World Nomad Games in Astana, Kazakhstan

Difficulty

Easy

Comfort

Basic+

Midscale

Weight limit

Group size

1-6 tourists,
over 6 y.o.

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.

Alima B. is the provider and guide of this trip

5.0 8 reviews

The provider speaks: English

My name is Alima and I'm from Kazakhstan. I spent some time studying in the US and working abroad in US and Europe. On top of being a professor at the local university, I am a passionate advocate for Kazakhstan’s rich heritage and equestrian traditions. At our ranch, my family continues to honor the deep connection between humans and horses, a bond that has been at the heart of Kazakh life for centuries. We take pride in offering immersive experiences, from leisurely horseback rides across the stunning steppe to cultural tours that dive into the history and traditions of the country. As an avid equestrian and storyteller, I aim to share not only the beauty of the Kazakh steppe but also the tales of its people, history, and vibrant nomadic spirit. Whether guiding you through the sprawling steppe or the bustling landmarks of Astana, my enthusiasm and hospitality will ensure an unforgettable experience. With years of experience in hosting tours and a deep appreciation for the bond between humans and horses, I bring a personal touch to every journey. My perspective blends an intimate knowledge of Kazakh culture with a global outlook, ensuring that each guest feels welcomed, informed and inspired.

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

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.

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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.

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.

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.

It's important to know

Horse riding boots

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

Reviews

5.0

Based on 8 reviews

D
David

about provider

13 Aug, 2025

I stayed at the Ranch with two friends for five days, followed by a five-day horse trek through Burabay National Park. At the ranch, we mixed horse riding days with city excursions. The accommodations were clean and comfortable, and it’s clear the horses are truly loved and well cared for. My friends are experienced riders, while I’m more of a beginner, but we were able to start riding right away! The weather was perfect, so we enjoyed two rides a day for three days, switching horses each time so they could rest. The owner joined us on most rides—she was thoughtful, attentive, and had a great sense of humor. She also took us on guided tours of both the “old city” and the “new city,” and on another day, we visited museums with another member of the ranch team. The food was absolutely delicious and plentiful! For the last five days, we joined the ranch’s team for a guided horseback trek through Burabay National Park. We rode about six hours a day and stayed in a comfortable, modern farmhouse hosted by locals. It was such an incredible experience! Huge thanks to Alima for being an amazing host and for caring so deeply for her beautiful, intelligent horses. I highly recommend this tour to anyone who loves stunning scenery, great food, and wonderful company. Thank you all for an unforgettable adventure!
E
Ema

about provider

5 Aug, 2025

I had such an amazing time. The food was genuinely fantastic, and the hospitality was on another level—so warm, welcoming, and sincere. The horses were wonderful—calm, well-trained, and suitable for all riding levels. I even got to ride a few fast ones, which was awesome. What really made it special was how personalized everything was. I’d mention what I wanted, and they made it happen. Everything felt so flexible and perfectly tailored to me, which made the experience even more memorable. I honestly couldn’t recommend it more highly.
L
Laurent

about provider

13 Jul, 2025

I spent several magical days at Alima’s Ranch with her son, Syrym, and I have only one regret — not reaching out to them sooner so I could have spent even more time with them and their wonderful horses. The hospitality here is truly exceptional; you immediately feel at home, like part of the family. Syrym is incredibly attentive and does everything possible to make your stay at the ranch unforgettable, joyful, and full of laughter. And the cook—what a gem! The meals, including breakfast, are absolutely delicious and gargantuan — we ate like kings! The horses are, as we say in the equestrian world, “safe and sound.” They’re calm and reliable for beginners, yet capable of thrilling gallops for more experienced riders. I originally came for the steppe landscapes, but what I found was so much more — I got to live my dream and left feeling like I now have a second family in Kazakhstan. A few extra highlights: - They picked me up from Astana and even drove me to the airport at 2:30 a.m., at no extra cost. - The evening sauna is the perfect way to unwind after a day of riding. - Everyone is so responsive, accommodating, and genuinely eager to make your stay special. In short, it’s an absolute favorite — the ranch, the family, the cook, and the young guide all made this experience truly extraordinary.