Astana Unbridled
Immerse yourself in the heart of Kazakhstan with a 5 to 12-day adventure blending horse riding, cultural exploration, and visits to Astana's landmarks and museums. This tour is perfect for those seeking a deeper understanding of Kazakh heritage, horse culture, and urban history.
Tour Details
- Duration: 5-12 days
- Location: Astana
- Price: $799.99
- Season: All-Year
- Difficulty: Beginner
Tour Itinerary
A perfect introduction to Kazakh ranch life and urban culture, blending the Complete Ranch Adventure with Astana exploration. Ideal for intermediate riders and those interested in Kazakhstan's history and modern transformation.
Morning
In the morning, you will be picked up from your location in Astana and brought to the Taiburyldyn Shabysy Ranch. Upon arrival, meet your instructors and horses and settle into the ranch's welcoming atmosphere. Start your adventure by meeting the horses and participating in their morning feeding. Learn the basics of horsemanship and enjoy your first ride, exploring the peaceful surroundings of the ranch.
Afternoon
Savor a traditional Kazakh lunch inside an authentic yurt during the summer, or dine at the Taiburyldyn Shabysy Ranch in other seasons. Then, embark on a scenic horse tour to the Kabanbai Batyr Mausoleum. Breathe in the fresh air, take in the stunning steppe landscapes, and immerse yourself in a deep connection with nature and Kazakh heritage.
Evening
Conclude your day with a delicious traditional Kazakh dinner, accompanied by warm company and captivating cultural stories. As the sun begins to set, enjoy a serene evening ride across the steppe, soaking in the golden hues of the landscape. Back at the ranch, unwind with a soothing sauna session, a delightful homemade dessert, and a revitalizing cup of tea. Afterward, settle in for a peaceful night's sleep in the cozy accommodations at the ranch.
Day 1 Highlights
Morning
Start your day with a hearty traditional Kazakh breakfast featuring freshly baked bread, homemade jams, and warm tea. Then, embark on an extended trail ride through the picturesque steppe landscapes, putting your newly learned riding skills into practice. Complete the morning by feeding and bonding with the horses, deepening your connection with these magnificent animals.
Afternoon
Savor a delicious lunch of authentic Kazakh dishes, such as savory pilaf or tender beshbarmak, accompanied by refreshing salads and kumis. Afterward, dive into authentic ranch work, learning the essentials of horse care, grooming, and the rhythms of daily ranch operations. Then, set out on a scenic tour along the tranquil Nura River, soaking in the serene beauty of the countryside.
Evening
End the day with a sumptuous traditional Kazakh dinner. After dinner, embark on an enchanting evening ride into the sunset, marveling at the serene steppe under a golden sky. Back at the ranch, relax in the soothing warmth of the sauna, indulge in a decadent dessert, and sip revitalizing tea. Unwind and recharge, readying yourself for tomorrow's exciting adventures.
Day 2 Highlights
Morning
Start your day with a traditional Kazakh breakfast of baursaks, creamy butter, and aromatic tea. Participate in the morning horse feeding and horse care, deepening your connection with the animals. Embark on a horseback ride to shepherd the young mares to the vast steppe.
Afternoon
Back at the ranch, indulge in a flavorful Kazakh lunch. Afterward, feed the horses that are still at the ranch and explore the stunning landscapes on another scenic ride, absorbing the steppe's tranquility as you bring back the horses from their grazing grounds.
Evening
Join in the evening horse feeding and horse care before a comforting dinner. Learn to make your first traditional Kazakh dish: manty (steamed dumplings). End the day with dessert and tea, sharing stories around the table before resting for the night.
Day 3 Highlights
Morning
After breakfast and the morning horse feeding, transfer to Astana and visit the National Museum of Kazakhstan, exploring exhibits on nomadic history, Astana's creation, and Kazakh art.
Afternoon
Enjoy a fusion-style Kazakh lunch in the city. Spend the afternoon exploring the left bank of Astana, marveling at its modern architecture and landmarks like Bayterek Tower.
Evening
Return to the ranch to feed and care for the horses before a relaxing sunset ride. Participate in a cooking session to prepare baursaks (fried dough), followed by a delicious Kazakh dinner and a peaceful night in a cozy yurt under the starry sky.
Day 4 Highlights
Morning
Wake up to a hearty breakfast and join the morning horse feeding. Head out into the steppe to shepherd horses and cows alongside local herders, learning their traditional skills and ways of life.
Afternoon
After a delicious lunch, participate in milking cows and horses. Learn to make kumis (fermented mare's milk), essential traditional Kazakh dairy products. Afterwards, tour Astana's right bank, the city's historic area. Explore Soviet-era architecture and vibrant local markets.
Evening
Return to the yurt for a traditional dinner, enjoying the tranquility of the steppe and the warmth of Kazakh hospitality.
Day 5 Highlights
A week-long immersion into Kazakh culture, combining ranch life with extensive city exploration. Perfect for those seeking a deeper understanding of Kazakhstan's heritage and modern development.
Morning
In the morning, you will be picked up from your location in Astana and brought to the Taiburyldyn Shabysy Ranch. Upon arrival, meet your instructors and horses and settle into the ranch's welcoming atmosphere. Start your adventure by meeting the horses and participating in their morning feeding. Learn the basics of horsemanship and enjoy your first ride, exploring the peaceful surroundings of the ranch.
Afternoon
Savor a traditional Kazakh lunch inside an authentic yurt during the summer, or dine at the Taiburyldyn Shabysy Ranch in other seasons. Then, embark on a scenic horse tour to the Kabanbai Batyr Mausoleum. Breathe in the fresh air, take in the stunning steppe landscapes, and immerse yourself in a deep connection with nature and Kazakh heritage.
Evening
Conclude your day with a delicious traditional Kazakh dinner, accompanied by warm company and captivating cultural stories. As the sun begins to set, enjoy a serene evening ride across the steppe, soaking in the golden hues of the landscape. Back at the ranch, unwind with a soothing sauna session, a delightful homemade dessert, and a revitalizing cup of tea. Afterward, settle in for a peaceful night's sleep in the cozy accommodations at the ranch.
Day 1 Highlights
Morning
Start your day with a hearty traditional Kazakh breakfast featuring freshly baked bread, homemade jams, and warm tea. Then, embark on an extended trail ride through the picturesque steppe landscapes, putting your newly learned riding skills into practice. Complete the morning by feeding and bonding with the horses, deepening your connection with these magnificent animals.
Afternoon
Savor a delicious lunch of authentic Kazakh dishes, such as savory pilaf or tender beshbarmak, accompanied by refreshing salads and kumis. Afterward, dive into authentic ranch work, learning the essentials of horse care, grooming, and the rhythms of daily ranch operations. Then, set out on a scenic tour along the tranquil Nura River, soaking in the serene beauty of the countryside.
Evening
End the day with a sumptuous traditional Kazakh dinner. After dinner, embark on an enchanting evening ride into the sunset, marveling at the serene steppe under a golden sky. Back at the ranch, relax in the soothing warmth of the sauna, indulge in a decadent dessert, and sip revitalizing tea. Unwind and recharge, readying yourself for tomorrow's exciting adventures.
Day 2 Highlights
Morning
Start your day with a traditional Kazakh breakfast of baursaks, creamy butter, and aromatic tea. Participate in the morning horse feeding and horse care, deepening your connection with the animals. Embark on a horseback ride to shepherd the young mares to the vast steppe.
Afternoon
Back at the ranch, indulge in a flavorful Kazakh lunch. Afterward, feed the horses that are still at the ranch and explore the stunning landscapes on another scenic ride, absorbing the steppe's tranquility as you bring back the horses from their grazing grounds.
Evening
Join in the evening horse feeding and horse care before a comforting dinner. Learn to make your first traditional Kazakh dish: manty (steamed dumplings). End the day with dessert and tea, sharing stories around the table before resting for the night.
Day 3 Highlights
Morning
After breakfast and the morning horse feeding, transfer to Astana and visit the National Museum of Kazakhstan, exploring exhibits on nomadic history, Astana's creation, and Kazakh art.
Afternoon
Enjoy a fusion-style Kazakh lunch in the city. Spend the afternoon exploring the left bank of Astana, marveling at its modern architecture and landmarks like Bayterek Tower.
Evening
Return to the ranch to feed and care for the horses before a relaxing sunset ride. Participate in a cooking session to prepare baursaks (fried dough), followed by a delicious Kazakh dinner and a peaceful night in a cozy yurt under the starry sky.
Day 4 Highlights
Morning
Wake up to a hearty breakfast and join the morning horse feeding. Head out into the steppe to shepherd horses and cows alongside local herders, learning their traditional skills and ways of life.
Afternoon
After a delicious lunch, participate in milking cows and horses. Learn to make kumis (fermented mare's milk), essential traditional Kazakh dairy products. Afterwards, tour Astana's right bank, the city's historic area. Explore Soviet-era architecture and vibrant local markets.
Evening
Return to the yurt for a traditional dinner, enjoying the tranquility of the steppe and the warmth of Kazakh hospitality.
Day 5 Highlights
Morning
Start the day with breakfast and morning horse feeding. Participate in an advanced horseback ride, practicing more challenging maneuvers as you bond with your horse.
Afternoon
Enjoy a lunch of plov before learning to make kaymak (creamy dairy spread) from the cows that you shepherd around the ranch. Spend the rest of the afternoon experiencing Kokpar by watching a friendly match between local teams, the exhilarating traditional horseback game.
Evening
Feed and care for the horses, then savor a traditional Kazakh dinner. Relax in the sauna and reflect on the day's adventures before resting in the guesthouse.
Day 6 Highlights
Morning
Begin with breakfast and horse care before joining the morning milking session. Continue the day with a skill-building session at the hippodrome, focusing on riding techniques and horse communication.
Afternoon
Enjoy a hearty Kazakh lunch featuring tandyr nan (clay oven bread) and kazy (horse meat sausage). Head into the steppe for a peaceful horseback ride while shepherding livestock, embracing the nomadic way of life.
Evening
After feeding the horses, prepare dinner together, learning to make lagman (hand-pulled noodles). Share stories over tea and desserts before retiring for the night in the guesthouse.
Day 7 Highlights
Our most comprehensive tour offering the ultimate blend of horseback riding mastery and cultural immersion. Perfect for those seeking the most complete Kazakhstan experience.
Morning
In the morning, you will be picked up from your location in Astana and brought to the Taiburyldyn Shabysy Ranch. Upon arrival, meet your instructors and horses and settle into the ranch's welcoming atmosphere. Start your adventure by meeting the horses and participating in their morning feeding. Learn the basics of horsemanship and enjoy your first ride, exploring the peaceful surroundings of the ranch.
Afternoon
Savor a traditional Kazakh lunch inside an authentic yurt during the summer, or dine at the Taiburyldyn Shabysy Ranch in other seasons. Then, embark on a scenic horse tour to the Kabanbai Batyr Mausoleum. Breathe in the fresh air, take in the stunning steppe landscapes, and immerse yourself in a deep connection with nature and Kazakh heritage.
Evening
Conclude your day with a delicious traditional Kazakh dinner, accompanied by warm company and captivating cultural stories. As the sun begins to set, enjoy a serene evening ride across the steppe, soaking in the golden hues of the landscape. Back at the ranch, unwind with a soothing sauna session, a delightful homemade dessert, and a revitalizing cup of tea. Afterward, settle in for a peaceful night's sleep in the cozy accommodations at the ranch.
Day 1 Highlights
Morning
Start your day with a hearty traditional Kazakh breakfast featuring freshly baked bread, homemade jams, and warm tea. Then, embark on an extended trail ride through the picturesque steppe landscapes, putting your newly learned riding skills into practice. Complete the morning by feeding and bonding with the horses, deepening your connection with these magnificent animals.
Afternoon
Savor a delicious lunch of authentic Kazakh dishes, such as savory pilaf or tender beshbarmak, accompanied by refreshing salads and kumis. Afterward, dive into authentic ranch work, learning the essentials of horse care, grooming, and the rhythms of daily ranch operations. Then, set out on a scenic tour along the tranquil Nura River, soaking in the serene beauty of the countryside.
Evening
End the day with a sumptuous traditional Kazakh dinner. After dinner, embark on an enchanting evening ride into the sunset, marveling at the serene steppe under a golden sky. Back at the ranch, relax in the soothing warmth of the sauna, indulge in a decadent dessert, and sip revitalizing tea. Unwind and recharge, readying yourself for tomorrow's exciting adventures.
Day 2 Highlights
Morning
Start your day with a traditional Kazakh breakfast of baursaks, creamy butter, and aromatic tea. Participate in the morning horse feeding and horse care, deepening your connection with the animals. Embark on a horseback ride to shepherd the young mares to the vast steppe.
Afternoon
Back at the ranch, indulge in a flavorful Kazakh lunch. Afterward, feed the horses that are still at the ranch and explore the stunning landscapes on another scenic ride, absorbing the steppe's tranquility as you bring back the horses from their grazing grounds.
Evening
Join in the evening horse feeding and horse care before a comforting dinner. Learn to make your first traditional Kazakh dish: manty (steamed dumplings). End the day with dessert and tea, sharing stories around the table before resting for the night.
Day 3 Highlights
Morning
After breakfast and the morning horse feeding, transfer to Astana and visit the National Museum of Kazakhstan, exploring exhibits on nomadic history, Astana's creation, and Kazakh art.
Afternoon
Enjoy a fusion-style Kazakh lunch in the city. Spend the afternoon exploring the left bank of Astana, marveling at its modern architecture and landmarks like Bayterek Tower.
Evening
Return to the ranch to feed and care for the horses before a relaxing sunset ride. Participate in a cooking session to prepare baursaks (fried dough), followed by a delicious Kazakh dinner and a peaceful night in a cozy yurt under the starry sky.
Day 4 Highlights
Morning
Wake up to a hearty breakfast and join the morning horse feeding. Head out into the steppe to shepherd horses and cows alongside local herders, learning their traditional skills and ways of life.
Afternoon
After a delicious lunch, participate in milking cows and horses. Learn to make kumis (fermented mare's milk), essential traditional Kazakh dairy products. Afterwards, tour Astana's right bank, the city's historic area. Explore Soviet-era architecture and vibrant local markets.
Evening
Return to the yurt for a traditional dinner, enjoying the tranquility of the steppe and the warmth of Kazakh hospitality.
Day 5 Highlights
Morning
Start the day with breakfast and morning horse feeding. Participate in an advanced horseback ride, practicing more challenging maneuvers as you bond with your horse.
Afternoon
Enjoy a lunch of plov before learning to make kaymak (creamy dairy spread) from the cows that you shepherding around the ranch. Spend the rest of the afternoon experiencing Kokpar by watching a friendly match between local teams, the exhilarating traditional horseback game.
Evening
Feed and care for the horses, then savor a traditional Kazakh dinner. Relax in the sauna and reflect on the day's adventures before resting in the guesthouse.
Day 6 Highlights
Morning
Begin with breakfast and horse care before joining the morning milking session. Continue the day with a skill-building session at the hippodrome, focusing on riding techniques and horse communication.
Afternoon
Enjoy a hearty Kazakh lunch featuring tandyr nan (clay oven bread) and kazy (horse meat sausage). Head into the steppe for a peaceful horseback ride while shepherding livestock, embracing the nomadic way of life.
Evening
After feeding the horses, prepare dinner together, learning to make lagman (hand-pulled noodles). Share stories over tea and desserts before retiring for the night in the guesthouse.
Day 7 Highlights
Morning
After breakfast and horse care, take a gentle horse ride through the countryside before visiting a master jeweler to witness the intricate art of Kazakh jewelry-making.
Afternoon
After lunch, tour the majestic Hazrat Sultan Mosque, marveling at its architectural grandeur.
Evening
Return to the ranch for a relaxed evening with a hearty Kazakh dinner, celebrating the cultural experiences of the day.
Day 8 Highlights
Morning
Start with breakfast and morning horse feeding. Continue the day with hands-on equestrian challenge in a long distance ride to the steppe. Focus on refining your riding techniques, guided by experienced trainers, in a serene and supportive environment.
Afternoon
After a picnic-style lunch at the steppe, transition to exploring Astana’s iconic architectural landmarks. Marvel at the futuristic designs of buildings like Bayterek Tower and the shimmering facade of Khan Shatyr, an urban oasis under a tent-like structure.
Evening
Enjoy a dinner at a traditional Kazakh restaurant, sampling authentic dishes like beshbarmak and kazy while reflecting on the day’s blend of tradition and modernity.
Day 9 Highlights
Morning
Kick off the day with a nourishing breakfast before heading to the hippodrome for advanced horseback riding lessons. Work on mastering advanced maneuvers like galloping and precise turns, building confidence and communication with your horse.
Afternoon
After lunch, join an advanced riding session to practice galloping and precision turns. Afterwards at the ranch, you will learn how to make kurt (dried cheese balls), a staple of Kazakh nomadic diets.
Evening
Conclude the day with shepherding livestock back from the vast steppe for the night, experiencing rural traditions up close. Relax in the sauna or enjoy stargazing before retiring for the night.
Day 10 Highlights
Morning
Discover Astana’s rich heritage with visits to the Presidential Center of Culture and the Palace of Peace and Reconciliation. Learn about Kazakhstan’s history and its vision for unity through interactive exhibits and modern architecture.
Afternoon
After a sumptuous lunch, spend leisure time shopping in local markets and artisan boutiques. Seek out traditional souvenirs or enjoy the vibrant atmosphere of the city’s shopping districts.
Evening
Conclude the day with an elegant evening at the opera, experiencing Kazakhstan’s performing arts at their finest. Afterward, gather for a celebratory dinner, savoring the cultural highlights of your journey.
Day 11 Highlights
Morning
Begin your last day with breakfast, horse feeding, and a reflective ride through the steppe, taking in the serene landscapes.
Afternoon
After lunch, bid farewell to the horses and hosts. Participate in final grooming or feeding sessions, cherishing your bond with the animals.
Evening
End your journey with a heartfelt dinner, sharing stories and experiences before transferring to Astana for your onward journey.
Day 12 Highlights
Authentic Ranch Stay Experience
- Modern guesthouse with all of the amenities
- Kazakh yurts with modern comforts with traditional decorative elements (available only in the summer)
- All meals and drinks included
- Cozy rooms with private bathrooms
- Private sauna
- 24/7 hot water and heating/cooling
- Panoramic views of the ranch and surroundings
- 5G Wi-Fi internet
- Chef's kitchen with a variety of traditional kazakh dishes
- Traditional dining hall
- Free parking
Additional Information
- Comfortable ranch accommodation for the entire stay
- All meals and refreshments
- Daily guided horse rides
- Astana city exploration
- Museum and landmark entry fees
- Traditional Kazakh cuisine experience
- Transfer from/to Astana
- Basic riding equipment
- Multilingual guide
- Comfortable clothing for riding and walking
- Weather-appropriate outerwear
- Sturdy boots or shoes
- Personal toiletries
- Camera
- Sunscreen and hat
- Insect repellent
- Any personal medications
- Some prior riding experience recommended
- Minimum age: 8 years
- Maximum group size: 8 participants
- Available year-round
- Customizable schedule based on preferences
- Vegetarian options available
- 24/7 staff support