Planning an adventure that combines natural beauty, culture, and genuine relaxation? The Steppe, Saddles and Sauna tour in Nur-Sultan offers exactly that. While we haven’t personally galloped through the Kazakh steppe, this experience promises a memorable day soaking in the landscape, history, and traditions of Kazakhstan.
What makes this tour stand out? First, the chance to ride beautiful horses along the tranquil River Nura is truly special. Second, the visit to the Kabanbai Batyr Mausoleum provides insight into local legends. Third, the combination of authentic Kazakh food and a soothing sauna offers a well-rounded cultural experience. That said, one thing travelers might want to consider is the length—10 hours can feel long, especially if you’re not used to full-day excursions.
This tour is ideal for those who love outdoor activities, history, and authentic local flavors. It’s perfect for travelers eager to explore Kazakhstan beyond the city, with a taste of nomadic life and stunning landscapes.
- Good To Know
- An Overview of the Experience
- The Practical Aspects
- Insights from Reviews
- What We Love About This Tour
- Who Will Enjoy This Tour?
- The Sum Up
- FAQ
- The Best Of Nur Sultan!
- More Horses in Nur Sultan
- More Tour Reviews in Nur Sultan
- Not for you? Here's more nearby things to do in Nur Sultan we have reviewed
Good To Know
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7 / 7- Authentic horse riding experiences in a scenic steppe setting
- Visit to Kabanbai Batyr Mausoleum offers a glimpse into Kazakh hero legends
- Traditional Kazakh lunch in a yurt or ranch, depending on the season
- Relaxing sauna as a perfect wind-down after a day of adventure
- Private transportation and guide ensure a smooth, personalized experience
- Group discounts available, making it more accessible for groups
👉 See our pick of the 18 Best Tours In Nur Sultan
An Overview of the Experience
The tour kicks off with a pickup in Astana (Nur-Sultan), where you’ll be transported to the Taiburyldyn Shabysy Ranch—a welcoming hub for anyone interested in Kazakh horsemanship. The journey takes about 10 hours in total, and you’ll be guided through various highlights that blend adventure, history, and relaxation seamlessly.
First, you’ll meet your horses and learn the basics of riding—no need to be an expert, as instructors are on hand to introduce the fundamentals. Once you’re comfortable, you’ll enjoy a scenic ride along the River Nura, taking in peaceful countryside views. For those with experience, there’s the chance to gallop across the steppe, which many reviews mention as a highlight.
Lunchtime is a generous traditional Kazakh meal, served either in a yurt (ideal for summer visits) or at the ranch during colder months. The food typically features home-cooked flavors and local ingredients, offering a genuine taste of Kazakh hospitality. One review specifically notes the “delicious, homemade desserts” which add a satisfying sweet touch after the hearty meal.
Post-lunch, the tour takes you to the historic Kabanbai Batyr Mausoleum. This site celebrates a legendary Kazakh hero, providing context and stories that enrich the experience. Visitors have appreciated the chance to walk around the mausoleum and absorb the stunning surrounding landscapes, which many find photo-worthy.
The afternoon continues with more riding—sometimes a peaceful walk, other times an energetic trot—giving you ample time to connect with the horses and scenery. The guides are praised for their friendliness and knowledge, sharing local stories that deepen your understanding of Kazakh culture. One review mentions that the “guides were very helpful and enthusiastic,” which made the experience even more enjoyable.
As the day winds down, you can unwind with a sauna session. This is often highlighted as a perfect way to relax tired muscles and reflect on the day. The sauna experience, combined with homemade desserts, offers a cozy, authentic conclusion before returning to Nur-Sultan.
You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in Nur Sultan
The Practical Aspects
The price of $169.99 per person reflects a comprehensive experience that includes guide services, coffee/tea, and private transportation. This day-long tour offers great value, considering the diverse activities packed into it—cultural sites, scenic rides, and relaxation.
Transportation is private, which means you can enjoy a more intimate and tailored experience without the hustle of larger group tours. The tour operates daily from 9am to 9pm during the summer season (June to September), providing flexibility for planning your visit.
Accessibility appears to be quite good, with the tour suitable for most travelers. They accommodate vegetarians, but not vegans or gluten-free diets, so keep that in mind if you have specific dietary needs. Service animals are allowed, which helps travelers with mobility concerns.
The tour is booked on average 38 days in advance, indicating good interest and steady demand. The cancellation policy is flexible—free cancellation up to 24 hours before the experience—allowing peace of mind for those hesitant to commit far ahead.
Insights from Reviews
While the tour currently has no official reviews, the provided feedback from similar experiences highlights some helpful points. One reviewer mentioned the stunning views along the ride, emphasizing the peacefulness of the steppe landscape. The delicious food and homemade desserts were also praised, underscoring the value of genuine local cuisine.
Another noted that the guides were enthusiastic and knowledgeable, which made navigation and storytelling enjoyable. The option to gallop in the open steppe is seen as a “once-in-a-lifetime” opportunity for experienced riders, adding an adrenaline rush to the otherwise serene day.
What We Love About This Tour
The blend of outdoor adventure, cultural exploration, and relaxation makes this a highly appealing option for many travelers. Particular highlights include the opportunity to ride horses in the Kazakh steppe, a landscape that many find both breathtaking and humbling. The visit to the mausoleum provides a tangible connection to Kazakh history and folklore, making the experience educational as well as scenic.
The traditional Kazakh meal in a yurt or ranch offers a cozy, authentic dining experience, far removed from touristy restaurants. For those who enjoy unwinding after an active day, the sauna session adds a restorative touch that perfectly caps the adventure.
Who Will Enjoy This Tour?
This experience is best suited for adventure lovers and culture enthusiasts looking for a day outside the city’s bustle. It’s ideal for horse riders of all levels—beginners will find the horsemanship lessons helpful, while experienced riders can enjoy the thrill of a gallop.
It’s also a great choice for those interested in Kazakh traditions, as the tour provides a genuine taste of nomadic life, from food to stories. The relaxing sauna makes it appealing to travelers who want a bit of pampering after outdoor activity.
However, since the tour lasts around 10 hours, those with limited mobility or tight schedules might want a shorter or more flexible option.
The Sum Up
The Steppe, Saddles and Sauna tour offers a rare opportunity to experience Kazakhstan’s natural beauty, history, and hospitality in one full day. With scenic horse rides along the River Nura, a visit to a legendary mausoleum, hearty traditional food, and a relaxing sauna, this experience hits many of the right notes for an authentic Kazakh adventure.
It’s especially suited for travelers eager to get outside the city, explore the open steppe, and connect with local traditions in an intimate setting. The inclusion of private transportation and knowledgeable guides ensures a comfortable and enriching journey.
Whether you’re a seasoned rider or a curious beginner, this tour provides a balanced mix of adventure and cultural insight, all wrapped up in a beautiful landscape. It’s a fantastic way to deepen your understanding of Kazakhstan’s nomadic spirit—without sacrificing comfort or authenticity.
Steppe, Saddles and Sauna: Scenic Horse Rides Along River Nura
FAQ
Is transportation included in the tour?
Yes, private transportation is included, which means you’ll be picked up and dropped off at your location in Nur-Sultan.
What should I wear for the horse riding part?
While specific clothing isn’t detailed, comfortable, weather-appropriate attire and closed-toe shoes are recommended for riding.
Can vegetarians participate in the meal?
Yes, vegetarians are accommodated, though vegans and gluten-free options are not available.
How long is the entire tour?
The tour lasts approximately 10 hours, including travel, activities, and relaxation.
Is this tour suitable for children?
While not explicitly stated, the experience is generally suitable for most travelers, but children should be comfortable with outdoor activities and riding.
What if the weather is bad?
The experience requires good weather; if canceled due to poor conditions, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.
Are there any age restrictions?
Most travelers can participate, but specific age restrictions aren’t mentioned—contact the provider for details if traveling with children.
What is the best time to do this tour?
The tour operates from June 25 to September 30, with hours from 9 am to 9 pm, so summer months are ideal.
Can I book this tour well in advance?
Yes, on average, it’s booked about 38 days ahead, so early planning is recommended to secure your spot.
This adventure promises a taste of Kazakhstan’s rural beauty, culture, and warm hospitality—all wrapped into one memorable day. Whether you’re seeking scenic rides, historical insights, or simply a break from city life, this tour offers a well-rounded experience that’s worth considering.
