# Among Mountains & Nomads > Kyrgyzstan yoga retreat with James Rafael combining hiking, mountain landscapes, nomadic culture, traditional yurts, horse riding and high-altitude lakes. - URL: https://reclaimyourself.club/our-holidays/kyrgyzstan-yoga-wellness-retreat/ - Published: 2026-08-15 - Updated: 2026-08-18 - Author: Jools Sampson --- **Into Kyrgyzstan's High Country** Over ten nights, we'll journey across Kyrgyzstan through mountain valleys, high-altitude lakes and vast grasslands where horses roam and nomadic traditions remain part of everyday life. From Chon Kemin to Son Kul, Issyk Kul and Bishkek, this is an active journey through some of Central Asia's most extraordinary landscapes. We begin in the Chon Kemin Valley, surrounded by forested mountains and open countryside. A gentle first hike gives us time to settle into the landscape before we head further into the mountains the following day for a full-day hike and picnic lunch. **Four Nights at Son Kul** At more than 3,000 metres above sea level, Son Kul is one of the great highlights of the journey. We'll spend four nights in traditional yurts beside the lake, surrounded by sweeping grasslands, distant peaks and herds of horses grazing across the plains. Our days here revolve around being outdoors. We'll hike around the lake and into the surrounding mountains, swim in the clear water and warm up afterwards in the traditional steam room. Morning and evening yoga with James fits around the day's adventures. Horse riding is available each day for anyone who wants to explore on horseback. Beginners can take gentle rides around the lake with experienced local guides, while confident riders can head further into the mountains, following trails across the high plains and passes. We'll also spend time with a local semi-nomadic family and experience the Nomad Games, giving us a closer look at the traditions and skills that remain an important part of life in this region. **Across the Mountains** Leaving Son Kul, we travel to Tash Bashat and spend the night at a comfortable mountain hotel. After several active days at altitude, we'll have a slower afternoon before continuing east towards Issyk Kul. The journey itself is part of the experience, taking us along mountain roads and through landscapes that change dramatically as we cross the country. **Yurt Makers, Eagle Hunters & Issyk Kul** On our way to Issyk Kul, we'll meet master yurt makers and discover how Kyrgyzstan's traditional nomadic homes are constructed. We'll learn about the techniques and materials involved and have the chance to help build a yurt ourselves. We then continue to our eco-camp beside Issyk Kul, one of the world's largest alpine lakes, for our final night in a yurt. The following morning brings one of the most memorable encounters of the trip when we meet a traditional Berkutchi, or eagle hunter, and learn about the centuries-old relationship between hunters and their golden eagles. **Finishing in Bishkek** Our final two nights take us to Bishkek, where mountain landscapes give way to broad boulevards, leafy parks, Soviet-era architecture and busy markets. We'll explore the city and learn more about Kyrgyzstan's history and modern identity, with time to wander through a local market filled with spices, textiles, fresh produce and handmade crafts. Our journey ends with a farewell dinner and a final evening together after ten days crossing this remarkable country. **Yoga Along the Way** Yoga with James Rafael is woven throughout the retreat, with regular morning and evening practices scheduled around our hikes, journeys and activities. Some days begin with a more energising practice before heading into the mountains, while evening sessions give tired legs and bodies a chance to stretch after hiking, riding or travelling. --- Site index for agents: https://reclaimyourself.club/llms.txt