"A man and his horse" Top 5 Page for this destination Kazakhstan Local Custom Tip by TheWanderingCamel

The horse has been central to Kazakh culture throughout the ages and even in today's Kazakhstan the horse holds a pivotal place. Whether as a working animal on the steppe, a source of entertainment and pleasure - for the spectator if not the rider at the races and games that are very much part of national, local and family celebrations, or as an important part of the local diet, horses are regarded as the most important animal in the country.

Even in today's urbanized society Kazakhs take pride in their horsemanship, and in the claim that both the stirrup and the chariot originated with their ancestors.

The Kazakh horse is a tough little animal, bred for hardy endurance and its milk-producing capacity rather than beauty or speed. Races featuring boy riders are feats of endurance - 200 or more riders in a "race" that goes on for hours around a course on the steppe the winner being the one who lasts longest.