Day 1: Horses and the Taste of Kazakh Traditions
Upon arrival at the yurt camp, be greeted with tea and homemade treats before settling into your accommodation. In the afternoon, begin your journey with a horseback ride through the surrounding steppe and rolling hills. Even if you have never ridden before, experienced guides will make sure you feel safe and comfortable. Small children can ride accompanied by an adult or be led by a guide on foot. Riding through this vast landscape, feel a connection to a nomadic heritage that has defined this region for centuries.
After the ride, immerse yourself in Kazakh culinary culture with a hands-on workshop on preparing traditional dairy products – kurt and zhent. Learn how these beloved snacks are made, shape them yourself, and enjoy tasting your creations fresh from the process. In the evening, sit down to a hearty dinner of local dishes, then relax by the campfire under a sky overflowing with stars.
Day 2: Jeep Adventure to Lake Zhasylköl
After breakfast, prepare for the highlight of the tour: an off-road jeep expedition to Lake Zhasylköl. This is not just a transfer – it’s a true overland adventure, taking you across rugged mountain passes, alpine meadows, and dirt tracks known only to locals. Along the way, pass herds of free-roaming horses, crystal-clear streams, and landscapes that shift from golden grasslands to green forests.
Your guide will share stories of the area’s history, legends, and wildlife as you approach the lake. Upon arrival, be rewarded with a breathtaking view: emerald waters reflecting snow-capped peaks, a place so untouched there are no tourist facilities – just pure nature. Take a guided walk along the lakeshore, stopping at scenic viewpoints while a professional photographer captures unforgettable moments for you.
Lunch will be served picnic-style right at the lake’s edge, featuring fresh, locally inspired dishes. You’ll have time to relax, breathe in the mountain air, and enjoy the serenity before heading back to the camp. That evening, share a final dinner with your group and spend the night in your yurt.
