On the trace of Ella Maillart 

Our best horseback riding program. We love every stage, every horse… KAGAN invites you to follow part of the route taken by the famous Swiss explorer Ella Maillart (1932). Nine days of horseback riding in the Tien Shan mountains will help you unwind completely. Freedom, breathtaking landscapes, and untouched wilderness will accompany you for nine unforgettable days. If you’re in Karakol, joining this ride is easy. It’s designed just for that.

 

Highlights of the tour:

  • Best horses: We know the horses from all over the country. There are the best horses for a day ride and the expedition horses. Our horses for this trip are trained for expeditions. Well-maintained, strong, and with comfortable gaits.
  • The plateau at over 3600m: At the end of the hike, you will feel like you’re on another planet. The Arabel plateau and its snow-covered peaks are stunning… It’s impossible to describe with words.
  • Untamed nature: We camp by the river in tents, pass by nomads, and gallop through the Juuku valley. In short, we fully enjoy a place where there are no rules, and where pristine nature reigns!

We have never had any dissatisfied clients with this program. Below is the map of the itinerary, the day-by-day program, and of course, the prices!

 

Program by day hr03d9

Day 0
Arrive in the village of Chon Kizil Suu. Settle in with the equestrian guide. Briefing with the guide and preparation of equipment.

 

Day 1 / Horse Trek in Chon Kizil Suu:
In the morning, we depart from the guesthouse on horseback. We follow the Chon Kizil Suu Valley up to the camp at the base of the Savatar Valley. This route takes about 6 hours. Picnic along the way. At the end of the day, arrive at camp at 2,569m. Dinner and overnight in tents. A campfire can be arranged in the evening.

 

Day 2 / Horse Trek to Kichi Kizil Suu:
Morning excursion to Kara Takya Valley, aiming to pass by a lake at 3,200m. Return to camp for a picnic. Then set out on horseback toward Kichi Kizil Suu Valley, descending the Chon Kizil Suu Valley. Arrive at camp by the end of the day. Dinner and overnight in tents. 7-8 hours on horseback.

 

Day 3 / Horse Trek to Jukuchak:
Horse trek over the Jumatay Pass at 3,325m. Picnic after the pass, then descend into Jukuchak Valley. Enjoy a hot spring about an hour before reaching camp. Dinner and overnight at camp at 2,000m. 6-7 hours on horseback.

 

Day 4 / Horse Trek to Chong Tash:
Ride along a mountain trail through Juuku Valley, following the river along an old path used by nomads. Picnic by the river. Arrive at camp mid-afternoon. Dinner and overnight in tents at around 2,900m. 5-6 hours on horseback.

 

Day 5 / Rest Day:
Time to relax. Spend two nights in the same camp. Explore Dunguromo Valley or simply rest by the river. Dinner and overnight at the same camp.

 

Day 6 / Horse Trek to Arabel Plateau:
In the morning, we set off on horseback to the Arabel Plateau, passing Juuku lakes. Picnic after crossing Juuku Pass at 3,800m. Continue south to reach the camp at the foot of Jetim Pass by mid-afternoon. Dinner and overnight in tents at 3,800m. This will be the coldest night of the trip. 6-7 hours on horseback.

 

Day 7 / Horse Trek to Maytor:
Ride through the high mountains of Ara Bel, crossing Jetim Pass at 4,000m. Follow Arabel River to a hunting lodge. Dinner and overnight in tents at 3,464m. 7-8 hours on horseback.

 

Day 8 / Free Day in Maytor:
A day to relax and enjoy this beautiful location. Dinner and overnight at the same camp.

 

Day 9 / Transfer to Lake Issyk Kul:
Meet with the driver and transfer to Issyk Kul Lake (3-hour drive). Meet with a traditional hunter and enjoy free time on the beach. End of services.

 

PRICE PER PERSON IN €:
2 PAX 1650 €/PER
3 PAX 1310 €/PER
4 PAX 1160 €/PER
5 PAX 990 €/PER
6 PAX 900 €/PER

 

Price includes:

  • Transfer at the end of the trek to the yurt camp in Bokonbaeva,
  • English-speaking guide and equestrian guide,
  • Accommodation in Pakrovka and Bokonbaeva,
  • Full board, (all meals),
  • Meeting with the eagle hunter
  • Camping equipment rental
  • Support vehicle

Price  Excludes:

  • Travel and baggage insurance
  • Transport to the starting point (assistance available upon request)
  • Accommodation and meals in Bishkek
  • Alcoholic beverages and mineral water
  • Other services not mentioned in the program

Notes:

1. Tour Start Location

  • Arrival Day (Day 0):
    • Arrive in Chon Kizil Suu village.
    • Briefing with the equestrian guide and preparation of equipment.

2. Accommodation and Facilities

  • Camping: Overnight stays in tents at scenic mountain locations with basic amenities.
  • Guesthouses: Accommodation in Chon Kizil Suu and at Issyk Kul Lake.
  • Simple Conditions: Be prepared for basic facilities, especially at high-altitude camps.

3. Meals

  • Included: All meals are provided during the tour, including breakfast, picnic lunches, and dinners.
  • Cuisine: Traditional Kyrgyz meals; vegetarian options available with prior notice.

4. Horseback Riding Details

  • Riding Duration: Daily rides range from 5–8 hours.
  • Routes:
    • Explore Chon Kizil Suu, Kichi Kizil Suu, Jukuchak, and Juuku Valleys.
    • Cross high-altitude passes such as Jetim Pass (4,000m) and Juuku Pass (3,800m).
  • Rest Days: Scheduled on Day 5 and Day 8 for relaxation or optional exploration.
  • Skill Level: Moderate to challenging; suitable for riders with good physical fitness.

5. Weather and Packing Tips

  • Weather:
    • Warm days, cold nights, especially at high altitudes.
    • Coldest night at Jetim Pass (3,800m).
  • Packing Essentials:
    • Layered clothing, warm hat and gloves, waterproof jacket, and sturdy riding boots.
    • Sleeping bag, sunscreen, and a compact daypack for personal items.

6. Altitude and Safety

  • Elevation Range:
    • Campsites range from 2,000m to 3,800m.
    • Pass crossings up to 4,000m.
  • Health Precautions: Consult a doctor if concerned about altitude sickness. Guides carry basic first-aid kits.

7. Transportation and Transfer

  • Final Day (Day 9):
    • Meet the driver for a 3-hour transfer to Issyk Kul Lake.
    • Free time to enjoy the beach and meet a traditional hunter.

8. Booking and Payment Information

  • Deposit: A €100 deposit is required to confirm your booking.
  • Final Payment: Remaining balance due upon arrival in Chon Kizil Suu.
  • Cancellation Policy: Deposits are non-refundable but transferable to future bookings if canceled at least 7 days in advance.

Come and explore the land of nomads and mountains!

The KAGAN Team

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