Scenic Horse Riding & Hot Springs at Jeti-Oguz and Lake Issyk-Kul | From Bishkek, 4 Days / 3 Nights [Beginners Welcome]

Departure
Bishkek (pick-up at Manas International Airport or a hotel in the city)
Season
June to September
Destinations
Cholpon-Ata, Jeti-Oguz Gorge, Lake Issyk-Kul, Bokonbaev
Accommodation
Yurt (throughout)
Riding level
Beginner Beginner About riding levels
Riding distance
10–30 km (2 rides, whole tour)km* Per riding day

Tour Highlights

  • Scenic riding among the rock formations of Jeti-Oguz Gorge
    Ride on horseback among the bright red rock formations known as the "Seven Bulls" and the "Broken Heart". Featured on TV, it is one of the most spectacular riding routes in Kyrgyzstan.
  • Eagle hunter experience & a second ride by Lake Issyk-Kul
    At Bokonbaev on the south shore of Lake Issyk-Kul, the "Pearl of Central Asia", watch a demonstration of trained eagles in flight. You also enjoy your second horse ride amid stunning lake views.
  • Hot springs after riding, starry nights in a yurt
    Refresh your body after the ride in pool-style hot springs (swimsuits on). You stay in yurts throughout, and on clear nights the highland sky fills with stars.
  • Accommodation, meals, transfers and guide included: just bring yourself
    Transport, meals, accommodation, horse riding and guide: almost everything you need for the trip is included in this all-inclusive tour. Apart from drinks and flights, you will hardly need to spend any significant cash locally.
Tour price (per adult)

$1,250–$2,100

  • 1 pax$2,100+ pp
  • 2 pax$1,450+ pp
  • 3 pax$1,250+ 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

  • Yurt accommodation throughout
  • All meals
  • 2 horse rides (horses & instructor)
  • Eagle hunter demonstration
  • Hot spring entry
  • Admission to sights (Cholpon-Ata petroglyphs, etc.)
  • Transfer from Bishkek airport, vehicle, driver & fuel throughout
  • Guide-driver (throughout the tour)
  • Trip preparation support

Not included

  • Round-trip flights
  • Travel insurance
  • Alcoholic drinks
  • Extra nights before/after the tour

Schedule

Tour Price

  • 1 pax $1,900+ pp
  • 2 pax $1,350+ pp
  • 3 pax $1,150+ 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

  • Cholpon-Ata, Jeti-Oguz Gorge, Lake Issyk-Kul, Bokonbaev

Riding distance

5–15 km km/day * Per riding day

10–30 km km in total

Route

Bishkek → Cholpon-Ata → Jeti-Oguz Gorge → Bokonbaev (south shore of Lake Issyk-Kul) → Bishkek

Day 1
Close
Meals
Lunch, Dinner
Horse Riding
None
Elevation
2000
  • Tour photo
    Our staff will meet you at the arrival gate of Manas International Airport or in your hotel lobby

    Set off right away by private vehicle toward Jeti-Oguz

    The blue of Lake Issyk-Kul outside the window will soothe the fatigue of your long journey

    * Pick-up may be by the driver only, with the guide joining later

    * Our staff will greet you holding a sign with your name or the ASHU TRAVEL logo

    * Please arrive at Manas Airport by the morning, or we will pick you up in the lobby of the hotel where you stayed the night before

    * We can arrange a pre-tour night on request

    * Flights to Manas Airport include connections via Incheon or via Almaty, among others

    * If you have trouble finding flights, we can introduce you to a partner ticket agency
  • Tour photo
    Lunch at a cafe recommended by your guide

    Laghman, plov and more: Kyrgyzstan is full of delicious food
  • Tour photo
    Visit the open-air museum of ancient petroglyphs in Cholpon-Ata

    Rock carvings thousands of years old, scattered across the lakeside meadow, reveal the history of nomadic life
  • Tour photo
    On the way, enjoy dinner at a cafe recommended by your guide
    * Dinner may also be served at the yurt
  • Tour photo
    Arrive at a yurt near Jeti-Oguz

    From the very first night you stay in a traditional nomadic dwelling, wrapped in highland silence under a sky full of stars

    * Depending on the weather and availability, the yurt may be somewhere other than Jeti-Oguz
Day 2
Open
Meals
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Horse Riding
5+
Elevation
2200
  • Tour photo
    A leisurely breakfast

    If time allows, take a relaxed walk through Jeti-Oguz Gorge as its red cliffs glow in the morning sun
  • Tour photo
    Finally, horse riding in Jeti-Oguz Gorge (1st ride)

    Ride among the bright red rock formations known as "Jeti-Oguz (Seven Bulls)" and "Broken Heart"

    One of Kyrgyzstan's most spectacular routes, featured on TV

    ★ Where there is open ground, you can also try cantering.
  • Tour photo
    Lunch with a view over the gorge

    Food tastes extra good after some exercise

    * Picnic lunch or cafe lunch (depends on the route chosen for the weather)
  • Tour photo
    Free time in the afternoon

    Relax while gazing at the gorge, or let your guide suggest something to do based on your wishes
  • Tour photo
    A relaxing evening in the yurt

    On clear nights, far from any city lights, the highland sky is filled with stars
Day 3
Open
Meals
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Horse Riding
5+
Elevation
1600
  • Tour photo
    After breakfast, drive by private vehicle to Bokonbaev on the south shore of Lake Issyk-Kul

    A scenic drive along the blue lake known as the Pearl of Central Asia
  • Tour photo
    Eagle hunter demonstration, a traditional Kyrgyz art

    Feel up close the power of a trained eagle (golden eagle) soaring through the sky

    You can also take souvenir photos with the eagle

    * The hunt is performed with a stuffed rabbit toy dressed in fox fur
    * The eagle is rewarded with chicken
  • Tour photo
    Lunch at a cafe recommended by your guide

    Take your time savoring local flavors by the lake.
  • Tour photo
    Horse riding with stunning views over Lake Issyk-Kul (2nd ride, half day)

    A lakeside ride with a wonderful sense of openness, quite different from the gorge
  • Tour photo
    Relax in hot springs after riding

    Pool-style hot springs where you wear a swimsuit, perfect for soothing your body after the ride

    * The hot spring location and the day we stop there may change depending on the season and local conditions
  • Tour photo
    Overnight in a yurt on the south shore of the lake

    A nomadic night listening to the lapping of the lake
    * Showers may run lukewarm at busy times (body wipes are handy)
Day 4
Open
Meals
Breakfast, Lunch
Horse Riding
None
Elevation
800
  • Tour photo
    After breakfast, reluctantly head back to Bishkek by private vehicle (approx. 6.5 hours)

    Enjoy the highlands and mountains passing outside the window until the very end.
  • Tour photo
    Lunch at a restaurant recommended by your guide

    One more taste of Kyrgyzstan to round off your trip
  • Tour photo
    Transfer to Manas International Airport in time for your flight

    * If your flight is at night and time allows, we can stop at a bazaar or department store

    * This tour assumes an evening flight, so for night flights a late-night surcharge of $30 per person applies to keep transfers smooth (includes dinner and the late-night fee)

Optional add-ons
(extra charge)

  • Late-night fee for evening Manas Airport transfers

    $30 /time

Tour Price

  • 1 pax $2,100+ pp
  • 2 pax $1,450+ pp
  • 3 pax $1,250+ 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

  • Cholpon-Ata, Jeti-Oguz Gorge, Lake Issyk-Kul, Bokonbaev

Riding distance

5–15 km km/day * Per riding day

10–30 km km in total

Route

Bishkek → Cholpon-Ata → Jeti-Oguz Gorge → Bokonbaev (south shore of Lake Issyk-Kul) → Bishkek

Day 1
Close
Meals
Lunch, Dinner
Horse Riding
None
Elevation
2000
Charging
×
wifi
×
Toilet
Pit toilet
Hot shower
None
Sauna
×
Pool
×
  • Tour photo
    Our staff will meet you at the arrival gate of Manas International Airport or in your hotel lobby

    Set off right away by private vehicle toward Jeti-Oguz

    The blue of Lake Issyk-Kul outside the window will soothe the fatigue of your long journey

    * Pick-up may be by the driver only, with the guide joining later

    * Our staff will greet you holding a sign with your name or the ASHU TRAVEL logo

    * Please arrive at Manas Airport by the morning, or we will pick you up in the lobby of the hotel where you stayed the night before

    * We can arrange a pre-tour night on request

    * Flights to Manas Airport include connections via Incheon or via Almaty, among others

    * If you have trouble finding flights, we can introduce you to a partner ticket agency
  • Tour photo
    Lunch at a cafe recommended by your guide

    Laghman, plov and more: Kyrgyzstan is full of delicious food
  • Tour photo
    Visit the open-air museum of ancient petroglyphs in Cholpon-Ata

    Rock carvings thousands of years old, scattered across the lakeside meadow, reveal the history of nomadic life
  • Tour photo
    On the way, enjoy dinner at a cafe recommended by your guide
    * Dinner may also be served at the yurt
  • Tour photo
    Arrive at a yurt near Jeti-Oguz

    From the very first night you stay in a traditional nomadic dwelling, wrapped in highland silence under a sky full of stars

    * Depending on the weather and availability, the yurt may be somewhere other than Jeti-Oguz
Day 2
Open
Meals
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Horse Riding
5+
Elevation
2200
Charging
×
wifi
×
Toilet
Pit toilet
Hot shower
None
Sauna
×
Pool
×
  • Tour photo
    A leisurely breakfast

    If time allows, take a relaxed walk through Jeti-Oguz Gorge as its red cliffs glow in the morning sun
  • Tour photo
    Finally, horse riding in Jeti-Oguz Gorge (1st ride)

    Ride among the bright red rock formations known as "Jeti-Oguz (Seven Bulls)" and "Broken Heart"

    One of Kyrgyzstan's most spectacular routes, featured on TV

    ★ Where there is open ground, you can also try cantering.
  • Tour photo
    Lunch with a view over the gorge

    Food tastes extra good after some exercise

    * Picnic lunch or cafe lunch (depends on the route chosen for the weather)
  • Tour photo
    Free time in the afternoon

    Relax while gazing at the gorge, or let your guide suggest something to do based on your wishes
  • Tour photo
    A relaxing evening in the yurt

    On clear nights, far from any city lights, the highland sky is filled with stars
Day 3
Open
Meals
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Horse Riding
5+
Elevation
1600
Charging
×
wifi
×
Toilet
Pit toilet
Hot shower
None
Sauna
×
Pool
×
  • Tour photo
    After breakfast, drive by private vehicle to Bokonbaev on the south shore of Lake Issyk-Kul

    A scenic drive along the blue lake known as the Pearl of Central Asia
  • Tour photo
    Eagle hunter demonstration, a traditional Kyrgyz art

    Feel up close the power of a trained eagle (golden eagle) soaring through the sky

    You can also take souvenir photos with the eagle

    * The hunt is performed with a stuffed rabbit toy dressed in fox fur
    * The eagle is rewarded with chicken
  • Tour photo
    Lunch at a cafe recommended by your guide

    Take your time savoring local flavors by the lake.
  • Tour photo
    Horse riding with stunning views over Lake Issyk-Kul (2nd ride, half day)

    A lakeside ride with a wonderful sense of openness, quite different from the gorge
  • Tour photo
    Relax in hot springs after riding

    Pool-style hot springs where you wear a swimsuit, perfect for soothing your body after the ride

    * The hot spring location and the day we stop there may change depending on the season and local conditions
  • Tour photo
    Overnight in a yurt on the south shore of the lake

    A nomadic night listening to the lapping of the lake
    * Showers may run lukewarm at busy times (body wipes are handy)
Day 4
Open
Meals
Breakfast, Lunch
Horse Riding
None
Elevation
800
Charging
×
wifi
×
Toilet
None
Hot shower
None
Sauna
×
Pool
×
  • Tour photo
    After breakfast, reluctantly head back to Bishkek by private vehicle (approx. 6.5 hours)

    Enjoy the highlands and mountains passing outside the window until the very end.
  • Tour photo
    Lunch at a restaurant recommended by your guide

    One more taste of Kyrgyzstan to round off your trip
  • Tour photo
    Transfer to Manas International Airport in time for your flight

    * If your flight is at night and time allows, we can stop at a bazaar or department store

    * This tour assumes an evening flight, so for night flights a late-night surcharge of $30 per person applies to keep transfers smooth (includes dinner and the late-night fee)

Optional add-ons
(extra charge)

  • Late-night fee for evening Manas Airport transfers

    $30 /time

Important Notes

* Horse riding takes place in Jeti-Oguz Gorge (Day 2) and at Bokonbaev on the south shore of Lake Issyk-Kul (Day 3), but routes and locations may be adjusted depending on the season and weather.
* 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 demo, a stuffed rabbit toy covered with fox fur is used, and the eagle is rewarded with chicken.
* The hot springs are pool-style and mixed-gender, with swimsuits worn. Please bring a swimsuit.
* The hot spring location and the day we stop there may change depending on the season and local conditions.
* As all nights are spent in yurts, showers and toilets may be basic. Mobile reception can be weak; with a Kyrgyz SIM card you can use your smartphone, but some areas have no signal.
* The Lake Issyk-Kul area lies at around 1,600 m and gets cold in the mornings and evenings. Temperature swings are especially large in September, so please bring warm clothing.
* 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.
* 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 riding level is set to match the first person who booked. As this is a shared tour, guests who join later are kindly asked to understand this in advance.
* 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.

Yurts embraced by red rock mountains

DAY1

DAY2

DAY1

DAY2

Yurts at Jeti-Oguz

A yurt in a valley embraced by the red rock mountains of Jeti-Oguz ("Seven Bulls"), one of Kyrgyzstan's famous sights.

Surrounded by majestic rock faces and open pastures, you'll stay in a storybook landscape. The spacious interior, with 3 to 4 beds, is covered in well-insulated felt, and in spring and autumn a wood stove keeps things cozy and warm.

The toilet is an outdoor natural toilet. Facilities are simple, but that means a wilder yurt experience where you can feel the vast sky and the sound of the wind.

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

*The toilet is an outdoor natural toilet.
*Wood stoves are set up in the spring and autumn seasons.
*Yurts are limited, so rooms are generally shared, with men and women in separate yurts.

Yurts with Lake Issyk-Kul right in front

DAY3

DAY3

Yurt camp in Bokonbayevo

A yurt camp on the shore of Lake Issyk-Kul, an alpine lake embraced by the Tian Shan mountains. The grounds have both yurts and a guesthouse, and we choose the best option for the season and your itinerary. Lake Issyk-Kul spreads out right in front of you in this luxurious location. A night by the lake, with views of the clear water and mountains, brings you as close as you can get to nomadic life. If you have time, enjoy a lakeside walk with the sound of the waves and the quiet.

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
Flush toilet
Hot shower
○
Sauna
×
Pool
×

*If fully booked, you will stay in the guesthouse on the same grounds
*Wi-Fi may be weak

What You Will Experience

Ride to the legendary rocks of Jeti-Oguz

Ride to the legendary rocks of Jeti-Oguz

A ride weaving between the red rock formations known as the "Seven Bulls" and the "Broken Heart." Experience up close from horseback one of Kyrgyzstan's iconic landscapes, also featured on the Japanese TV show "Gutto Chikyu-bin." The ride also takes you to Kok-Jaiyk Gorge, the "Valley of Flowers," carpeted with alpine plants.

No experience needed! Horse riding at Lake Issyk-Kul

No experience needed! Horse riding at Lake Issyk-Kul

A special time with horses amid stunning lake views. Your guide gives a lesson before riding, so you can start with confidence even with no riding experience.

Eagle hunter experience at Lake Issyk-Kul

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.

Hot spring retreat in the mountains

Hot spring retreat in the mountains

On day 3, visit a natural hot spring deep in the mountains. Soak away the fatigue from activity amid the quiet steam. In Kyrgyzstan you bathe in swimsuits, so don't forget yours.

Cholpon-Ata open-air petroglyph museum

Cholpon-Ata open-air petroglyph museum

An open-air museum with more than 900 petroglyphs drawn about 4,000 years ago. Animals such as goats, deer and snow leopards, along with hunting scenes left by the Scythians (Saka), are carved into the rocks. As it's outdoors, there's almost no explanation on site, but with a guide you can understand it in depth. Enjoy the stunning views of Lake Issyk-Kul and the Tian Shan mountains too.

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."

Yurt stays throughout: nomadic culture and starry skies

Yurt stays throughout: nomadic culture and starry skies

Stay in yurts (traditional nomadic mobile homes) for the entire tour. Surrounded by the highland winds and the rhythm of daily life, you'll experience nomadic culture firsthand. On clear nights, a sky full of stars, far from any city lights, spreads overhead.
Guided by an experienced guide-driver

Guided by an experienced guide-driver

An experienced English-speaking guide-driver who knows the region inside out accompanies you throughout the tour. Handling everything from driving to sightseeing, they provide the flexible, attentive support only a small group allows, so you can feel at ease even on your first trip to Central Asia.
*You can choose a Japanese-speaking or English-speaking guide (please note that prices differ)

Options

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

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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)

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

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]
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
Eagle Hunters & Scenic Horse Riding at Lake Issyk-Kul | From Bishkek, 4 Days / 3 Nights or Longer [No Experience Needed]
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
Jeti-Oguz Rock Formations & Riding with Nomads in Kyrgyzstan | From Bishkek, 6 Days / 5 Nights [Beginners Welcome]
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

From Booking
to Tour Day

  • Computer illustration

    Booking request

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

  • Document illustration

    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!