Bayanaul Park Explorer

Experience the unique landscape of Bayanaul National Park, featuring ancient rock formations, serene lakes, and diverse flora. This horseback adventure takes you through one of Kazakhstan's oldest national parks.

Bayanaul Park Explorer

Tour Details

  • Duration: 10 days
  • Location: Bayanaul National Park
  • Price: $2869.99
  • Season: Spring, Summer, Autumn
  • Difficulty: Moderate

Tour Itinerary

You will be picked up and brought to the ranch. Upon arrival, meet your instructors and horses and settle into the ranch's welcoming atmosphere. Savor a traditional Kazakh lunch inside an authentic yurt. Then, embark on a scenic horse ride along the River Nura. Breathe in the fresh air, take in the stunning steppe landscapes, and immerse yourself in a deep connection with nature and Kazakh heritage. Conclude your day with a delicious traditional Kazakh dinner. 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.

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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. 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. In the afternoon, take 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. End the day with a sumptuous traditional Kazakh dinner. After dinner, relax in the soothing warmth of the sauna, indulge in a decadent dessert, and sip revitalizing tea. Overnight departure to the park.

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Arriving the night before, your journey in Bayanaul National Park begins with the first light of day. Wake up to the crisp mountain air and a warm traditional Kazakh breakfast served at the campsite. After a welcome briefing, you’ll meet your horse and ease into the adventure with a gentle ride along quiet trails that wind through pine forests and open steppe. In the evening, gather around a crackling campfire under the starlit Bayanaul sky, sharing stories and first impressions with your fellow travelers.

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Today, you'll embark on a full day of exploration within Bayanaul National Park. Start with a hearty breakfast, then prepare for a day of adventure. Your first stop will be the picturesque Lake Jasybay, where you'll enjoy a picnic lunch by the water's edge. Afterward, you'll continue to the enchanting Konyr-Aulye Cave, a sacred site steeped in legend and believed to have healing powers. Listen to captivating stories of the cave's spiritual significance before making your way back to camp. In the evening, gather around a crackling campfire under the starlit Bayanaul sky, sharing stories and first impressions with your fellow travelers.

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Begin the day with a hearty breakfast before setting out on a picturesque ride toward Lake Jasybay, one of Bayanaul’s most breathtaking natural treasures. Follow winding trails through emerald forests and sunlit meadows, as the shimmering blue waters of the lake come into view. Stop for a picnic lunch on the sandy shores, with the option to take a refreshing dip in the crystal-clear water or simply relax by the lakeside. As the sun begins to set, return to camp with golden views casting a magical glow over the landscape.

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Today’s adventure leads you deeper into the park’s mystical terrain. Ride through ancient pine forests to Konyr-Aulye Cave, a sacred site steeped in legend and believed to have healing powers. Listen to captivating stories of the cave’s spiritual significance before continuing to Kempir Tas, the “Old Woman Rock,” a natural sculpture shaped by wind and time. Pause for a picnic lunch in a scenic clearing before making your way back to camp, ending the day around the campfire with warm tea and tales of Bayanaul’s timeless legends.

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Rise early for a thrilling ride to Mount Akbet, the highest peak in Bayanaul National Park. As you ascend the rugged trails, be rewarded with panoramic views of the surrounding lakes, forests, and granite cliffs. Stop at a high-altitude viewpoint to enjoy a picnic lunch while soaking in the breathtaking landscape. After descending back to camp, unwind in the evening with traditional Kazakh music and storytelling under the stars.

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Embark on an adventurous ride to Witch’s Gorge (Ushel’ye Ved’m), one of Bayanaul’s most enigmatic landscapes. Wind your way through narrow canyons, jagged rock formations, and ancient legends whispered among the cliffs. Stop for a picnic lunch amid the dramatic scenery, taking time to explore the gorge’s hidden corners and reflect on the timeless myths that surround this magical place. Return to camp for a lively evening of communal dining, laughter, and shared stories.

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Savor the beauty of Bayanaul one last time with a peaceful morning ride along familiar trails. Revisit your favorite spots, capturing final memories of the park’s serene landscapes. Back at camp, indulge in a farewell brunch featuring rich Kazakh flavors and warm hospitality. As the journey draws to a close, gather around the fire one final time to share reflections and bid heartfelt goodbyes—leaving with unforgettable memories and the promise to return. Overnight departure back to the ranch.

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Spend your last day immersed in the tranquility of the ranch. Take a leisurely ride through the familiar landscapes of the vast steppe, savoring the peaceful beauty of Kazakhstan one final time. Enjoy a relaxed dinner, share stories with your fellow travelers, and reflect on the unforgettable experiences of your journey. End the day with an evening exploration of Astana, visiting all the iconic spots of the city. After a final visit to your horses and a fulfilling farewell, your hosts will escort you back to the airport.

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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.

  • 8 nights accommodation (2 nights at Taiburyldyn Shabysy's ranch and 8 nights at B&B apartments in Bayanaul National Park)
  • Transport from and to the airport and the park
  • Multiple daily scenic horse rides on beautiful and calm horses
  • All meals and refreshments at the ranch and the park
  • All bedding, linens, and towels
  • Horse gear, helmets, support, and saddles
  • Camping and hiking equipment
  • Park entrance and camping fees
  • Swimming and hiking opportunities at the park
  • Photography session at viewpoints
  • Local cultural activities

  • Weather-appropriate clothing
  • Hiking and riding boots
  • Swimming gear for lake activities
  • Sun protection (hat, sunscreen)
  • Personal water bottle
  • Camera
  • Daypack for essentials
  • Light sleeping bag liner
  • Basic first aid items

  • Minimum age requirement: 10 years
  • Moderate fitness level required
  • Maximum group size: 10 participants
  • Some hiking sections included
  • Basic camping experience helpful
  • Weather can be unpredictable

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.

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