Altai Mountains Adventure
Experience an epic 15-day journey through the majestic Altai Mountains on horseback. Discover stunning alpine landscapes, crystal-clear lakes, ancient petroglyphs, and immerse yourself in traditional Kazakh culture while exploring one of Central Asia's most spectacular mountain ranges.
Tour Details
- Duration: 15 days
- Location: Altai Mountains
- Price: €3479.99
- Season: Summer
- Difficulty: Challenging
-
Available Arrival Dates:
Monday August 17, 2026
Tour Itinerary
You will be picked up and brought to Taiburyldyn Shabysy ranch. Upon arrival, meet your instructors and horses and settle into the ranch's welcoming atmosphere. Then, embark on a scenic horse ride along scenic local lakes. Savor a traditional Kazakh lunch inside an authentic yurt. Then, embark on a scenic horse ride along the River Nura.
Start your day with a hearty traditional Kazakh breakfast. Then, continue your adventure by feeding the horses before enjoying next ride, an extended trail ride through the picturesque steppe landscapes to the historic Kabanbai Batyr Mausoleum. In the afternoon, after a delicious lunch, take a scenic horse tour around river Nura. Back at the ranch, feed and care for the horses, then savor a traditional Kazakh dinner. Relax in the sauna and reflect on the day's adventures.
Arrive in Oskemen (Ust-Kamenogorsk) will take the whole day. Arrival in the evening.
Transfer to the base camp in the Altai foothills. Evening orientation and welcome dinner with local guides. Horse selection and basic riding instruction. Practice ride in the valley. Learn about local horse traditions and safety protocols.
Explore a dramatic mountain valley. Visit ice caves (weather permitting). Learn about geological formations. Ride to the stunning alpine lakes. Visit local eagle hunters and learn about traditional hunting practices. Evening camping by the lakeside.
Full-day ride through Katon-Karagai National Park. Visit ancient petroglyphs and observe diverse wildlife. Lunch by mountain streams. Cross mountain meadows and visit a traditional dairy farm.
Challenging ascent to a high mountain pass. Panoramic views of the Altai range. Evening rest at mountain shelter. Visit the ancient Berel burial mounds and archaeological site. Afternoon ride through river valleys. Traditional Kazakh Food in the evening.
Descend into a remote valley. Visit isolated shepherd communities. Learn about high-altitude farming practices.
Ride through ancient cedar forests. Visit sacred sites. Evening storytelling about local legends.
Full day exploring a series of mountain lakes. Optional fishing activity. Camp beside pristine waters.
Visit a traditional Kazakh village. Participate in local customs and crafts. Evening of traditional music and dance.
Navigate through wilderness areas. Track wildlife with local guides. Study mountain flora.
Final morning ride. Special farewell ceremony. Transfer back to Oskemen for departure.
Ride back to Astana. Car stops along the way for sightseeing. Evening arrival in Astana.
Spend your last day immersed in the tranquility of the ranch. Take a leisurely ride through the familiar landscapes of the vast steppe, savoring the peaceful beauty of Kazakhstan one final time. Enjoy a relaxed dinner, share stories with your fellow travelers, and reflect on the unforgettable experiences of your journey. End the day with an evening exploration of Astana, visiting all the iconic spots of the city. After a final visit to your horses and a fulfilling farewell, your hosts will escort you back to the airport in the evening, or the next day.
Additional Information
Price is listed per person and should be paid in cash upon arrival. Payment can also be made in local currency at the equivalent amount. If you are a group of 2-6 you receive a 10% discount. Repeat Customers get 20% discount on their next tour.
- Professional multilingual guides
- Well-trained mountain horses and tack
- Camping equipment (tents, sleeping bags, mats)
- All meals during the trek (including special dietary options)
- Safety equipment and first aid supplies
- Transfer from/to Oskemen (Ust-Kamenogorsk)
- Park entrance fees and permits
- Support vehicle for luggage transport
- Emergency satellite communication
- Sturdy hiking boots and riding pants
- Warm layers of clothing (temperatures vary greatly)
- Rain gear and windproof jacket
- Personal medications and toiletries
- High SPF sunscreen and sunglasses
- Camera with extra batteries
- Small daypack for essentials
- Headlamp or flashlight
- Insect repellent
- Minimum age requirement: 14 years
- Advanced riding experience required
- Maximum group size: 10 participants
- High altitude trek (up to 3000m)
- Medical clearance may be required
- Tour schedule may vary based on weather conditions
- Travel insurance is mandatory
Traditional Kazakh Dishes
- Beshbarmak: A classic Kazakh dish of tender boiled meat, served with handmade noodles and onion broth.
- Kuyrdak: A rustic dish of fried meat, liver, and onions, often seasoned with traditional spices.
- Baursaks: Golden, fluffy fried bread, perfect as a side dish or a snack.
- Shashlik: Juicy skewers of marinated and grilled meat, a favorite for outdoor dining.
- Manty: Steamed dumplings filled with seasoned lamb or beef, served with sour cream or vinegar.
- Plov: A fragrant rice dish with vegetables and meat, a staple of Kazakh cuisine.
- Lagman: Hand-pulled noodles with a flavorful meat sauce.
- Kazy: A delicacy of horse meat sausage, prized for its rich flavor and cultural significance.
Traditional Kazakh Soups
- Sorpa: A light and flavorful broth made from boiled meat, often served as a starter.
- Naryn: A warm soup of shredded meat, noodles, and a rich, savory broth.
- Kuurdak Soup: A hearty variation of the classic fried meat dish, turned into a nourishing soup.
Farm Comfort Foods
- Pelmeni: Dumplings filled with minced meat, served with sour cream or butter.
- Golubtsy: Stuffed cabbage rolls filled with meat and rice, baked in a tomato-based sauce.
- Blini: Thin, crepe-like pancakes served with sweet or savory fillings like jam, honey, or caviar.
Desserts
- Homemade fruit and berry jams
- Homemade cakes and pastries
What horse breeds will we be riding?
We proudly care for three distinct horse breeds at our ranch: the elegant Orlov trotters, the swift English Thoroughbreds, and the resilient Kazakh horses, each reflecting their unique heritage and qualities.
Can I book as a private group?
Yes, we can book the tour as a private group. Please contact us to discuss your requirements.