There are currently around 6,600 Akhal-Teke horses in the world. They live mainly in Turkmenistan but are also found throughout Europe and North America. These horses are known for their beautiful coats. They are a breed of horse originating from the Kopet Dag mountain region of Turkmenistan. The Akhal-Teke breed is the only breed of horse that has been recognized by the Guinness Book of World Records as the most beautiful horse in the world. The Akhal-Teke horse was first brought to the attention of the West in the late 1980s when it was featured on the cover of the National Geographic magazine. It was then that breeders began to realize the unique beauty and quality of the Akhal-Teke horse. Breeders from around the world started breeding this horse in order to preserve the unique traits and characteristics of this horse. Breed Characteristics The Akhal-Teke is a sturdy, powerful horse with a thick mane and tail.