Located to the north of the city, Ajar has been breeding stunning purebred Arabian horses since 2006. This ancient breed can be spirited and highly-strung but fortunately the stud has a selection of calm and gentle steeds for ‘newbies’ – it’s even possible to select your four-legged companion in advance by visiting Ajar’s website. Individual lessons with an instructor can be arranged for 3,500 KZT per hour, or else one can enjoy the countryside with a gentle hack at 3,000 KZT per hour – routes include canyon and lake tours. The farm is an idyllic spot that is home to a menagerie of other animals besides those of the equine variety; and whilst it is possible to arrange visits post 6pm, do be aware that prices increase by 50 per cent after this time. The staff are Russian-speaking.