On the trace of Ella Maillart
On The Trace Of Ella Maillart is our best horseback riding program, inspired by the famous Swiss explorer’s route from 1932. For nine days, you’ll ride through the Tien Shan mountains, surrounded by freedom, breathtaking landscapes, and untouched wilderness. If you’re in Karakol, joining is easy — the tour starts right nearby.
We use the best horses, trained for long expeditions, strong and comfortable for riding every day. You’ll cross the Arabel plateau at over 3600 meters, a place so stunning it feels like another planet. Along the way, camp by rivers, ride through the Juuku valley, and meet nomads — experiencing truly wild nature.
This program is perfect for anyone who wants adventure, freedom, and the spirit of exploration. Riders always leave with unforgettable memories.
From € 920.00
Tour Features
Here is the program by day
This 11-day tour is a true adventure for lovers of mountains and nature. You will go on a trek through the beautiful Jyrgalan Valley, cross high mountain passes, visit crystal-clear lakes like Boz-Uchuk, Ailanysh, and Ala-Kul, and enjoy the hot springs in Altyn-Arashan.
Along the way, you will learn about Kyrgyz nomadic culture, see ancient landmarks like the Burana Tower, walk along glaciers and rivers, and spend nights in cozy guesthouses, tents, and yurts under the stars. You will experience amazing mountain views, green valleys, wild horses, and the clear waters of alpine lakes.
The tour starts in Bishkek and takes you through remote valleys, high passes, and charming mountain villages, letting you feel the true spirit of Kyrgyz nature and culture. KAGAN invites you on this unforgettable journey — create memories that will last a lifetime!
Price in €
4 pax – 1330€/person
5 pax – 1205€/person
6 pax – 1085€/person
7 pax – 1035€/person
8 pax – 1000€/person
9 pax – 940€/person
10 pax – 920€/person
Price Includes:
- Pick up from the airport, transfers and drop off at the airport in Bishkek,
- Guide translator, and equestrian guide,
- Tents 2 people in 1 tents, Accommodation in the local family house, in the yurt camp in Bokonbaeva and guest house in Bishkek,
- Full board, (all meals),
- Hot spring fees
- Rent of horses.
Price Excludes:
- Travel insurance.
- International air tickets.
- Alcohol and mineral water.
- Others services non mentioned in the program.
- Visa-Free Entry Citizens of the EU, Canada, Japan, Singapore, and some other countries can enter without a visa (up to 60 days).
Passport Validity: Your passport must be valid for at least 6 months from your entry date.
Other Nationalities: Please check https://evisa.e-gov.kg for your country. - Tour Difficulty and Requirements
Tour Type: This is a horseback riding tour through mountain terrain.
Level: You don’t need to be an experienced rider, but you must feel confident on a horse and be able to control it.
We ride for 5–7 hours each day, so good physical condition is important.
Altitude: The tour goes through high mountain areas, up to 4100m
Age Limit: Tour is for participants 19 years and older. If you are younger, please ask us in advance. - Safety
During the trek, there will be local people around who can help evacuate if someone gets seriously hurt.
The guide will have a satellite phone with them during the trek.
Our guides carry a simple first-aid kit. - Medical Information
Medication: Bring any personal medicine you need.
Where You’ll Stay: Guesthouses (overnight stay is at the home of the local horse guide; several guests will sleep in the same room, and beds may not be available),
tents (2–3 person tents / toilet in nature), or yurts with shared bathrooms.
In remote areas, conditions are simple. Accommodation depends on the route. - Meals and Diets
Food: We serve traditional Kyrgyz meals — meat, rice, noodles, and vegetables.
All meals are Halal.
Breakfast: Tea or coffee, jam, bread, butter, eggs (fried or boiled), vegetables, and fruits.
Lunch: Salad, sandwich, bread, dried fruits, and vegetables.
Dinner: Hot meal, dried fruits, jam, butter, bread, and tea.
Diet Options: Vegetarian meals are available, but in the mountains it’s better to bring your own special food if you have strict dietary needs. Gluten-free food is available in big cities.
Water is not included. - Weather and Packing Tips
Weather: Temperatures change depending on location and altitude. Check the route weather using Google Weather before your trip.
Clothing:
Wear layers: base layer, warm layer, waterproof jacket.
Bring gloves and a warm hat.
Extra socks and underwear.
Shoes: Riding boots and something to wear at the campsite (slippers — we highly recommend Crocs).
Also bring: Headlamp, sunscreen, sunglasses. - Gear
KAGAN Provides: Tent, kitchen staff, helmets
You Should Bring: Sleeping bag, filter bottle, and mattress - Luggage
A small backpack (20–30 liters) which you will carry yourself for personal items (sunscreen, raincoat, snacks, water). Luggage will be transported by jeep. - Booking and Payment
Deposit: A €300 deposit is needed to confirm your booking.
Final Payment: Pay the rest in cash when you arrive in Bishkek. Bank transfer is also possible (bank fees not included).
You can pay by credit card.
Cancellation: The deposit is non-refundable but can be used for a future trip.
transport & guide
Private Car with Driver for Journey
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accommodation
Stay in a 4 Star Hotel incl. Breakfast
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