any health concerns, please consult a doctor before the trip.

* As eagle hunting involves animals, the timing, location and content of the experience may change depending on the weather and the animals' condition.

* Hot springs in Kyrgyzstan are like heated pools: men and women bathe together wearing swimsuits. Please bring a swimsuit.

* If you have food allergies, we can accommodate them to some extent if you let us know in advance. Please feel free to ask.

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

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

* Safety comes first on all our rides. Cantering is possible where the terrain allows, but the instructor may call it off if they judge it difficult based on the horse's condition or how well you and the horse are matched.

* Depending on the route, your English-speaking guide may change partway through the tour.

* As a rule, tour fees are paid locally in cash in US dollars.

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

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

* Children under 5 cannot join the tour.

* Showers at yurts and guesthouses may run lukewarm at busy times. We recommend bringing body wipes just in case.

* If arrival is delayed by traffic or vehicle trouble, there may be no hot water left in the tank and the shower may be unavailable. The hot water sometimes 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. We will arrange for families and friends to share a 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 additional fee (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.

* Due to the facilities, private rooms are not available for stays in yurts or tents. Thank you for your understanding.

* Answers to common questions about our tours are collected on our FAQ page, 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.

Start and end your trip in comfort

DAY1

DAY7

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.

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

Tourist yurts at a popular spot

DAY3

DAY4

DAY5

Scenic yurts on the shore of Song-Kul Lake

Tourist yurts set up on the shore of Song-Kul Lake (3,016 m), the world's second-largest alpine lake.

Decorated with colorful traditional Kyrgyz embroidery and felt, the interior feels as warm as visiting a nomad's home.

The spacious interior has 3 to 4 beds and is covered in well-insulated felt, so it stays comfortable at night. Hot showers and flush toilets are available outside, so you can enjoy both stunning scenery and comfort

The showers use hot water stored in a tank, so the water may be lukewarm at busy times. On days when we arrive late due to traffic or car trouble, there may be no hot water left and the showers may be unavailable. Bringing body wipes is a good idea.

Hot water sometimes comes back after a while, so please feel free to let your guide know.

Charging: ×

wifi: ×

Toilet: Outdoor

Hot shower: ○

Sauna: ×

Pool: ×

*Hot showers: The tourist yurt camps at Song-Kul have hot showers, but because the water comes from a storage tank, it can be lukewarm when there are many guests.
*Toilets: The tourist camps at Song-Kul have outdoor flush toilets or pit toilets; nomad family yurts have pit toilets or natural toilets.
*Yurts are limited, so rooms are generally shared, with men and women in separate yurts
*Wi-Fi and charging are available at some restaurants, but this is not guaranteed, so it's best to assume there is none

Chosen by your guide to suit the season and itinerary

DAY6

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

Customer Reviews

5

I could travel with peace of mind in a country whose language I didn’t know at all

8/8 Canter Halfway Around Song-Kul, the Lake in the Sky + Falconry & Hot Springs | Departing Bishkek, Obon Holiday Special 8-Day/7-Night Riding Tour

MT 90s / Female

August 2026

What was good
or fun about the tour

It was my first time in a country whose language I didn't know at all, yet I could travel with peace of mind. I've joined other canter tours before, but I feel ASHU's tour let us experience authentic local culture just as it is, from what we did on horseback to the food. Through the atmosphere of the nomads, their horse tack and the horses themselves, I even felt I had touched the very essence of Kyrgyzstan. During the trip, especially during our stay at Song-Kul, I was deeply moved to realize that the world of the epic of Manas, which I had read before the trip, is still alive today. It was also really wonderful to enjoy local food every day... I can't believe I never knew such delicious food existed...

What could be improved

It might have been nice to have a trip booklet, even a digital one

Message
to ASHU TRAVEL

I'm writing this at the airport right now while drinking a Kyrgyz beer, and my love for Kyrgyzstan is now rock solid. If you ever need anything, I'll come running! Thank you from the bottom of my heart. Rakhmat~🥰🇰🇬

[Why I chose ASHU TRAVEL]
It popped up on my Instagram!

[Ratings by category]
- Accommodation: Satisfaction ★5 / Good points: A local feel, yet reasonably modern / Could be improved: There was nothing to complain about anywhere this time... If I had to pick between Bugu and Bridge, I'd go with Bugu for the breakfast and the feel of the rooms
- Round-trip transfers: Satisfaction ★5 / Good points: Thank you for picking me up right on time despite the delay / Could be improved: If I had to say something, being able to message the person picking us up by text or similar would help if any trouble comes up
- Meals: Satisfaction ★5 / Good points: Not a single miss at any meal!
- Riding: Satisfaction ★5 / Good points: Thank you for giving me such a great horse (a shaggy chestnut) / Could be improved: It would help to make the destination clearer! (e.g., a map briefing before mounting)

Your Pick for Best Staff

Nuriya, and others

Nuriya always looked out for the participants in so many ways. I don't think the Kyrgyzstan trip would have been possible without her. Also, though there's no option for them here, every one of the drivers and the horsemen (the local nomads) was the best. I'm also grateful to the local people who prepared delicious meals for us every day!

Read more
5

It was 100 times more fun than I imagined

8/8 Canter Halfway Around Song-Kul, the Lake in the Sky + Falconry & Hot Springs | Departing Bishkek, Obon Holiday Special 8-Day/7-Night Riding Tour

Asami Ueda 90s / Male

August 2026

What was good
or fun about the tour

Thank you so much for everything on this trip

It was 100 times more fun than I imagined
The beauty of the Tian Shan mountains and Song-Kul, the smart, tough and reliable horses, how close the stars looked from more than 3,000 m above sea level, the kindness and humor of the Kyrgyz people - all of it is a wonderful memory

The yurts and the lodgings were very comfortable too
I heard that the lodgings, restaurants, horse arrangements and everything else were all thanks to the hard work of our guide Nuriya
Thank you all so much
Every meal was varied and full of flavor, and I looked forward to each one

I've become a complete fan of Kyrgyzstan

P.S.
The riding went beyond what I imagined and was pretty tough, but thank you for the precious experience of cantering this much

I want to join again next year

Message
to ASHU TRAVEL

Thank you for your warm support
I'll join again

[Why I chose ASHU TRAVEL]
Instagram

[Ratings by category]
- Accommodation: Satisfaction ★5
- Round-trip transfers: Satisfaction ★5
- Meals: Satisfaction ★5
- Riding: Satisfaction ★5

Your Pick for Best Staff

Nuriya, Bakha

Nuriya
Thank you for your warm support and for always smiling

Bakha
Thank you not only for driving but also for filming with the drone
I was so happy to get footage of those precious canter scenes

Read more

See more reviewsSee more

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What You Will Experience

A long ride halfway around the lake in the sky

Ride halfway around Song-Kul Lake, at about 3,000 m, from the north shore to the south. Cantering past the ever-changing lake views is exhilarating. With picnic lunches and lakeside riding, 3 days by the lake will be an unforgettable experience.

Eagle hunter experience at Lake Issyk-Kul

Lake Issyk-Kul is the world's second-largest alpine lake. At 1,609 m above sea level, it doesn't freeze even in winter, and as a "warm lake" it has long been called the "Pearl of Central Asia." On its shore, enjoy a demonstration and photos with a traditional Kyrgyz eagle hunter.

A nomadic journey staying in yurts along the way

Travel around Song-Kul Lake on horseback and stay in yurts. Meals and nights in a yurt, a sky full of stars... a special time to experience a nomad-like life cut off from modern everyday routine.

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.

Discover Kyrgyz tradition with a felt workshop

Stop in Kochkor to try making shyrdak, a traditional Kyrgyz felt carpet. Known for its colorful, charming patterns, you'll make one while watching the villagers cheerfully at work up close.

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.

See petroglyphs on the hill

The hills overlooking Song-Kul Lake are dotted with ancient petroglyphs left by the people who have lived on these highlands. Climb the hills on horseback and discover traces of history in the great outdoors.

Refresh at a lakeside hot spring

Soothe away the fatigue of your adventure at a hot spring on the shore of Lake Issyk-Kul. Kyrgyz hot springs are heated pools where men and women bathe together in swimsuits. A luxurious moment to unwind from your travels.

Options

Post-tour transfer: hotel to Manas Airport $70 / time

For your post-tour stay, we arrange a transfer from your hotel in Bishkek to Manas Airport

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

*We will make the arrangements after you book

Pre-tour transfer: Manas Airport to hotel $70 / time

For your pre-tour stay, we arrange a transfer from Manas Airport to your hotel in Bishkek

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

*We will make the arrangements after you book

Post-tour transfer & stay | Hotel to Manas Airport + single hotel room $150 / time

A package for your post-tour stay combining a transfer from the hotel to Manas Airport and a single hotel room

*$25 cheaper if transferred at the same time as others on the same tour

*We will adjust this after you book

*Select 1 for one person, or 2 for two people in separate rooms

Pre-tour transfer & stay | Manas Airport to hotel + single hotel room $150 / time

A package for your pre-tour stay combining a transfer from Manas Airport to the hotel and a single hotel room

*$25 cheaper if transferred at the same time as others on the same tour

*We will adjust this after you book

*Select 1 for one person, or 2 for two people in separate rooms

Post-tour transfer & stay | Hotel to Manas Airport + twin hotel room $160 / time

A package for your post-tour stay combining a transfer from the hotel to Manas Airport and a twin hotel room

*The price is for 2 people, covering the transfer and one twin hotel room

Pre-tour transfer & stay | Manas Airport to hotel + twin hotel room $160 / time

A package for your pre-tour stay combining a transfer from Manas Airport to the hotel and a twin hotel room

*The price is for 2 people, covering the transfer and one twin hotel room

For those arriving early or staying on! Guided 1-day horse riding near Bishkek $190+ / tour

Ride in a beautiful location, with cantering possible depending on your skill

[4-hour riding] 1 person $450 / 2 people $280 / 3 people $220 / 4 people $190 (per person)

[6-hour riding] 1 person $520 / 2 people $330 / 3 people $270 / 4 people $230 (per person)

*Cheaper with an English-speaking guide (4 hours: 1 person $380 / 2 people $250 / 3 people $200 / 4 people $180)

*A Japanese- or English-speaking guide-driver accompanies you for the day

*Includes round-trip transfers from your hotel in Bishkek (about 40 minutes each way), lunch, and helmet/chaps rental

*Maximum 4 people due to vehicle seating. Please contact us for 5 or more

*If others join after you book, the price will go down

▶ See full details of the intensive riding course

For those arriving early or staying on! Ala-Archa & bazaar day tour with a Japanese-speaking guide (1-3 people) $200+ / tour

A light hike and cable car ride in Ala-Archa National Park, with views of stunning mountains.

Lunch is traditional Kyrgyz food at a local restaurant recommended by your guide.

In the evening, shop for souvenirs at a bazaar with your guide

1 person from $350 / 2, 3 or more people from $200 per person

(Adjustments may apply depending on the itinerary and transfer route)

*If others join after you book, the price will go down

▶ See full details of the Ala-Archa day tour

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]

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]

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)

Choose one of the dates below and there is no single supplement,
even if you travel alone.
On the booking request page, go to “Select dates” → “Confirmed departures”
and pick the matching tour
to join it.

2027

Often Compared Tours

Popular Tour Ranking

Winter horse riding across the snowfields of Kyrgyzstan

Scenic Winter Riding in Kyrgyzstan: Snow-White Chon-Kemin | Departing Locally, 4 Days / 3 Nights and Up [For Riders Who Have Cantered]

Destinations: Bishkek, Chon-Kemin Valley

Season: 12/1〜2/28

Riding distance: 5~ km/day, 20~ km total

Tour price (party of 5)

$1,400+ pp

View details

Ashu Guesthouse Hotel 4 days / 3 nights Novice riders (try cantering!) Intermediate riders Advanced riders Bishkek Chon-Kemin Valley Winter Stunning scenery Horse riding Cantering

Riding & eagle hunters by a stunning lake, 5 days

Eagle Hunters & Scenic Horse Riding at Lake Issyk-Kul | From Bishkek, 4 Days / 3 Nights or Longer [No Experience Needed]

Destinations: Lake Issyk-Kul, Chon-Kemin Valley, Bishkek

Season: Year-round

Riding distance: 5-20 km/day, 65-75 km total

Tour price (party of 9)

$1,200+ pp

View details

Ashu Guesthouse Hotel Guesthouse 4 days / 3 nights 5 days / 4 nights No riding experience Beginner riders Novice riders (try cantering!) Intermediate riders Advanced riders Bishkek Chon-Kemin Valley Lake Issyk-Kul Silk Road World Heritage Nomadic culture Stunning scenery Horse riding Photos with an eagle hunter

Featured on TV!

Jeti-Oguz Rock Formations & Riding with Nomads in Kyrgyzstan | From Bishkek, 6 Days / 5 Nights [Beginners Welcome]

Destinations: Bishkek, Jeti-Oguz area, Burana Tower

Season: Year-round

Riding distance: 5~20 km/day, 80 km total

Tour price (party of 9)

$1,400+ pp

View details

Ashu Guesthouse Yurt Hotel Nomad family home Guesthouse Tent 6 days / 5 nights Beginner riders Intermediate riders Advanced riders Hot springs Bishkek Chon-Kemin Valley Burana Tower Jeti-Oguz Nomadic culture Stunning scenery Horse riding

Canter Halfway Around Song-Kul Lake in the Sky, Plus Eagle Hunters & Hot Springs | From Bishkek, 8 Days / 7 Nights Riding Tour [Novice Riders and Up]

Tour Highlights

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Schedule

Tour Price

Destinations

Riding distance

Important Notes

About the Accommodation

Hotels in Bishkek

Ashu Guesthouse

Scenic yurts on the shore of Song-Kul Lake

Guesthouse at Issyk-Kul

Customer Reviews

I could travel with peace of mind in a country whose language I didn’t know at all

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Your Pick for Best Staff

It was 100 times more fun than I imagined

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Central Asia Travel Stories

A trip to soothe your tired heart. Enjoy nature and nomadic culture at Lake Song Köl in Kyrgyzstan.

What Is the “Central Emblem” on the Kyrgyz Flag? | Uncovering a Little-Known Symbol of Nomadic Culture

Amazing Yurt! An explanation of the appeal of Kyrgyz nomadic culture, which you can experience by traveling and staying overnight.

What You Will Experience

A long ride halfway around the lake in the sky

Eagle hunter experience at Lake Issyk-Kul

A nomadic journey staying in yurts along the way

Burana Tower, a Silk Road UNESCO World Heritage Site

Discover Kyrgyz tradition with a felt workshop

Souvenir shopping at a Bishkek bazaar

See petroglyphs on the hill

Refresh at a lakeside hot spring

Options

Post-tour transfer: hotel to Manas Airport $70 / time

Pre-tour transfer: Manas Airport to hotel $70 / time

Post-tour transfer & stay | Hotel to Manas Airport + single hotel room $150 / time

Pre-tour transfer & stay | Manas Airport to hotel + single hotel room $150 / time

Post-tour transfer & stay | Hotel to Manas Airport + twin hotel room $160 / time

Pre-tour transfer & stay | Manas Airport to hotel + twin hotel room $160 / time

For those arriving early or staying on! Guided 1-day horse riding near Bishkek $190+ / tour

For those arriving early or staying on! Ala-Archa & bazaar day tour with a Japanese-speaking guide (1-3 people) $200+ / tour

Cancellation Policy

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]

Terms of Travel

Flights

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

Confirmed Departures (Shared Tours)

Often Compared Tours

Song-Kul Lake Scenery & Nomadic Culture Tour | From Almaty: Kyrgyzstan Horse Riding, 5+ Days / 4+ Nights [No Experience Needed]

Ride to Kol-Kogur Lake, Camping in Tents | From Almaty, Kyrgyzstan Riding Tour, 8 Days / 7 Nights [Intermediate and Above]

Popular Tour Ranking

Scenic Winter Riding in Kyrgyzstan: Snow-White Chon-Kemin | Departing Locally, 4 Days / 3 Nights and Up [For Riders Who Have Cantered]

Eagle Hunters & Scenic Horse Riding at Lake Issyk-Kul | From Bishkek, 4 Days / 3 Nights or Longer [No Experience Needed]

Jeti-Oguz Rock Formations & Riding with Nomads in Kyrgyzstan | From Bishkek, 6 Days / 5 Nights [Beginners Welcome]

From Booking to Tour Day

Booking request

Confirmed booking

Payment

Tour day

What was good
or fun about the tour

Message
to ASHU TRAVEL

What was good
or fun about the tour

Message
to ASHU TRAVEL

From Booking
to Tour Day