Horse riding in Almaty: be a Kazakh nomad for a day

Since Kazakhstan is all about steppes, every real Kazakh remembers his nomad roots and knows how to ride a horse. Horse riding was a very popular nomad activity throughout our history. Kazakhs who live in the villages still do it every day as a part of their job, while those who live in the city, do it sometimes for fun. In Kazakhstan, a horse has always been a sacred animal, so we love it and treat it as a friend. If you wonder how is it to be a Kazakh nomad for a day, riding a horse in Almaty should be on your bucket list. Here are the best two places where you can combine modern Kazakh lifestyle with some nomad experiences.  

1.  Almaty Horse & Polo Club

Almaty Horse & Polo Club is an equestrian center which is located in the Chubaragash tract (about 35 km from Almaty). Fans of outdoor activities will be able to do horse riding in the picturesque surroundings with a duration of one hour and a length of up to 15 kilometers. In addition, horse riding therapy is carried out here - a method of rehabilitation through therapeutic riding.

The prices start from 6.000 tenges to 12.000 tenges (from 14 to 28 euros). It all depends on the route and its duration. Be sure that here you will spend a wonderful time with some great experts. 

2. Altyn Tai

The equestrian club called Altyn Tai is located in Butakovsky gorge. It's even closer than the first club, only 20 minutes away drive from the city center of Almaty. This club is really unique because leading horse riders in the country, members of the national equestrian team, train and give lessons here. Moreover, Altyn Tai has a breeding farm for German horses, which you can visit after the riding. One more special thing - here is you can also have a mountain horse ride. Imagine fresh mountain air, a mighty horse and amazing views. Be sure you will feel like on the top of the world. 

The prices in this place start from 7.000 tenges to 14.000 tenges (from 16 to 32 euros), depending on the route and duration. 

After riding a horse in Almaty, you will see a friend in this beautiful animal and will be thirsty for new adventures. Some people even say that riding a horse also gives you a feeling of absolute freedom. Moreover, if you never tried such an activity, now is the right time to try to be a Kazakh nomad for a day.