24 September - 02 October 2026

Accommodation on this journey is part of the experience itself and reflects the authentic rhythm of life in rural Kyrgyzstan. Throughout the expedition we stay in a mix of family-run guest houses, traditional yurt camps and tents. Expect basic but genuine conditions, warm local hospitality, and nights spent far from tourism. Some locations offer hot showers and added comfort, while others invite us to experience life much closer to how local shepherds live (no showers available while sleeping in tents).

Guests should arrive in Bishkek on 24 September, with the first hotel night in the capital included in the program. The expedition starts on 25 September and finishes on 1 October, when we return back to Bishkek for a final included hotel night. Departure flights can be booked anytime on 2 October. This journey is built around one of the last great migrations still surviving in the mountains of Kyrgyzstan. Every September, as the first cold winds arrive to the high pastures, local shepherds begin moving their horses back down toward the valleys and winter grazing lands - a process entirely dependent on weather conditions, instinct, and the rhythm of the animals themselves. There is no fixed route, no guaranteed overnight stop, and no strict timetable. We move together with the shepherds, adapting to the land exactly as they do. For eight days we step away from the structured world and into the reality of nomadic life. Days begin early around the fire with tea, horses are gathered at sunrise, and long hours are spent in the saddle moving herds through remote valleys, mountain passes, rivers, and endless open landscapes. Some days are calm and meditative, others intense and physically demanding, with fast riding, changing weather, and complete unpredictability shaping the experience. This is not a polished riding holiday, but a rare opportunity to become part of a living tradition that still survives far away from tourism. Along the way we stay in a constantly changing mix of local family homes, traditional yurts, shepherd camps, tents, and remote mountain shelters. We help with the daily work of the migration - gathering horses, settling camps, preparing the animals, and adapting to life on the move. Beyond the migration itself, the journey offers a deeper look into Kyrgyz horse culture and mountain traditions: meeting horse breeders and saddle makers, experiencing traditional horseback games, learning about eagle hunting traditions, trying horseback archery, tasting fresh Kymyz prepared by local families, and sharing long evenings with shepherds where stories are exchanged more through silence, gestures, and hospitality than words. The exact route remains unknown until the last moment. Shepherds decide where to move depending on snow, rain, pasture conditions, and the behavior of the herds. This uncertainty is part of the experience itself. Nothing here is staged or recreated for visitors. For a short period of time, we simply become part of their world - following the horses, the weather, and the flow of life in the mountains.

Price: 2380 EUR Single room supplement for hotels in Bishkek and tents - upon request Deposit: 1200 EUR Please ensure that your passport is valid for at least 6 months beyond your return date. Visa requirements depend on your nationality - we recommend checking the specific regulations for your country in advance. What is included: All accommodation throughout the journey (hotel in Bishkek, local guest houses, yurts, shepherd camps, mountain shelters, tents) All meals during the expedition Non-alcoholic drinks during meals Horses and riding equipment for the entire ride English-speaking local guide and shepherd support team All ground transportation during the program Airport transfers on designated arrival/departure days Luggage transport during the migration where logistics allow Sleeping bags and camping equipment Traditional cultural experiences and activities with local families Satellite phone / emergency communication coverage Basic first aid and emergency support What is not included: International flights to/from Kyrgyzstan Travel insurance Visa fees (if applicable) Alcoholic beverages Personal riding gear and clothing Personal expenses and souvenirs Tips for local guides, drivers, and shepherds Additional hotel nights before or after the expedition Any activity or service not specifically mentioned as included Costs arising from delays, weather conditions, route changes, or circumstances beyond the organizers’ control Personal medication and personal medical expenses

Level: Intermediate / Advanced The Rider This experience is designed for confident riders with solid trail skills, good physical condition, and an adventurous mindset. You should feel comfortable riding at all paces in open landscapes and remote mountain terrain, while adapting to changing weather, long riding days, and unpredictable situations. Unlike a classic riding holiday, this migration follows the real rhythm of the shepherds. Some days may involve fast riding while moving large herds of horses across valleys and mountain passes; others require patience, endurance, and the ability to stay calm in chaotic situations around free-moving animals. Riders are expected to manage their own horse independently, remain balanced in varied terrain, and embrace the uncertainty that comes with life in the mountains. Expect between 4 and 8 hours on horseback per day depending on weather conditions, herd movement, and the decisions of the local shepherds. Some days may feel relaxed and deeply scenic, while others can become physically demanding and mentally intense. Flexibility and resilience are essential parts of the experience. Rider weight limit: approximately 100–105 kg (220–230 lbs). Heavier riders may be accepted upon prior arrangement, depending on horse availability. Horses You will ride authentic Kyrgyz mountain horses - small, incredibly tough, and perfectly adapted to the harsh terrain and long distances of Central Asia. These horses are raised in semi-wild conditions and spend most of their lives in the mountains, making them exceptionally sure-footed, resilient, and experienced in difficult landscapes. The horses are energetic, forward-moving, and accustomed to working with herds during seasonal migrations. Most movement during the transhumance happens at walk, trot, and canter, often across open valleys, high passes, rivers, and remote grazing lands. Riders should expect responsive horses with strong endurance rather than highly trained arena-style riding horses. Tack is traditional Kyrgyz or adapted local saddlery, chosen for practicality during long days in remote terrain. Saddlebags are provided for daily essentials, while larger luggage is transported separately whenever logistics allow. Route & Riding Conditions For eight days we follow the shepherds as they bring their horses down from the high summer pastures toward the valleys and winter grazing lands. The exact route is never fully fixed and depends entirely on weather conditions, pasture quality, snow, and the natural movement of the herds. This is a living migration, not a staged itinerary. The terrain changes constantly - open valleys, mountain passes, rivers, rolling grasslands, rocky tracks, remote shepherd camps, and endless wilderness landscapes untouched by tourism. Expect a natural rhythm of riding, with long stretches at walk and trot, moments of fast cantering when terrain allows, and periods where careful navigation through difficult ground is required. Weather conditions can change rapidly, especially in September. Riders should be prepared for cold mornings, wind, rain, possible early snow in the mountains, and strong sun during the day. Comfort is not the goal of this experience; authenticity is. This journey is about far more than riding distance or speed. It is about stepping into the real life of the Kyrgyz shepherds - adapting to uncertainty, moving with the horses, and experiencing a disappearing nomadic tradition from the inside.

Proper clothing is essential for this journey. During the migration we will spend long days outdoors and on horseback, often between 3,000 and 4,000 meters altitude, where weather conditions can change extremely fast. Expect cold mornings, warm afternoons, wind, rain, possible snow, and strong mountain sun - sometimes all within the same day. The key is to dress in layers and stay dry at all times. Essential Clothing Thermal base layers (top & bottom) - synthetic or merino wool is strongly recommended as it dries faster and keeps warmth even when damp. Warm mountain jacket - suitable for cold mountain temperatures and changing weather. Fleece or wool jumper - for insulation and layering during colder evenings and mornings. Waterproof jacket & waterproof trousers / rain poncho Riding / trekking trousers - ideally with side openings or comfortable fit over boots. Warm socks (2–3 pairs) Lightweight everyday clothing Hat / beanie for cold weather Neck buff or scarf Gloves for riding and cold mornings Sunglasses & sun protection Footwear Footwear is extremely important for this ride. We do not use Western saddles or modern riding equipment - all riding is done with traditional Kyrgyz saddles and large local stirrups as part of preserving the authentic horse culture of the region. Slim English riding boots are not suitable for this expedition. Recommended options: Waterproof trekking boots + half chaps Sturdy mountain riding boots Additional spare shoes or boots in case your footwear gets wet Important: footwear should be warm, waterproof, and suitable for rugged mountain terrain. Personal Equipment Personal medication & small personal first aid kit - we carry a general emergency kit, but riders should bring their own essentials. Small backpack / day bag Reusable water bottle Headlamp / flashlight Power bank Lip balm & moisturizer Sunscreen Luggage Notes Please pack as lightly and practically as possible. Soft duffel bags are preferred over hard suitcases, as luggage will often be transported in support vehicles or adapted according to local conditions during the migration.