The horse trek to Song Kul was the highlight of my time in Kyrgyzstan. It’s an incredible adventure and it’s something unlike anything I had ever done before. It was my first time riding a horse, but my guide Murat was a great teacher and I picked it up quickly.

Crossing the mountain path on horseback is such an unreal experience, it’s hard to put it into words. It is physically demanding in a way that’s different from other activities, my body ached in places it never had before.

The yurts at the lake are quite bare bones, just a small place to sleep and some ovens for heat. The family that took us in were very hospitable and kind. It was a great way to meet other travelers as well.

Highly recommend this trek.