Into the Lap of Nature on Horseback

Into the Lap of Nature on Horseback – Sary-Chelek Horse Trek

Explore the natural beauty of Sary-Chelek Nature Reserve on this epic four day horse trek that takes you through green meadows, raspberry-filled valleys and deep gorges. You’ll have stunning panoramic views of the nearby mountain peaks above and turquoise alpine lakes below. Exploring the mountains by horseback allows you enjoy the beautiful landscapes of the western Tian Shan Mountains in a relaxing and unique way.

Destination: Sary – Chelek Natural Reserve, Jalal – Abad Region, south-western Kyrgyzstan

Season: June – early September

Duration: 4 days, 3 nights

Trekking Distance: 59 km

Maximum/Minimum Elevation: 2,659 meters / 1,140 meters

Total Elevation Gain/Loss: 2941m+ / 3618m-

Difficulty: Medium

Starting/Ending Point: Kyzyl-Köl village

Day 1. Kara-Suu Gorge to Kara-Kamysh Lake

Begin the horse trek with a ride through the narrow Kara-Suu Gorge where the slopes are covered by a beautiful silver fir forest until we reach Kara-Suu Lake (1,800 meters). Ride along the river where views of the amazing Muztor peaks begin to open up. This area is covered in evergreen trees and is famous for its raspberries and honey, so you’ll have a chance to engage with locals who spend their summers up in these hills.

Day 2. Makmal Pass and Sary-Chelek Lake

Enjoy a morning of passing through the pastures of local shepherds and getting a taste of their life on the jailoo (high pasture) during the summer months. Don’t be surprised if you are invited for tea, and we encourage you to accept. Continue on to Makmal Pass (2,651 meters) where you’ll be rewarded with fabulous views of the dramatic peaks of the Muztor Mountains. On the descent you’ll have the unique experience to ride through grass as tall as humans. Rest for the night at a campsite on the northern shore of Sary-Chelek Lake, the biggest and most famous lake in the nature reserve.

Day 3. Ashuu Pass and Iri Kol Lake

The ride up to Ashuu Pass (2,611 meters) is rather steep and will require walking the horse for some time. However, you will be rewarded at the top with incredible panoramic views over Sary-Chelek Nature Reserve, including its lush green valleys, dramatic granite mountain peaks and turquoise alpine lakes. Descend through raspberry bushes and walnut trees to Iri Kol Lake for a night along the lake shore.

Day 4. Walnut Forest and Kyzyl-Köl Village

Enjoy a relaxing morning riding through the walnut forest with towering trees above you. As you go through the nearby valley keep your eye out for locals tending their animals, making hay or beekeeping. The horse trek ends in Kyzyl-Köl village where you can enjoy a home-cooked meal and family welcome at your guesthouse.

Price in USD