Kolsai Kaindy Lakes with Charyn Canyons 2-day tour

Traveling to Kazakhstan often means discovering vast steppes, friendly locals, and surprising landscapes filled with hidden gems. One of the most popular ways to experience this incredible country is through the Kolsai Lakes, Kaindy Lake, and Charyn Canyon tour, a well-rounded adventure that offers a taste of Kazakhstan’s diverse natural beauty.

This 2-day journey promises breathtaking sights, engaging hikes, and genuine cultural moments—all with the comfort of a guided experience. We’re here to give an honest, detailed look at what you can expect, what makes it worth your while, and some considerations to keep in mind.

What we love most about this tour is the seamless blend of scenic landscapes, knowledgeable guides who bring the places to life, and the unique experience of staying in traditional yurts under the starry sky. The value for money is hard to beat when you consider the inclusions, from park entrance fees to meals and overnight stays.

A potential consideration is the long travel times—this is a comprehensive trip, so expect several hours in the van, which might be tiring for some. However, the comfortable transport, friendly atmosphere, and well-paced itinerary help make this manageable.

This tour suits adventurous travelers who love nature, cultural experiences, and don’t mind a bit of a drive. If you’re seeking a well-organized, authentic experience that covers multiple highlights in just two days, this is a solid pick.

This experience made our article of You’ll Love These 15 Tours & Experiences In Almaty.

Key Points

• All-Inclusive Experience: Park entrance fees, meals, and accommodations are covered, offering excellent value.
• Epic Landscapes: From the towering Charyn Canyon to the submerged trees of Kaindy Lake, expect stunning views at every turn.
• Knowledgeable Guides: Guides like Muhta, Azamat, and Dana received high praise for their passion and local insights.
• Comfortable Transportation: A/c vans and well-timed stops make long travel days more pleasant.
• Authentic Stay: Sleep in yurts at the foothills with starry skies and the soothing sound of mountain rivers.
• Balanced Itinerary: Ample time at each site means you can truly soak in the scenery without feeling rushed.

A Deep Dive into the 2-Day Itinerary

Day 1: Charyn Canyon and Kolsai Lake

Your adventure kicks off early at 8:00 am in Almaty, with a pickup from Shevchenko Street. The focus on Charyn National Park means you’ll spend the morning exploring what many call the “Valley of the Castles.” The canyon’s dramatic rock formations, carved over millions of years, give it a surreal, almost otherworldly feel.

Expect to walk about 1.5 km along the canyon bottom—walking here is optional, but most travelers find it worthwhile. Reviewers like Nicolas describe the scenery as “breathtaking,” praising the well-organized schedule that balances sightseeing with enough time to enjoy each spot.

After a few hours, the journey continues with a visit to Lower Kolsai Lake around 4:00 pm. The lake’s calm, emerald waters reflected in reviews as “serene” and “unreal” are perfect for a leisurely walk, some horseback riding, or even a boat ride if you opt in. Many mention how the peaceful atmosphere makes it a highlight of the trip, with guides making sure everyone gets enough time for photos and exploration.

Day 2: Kaindy Lake and Additional Canyon Stops

The second day begins with a 9:00 am departure to Kaindy Lake, famous for its submerged forest—trees poking out of the turquoise water like natural sculptures. The hike around the lake is scenic, and horseback riding is an optional activity, adding a bit of adventure.

Travelers like Ewan appreciate the “many exciting moments with horse riding and trekking,” and note that the short hikes at each site are well-paced. Around mid-afternoon, the tour moves to Black Canyon and Moon Canyon, both free to visit and offering more rugged, dramatic scenery.

Accommodation and Evening Experience

At night, you’ll stay in traditional yurts at the foothills, far from city noise, with only mountain river sounds and stars overhead. Many reviews highlight the yurt experience as “magical,” with some mentioning the chance to try local meals and enjoy games around a bonfire. The yurts typically have attached WCs, and customers appreciate the chance to connect with Kazakhstan’s nomadic heritage.

Food and Hospitality

While most guests praise the delicious local cuisine and plentiful meals, some reviews note that the food at the yurts could use improvement, especially the breakfast and dinner options. Vegetarians are accommodated, which is a plus, but it’s good to be prepared for a simple, hearty menu.

Transportation and Group Size

The trip uses a comfortable A/C van, with a group size generally around 30 travelers—small enough to foster camaraderie, but large enough to feel lively. The drive is long but made palatable by good organization and friendly guides, with frequent stops for sightseeing and restroom breaks.

Guides and Overall Atmosphere

Guests consistently mention guide enthusiasm and knowledge, with Muhta, Azamat, and Dana standing out. Their stories, local insights, and humor enrich the experience. Many reviews mention how guides like Aigerim and Kuanysh made the trip more memorable with their friendliness and energy.

Price and Overall Value

At $140 per person, the tour offers impressive value considering all inclusions: park fees, meals, accommodation, and transportation. The reviews support that this is a well-run, comprehensive tour that covers a lot of ground without feeling rushed.

Final Thoughts: Who Will Love This Tour?

This 2-day Kazakh adventure is perfect for travelers craving authentic landscapes, cultural insights, and a taste of nomadic life. If you’re comfortable with long drives and moderate hikes, you’ll find this trip rewarding, with plenty of opportunities for photos, relaxing walks, and cultural connection.

It’s especially valued by those looking for a well-organized, budget-friendly experience with knowledgeable guides. The yurt stay and scenic stops make it ideal for nature lovers who want more than just a quick glance at Kazakhstan’s highlights.

However, if you’re sensitive to long bus rides, or prefer luxury accommodations, this might not be the best fit. Also, travelers with special dietary needs or physical limitations should note some reviews mentioned the food quality and shared restroom facilities.

FAQ

How long is the drive each day?
Expect around 4 to 6 hours of travel each day, with a well-paced schedule that includes stops for sightseeing and breaks.

What’s included in the price?
Park entrance fees, meals (including vegetarian options), accommodation in yurts or rooms, transportation with A/C, bottled water, and a bonfire experience are all covered.

Can I request vegetarian food?
Yes, vegetarian meals are available upon request, and the tour is known for accommodating dietary restrictions.

What kind of accommodation is provided?
Guests stay in yurts at the foothills or rooms with attached WCs, sharing with other participants of the same gender.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Children under 5 are not allowed. The tour requires moderate physical activity and is best suited for travelers in good health.

Are horse riding and boating included?
These activities are optional and paid separately, starting from about 7000 KZT per person depending on the route and duration.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes for walking and hiking, layered clothing for changing weather, and a sense of adventure are recommended.

What if I need to cancel?
You can cancel for free up to 24 hours before the tour. Beyond that, the full amount is non-refundable.

Final Word

This Kolsai Lakes, Kaindy Lake, and Charyn Canyon tour offers a fantastic peek into Kazakhstan’s natural beauty, balanced with cultural experiences and comfortable logistics. It’s a great choice for those wanting a deep dive into the country’s landscapes without sacrificing convenience or authenticity. The high praise from past travelers speaks to its value and memorable moments. If you’re ready for stunning views, knowledgeable guides, and a bit of nomadic magic, this tour is worth your consideration.