Tatosh has been organizing horseback rides at Song Kul in the summer for years. For the past three winters, she has also been welcoming travelers who want to explore the frozen lake and the campsite under the snow.
She has created a program tailored for winter. You may be a beginner at horseback riding, but you must be in good physical shape, have a spirit of adventure, and be willing to spend several days in the cold and snow.
What should I know before traveling in the winter?
In the fall, most nomads leave Song Kul with their herds to head back down into the valleys. Tourist camps close until spring. In winter, the lake freezes over and snow covers the mountains.
Beksultan, Tatosh, and a few families continue to welcome travelers, even in the middle of winter.
You’ll be accompanied by experienced Kyrgyz guides who know the terrain well and are accustomed to working with horses in these conditions. The itinerary depends on the weather and snow conditions, so it may be modified based on conditions on the ground.
Still hesitating?
If you're looking for an easier, gentler introduction to Song Kul on horseback, I recommend coming in the summer.
Big plus: Beksultan lends you the Kyrgyz army's extreme cold weather gear.
Thick, lined jacket and pants, designed to withstandthe harsh Central Asian winter. Add to that lined boots, suitable for snow and long days on horseback. You're equipped like a true local.
I tested the outfit in -12° weather in November. It's super effective.
On your end, be sure to bring technical clothing (base layers, socks, gloves). Winter in Song Kul is harsh, and proper preparation is essential.
Song Kul in winter on video looks like this:
What is the itinerary for my 3-day winter horseback trek?
Your schedule is as follows:
- Day 1: Transfer from Bishkek to Kyzart. Lunch in Kyzart before the horseback ride. Three-hour horseback ride. Dinner and overnight stay with nomads in a shepherd's house.
- Day 2: 3-hour horseback ride to Song Kul Lake. Lunch, free afternoon around the lake, dinner and overnight in a yurt camp.
- Day 3: Return to Kyzart after a 6-hour ride on horseback. Lunch in Kyzart.
Duration: 3 days and 2 nights
Period: November 1 to April 30
Accommodation and meals: 1 night in a shepherd's house, 1 night in yurts, 3 lunches, 2 dinners, and breakfasts.
Included:
- Horse rental
- Local guide (basic english)
- 1 cook for groups of 2 or more people (the guide takes care of the horses and the cook prepares the meals)
- 1 guide for up to 3 people
- 2 guides from 4 people
- Meals
- Accommodation
Not included:
- A private transfer from Bishkek to Kyzart costs $65 per car.
FAQ: Frequently asked questions about trekking in Song Kul in winter
Frequently Asked Questions
How to get to Song Kul in winter?
In winter, you have to deal with infrequent public transportation that is highly dependent on the weather. There are no reliable schedules like there are in summer.
Access to Song Kul is usually via a transfer organized in advance by Tatosh.
What level is required to participate?
You can come as a beginner on horseback, provided you are in good physical shape and accept demanding winter conditions.
For a first visit to Kyrgyzstan, opt for the summer version, which is more accessible.
What clothing and equipment should I bring?
Beksultan provides you with cold weather gear, including the Kyrgyz army uniform.
You must bring your own technical clothing.
Why do we sleep in shepherd's houses and not in yurts in Kilemeche?
In Kilemeche, nights are spent in a shepherd's house, which is more isolated than a yurt.
This is where shepherds actually sleep in winter, and it allows for a more restful night before the cold of the lake.
Are yurts heated in winter?
Yes. Each yurt has a stove, and the beds are equipped with several thick blankets.
I recommend sleeping fully clothed, as the locals do.
Can I request a vegetarian menu?
Yes, provided you specify this in advance.
In winter, meals are simple and adapted to local conditions.
Can I leave my luggage here?
Yes. You can leave unnecessary luggage at the stables before departure.
In winter, traveling light makes for a more comfortable trip.
Is there electricity and can we recharge our devices?
The camps have very little electricity.
I recommend you bring power bank.
What is the price for my group?
Prices are in Soms:
The price for your 3-day winter hike is as follows:
- 1 person: 26,400 KGS
- 2 people: 42,600 KGS
- 3 people: 56,400 KGS
- 4 people: 77,760 KGS
- 5 people: 92,880 KGS
These rates apply from November 1 to the end of April.
Unlike in summer, there are very few tourists in Song Kul in winter. It is possible to form a group on site or join other travelers, but this is very difficult and never guaranteed. Most travelers go on private tours. This is also what makes the experience more intimate and authentic.
Book with Tatosh:
To contact her, fill out the form below or reach out via email: tatoshguide@gmail.com :
See the other hikes Tatosh can organize for you: