Kazakhstan Unbridled: Horse Tours Beyond the Capital

09:00 – 10:00: Begin your day with a scrumptious breakfast, preparing for your horseback adventures through the breathtaking landscapes of the Kazakh steppe.

10:00 – 13:00: Set off on an exhilarating horseback ride along a new route, discovering stunning vistas and hidden corners of the steppe. Revel in the beauty of the rolling hills and expansive plains as you explore fresh, awe-inspiring views.

13:00 – 14:30: Savor a delightful picnic lunch in the serene heart of the steppe. Enjoy the tranquil surroundings as you reflect on your adventures and savor the delicious, locally-sourced fare.

14:30 – 17:00: Select one of the picturesque routes following the Nura River for your horseback adventure. 

17:00 – 18:30: Conclude your ride with a flavorful dinner of traditional Kazakh dishes, enjoying warm company as you’re immersed in the stories and customs of Kazakhstan and its rich culture.

18:30 – 20:00: Commence an evening ride and journey off into the sunset, soaking in the stunning landscapes as you explore the vast, majestic steppe.

20:00 – 21:00: Return to the ranch after a fulfilling day and unwind in a soothing atmosphere. 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.

11:00 – 11:30: Start your day with a relaxed morning at the ranch. Take some time to prepare for another exciting day of exploration.

11:30 – 13:00: Reunite with your horse and set off for a gentle morning ride through the steppe. Whether you’re refining your riding skills or simply enjoying the scenery, this is the perfect way to start your day.

13:00 – 14:30: Return to the ranch for a delicious lunch. Savor a traditional Kazakh meal, featuring a variety of authentic dishes that showcase the region’s culinary traditions.

14:30 – 17:00: Embark on the afternoon’s main highlight—a ride to the Kabanbai Batyr Mausoleum. Traverse the beautiful steppe as you make your way to this important historical site. Once there, delve into the rich history of the revered Kazakh warrior and take in the architecture of the mausoleum.

17:00 – 18:30: Head back to the ranch for a satisfying dinner. Enjoy the flavors of locally sourced ingredients as you relax and reflect on the day’s adventures.

18:30 – 20:00: As the sun begins to set, continue your journey with a scenic ride along the Nura River. Experience the tranquil beauty of the region and keep an eye out for nomadic herders and their flocks.

20:00 – 22:00: End your day by unwinding in the sauna, letting the warmth soothe your muscles after a day of riding. Finally, retire for the night, enjoying the peaceful ambiance of the ranch as you rest up for another day of exploration.

08:00 – 09:00: Begin your day with a nourishing breakfast at the ranch, preparing for a day of cultural discovery.

09:00 – 10:00: Before setting out, take part in a brief discussion to learn about the historical context of the 1930s in Kazakhstan, focusing on the impact of Stalin's purges on the country.

10:00 – 11:30: Enjoy a morning ride through the serene steppe, reflecting on the historical insights as you immerse yourself in the landscape.

11:30 – 12:30: Return to the ranch for a traditional Kazakh lunch, savoring the rich flavors while discussing the upcoming visit to the ALZHIR Museum (museum for the “wives of the enemies of the people”).

12:30 – 14:00: Depart for ALZHIR museum, a small yet profound museum dedicated to the lives of the women who were imprisoned there during Stalin's purges. 

14:00 – 16:30: After the museum visit, take time to explore the right bank of Astana, where the capital city was originally established. Discover the historical significance of this area and how it has evolved over the years, blending the old with the new.

16:30 – 18:00: Return to the ranch and relax with a dinner made from fresh, local ingredients. Reflect on the day’s rich historical experiences as you enjoy your meal.

18:00 – 19:30: Take a leisurely evening ride around the ranch, allowing the day's events to settle in as you enjoy the peaceful surroundings.

Back to the farm.

08:00 – 09:00: Start your morning with a hearty breakfast at the ranch, energizing yourself for an exciting day ahead.

09:00 – 11:00: Embark on a morning horseback ride through the steppe. Enjoy the cool morning breeze and the peaceful landscape as you explore new paths and take in the beauty of the Kazakh countryside.

11:00 – 12:30: Return to the ranch for a lunch filled with traditional Kazakh dishes. 

12:30 – 14:00: After lunch, take a leisurely ride or drive to a nearby village where you will witness a real traditional game of Kokpar, a fierce and thrilling sport that has been played for centuries in Kazakhstan.

14:00 – 16:30: Watch as local horsemen engage in the intense and highly competitive game of Kokpar, where two teams battle to carry a goat carcass to their respective goals. Feel the adrenaline and excitement as you observe this ancient sport, a true reflection of Kazakh culture and horsemanship.

16:30 – 18:00: Return to the ranch after the game, where a delicious dinner awaits. Reflect on the excitement of the day as you enjoy a meal prepared with fresh, local ingredients.

18:00 – 19:30: Wind down with a gentle evening ride around the ranch, taking in the last rays of sunlight as the day comes to a close.

19:30 – 21:30: Unwind in the sauna, allowing the heat to relax your muscles after a day filled with adventure. Finally, settle in for a peaceful night at the ranch, ready to rest and recharge for the next day's activities.

08:00 – 09:00: Start your day with a satisfying breakfast at the ranch, preparing for a day of cultural exploration.

09:00 – 11:00: Enjoy a morning horseback ride through the expansive steppe. The serene environment provides the perfect backdrop for reflection on your journey so far.

11:00 – 12:30: Return to the ranch for a traditional Kazakh lunch, sharing your morning experiences with your fellow travelers.

12:30 – 13:00: Head to Astana for a visit to the National Museum of Kazakhstan, an essential cultural stop in the city.

13:00 – 15:30: Dive into the rich history and culture of Kazakhstan at the National Museum. Explore the ethnological exhibits that tell the story of the nomadic tribes, marvel at the detailed model of Astana city’s creation, and admire the stunning collection of paintings by Kazakh artists on the top floors. 

15:30 – 18:00: After the museum visit, continue your exploration with a tour of the left bank of Astana. Discover the modern architectural wonders, vibrant public spaces, and significant landmarks that define this dynamic area of the city. This part of the tour will give you a well-rounded understanding of both the traditional and contemporary facets of Kazakhstan’s capital.

Begin your morning with a hearty breakfast at the ranch, energizing yourself for a day of cultural elegance.

09:00 – 11:00: Enjoy a peaceful morning ride through the steppe, soaking in the tranquil beauty of the Kazakh landscape. Let the natural surroundings set the tone for the day's sophisticated experience.

11:00 – 12:30: Return to the ranch for a delightful lunch, featuring traditional Kazakh dishes. Take this time to relax and discuss the upcoming visit to one of Kazakhstan’s most magnificent cultural landmarks.

12:30 – 14:00: Depart for Astana and make your way to the Astana Opera, a true jewel in the city’s cultural crown. This stunning building, with its grand architecture inspired by classical European opera houses, is a testament to Kazakhstan's commitment to the arts.

14:00 – 16:30: Immerse yourself in the grandeur of the Astana Opera. Whether you’re attending a world-class opera performance, a ballet, or simply touring the opulent interior, you’ll be captivated by the exquisite design, which includes intricate frescoes, luxurious chandeliers, and plush seating. The acoustics and state-of-the-art stage technology make every performance a breathtaking experience, rivaling the best opera houses in the world.

16:30 – 18:00: After the performance or tour, take some time to explore the surrounding area, enjoying the blend of modern and classical architecture that defines this part of Astana.

18:00 – 19:30: Return to the ranch for a gourmet dinner, reflecting on the day’s cultural highlights.

19:30 – 21:30: End your day with a relaxing session in the sauna, letting the warmth soothe your muscles after a day filled with both adventure and sophistication. 

Finally, settle in for a peaceful night’s rest at the ranch.

Breakfast in the early morning.

09:00 – 11:00: Embark on a horseback ride through the expansive steppe.

11:00 – 12:30: Return to the ranch for a delicious lunch featuring traditional Kazakh dishes. 

12:30 – 14:00: Depart for a visit to a local artisan’s workshop, where you will meet a master craftsman who specializes in creating traditional Kazakh jewelry by hand. The journey itself offers a glimpse into the rural life of Kazakhstan, enhancing your appreciation of the artisan’s deep connection to the land and its culture.

14:00: At the workshop, the artisan will guide you through the intricate process of making traditional Kazakh jewelry, sharing his knowledge of the cultural significance behind each design and material used. Learn about the history of Kazakh adornments, the symbolism embedded in the patterns, and how these pieces have been passed down through generations. You’ll witness firsthand the skill and dedication required to create these beautiful works of art, from the selection of metals and stones to the careful crafting of each piece.

After the workshop, take some time to browse the artisan’s collection, with the opportunity to purchase a one-of-a-kind piece that reflects the rich heritage of Kazakhstan. Whether you’re interested in rings, bracelets, or necklaces, each item tells a story of tradition and craftsmanship.

18:00 – 19:30: Return to the ranch for a dinner made from fresh, locally-sourced ingredients.

19:30 – 21:30: Dinner and settle in for a peaceful night at the ranch, enriched by the artistry and traditions you’ve experienced.

08:00 – 09:00: Start your day with a hearty breakfast at the ranch, preparing yourself for an exhilarating day of hunting with hounds.

09:00 – 10:00: Meet your guide and get acquainted with your horse for the day. Enjoy a brief orientation and safety briefing on the hunting process and proper handling of the hounds.

10:00 – 11:00: Set off for a warm-up ride through the picturesque landscape to familiarize yourself with the terrain and your horse, ensuring you’re comfortable and ready for the hunt.

11:00 – 12:30: Begin the hunt with the hounds. Follow the experienced huntsmen and their trained hounds as they track game through the expansive steppe. Feel the thrill of the chase as you navigate the varied terrain, witnessing the skill and teamwork of the hounds in action.

12:30 – 13:30: Pause for a traditional hunting lunch in the field. Enjoy a picnic-style meal amidst the natural beauty of the steppe, sharing stories and camaraderie with fellow hunters.

13:30 – 15:00: Resume the hunt, exploring different areas of the steppe and taking advantage of the changing landscape. Continue to follow the hounds, appreciating the dynamic nature of the hunt and the stunning scenery around you.

15:00 – 16:00: Conclude the hunt and return to the ranch, allowing time to cool down your horse and unwind after an exhilarating day.

16:00 – 17:00: Enjoy a well-deserved dinner back at the ranch, featuring local and hearty fare. Reflect on the day’s adventures and the experiences shared with fellow hunters.

17:00 – 19:00: Relax in the evening with some downtime. Perhaps take a stroll around the ranch, enjoy a quiet moment by the fire, or share stories of the hunt with new friends.

Start your final day with a heartfelt breakfast at the ranch.

09:00 – 11:00: Take a leisurely morning ride on horseback through the steppe.

11:00 – 12:00: Return to the ranch for a farewell brunch. This is a time to reminisce about the adventures and memorable moments shared with your fellow travelers and the friendly ranch staff.

12:00 – 13:00: Take some time to say your goodbyes to the horses and the steppe that have been your companions throughout this journey. Share your gratitude with the ranch team for their hospitality and expertise.

13:00 – 14:00: Collect your belongings and prepare for departure. Take a final stroll around the ranch, capturing last memories of the peaceful surroundings and the special atmosphere that made your stay unique.

Depart for your next destination or journey home, carrying with you the memories of a once-in-a-lifetime experience, the beauty of the Kazakh steppe, and the friendships you’ve made along the way. Safe travels and best wishes for your future adventures!