Overview
Experience a unique horseback trekking adventure in the heart of Kyrgyzstan’s Tien Shan mountains. This 3-day off-the-beaten-path tour takes you from Kochkor to the high alpine pastures of Kyzart Pass, Kilemche Jailoo, Dzhalgiz Karagay Pass, and finally to the stunning Son-Kol Lake (Batai Aral). Immerse yourself in nomadic life, ride across pristine alpine meadows, mountain valleys, and highland pastures, and sleep in traditional yurts under the stars.
Duration: 3 Days
Season: May – September
Main highlights:
Horse trekking in Kyrgyzstan across high-altitude pastures
Panoramic views of Tien Shan mountains and alpine valleys
Explore Kyzart Pass (3,060 m) and Dzhalgiz Karagay Pass (3,325 m)
Lakeside stay at Son-Kol Lake (Batai Aral)
Authentic experience of nomadic life in yurts
Perfect for nature lovers, photographers, and adventure seekers
Kochkor → Kyzart Pass → Kilemche Jailoo
Begin your adventure with breakfast in Kochkor before transferring by car to Kyzart Pass, which separates the Kochkor and Jumgal districts. Upon arrival, meet your equestrian guide and horses. A short briefing and riding instructions will prepare you for the trek ahead.
Today’s ride takes you across wide mountain valleys, alpine meadows, and traditional summer pastures (jailoo). We ascend Chaar-Archa Pass (3,060 m), offering scenic views of surrounding peaks and grazing flocks.
In the afternoon, arrive at Kilemche Jailoo (2,650 m), a picturesque highland pasture surrounded by mountains. Local herding families welcome guests into traditional yurts, providing an authentic nomadic experience.
Riding distance/time: ~3–4 hours
Accommodation: Yurt camp
Meals: Lunch, Dinner

Kilemche Jailoo → Son-Kol Lake (Batai Aral)
After breakfast at the yurt camp, continue your ride toward Dzhalgiz Karagay Pass (3,325 m). From the pass, enjoy panoramic views of surrounding mountains and the vast Son-Kol Lake basin.
Descend to a yurt camp for lunch, then continue across open highland pastures toward Batai Aral, located on the shores of Son-Kol Lake. Along the way, take in the vast alpine landscapes, grazing livestock, and wildflowers.
Arrive at the lakeside yurt camp, relax along the shore, and experience the traditional nomadic lifestyle with dinner by the campfire.
Riding distance/time: ~4–5 hours
Accommodation: Lakeside Yurts
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Son-Kol Lake → Kyzart Pass → Kochkor
After breakfast, begin the return ride to Kyzart Pass, enjoying the serene landscapes of rolling hills, alpine meadows, and highland pastures. Observe local herders and grazing flocks, capturing the peaceful nomadic life of Kyrgyzstan.
Upon arrival at Kyzart Pass, bid farewell to your horses and guide, then transfer by car back to Kochkor, completing the 3-day horse trekking adventure.
Riding distance/time: ~4–5 hours
Accommodation: ---
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch

No map available.