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: $3899.99
- Season: Summer
- Difficulty: Challenging
Tour Itinerary
Arrive in Oskemen (Ust-Kamenogorsk). Transfer to the base camp in the Altai foothills. Evening orientation and welcome dinner with local guides.
Morning horse selection and basic riding instruction. Afternoon practice ride in the valley. Learn about local horse traditions and safety protocols.
Full-day ride through Katon-Karagai National Park. Visit ancient petroglyphs and observe diverse wildlife. Lunch by mountain streams.
Ride to the stunning alpine lakes. Visit local eagle hunters and learn about traditional hunting practices. Evening camping by the lakeside.
Trek towards views of Mount Belukha, the highest peak in Siberia. Cross mountain meadows and visit a traditional dairy farm.
Visit the ancient Berel burial mounds and archaeological site. Afternoon ride through river valleys. Traditional music performance in the evening.
Challenging ascent to a high mountain pass. Panoramic views of the Altai range. Evening rest at mountain shelter.
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.
Explore a dramatic glacial valley. Visit ice caves (weather permitting). Learn about geological formations.
Attempt a minor peak summit (weather permitting). Celebrate with a special mountain-top ceremony.
Final morning ride. Special farewell ceremony. Transfer back to Oskemen for departure.
Additional Information
The price is listed per person. If you are a group of 2 you receive a 15% discount, if you are a group of 3 you receive a 20% discount, if you are a group of 4 you receive a 25% discount, if you are a group of 5 you receive a 30% discount, if you are a group of 6 you receive a 35% discount, if you are a group of 7 to 8 you receive a 40% discount.
- 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.