From Almaty: 2-Day Yurt Camp, Horseback Ride, & Jeep Tour

Discover Kazakhstan’s Hidden Treasures on a 2-Day Yurt Camp, Horseback Ride, & Jeep Tour from Almaty

This 2-day adventure whisks you away from the bustling streets of Almaty into the raw, untouched beauty of the Kazakh steppe and mountains. For $399 per person, you’ll stay in traditional yurts, ride horses across sweeping grasslands, and tackle a rugged jeep journey to the stunning Lake Zhasylköl. Led by knowledgeable guides—whose stories make the landscape come alive—this trip offers a genuine taste of Kazakh culture and nature.

What we love most? First, the authentic yurt experience—your nights in these traditional dwellings are a step back in time, complete with campfire evenings under a star-studded sky. Second, the jeep ride is a highlight—crossing mountain passes and alpine meadows to reach the pristine emerald lake, with scenery that’s nothing short of spectacular.

A couple of considerations? The trip demands some physical readiness—think hiking and horseback riding—and the rugged terrain means packing warm clothing and sturdy shoes. This tour suits active travelers eager to connect with the land and culture, especially those who appreciate outdoor adventures and picturesque landscapes.

Key Points

• Authentic Yurt Accommodation: Spend two nights in traditional Kazakh yurts with all amenities at a scenic camp.
• Cultural Experience: Participate in a hands-on cooking class making dairy products like kurt and zhent, deepening your understanding of local culinary traditions.
• Adventure Activities: Enjoy horseback riding suited for all levels and an exhilarating jeep tour through mountain paths to Lake Zhasylköl.
• Breathtaking Scenery: Expect spectacular views of snow-capped peaks, rolling hills, and the shimmering emerald lake.
• Local Cuisine: Relish hearty traditional dishes and a picnic lunch at the lake.
• Practical Details: All meals, entrance fees, and guided activities are included—just bring your sense of adventure and weather-appropriate gear.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Exploring the Kazakh Steppe and Mountains: A Practical Review

The Itinerary in Detail

Day 1: The Heart of Kazakh Traditions

Your journey begins at the yurt camp, where friendly hosts welcome you with tea and homemade treats. The camp’s setting in the Zhylandy Valley offers a peaceful start—think wide-open skies and gentle breezes. After settling in, the star of the afternoon is a horseback ride through the expansive steppe. Guides ensure everyone, whether a seasoned rider or a complete novice, feels safe and comfortable. Small children can ride accompanied or led by a guide, making this a family-friendly option.

Riding here isn’t about speed but about feeling connected to the vast landscape. As one traveler noted, “Even if I’d never been on a horse before, I felt confident thanks to the guide’s patience and clear instructions.” Expect to pass herds of horses roaming freely amid golden grasses, with mountain peaks looming in the distance.

Post-ride, you’ll get hands-on with a cooking workshop focused on making kurt and zhent. These dairy snacks are staples in Kazakh cuisine; shaping and tasting your own adds a satisfying, tangible connection to the culture. Evening dinners feature hearty local dishes, and the night ends by the campfire—perfect for swapping stories under a sky bursting with stars.

Day 2: Off-road to Lake Zhasylköl

Rise early for breakfast before heading out on the jeep adventure—a true overland experience. Your guide, perhaps a local with tales of the land, will navigate rugged mountain tracks, alpine meadows, and dirt roads known only to locals. The scenery is breathtaking: rolling grasslands, crystal-clear streams, and distant mountain silhouettes.

En route, you’ll pass herds of free-roaming horses and learn about the region’s legends and wildlife. The journey itself feels like an exploration of Kazakhstan’s untouched wilderness. When you arrive at Lake Zhasylköl, you’re greeted with a view that’s nothing short of incredible: emerald waters reflecting snow-dusted peaks. It’s so remote that there are no tourist facilities—just pure, unspoiled nature.

A picnic lunch at the lake allows you to relax and soak in the serenity. You can walk along the shoreline, take photos, and enjoy the crisp mountain air. The return journey offers more chances to appreciate the landscape’s shifting colors—golden grasses, green forests, and blue sky.

Back at the camp, a final group dinner rounds out the experience, and you’ll spend your last night in the comfort of your yurt, recounting highlights under the starry sky.

What’s Included and What’s Not

All meals are covered, from hearty breakfasts, picnic lunches, to dinners featuring local flavors. Entrance fees—including eco-post charges—are included, making logistics straightforward. Horseback riding with helmets and safety briefings ensures safety and fun, even for beginners. The jeep tour, guided by an experienced local, includes a professional photo session—perfect for capturing memories.

Not included? Flights to and from Almaty, personal travel insurance, alcoholic drinks, souvenirs, and personal expenses. The tour’s price of $399 offers good value considering the comprehensive activities and authentic experiences provided.

Practical Tips for Travelers

Bring comfortable shoes and weather-appropriate clothing—mountain weather can change quickly. A camera is essential for capturing the endless vistas, and warm layers will keep you cozy during evening star-gazing. The maximum rider weight is 120 kg, so keep that in mind if you’re planning to ride. Children under 12 need to be accompanied by an adult.

Pack light but smart—nothing fancy needed, just gear suitable for outdoor adventures. And remember, no smoking, alcohol, or food in the jeep or vehicle for safety reasons.

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Authenticity and Genuine Experiences

This tour stands out for its genuine connection to Kazakh culture and landscapes. The yurt stays provide a window into the nomadic way of life, while the horseback riding and cooking workshop deepen your cultural understanding. The jeep adventure isn’t just transportation—it’s a chance to see places travelers rarely visit, with stories from your guides that give context and color.

Travelers have appreciated the natural beauty and the feeling of being far from crowds. One reviewer shared, “The views at Lake Zhasylköl are everything you hope for—peaceful, stunning, and utterly untouched.” Another mentioned that the guides’ stories brought the land’s legends to life, making the experience all the more memorable.

The Value of This Tour

At $399 for everything—accommodation, meals, activities, and entrance fees—you’re getting a well-rounded, authentic Kazakh experience. Considering the remote locations visited, the guided horseback rides, and the jeep tour, this price offers great value. It’s particularly appealing for those who want a mix of adventure, culture, and stunning scenery in a manageable, 2-day format.

While it’s not suited for those seeking luxury or very leisurely travel, it rewards active travelers eager to connect with nature and tradition. The all-inclusive nature simplifies planning, letting you focus on enjoying every moment.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

If you’re someone who loves outdoor activities, culture, and breathtaking landscapes, this trip is perfect. It’s especially suitable for travelers curious about Kazakh traditions but wanting a hands-on experience rather than a museum tour. Active families, groups of friends, or solo adventurers will find the mix of riding, driving, and cultural activities engaging and rewarding.

You should be comfortable with some physical activity—think walking, riding, and sitting in a jeep on uneven terrain. Younger children under 12 need adult supervision, but the tour is friendly enough for families with older kids.

For travelers looking for a quick, authentic escape into nature with rich cultural insights—all while staying in traditional yurts—this trip hits the mark.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for beginners?

Yes, the horseback riding is guided and suitable for all levels. Guides will ensure everyone feels safe, and riding is not about speed but about enjoying the landscape.

What should I pack?

Bring comfortable shoes, warm clothing, weather-proof layers, a camera, and personal essentials. Mountain weather can change rapidly, so be prepared for sun, wind, or rain.

Are meals included?

Yes, all meals are covered, including breakfast, picnic lunches, and dinners featuring local dishes.

Can children join this tour?

Children under 12 can participate with an adult, and riding is adapted for young children, such as being led or accompanied on foot.

What is the maximum rider weight?

The maximum rider weight is 120 kg for horseback riding activities.

What if I want to cancel?

You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing flexibility in your travel plans.

This 2-day Kazakh adventure offers a compelling blend of cultural authenticity, natural beauty, and active exploration. If you’re seeking a memorable experience that goes beyond typical sightseeing, this trip from Almaty is a fine choice—especially if you’re drawn to stunning landscapes and immersive traditions.

You can check availability for your dates here: