Before you go
Your questions
Everything people ask us before they leave: the level you need, what the weather does up there, what to pack and what the nights in a yurt are like. The rest — the exact route to Kyzart, where to meet, the full check-list — we send you directly once we are in touch.
Riding level and stamina
Do I need to know how to ride?
No. No previous riding experience is required. The pace is a walk, and the guide adjusts it to the group.
Experienced riders who want to can trot or canter on the flat stretches of the high plateaus.
How long are the days in the saddle?
You need to be happy spending 4 to 5 hours in the saddle, three days running. That is the only real physical demand of the trek: no technique, but some endurance.
Altitude and weather
What is the weather like up there?
- The nights are cold. At 3,000 m they come close to 0 °C even in July, and the wind is frequent on the plateau.
- The days are often hot and very bright. Bring category 3 or 4 sunglasses, sun cream and a hat or cap.
- Storms and hail are possible in the afternoon. A waterproof jacket is not optional.
What to wear and pack
What should I wear to ride?
- Riding trousers, or failing that trekking or sports trousers.
- Closed shoes: trainers or walking boots.
- The three-layer system: a base layer (merino-type), then a fleece or light down jacket, then a waterproof shell.
- A hat and light gloves are useful, and waterproof over-trousers add comfort. Plus a cap and sunglasses.
What do I bring?
Travel light. Do not bring all your clothes: the horses carry your things, and Azamat can keep your travel bags in Kyzart if needed.
- Wash bag: toothbrush, hand sanitiser, wipes or biodegradable soap, sun cream.
- A small torch and a power bank — there is no electricity in the mountains.
- Some cash if you want to buy anything extra. No card payments up there.
A full check-list is sent to you before departure so nothing is missed.
Comfort on the ground
What are the nights in a yurt like?
This is an authentic mountain adventure, not a luxury tour. The bedding in the yurts is very basic.
What about washing?
- There is no shower at the yurt camps. Bring wipes or biodegradable soap to wash at the basin.
- The toilets are rustic dry toilets.
Is there any phone signal?
No mobile signal at all at Lake Son Kul. Tell the people at home before you ride up: you will be unreachable for two days.
Talking to Azamat
Does he speak English?
Your guide is a genuine local horseman, and he speaks very little English. You get by in good humour, with gestures and a few basic words.
Install a translation app (Google Translate) and download Russian and Kyrgyz in advance so it works offline — there is no signal up there.
A question that is not here?