Treasures of Almaty lakes Kaindy and Kolsai,Charyn Canyon VIP car

If you’re after a day of jaw-dropping scenery and authentic Kazakh landscapes, this full-day tour from Almaty hits all the right notes. While we haven’t personally taken it, reviews and detailed info paint a picture of an adventure packed with stunning lakes, dramatic canyon views, and expert guidance—all for less than $50.

What we love about this experience is the well-organized itinerary, the knowledgeable guides who make the trip informative and fun, and the value for money considering the sights visited and included tickets. A small drawback is that some reviewers felt the transportation, although described as VIP, was more of a comfortable van than a luxury vehicle, but it still tends to be spacious and well-maintained.

This tour caters best to travelers eager to see Kazakhstan’s natural beauty without the hassle of organizing multiple trips themselves, especially those with limited time in Almaty. It’s ideal for nature lovers, adventure seekers, or anyone wanting a thorough glimpse of the country’s iconic landscapes on a single day.

Key Points

Stunning Landscapes: Expect crystal-clear lakes, towering cliffs, and vibrant canyon formations.
Expert Guides: Knowledgeable, cheerful guides enrich the experience with insights and good humor.
Comfortable Transport: Spacious UAZs with modern amenities, USB chargers, and seasonal comfort items.
Well-Structured Itinerary: A full day’s sightseeing with enough time at each stop to enjoy the views.
Value for Money: For only $49, you get multiple park entrance tickets, a professional guide, and transportation.
Catering Options: Food isn’t included but there’s a cafe at Kolsai Lake with local dishes like pilaf and shish kebab.

The Complete Experience

Start and Transportation

The tour kicks off early at 4:30 am from Zyliha Hotel in Almaty. From there, you’ll hop into a spacious, air-conditioned UAZ vehicle, specially equipped with USB and TYPE-C chargers—an unexpected but appreciated bonus for charging devices on the go. Reviewers mention the drivers are skilled and friendly, making the long transit times more bearable.

While the description calls it a “VIP car,” some guests note it feels more like a comfortable van, but still better than cramped or old models. The group size is capped at 25, which keeps things intimate enough for personal conversations and easy navigation.

Kolsai Lakes – The Jewel of the Trip

The first stop is Kolsai Lake, often called the “Pearl of the Northern Tien Shan.” Surrounded by pine forests and majestic mountains, it’s a picture postcard scene. You’ll have about an hour and twenty minutes here, which is enough to soak in the serenity or take a boat or catamaran ride if you wish.

The lakes are clear enough that the water looks almost invisible at times, a feature that amazes visitors. The surrounding landscape with green meadows and towering rocks makes it a perfect spot for photos. For a break, there’s a cozy cafe with traditional dishes like lagman and manti, making it a nice place for a relaxed lunch.

A reviewer, Georgina, appreciated that the group didn’t feel rushed and had enough time at each stop, describing it as a “great trip with lots of sights in one day.” That’s a key point—while packed, the itinerary balances sightseeing and downtime well.

Hidden Waterfalls and Horseback Riding

From Kolsai Lake, the tour moves to a less-frequented spot—an almost invisible, pristine lake set among green meadows and mountains. The water’s clarity is striking, adding to the peaceful vibe. Visitors can opt for a short ride in UAZs or even horseback riding with experienced guides, though this part is free of charge.

Reviewers highlight the friendliness of guides and the scenic horseback rides as memorable highlights, adding a touch of adventure to the journey. One traveler appreciated the chance to enjoy Kazakhstan’s landscape on horseback, a rare experience for many.

Charyn Canyon – Earth’s Lunar Landscape

Arguably the star of the tour, Charyn Canyon is a must-see. Its red-orange cliffs and deep gorges resemble a Martian landscape, with formations that took millions of years to form. You’ll spend around 80 minutes here exploring spots like the Valley of Castles, Black Canyon, and Moon Canyon.

Visitors often describe Charyn as “breathtaking,” with vibrant colors and towering cliffs that are perfect for photos. The canyon’s size and visual drama make it a highlight, and the guided commentary enriches understanding of its geological history. Travelers mention the experience being “very well-organized,” with enough time to walk, take photos, and soak in the views without feeling rushed.

Extra Details & Extra Tips

• Weather considerations: During summer, the tour provides neck fans with cold air, keeping you cool during the hot hours. In winter, warm gloves, blankets, and optional socks are offered to keep you cozy.
• Included tickets: The package covers all park entrance fees, saving you time and extra expenses. Waterproof shoe covers are provided in case of rain or muddy trails—handy for wet conditions.
• Food and restrooms: While lunch isn’t included, the cafe at Kolsai Lake offers local Kazakh cuisine, making it easy to grab a hearty meal. Some reviews mention that restroom facilities could be better, so plan accordingly.

Authentic Insights from Travelers

Guests consistently praise the tour guides, especially for their friendly attitude and extensive knowledge. One reviewer, Svetlana, mentioned that Mr. Rustam was helpful, always smiling, and professional—adding a personal touch to the trip.

Many appreciated the balance of scenic beauty, comfortable transport, and cultural exposure. The tour is described as “well-organized,” with enough time at each stop to truly enjoy the landscape. The only common critique involves the vehicle quality, which some found less luxurious than expected, but still functional and spacious.

Practical Considerations

• Booking in advance: The tour is often booked about two weeks ahead, so plan early if you want a spot.
• Cost and value: At $49 per person, including all entrance fees and transportation, this is a budget-friendly way to cover Kazakhstan’s top natural sights.
• Duration: Expect a long day—around 17 hours—but with a well-paced schedule, it doesn’t feel overly rushed.
• Group size: Limited to 25 travelers, which helps keep the experience personal and manageable.

Who is This Tour Best For?

This trip is perfect for adventurous travelers eager to see some of Kazakhstan’s most breathtaking landscapes without the hassle of organizing multiple transportation or entrance tickets. It suits those who enjoy scenic hikes, photography, and nature and don’t mind long travel days.

If you want a well-organized, value-packed experience with friendly guides and stunning views, this tour ticks most boxes. On the flip side, if you prefer luxury transportation or gourmet meals, it might not be the best fit.

Final Thoughts

Kazakhstan’s natural wonders are a bucket-list experience for many, and this tour offers a great way to see them efficiently. You’ll visit iconic lakes and the dramatic Charyn Canyon, all while benefiting from knowledgeable guides and comfortable transport.

While the vehicle may not always be top-tier luxury, it gets the job done and keeps you connected to the sights. The included tickets, local food options, and scenic stops make it a practical choice for travelers short on time but big on adventure.

This is a day for those who want to make every moment count and leave with a sense of Kazakhstan’s diverse, remarkable landscapes. It’s a trip filled with photo-worthy vistas, cheerful company, and a good dose of nature’s raw beauty.

FAQ

How early does the tour start?
The tour begins at 4:30 am from Zyliha Hotel in Almaty, giving you a head start to beat crowds and enjoy the cooler morning hours.

Is lunch included?
No, lunch isn’t included, but there is a cafe at Kolsai Lake where you can try local dishes like pilaf, lagman, and shish kebab.

What kind of vehicle is used?
A spacious UAZ vehicle with modern amenities, including USB and TYPE-C chargers, is used. Some guests note it feels more like a comfortable van rather than a luxury VIP car.

How much time do I spend at each location?
You’ll have roughly 80 minutes at Charyn Canyon, 80 minutes at Kolsai Lake, and 90 minutes at the hidden lake. These times allow for sightseeing, photos, and a relaxed pace.

Is it suitable for children?
While not explicitly stated, the tour is generally accessible for most travelers, but consider the long hours and outdoor nature of stops.

What should I wear?
Comfortable outdoor clothing, sturdy shoes, and weather-appropriate layers are recommended. Waterproof covers are provided in case of rain.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, the tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours before the start, making it flexible if your plans shift.

Who is the tour provider?
Panda Travel, known for their professional guides and well-organized tours in Kazakhstan. You can contact them via phone (+77053701025) or email ([email protected]) for more info.

In essence, this tour provides a comprehensive, budget-conscious way to explore Kazakhstan’s stunning outdoor treasures, ideal for those who value scenic beauty, good company, and authentic local experiences.