Highland Horseback Riding around the villages of Doğubayazıt in Ağrı Province offers visitors a traditional and unhurried way to explore the volcanic plateau and Ararat foothills at altitude. Rides are arranged through village contacts connected via Sim-Er Hotel on Emniyet Caddesi in Doğubayazıt or through the Doğubayazıt Mountain Guides Association, and typically depart from farming settlements within a 15-minute drive of the town centre. Routes wind across open meadows, rocky highland tracks, and pastoral landscapes where cattle and sheep graze under the shadow of Mount Ararat, whose twin peaks provide a constant and dramatic backdrop to the east.
Half-day rides of three to four hours cover 15–20 km across terrain at elevations of 1,600–2,200 m; full-day excursions extend to 25–30 km and may include stops at remote Kurdish villages where riders can observe traditional highland life or take tea with local families. The horses used are compact, sure-footed breeds accustomed to the rugged volcanic terrain and generally calm in temperament, making them suitable for riders with limited experience. A local guide accompanies all rides, managing the horses, navigating the routes, and providing cultural context about the villages and landscape encountered along the way.
No advanced equestrian skill is required for the standard routes, though participants should be comfortable sitting in a saddle for several consecutive hours. Wearing long trousers is strongly recommended to prevent saddle chafing, and ankle-support boots give better security in the stirrups than trainers. The best season for highland riding runs from June through September when the plateau meadows are green and accessible; outside this window, snow and mud render many village tracks impassable by horseback. Rides are priced per person and small groups receive better value; prior arrangement of at least one day in advance is necessary as horses and guides are sourced from surrounding villages and cannot be mobilised at short notice.
Activity facts
- Where
- Villages around Doğubayazıt, Ağrı
- Duration
- 3–8 hours
Equipment
- Long trousers (prevent saddle chafe)
- Ankle-support boots
- Sun hat
- Water
Location
Village around Doğubayazıt; enquire at Sim-Er Hotel reception, Emniyet Caddesi No:19, Doğubayazıt
39.5580, 44.1000 View on map
Highlights
- Horseback traversal of Ararat's volcanic plateau with panoramic views of Turkey's highest peak throughout the ride
- Traditional routes through Kurdish highland villages with opportunities to meet local farming families
- Rides suitable for beginners and children — calm, sure-footed highland horses on gentle to moderate terrain
- Half-day and full-day options covering 15–30 km of highland meadow, rocky track, and pastoral landscape at 1,600–2,200 m
Tips for visiting
- Wear long trousers — bare legs against a saddle for several hours causes uncomfortable chafing even on gentle rides.
- Book through Sim-Er Hotel or the Guides Association at least a day ahead; horses and guides are based in surrounding villages and cannot be mobilised on the same day.
- Ankle-support boots or solid walking shoes provide better stirrup security than trainers or sandals.
- Carry cash in Turkish lira — guides are paid directly and no card facilities are available at departure points.
- Ask the guide to route via a village for a tea stop — this is a genuine cultural exchange and most guides are happy to arrange it.
Frequently asked questions
Is riding experience required?
No prior riding experience is necessary. The horses used are calm and accustomed to the terrain; a local guide accompanies all rides and manages the horses. Basic comfort in a saddle makes the experience more enjoyable but is not mandatory.
Are the rides suitable for children?
Children aged approximately 8 and above are generally accommodated on the standard routes, provided they are comfortable on horseback and accompanied by an adult. Confirm age and weight limits when booking as individual guides and horses may have different thresholds.
How do I arrange a ride?
Rides are most easily arranged through the reception at Sim-Er Hotel on Emniyet Caddesi in Doğubayazıt, or by contacting the Doğubayazıt Mountain Guides Association. At least one day's notice is required for the horses and guide to be organised from surrounding villages.
What does a half-day ride cost?
Prices typically range from TRY 600 to 1,500 per person (approximately $17–$42) for a half-day ride including the guide. Full-day rides with village stops cost more and can be negotiated as a group package directly with the guide or hotel contact.