World Nomad Games in Astana, Kazakhstan

5.0 (3)
8 days 7 nights
Kazakhstan
Photo Alima  B.
5.0
Alima B.
Tour Provider
View Alima ’s tours
Difficulty
Easy
Comfort
Basic+
Midscale
Weight limit

The World Nomad Games are included in the UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage List!

The World Nomad Games are international sports competitions in ethnic sports. The competition is based on folk games of historically nomadic peoples of Central Asia. The WNG are aimed at the development of ethno-sports and the ethno-cultural movement as a heritage of human civilization.

You will attend all of the equestrian events leading up to the final and the final itself, you will stay at the ranch. You will spend time with a Kazakh family, learn how to make real Kazakh food, learn horsemanship skills with the horses at the ranch and immerse yourself into Kazakh culture. 

Free transport to the city and back at your pleasure. You will be driven to all of the events and back, the tickets are included in the price. All meals are included as well, our chef is one of a kind. 

$1,400
per tourist for 8 days
Departing from
Astana, Kazakhstan
Available dates
Date of travel
Number of individuals
Only in the Horse Tours Club
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  • Reviews from travelers
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Photo Alima  B.
Alima B. is the provider and guide of this trip
The provider speaks: English
Welcome to our ranch, located near Astana, where we provide exceptional opportunities for both beginners and advanced riders alike. Our center offers a variety of specialized services, including tours tailored for beginners, intermediate, and advanced riders. From half-day, day, and combo tours to multi-day adventures, we offer accommodation and meals at our cozy ranch, ensuring a comfortable and immersive experience.

Tour highlights

Kok Par (Horse rugby) & Kok-boru (asian horse polo)
World Nomad Games event where two teams of horsemen compete to grab a furry ball and score in the opponent's goal, showcasing exceptional horsemanship
Horse Archery
The event tests the rider's ability to control the horse with precision and shoot accurately, all while moving at high speed.
At Chabysh
A long-distance horse race that can cover several kilometers. This race tests the endurance and speed of both the horses and the riders.
Er Enish
Two riders grapple with each other while on horseback, trying to unseat their opponent. The rider who manages to throw the other to the ground wins.

Route details

Day 1
Arrival at the ranch, saying hello, meeting your loyal steed

11:00 – 11:30: Arrive at the Ranch and meet your friendly guide.

11:30 – 13:00: Get acquainted with your trusty horse and either learn the basics of horseback riding or refresh your skills with a lesson from our experienced instructor. Commence your first joy ride in the steppe. Like a true nomad your first ride will end in a yurt!

13:00 – 14:30: Savor a traditional Kazakh meal inside an authentic yurt. Delight in a flavorful feast of classic Kazakh dishes.

14:30 – 17:00:  Set out on a picturesque horseback journey through the endless Kazakh steppe. Breathe in the fresh, open air and take in breathtaking views of rolling hills and lush meadows.

17:00 – 18:30: Leave your worries behind and indulge in a delicious dinner made from fresh, local ingredients. Savor the tranquility of nature while you recharge for the rest of the day’s adventure.

18:30 – 20:00: Continue your ride as you delve into the history of the region, following the river Nura. You might even have the chance to meet local nomadic herders tending their flocks. 

20:00 - 22:00: Immerse yourself in the relaxing warmth of the sauna, washing away the fatigue and easing muscle soreness from your ride. Then, settle in for a peaceful night’s stay at the ranch.

2 more photos
Day 2
Hungarian style horseback archery
Day 3
Preliminary games for Kokpar (horse rugby) and Kok-Boru (horse polo)
Day 4
Korean style mounted archery OR Kokpar and Kok-boru
Day 5
Semi-Finals for Kokpar and Kok-boru OR horseback wrestling
Day 6
Finals for Kokpar and Kok Boru
Day 7
All horse racing events at one location - short, medium and long distance!
Day 8
One last day in the grand steppe!
Day 9
Saying goodbye
Difficulty
Easy
Minimal physical activity. Suitable for everyone regardless of fitness and age
Tour provider's comments

For those who yearn to experience the spirit of nomads, embark on an exhilarating horseback expedition through the vast expanses of the Kazakh steppe, just outside the capital! Immerse yourself in the rich traditions of this region, savoring authentic Kazakh cuisine and warm hospitality, while riding beautiful horses. Moreover, you experience the best of both worlds: scenic horse rides and a guided tour of the capital’s key attractions.

The horses are all smart, beautiful, calm, well-trained and well taken care off. Looking at them is a joy, as is taking care of them and riding them. A joy we hope you share with you, hopeful visitor.

horse

Accommodation

Comfort
Basic+
Midscale
Guest House
7 nights

Guests are welcome to stay in the guesthouse, depending on the size of the group the main house will be made available. There is a private sauna on the property, a horse stable, along with a cook. 

7 nights
Guest House

Tickets to group meeting place

Group meeting place
Astana, Kazakhstan
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Weather during the tour

Weather conditions along the route
You will get a weather forecast for this tour’s route based on
  • the forecasts for this season
  • the statistics from previous years’ trips
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Tour conditions

Included

  • breakfast, lunch and dinner that are made at the ranch;
  • transport for all events and to the airport;
  • scenic horse rides on beautiful and calm horses;
  • private sauna;
  • VIP tickets to all the aforementioned events;
  • horse gear, helmets, support, saddles.

Extras

  • alcohol,
  • food at the events and in the city.

Group size

up to 6 tourists

Duration

8 days
7 nights

It's important to know

Personal equipment you need for the tour

Horse riding boots

The steppe gets cold in the evening and it gets windy, so please pack something warm 

Cancellation of booking

Reviews

5.0
Based on 3 reviews
  • A
    Alessandro
    26 Sep, 2024
    about provider
    I was fortunate to spend a night at this amazing equestrian center in Kazakhstan, and I cannot recommend it highly enough. The horses are not only beautiful but also friendly, and the two people running the center are incredibly kind and welcoming. They made every effort to ensure our comfort from the moment I arrived, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere. The center also features a guesthouse where I stayed. The guesthouse is spacious, with a large bathroom and sauna, and the food served is typical of Kazakh cuisine. Every dish was absolutely delicious! I highly recommend this riding center to anyone seeking an incredible adventure with horses in an authentic setting.
    26 Sep, 2024
  • M
    Monica
    25 Sep, 2024
    about provider
    My experience at this ranch has been nothing short of extraordinary. It’s a true gem for anyone seeking an authentic Kazakh nomadic adventure. I initially came here to learn how to ride horses, and since then, I’ve returned every year from the Netherlands as a more experienced rider to reconnect with the breathtaking nature of the steppe. The warm welcome you receive makes you feel like part of the family, and this warmth has remained constant throughout my visits over the years. The ranch offers a variety of experiences, catering to both first-time riders and seasoned horse enthusiasts. You can explore the expansive and beautiful steppe on horseback, riding one of their magnificent, well-cared-for horses, who feel like family. The bond you create with the horses and the surrounding nature is truly special. In addition to riding, you can immerse yourself in Kazakh culture and lifestyle. The ranch provides unique accommodations, from staying in a traditional yurt under the stars in the summer to a cozy guesthouse available year-round. Both options offer a rustic yet comfortable experience, and you can unwind in the private sauna—a perfect way to relax after a day spent outdoors on horseback. They consistently serve delicious traditional home-cooked Kazakh meals and desserts made by a local lady, and each time I visit, I get to try something new. Tea is, of course, served in the traditional Kazakh manner—unlimited! What truly sets this ranch apart is its atmosphere. Every conversation with the owner is a deep exploration of Kazakhstan's history and traditions. You never feel like this is a "touristy" experience; it’s authentic, genuine, and full of heart. This is where you learn about true Kazakh life and culture, far removed from the commercialized versions many places offer. I cannot recommend this place highly enough for anyone seeking a meaningful, rejuvenating, and authentic experience in Kazakhstan. I eagerly anticipate my next trip there!
    25 Sep, 2024
  • T
    Theresia
    23 Sep, 2024
    about provider
    If you love horses, this place is definitely for you. However, don’t expect traditional music or attire. You can gallop across the stunning Steppe on horseback. The farm features a cozy guesthouse where they serve hearty meals like buckwheat, local apple pie, cabbage beetroot soup, fried rice with meat, and bread stuffed with mashed potatoes. The atmosphere is laid-back, allowing guests to work with the hosts to arrange their own itineraries, though it may take some time, and things might not always be perfectly organized. We enjoyed a leisurely two-hour ride to a yurt in a nearby village, but we had to wait an hour for someone to bring the key. Kazakh modern rural culture has its quirks. For instance, you drink from a bowl, and if the hosts want you to leave quickly, they'll fill it to the brim, prompting you to drink up and move on. If you only receive about two-thirds of a bowl, it means you’re welcome to stay longer. Don’t worry; you can always expect an unlimited refill!
    23 Sep, 2024

Dates and Prices

  • $1,400
    6 – 13 Sep, 2025 8 days 7 nights
    Request to book

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