This was called the Great Trek; and it really was. Quite demanding, we rode for 2,000 to 3,600 metres. The terrain was sometimes steep and vertiginous, it was sometimes rocky and rough. The distances were demanding and added up to 500km. Helene Guilerm was a superb guide. The horses were tough and beautifully looked after. The absence of mobile signal and internet signal in the mountains meant this was a real get away.

The horses are all sure-footed, easy to handle & good natured despite living as a herd.

The tack is worn but perfectly comfortable.

if i may say, this was the best trip i ever head and i am well traveled.

The guide Hellen is a lovely lady with horses were fantastic, very well trained and behaved ponies. i only regret i could not do it for longer.
Kyrgyzstan is such a stunning country. i could not recommend this trip enough.
i am even considering of going back there again.

I would have preferred to have ridden something which was more forward going.
There was nothing wrong with the tack. In fact the saddles were very comfortable.
All the horses looked well with good coats and they all know there job.

I thought the horses would be less well trained than they were - there were horses to meet all needs e.g. Calm, spirited etc. mine was lovely - calm & fast.

The landscape was phenomenal, most of the riding was slow which was understandable considering the terrain and duration in the saddle. My horse was 18 years old but he had no problems and more than capable of the journey. I never felt pressured to make him go faster than he wanted to by the group which was my only worry. There were some good canters and for me it was perfect. A couple of horses developed girth sores so were treated/rested the next day, my only comment is they may want to invest in some better protectors/girth covers if possible. Otherwise my only regret was not going for the full trek... I worried I would not be fit enough for the 8 days but it's amazing what you get used to! Was not ready to leave by the end. Helene and Almaz were amazing as our guides and could not have felt more looked after.

[In The Saddle comment: Our partners in Kyrgyzstan are working hard to reduce any issues of girth sores. New girths are being purchased for next year in an extra effort to minimise the problem.]