Tour Map

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Overview

Venture on a thrilling horseback riding tour through the Xiata Ancient Trail, tackling diverse terrains—vast grasslands, a 3,800m mountain pass, and glacial valleys—while soaking in breathtaking views of glaciers, emerald lakes, and snow-capped peaks. Stay with herders to experience nomadic culture amid pristine summer pastures, and gallop across the grand prairie. This challenging, top-tier route promises an unforgettable blend of adventure, natural wonder, and high-altitude beauty for experienced riders seeking a glacier-focused expedition.

Highlights

  • Experience a thrilling 7-day horseback riding tour through Xiata Ancient Trail, covering diverse terrains like vast grasslands, steep mountain passes, and glacial valleys.  

  • Conquer challenging ascents, including a 3,800m mountain pass, and enjoy breathtaking views of glaciers, emerald lakes, and snow-capped peaks.  

  • Immerse yourself in the nomadic culture, staying in herders' homes and witnessing endless herds of grazing livestock in pristine summer pastures.  

  • Explore unique natural wonders, from rare alpine plants to the icy formations of Muzart Glacier, while galloping freely across Xiata Grand Prairie.

  • This route is difficult and challenging, belongs to the top horseback traversing route, and is a thrilling glacier adventure tour with high requirements for the participants. 

Itinerary

Day 1Zhaosu Arrival

Upon landing at Yining or Zhaosu Tianma Airport, you'll be warmly welcomed and transferred to your hotel in Zhaosu. Settle in, savor a hearty dinner, and rest up for the thrilling horseback riding tour ahead.  

Transport: Car
Accommodation: Overnight in Zhaosu
Meals: Dinner

Day 2Ascend to the Nomadic Eden

After a hearty breakfast, you'll embark on the longest horseback ride of the tour—30km through Xiata's "staircase" terrain. Ascend two vast grassland platforms and conquer a 3,500m mountain pass, gaining 1,500m in elevation. At the second platform, marvel at endless herds of horses, cattle, and sheep grazing across lush meadows. This Kazakh herders' highest-altitude summer pasture, nestled among towering peaks, feels like a hidden Eden frozen in time.  

Transport: Horse (30km)
Accommodation: Camping
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 3Conquer the 3,800m Mountain Pass

Ready to Conquer the heights! Today's 20km horseback ride challenges you with the tour's toughest ascent—a steep 3,800m mountain pass. Traverse rugged river valleys, dismounting occasionally to navigate rocky trails. After conquering the summit, descend to a cozy herder's home for lunch, then follow the river into a serene valley where your camp awaits.  

Transport: Horse (20km)
Accommodation: Camping
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 4Glaciers and Botanical Wonders

Can you imagine one step at a time, one view at a time? Today, prepare yourself for a 20km horseback ride through Xiata's glacial heartland. Cross another pass and enter a realm where glaciers glisten to your right, while snow-capped peaks and emerald grasslands unfold to your left. The terrain softens here, and rare alpine plants—a living botanical treasure—accompany you all the way. Arrive at a log cabin camp by dusk, where both you and your trusty horse can recharge.  

Transport: Horse (20km)
Accommodation: Camping
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 5Emerald Lakes & Glacier Adventures

A visually stunning 20km horseback ride! Wind past the jewel-like Green Lake and magnificent glacial waterfalls before crossing the Hadamuzi Pass. In the afternoon, you have the choice to explore the icy wonders of the Muzart Glacier, its crystal rivers and jagged ice formations offering endless photo opportunities.  

Transport: Horse (20km)
Accommodation: Camping
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 6Ride the Rapids, Gallop the Plains

Victory is at hand! Today covers 30km of dynamic terrain. Test your horsemanship with thrilling river crossings—challenging yet exhilarating under Xiata's ever-changing skies. After conquering the rapids, unleash your inner rider across Xiata Grand Prairie, galloping freely beneath snow-capped peaks. If weather permits, capture iconic shots of pine forests and snow mountains making the most of your tour. 

Transport: Horse (30km)
Accommodation: Camping
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 7Farewell & Departure

After a leisurely breakfast, we'll transfer you to the airport. Bid farewell to Xiata's untamed beauty, carrying memories of glaciers, gallops, and nomadic skies that will linger long after your adventure ends. Bon voyage!  

Transport: Car
Accommodation: No Accommodation
Meals: Breakfast

Choose Your Travel Date and Get Free Enquiry

Month Arrival Date Departure Date Price Single Room Book The Tour
Aug Aug.23,2025 Aug.29,2025 from $1780 $0 Free Enquiry

Includes

  • 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.

Excludes

  • 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.

Trip Notes

  • 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!

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