Turkmenistan is home to one of the world's oldest breeds of horse.

Interact with some of the world's rarest horses

As a symbol of strength and endurance, a close and personal visit with this brilliant horse breed will provide you with a fascinating encounter.

The Akhal-Teke is an ancient horse breed with a history that dates back thousands of years. This breed originated in Turkmenistan and was once accustomed to the harsh conditions of the Karakum desert. Requiring minimal food and water, it became an extremely resilient breed in the region's extreme temperatures.

Official breeding of the Akhal-Teke began following the incorporation of Turkmenistan into the Russian Empire in 1881. © arthorse / Shutterstock

The name of the horse comes from the Teke tribe that inhabited the Akhal oasis along the northern Kopet Dag Mountains. These tribes would selectively breed their horses to become more athletic and smarter, leading the breed to be known for their endurance and intelligence. The metallic sheen of the horse's coat has given it the nickname of the 'Golden Horse'.

As a revered symbol of Turkmenistan, he Akhal-Teke appears on the country's coat of arms. © Olga_i

The first official breeding farms were established during the Russian Empire’s takeover of Turkmenistan in the 1880s. The Akhal-Teke breed suffered greatly during the Soviet Union’s mistreatment of the horses and their numbers dwindled. Today, the Akhal-Teke is a prized symbol of Turkmenistan and its people. In fact, the final Sunday of each April marks the national holiday of Turkmen Horse Day. In the capital city of Ashgabat, they have one of the largest Central Asian horse breeding centres, the Akhal-Teke Equestrian Complex. Pay a visit to one of these centres and be amazed at this breathtaking breed of equine.