The tour starts at 8:00 AM on Day 1. Our driver will pick you up from your accommodation in Bishkek. If your flight arrives early, you can start the tour directly from the airport without staying in Bishkek.

On the final day, we expect to arrive back in Bishkek at approximately 19:00. As winter days are short, we recommend not scheduling other activities or flights that evening. We will drop you off at your hotel. If you have an earlier flight or other plans, please let us know in advance so we can adjust the itinerary and arrange an earlier return where possible.

This tour is available from November to April, mainly depending on the eagle hunting season. It is designed for adventurous travelers who enjoy horseback riding, snow, mountain landscapes, and authentic local experiences. Accommodation is in local homestays and traditional yurts. If you prefer luxury or a high level of comfort, we recommend choosing another tour or requesting an upgraded version.

Kyrgyzstan experiences cold winters, with snowfall common from November to March, especially in the mountains. November and April are generally milder, but temperatures can still be low, particularly at higher elevations. Warm clothing is essential, including a winter jacket, thermal layers, gloves, a hat, and comfortable, waterproof shoes.

Horseback riding is suitable for beginners, but you should be well prepared for cold and windy winter conditions. You'll ride with an experienced local guide who knows the area well. Large luggage can be left at the homestay or in the vehicle, while only essential items will be carried in a small saddlebag. We recommend avoiding valuable or fragile electronics during the ride.

In February and later winter months, heavy snow may cover the pass. In such conditions, the final section may need to be completed on foot for safety and to avoid putting unnecessary strain on the horses. We do not offer winter overnight tours at Song-Kol Lake due to extreme cold and safety concerns, prioritizing our guests' safety and our horses' welfare.

Traditional eagle hunting takes place during the winter months, when hunters practice hunting wild animals such as foxes, rabbits, or jackals. Hunting is not practiced during the warmer months when animals may be breeding or raising young.

Since this is real hunting in nature, finding an animal cannot be guaranteed. However, you'll still enjoy a horseback ride with a local eagle hunter and learn about the traditional techniques, equipment, and role of the eagle in Kyrgyz nomadic culture.

The main cuisine in Kyrgyzstan is Central Asian, featuring meat, rice, noodles, and fresh vegetables. Vegetarian meals are available upon request. Please inform us in advance of any dietary requirements, allergies, or food preferences.

Bottled water is widely available to purchase in towns and villages.

Winter is a low season in Kyrgyzstan, so we don't offer fixed group departures for this tour. However, you can choose your preferred dates and we can open the tour for other travelers to join. If other guests are interested in the same dates and itinerary, you can travel together and share the tour costs, making the trip more affordable.

As this tour includes snowy horseback riding, cold mountain conditions, yurts, homestays, and time outdoors, we recommend packing warm and practical clothing.

Clothing

• Warm winter jacket
• Thermal base layers
• Fleece or warm sweater
• Warm trousers / winter hiking pants
• Waterproof or snow-resistant trousers
• Warm hat and neck warmer
• Gloves - preferably waterproof
• Warm socks, preferably wool
• Spare socks and underwear
• Waterproof winter hiking boots

For Horseback Riding

• Warm, comfortable clothing that allows easy movement
• Waterproof outer layer
• Small daypack
• Sunglasses or ski goggles for snow and strong mountain light

Personal Items

• Sunscreen and lip balm
• Personal toiletries and medications
• Reusable water bottle
• Headlamp or small flashlight
• Power bank
• Camera/phone, if needed

Important: Keep your luggage light during the horseback riding section. Large luggage can stay at the homestay or in the vehicle, while only essential items will be carried during the ride. Avoid taking valuable or fragile electronics on horseback, as they can be damaged.

Travel insurance is required for this tour, as the itinerary includes horseback riding and outdoor activities in mountainous winter conditions.

Horseback riding is an adventure activity and involves inherent risks, including falls or injuries. While our team and local guides take all reasonable precautions and do their best to ensure a safe experience, each participant is responsible for their own decision to take part in the activity and should ride within their personal abilities and comfort level.

By joining the horseback riding section, participants acknowledge the nature of the activity and accept the associated risks.

No deposit is required. Pay upon arrival in cash (USD, EUR, or Kyrgyz som) or by card. Free cancellation.