Experience Nomadic Life in Kyrgyzstan
Connect with nature in this land of contrasts.
With breathtaking lakes and the mighty Naryn river, it's easy to forget that this Central Asian country is actually landlocked. There's also the endless backdrop of snowcapped mountain ranges, emerging from the landscape in every direction.
An old saying is that all Kyrgyz are born on a horse, meaning the only way to experience Kyrgyzstan like a local is on horseback. Kyrgyz horses may be small in size, but they're also renowned for their incredible endurance. Even today, locals will make long journeys over difficult terrains with their trusted steeds.
Escaping from the hustle and bustle of life is at the forefront of everyone's imagination right now, so going back to basics and living like people have done for generations in Central Asia is a chance of a lifetime.
Nomadic style camping means riding through the stunning landscape on horseback, then settling down at one of the many yurt camps throughout the country, whether that's nestled in a lush valley, or on the banks of picturesque of Song-Kul lake. Neighbors will be limited to your traveling companions, the horses, and perhaps some local yaks grazing nearby.
→ Located just north of the great lake Issyk-Kul are the petroglyphs of Cholpon Ata. Considered sacred to the people of this region, they date back to the bronze age.
→ From December through to March, Kyrgyzstan becomes a skiers paradise, with those in the know descending on areas such as Karakol, where the terrain provides a range of slopes for all experience levels.
→ Evidence of the Old Silk Road is dotted throughout the country, meaning you can visit lost cities such as Balasagun, where the last remaining evidence of existence is the Burana Tower.
→ One of the world's most incredible road trips has to be the route along the Pamir Highway, heading into Tajikistan and along the border of Afghanistan. Cruise through the rugged beauty of the Pamir Mountains, and follow the path of the Panj River. You can stop off at sacred hot springs, and enjoy real Tajik hospitality in small mountain villages. Don't forget to look up at night to see breathtaking views of the Milky Way, completely unobstructed by light pollution.
Get in touch with the Origin curation team and we'll start planning your totally unique experience.
Rick Lunt
Originally from the Northwest of England, Rick has found his way to New York via the Czech Republic, Spain, and a myriad of other destinations. Rick dreams of owning a Hacienda in Mexico, but Asia has always been his main passion. In the last decade, highlights have included meals with Geisha in Japan and being adopted by the Asaro Mudmen in Papua New Guinea.