WELCOME and THANK YOU for your interest! We’re excited to share all the details of this horseback journey with you! Check out the information below, and if you have any questions, feel free to ask!
the journey:
- Destination: Altai mountains in southern Siberia, Russia
- Time: first half of September 2025
- Tour type: Custom-made, Horse riding, Wild Nature
- Duration: depending on your preferences (options below)
- Difficulty: of your choice and depending on experience with horses
- Group size: 2 - 8 (group or individual)
- Price: from 150 EUR / day per person
THE PLACE
If you’re reading this, you’ve likely heard of Altai — a truly special, one-of-a-kind place. Nestled where mountains, rivers, and forests meet, Altai offers breathtaking landscapes and untouched nature. Located at the crossroads of Russia, Kazakhstan, Mongolia, and China, these mountains are often called “Russian Tibet” or “Siberian Switzerland” for their beauty and power. The name “Altai” is often translated as the “Golden Mountains” — a majestic and deeply revered place. Altai has been a UNESCO World Heritage site since 1998, recognized for its natural and cultural richness, perfect for those seeking both adventure and peace.
WHO WE ARE:
My name is Varya, I was born and raised in Novosibirsk, the capital of Siberia. A nature lover and professional actress, I’ve been living in Greece for the past eight years — but my roots always calling me back to my homeland. Thanks to my parents, both geologists, I spent my childhood exploring nature of my region, including Altai Mountains. Almost every summer, we set off on road trips through them — a tradition I still continue every time I return home. On my last trip, I met Arjan — a local horse guide born and raised in Altai, who knows these mountains like the back of his hand. And that’s how the idea of this tour was born. I feel called to share this special place with others who are open to feeling it's peace and power.
Arjan has been in the saddle since childhood, raising and riding horses. Now, after finishing his career, he returned to what truly matters to him — life in the mountains and leading horse tours through his homeland which he does with deep care and joy. As Arjan likes to say, “If you ever meet me in the city — it’s definitely not me. My place is in the mountains.”
Combining Arjan’s deep connection to the place with my love for it and for creating intercultural experiences, we will be guiding this journey together — and we’d be happy to welcome you along.
what awaits you:
A unique, non-touristic routes — Altai is vast, and we believe its true magic lies off the beaten path. That’s why we avoid popular tourist trails and instead follow lesser-known routes through untouched landscapes.
A space for depth and connection. We intentionally keep the group small to preserve the sense of intimacy and immersion — allowing for solitude and a closer connection with the land, the horses, and yourself. For an even more personal experience, individual tours are also possible.
Sacred places. In Altai, nature is alive with spirit — and locals treat the land with deep respect. We’ll guide you to places of true power and beauty, while gently keeping distance from those that are no longer in balance.
Vargan by the fire. In the evenings, as we gather around the fire, our guides will share the mystical sounds of the vargan - a traditional Altai instrument that resonates with the spirit of the land.
Calm, strong horses. Our carefully selected and trained geldings are experienced in carrying riders of all levels. Each horse is individually matched to its rider to ensure the best possible experience.
Comfortable equipment. From saddles to trekking gear, everything is thoughtfully chosen to offer you the most comfortable and secure trail.
Choose Your Path - select the experiences that speak to you:
Fishing – we’ll grill our fresh catch on stones and enjoy it right on the spot
Meeting with a Shaman – energy cleansing available upon request, rooted in local tradition
Handmade Banya – the perfect way to end the day, surrounded by forest and stars
Throat Singing Concert – a soul-stirring performance echoing ancient Altai spirits
what is included in the price:
Additional Costs (not included):
Questions & Registration:
varvarabir@gmail.com