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Embark on a captivating horseback riding journey through the enchanting landscapes of Kuerdening, nestled in the heart of Xinjiang. This 6-day tour offers a perfect blend of thrilling rides through lush green meadows, mystical snow-dusted forests, and vibrant displays of early spring wildflowers. Highlights include traversing the world-renowned Snow Ridge Spruce Reserve, galloping across flower-filled valleys, and marveling at the majestic Kabanbayi Peak shrouded in mist. Whether you are a seasoned rider or just starting out, this tour promises an unforgettable experience immersed in the pristine beauty of nature's springtime awakening.
Embark on a horseback journey through breathtaking valleys and lush spruce forests, exploring the world-renowned Kuerdening Snow Ridge Spruce Reserve.
Ride across open meadows bursting with wildflowers, admiring the delicate blooms of Gagea lutea that herald the arrival of early spring.
In April, Xinjiang offers a rare spectacle where snow and lush green grasslands coexist. Ride deep into the spruce forests and marvel at the magical contrast between spring snow and verdant landscapes.
From a distance, admire the towering Kabanbayi Peak, and delve into the legendary tales of the Kazakh national hero. Explore one of the sources of the Kuerdening River, surrounded by pristine natural beauty.
This route is not too difficult overall, but it has some intensity and is suitable for visitors with horseback riding or trekking experience to improve their horsemanship while enjoying the flowers.
Welcome to Yining, the pearl of the Ili River Valley and a vibrant city in Xinjiang Uighur Autonomous Region, renowned for its stunning natural landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and unique local traditions. Your journey begins with a warm welcome at Yining Airport, where we'll provide transfers to your hotel for check-in. After settling in, enjoy a welcome dinner, meet your guide, and rest up for the adventure ahead. The rest of the day is free for you to relax and explore at your leisure.
After a hearty breakfast, you embark on a 30km horseback journey through breathtaking valleys and dense spruce forests.
Welcome to Kuerdening, a world-class snow ridge spruce reserve that transforms into an ethereal fairyland every April. Discover the rugged beauty of Kuerdening, with plenty of opportunities for trotting and galloping through this pristine landscape. As early spring rains and lingering mist envelop the landscape, the spruce forests take on a magical quality that is simply unparalleled. This route offers the most enchanting scenery of the season. While the spruce forests are beautiful year-round, the misty vistas of April are a fleeting wonder that you won't want to miss.
Today's 20km ride takes you across open meadows bursting with wildflowers. As the snow begins to melt in early April, the first wildflowers emerge, painting the landscape with delicate white and yellow Gagea lutea (A flower that blooms beautifully despite the frost) . These early blooms, alongside other alpine flowers, signal the arrival of spring in the highlands.
As you ascend in elevation, the flora changes: white Gagea lutea dots the higher altitudes, while golden blooms thrive in the lower valleys. The fresh grass and youthful blossoms create a vibrant, fleeting beauty that is distinct from the full bloom of summer.
Follow riverside trails and explore deeper into the wilderness before returning to your hotel for a well-deserved rest.
Where else in Xinjiang can you ride through snow in April while the grasslands are already lush and green? Kuerdening offers this unique contrast, where lingering snow meets vibrant green meadows—a photographer's dream.
Immerse yourself in the heart of the spruce forests. Spend the day riding through these ancient woods, with the mist-shrouded Kabanbayi Peak towering in the distance. This route is truly the best way to experience the magic of spring snow in Xinjiang.
Today's itinerary takes you through towering mountains and dense forests, where the waters are clear and the grasses lush, embodying a pristine and ancient charm. Gazing southward, among the mountain ranges stands a sharp, angular snow-capped peak, known as Mount Kabanbayi. This peak, the highest in Kuerdening at an elevation of 4,257 meters, is one of the sources of the Kuerdening River. Mount Kabanbayi is named after a Kazakh national hero, and it is here that a legendary tale of heroism once unfolded.
After a final breakfast, we'll transfer you to Yining Airport. Bid farewell to your fellow travelers, taking with you memories of an unforgettable journey.
Month | Arrival Date | Departure Date | Price | Book The Tour |
---|---|---|---|---|
Apr | Apr.15,2025 | Apr.20,2025 | from 1780 | Free Enquiry |
Apr.22,2025 | Apr.27,2025 | from 1780 | Free Enquiry |
Private transportation through out the itinerary. Xinjiang China will arrange for all travelers to be met on arrival and seen off on departure based on your flight info.
4pax- 7seats. 6pax- 12seats. 8pax- 18seats. 12pax-33seats
4star hotel include breakfast, service charge and government tax. Located in the downtown
All entrance fees(shuttle bus) sightseeing; excursions and activities as per the itinerary
Private friendly and professional English-Speaking guides
Visa support letter for you to apply Chinese visa easily.
Travel and health insurance when travel with us.
8, A 24/7 helpline while you are traveling.
International and domestic flights not indicated.
Food, Lunch or dinner not specified
Tips or gratuities for guides and drivers
Personal expenses and the other tours or activities not mentioned
Weather and Clothing
Large Temperature Difference Between Day and Night: Daytime temperatures range between 10-25°C, while nighttime temperatures drop below 10°C. In spring and autumn, daytime temperatures are 10-20°C, and nighttime temperatures are 5-10°C. In summer, daytime temperatures are 15-25°C, and nighttime temperatures are around 10°C.
Recommended Clothing: Due to strong sunlight during the day, it is advisable to wear long-sleeved shirts and pants and pay attention to sun protection. At night, temperatures are lower, so bring a jacket, especially if you are sensitive to the cold. Extra layers are recommended for those who feel chilly easily.Sun Protection Items: It is recommended to bring high-SPF sunscreen, lip balm, sunglasses, and a tube scarf (buff).
Communication and Charging
Mobile Signal: Mobile signals are available in towns, supporting China Unicom, China Mobile, and China Telecom. Some towns have 3G/4G coverage. However, during the horseback riding journey, some areas may have no signal, making it difficult to make calls or access the internet.
Charging: It is recommended to bring a power bank for charging your devices.
Horseback Riding Information
Riding Experience: 60% of the participants have no prior horseback riding experience. Professional coaches and well-trained horses are provided. Regardless of your experience level, it is advised not to gallop at the beginning and to take time to familiarize yourself with your horse.
Group Riding: Depending on the riding speed and experience of the group, participants may be divided into a fast team and a slow team. Coaches will take care of everyone in both groups.
Children Riding: Children aged 7 and above who can ride independently may do so. Children aged 5-7 who can ride will require one-on-one guidance and protection. Children under 5 must ride with a staff member.
Other Recommended Items
Luggage: Large luggage or suitcases can be placed on the logistics support vehicle. It is recommended to prepare a backpack for carrying personal items during the trip.
Rain Gear: Occasional showers may occur on the grassland, so it is advisable to bring a raincoat.
Special Circumstances
Missed Airport Pickup: If you miss the scheduled airport pickup, you will need to arrange and pay for your own transportation to the destination. We can recommend local drivers familiar with the area.
Weather Impact: Horseback riding trips are greatly affected by weather conditions. In case of severe weather or force majeure, we will adjust the itinerary based on weather and road conditions. Your understanding is appreciated.
Fees and Discounts
Non-Riding Family Members: Family members who do not ride can choose to travel by vehicle or stay with the logistics staff. They will be charged half the tour fee, but we do not provide accompanying services for sightseeing.
Children and Elderly: The fee for children and elderly participants is the same as for adults, as we need to allocate more time and effort to ensure their safety and comfort.
Important Notes
Physical Requirements: The horseback riding trip requires a certain level of physical fitness. If you have any serious medical conditions, please inform us in advance.
Riding Safety: Regardless of your riding experience, it is recommended to avoid galloping at the beginning and to take time to get familiar with your horse. During the ride, coaches will divide the group based on riding speed and experience to ensure everyone's safety.
We hope these travel tips help you prepare for your horseback riding tour in Xinjiang. Have a wonderful trip!