Gallop across the ancient Mangyshlak steppe on a Kazakh thoroughbred and meet a master berkutchi — a traditional eagle hunter — whose golden eagle has been trained through generations of nomadic craft. Utterly rare and deeply moving.
What to expect
A 4WD collects you from the cruise terminal and drives 45 minutes to a steppe ranch. After a horsemanship briefing, you ride out at a comfortable canter across the plateau, your guide narrating the landscape's nomadic history. You arrive at the berkutchi's camp where the eagle — a 5kg golden eagle with a 2-metre wingspan — is demonstrated in free-flight hunting passes. You are invited to hold the bird on a leather glove for an unforgettable photograph and personal exchange with the hunter through your interpreter-guide.
Good to know
Ride approx 90 mins; total excursion 4.5 hrs. Suitable for intermediate riders; gentle horses available for beginners on request. Sturdy trousers and closed shoes required; gloves provided for the eagle encounter. Back dockside well within a standard afternoon all-aboard.