Alatau Horse Trek

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Welcome to Adventure Fix, the newsletter that helps you discover extraordinary journeys and experiences across the globe.

Today we are heading to Batan, Kazakstan to…

Explore the Alatau mountains on horseback.

Traveling just as the Kazak ancestors once did, this experience is the perfect way to immerse yourself in the nomadic life of Central Asia.

Alatau Mountains Horse Trek

You’ll find the Trans-ili-Alatau mountains in the southeast of Kazakhstan.

What makes this region captivating is its ever-shifting landscapes, ranging from snowcapped mountain peaks, dense spruce forests, vast plateaus, high meadows, huge glaciers, and serene lakes.

At the heart of Kazakh culture lies an unbreakable bond between man and horse, making riding through this terrain one of the best ways to immerse yourself in its beauty.

There are many routes to choose from. Some of the most popular visit sites like Kairak Waterfall, Turgen Gorge, and Asy Plateau.

When you’re not riding, stop off to gather berries and mushrooms, go for a swim, rest your achy muscles in the sauna, or go for a hike.

Most tours will arrange accommodations in yurts or tent camping.

Explore More

If you would like to learn more, here are some links you can check out to get more information about horse trekking in the Alatau mountains.

• Mysteries of Turgen (tour)

• Ile-Alatau National Park: an oasis just a short trip from Almaty (article)

How To Ride the Ile Alatau on Horseback

The best way to explore the Ile Alatau on horseback is through a guided tour. Most tours start from Kazakhstan’s capital, Almaty.

Some good options are Ecotour Kazakhstan and Powder Nomads. Both companies offer a range of tours depending on your interests and experience level.

Summer in this part of the world begins in May. This is when the semi-nomads come up to the highland plateaus with their yurts and animals. June is generally rainy. August and early September have ideal weather conditions for horse trekking.