Almaty: Charyn Canyon, Kolsay, and Kaindy Lakes Day Trip

If you’re looking for a full-day escape into Kazakhstan’s natural beauty, the Almaty: Charyn Canyon, Kolsay, and Kaindy Lakes Day Trip offers a compelling mix of lakes, canyons, and geological marvels. Guided by knowledgeable local experts, you’ll discover some of the most iconic scenery just outside the city, all while enjoying comfortable transportation and authentic experiences.

What makes this tour stand out? We love the variety of landscapes, from the serene waters of Kolsay and Kaindy Lakes to the dramatic cliffs of Charyn Canyon. The value for money is impressive, with all tickets, transport, and some extras included, making it a hassle-free way to see Kazakhstan’s top natural sights. Plus, the friendly guides seem genuinely invested in sharing their country’s beauty and stories.

That said, it’s a long day—expect around 17 to 19 hours of travel and exploration—so it’s not ideal if you’re tired easily or traveling with very young children. The tour is best suited for active travelers, nature lovers, and anyone eager to pack in some of Kazakhstan’s most photogenic spots in a single trip.

Key Points

• Affordable price for a full-day adventure with all essential tickets included
• Knowledgeable and energetic guides who share local insights and keep the energy high
• Stunning variety of landscapes from lakes and canyons to volcanic formations (like Moon Canyon)
• Flexible options like horseback riding and boat rides (additional costs) enhance the experience
• Comfortable transportation with USB chargers, cold air fans, and waterproof shoe covers
• Long but rewarding day suited for active travelers who want a comprehensive Kazakh landscape tour

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Closer Look at the Itinerary

Early Start and Pickup

The experience begins early, with pickup from a designated meeting point in Almaty. The tour company provides a van decorated with Panda stickers—easy to spot opposite the Astana International Hotel bus stop, near Barbero hairdresser. Expect to leave at around 4:30-5:00 a.m., which might sound brutal but is necessary to beat crowds and enjoy the scenic spots in the cooler morning hours.

First Stop: Lake Kolsai

Kolsai Lake is often called the “Pearl of the Tien Shan” for good reason. The drive there is comfortably managed in a Mercedes Benz Sprinter, with USB and Type-C chargers available to keep your devices powered. Once there, you’ll have about two hours to stroll, take photos, or even rent a boat or catamaran (not included).

Many reviewers noted that the ample time at Kolsai allows for a relaxed exploration. As one reviewer said, “We had plenty of time at each destination,” which is key in making each stop memorable rather than rushed. The scenery here is stunning—bright, reflective waters framed by lush forests—so bring your camera.

Lunch Break

After exploring the lake, you’ll stop at a nearby café for a traditional Kazakh meal (around 3000 tenge, or roughly $7 USD). The dishes—pilaf, Lagman, manti, shish kebab—are hearty and flavorful, fueling you for the rest of the day. Many reviews mention the delicious food and friendly service, which adds a nice touch to the trip.

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Lake Kaindy and Horseback Riding

Next up is the famous Kaindy Lake, with its submerged forest and crystal-clear waters. The journey there is via a Soviet-era UAZ minibus—an experience in itself, with many noting it adds a nostalgic, adventurous vibe. Once at the lake, you’ll be surrounded by towering spruce trees and strikingly transparent water.

For those who want a bit more adventure, you can pay onsite to go horseback riding to the lake (about 7,000 tenge). Several reviewers raved about the horseback experience, calling it “really fun” and a highlight of their day. Keep in mind, horses can be unpredictable, and the ride is optional.

Explore the Canyons: Charyn and Black Canyon

The star attractions are the Charyn Canyon and Black Canyon. Charyn Canyon, nicknamed the “Grand Canyon of Central Asia,” dazzles with its towering reddish cliffs and intricate formations. Walking along the canyon’s edge, you’ll quickly realize why it’s a favorite for photographers and nature lovers alike. The geological formations tell a story of millions of years of natural history, and the views are truly impressive.

Black Canyon, with its dark rocks and caves, offers a more mysterious vibe. Reviewers mention the opportunity to learn about the canyon’s unique features from the guides, who are well-versed in local geology. Some travelers share that the canyons are best appreciated with a guide to explain the fascinating formations.

Moon Canyon (Summer Season)

If visiting during summer, you’ll end the day at Moon Canyon, a surreal landscape with a surface that resembles the lunar surface. Many reviewers described it as “mysterious and magical,” a fitting finale to the day’s adventure.

Return to Almaty

After a full day of hiking, sightseeing, and photo-taking, you’ll hop back into the minibus for the return trip. Expect to arrive back in Almaty late evening, tired but full of memories. The tour concludes at the original meeting point, making logistics straightforward.

What’s Included and What’s Not

The $58 per person price is quite reasonable given the number of sites visited and the comfort provided. You get transportation in a modern Mercedes Sprinter, all major tickets for the lakes and canyon, a professional guide, and even a photo print to remember your trip. Waterproof shoe covers are provided in case of rain or muddy paths—another thoughtful touch.

Extras like horseback riding, boat tours, or lunch are paid onsite, giving you flexibility to customize your day. Keep some cash handy for these, as well as for souvenirs or snacks.

Transportation and Comfort

The vehicles are equipped with USB chargers and cooling fans in summer, which reviewers mention make a big difference on a long day. The Soviet UAZ minibus to Kaindy adds a nostalgic, rugged adventure vibe, appreciated by many travelers seeking a more authentic experience.

Group Size and Guide Experience

This tour tends to operate in small to medium groups, with reviewers praising guides like Aisultan, Nurtas, and Ako for their enthusiasm, patience, and knowledge. Many mention that guides go above and beyond, sharing interesting facts and ensuring everyone feels comfortable.

Length and Suitability

The trip lasts around 17-19 hours, which is quite a long day but also a testament to how much Kazakh scenery can be packed into a single outing. It’s best suited for those in good physical condition, as there is some walking and optional horse riding. Reviewers also recommend wearing comfortable shoes and bringing warm clothes, especially if visiting outside the summer months.

Authentic Experiences and Practical Tips

From reviews, one key insight is how guides like Karina and Aiym make the trip lively and enjoyable, often singing or sharing local stories that add a personal touch. Many travelers appreciated the flexible itinerary, especially those who chose to do horseback riding or boat trips, which enhance the experience without breaking the bank.

Travelers also value the well-organized logistics—timely pickups, ample exploration time, and smooth transfers—making the long day feel more manageable. While some mention the roads can be bumpy or the day long, most agree that the stunning scenery and the ease of having everything arranged make it worthwhile.

The Sum Up

If you’re after a day packed with natural beauty, adventure, and cultural charm, this tour delivers. It’s especially suited for travelers who appreciate guided experiences, value comfort and convenience, and want to see Kazakhstan’s top outdoor sights without the hassle of organizing transport and tickets themselves.

The knowledgeable guides, combined with breathtaking landscapes and flexible options, make it a memorable way to stretch your legs outside Almaty. Just be prepared for a long day, bring layers, and enjoy every moment of Kazakhstan’s wild, wonderful scenery.

FAQ

Is transportation comfortable?
Yes, it’s in a modern Mercedes Benz Sprinter with USB chargers and cooling fans, plus a nostalgic Soviet UAZ minibus for the trip to Kaindy.

What should I bring?
Bring your passport or ID, comfortable shoes, warm clothing, and cash for extras like horse riding or dinner.

How long is the trip?
Expect around 17 to 19 hours of travel and sightseeing, including driving, stops, and optional activities.

Are meals included?
No, but there is a stop for lunch at a local café, costing about 3000 tenge ($7 USD). You can also purchase snacks or additional activities onsite.

Can I do horseback riding?
Yes, for an extra 7000 tenge, you can ride horses to Kaindy Lake—many reviewers found this to be a fun highlight.

What’s the best time to visit?
The tour operates year-round, but visiting in summer offers the extra attraction of Moon Canyon. Weather conditions are not guaranteed, so pack accordingly.

Is the tour suitable for children?
It’s best for active travelers and older children or teens, especially since there are no child seats on the UAZ bus. The long day and some walking may be tiring for very young children.

Can I reschedule if I’m unwell?
Yes, the company allows rescheduling before the tour date, providing flexibility.

What about the group size?
Groups are typically small to medium, with many guides praised for their personal attention.

Is tipping expected?
While not mandatory, tipping guides for their effort is appreciated—consider a small tip if you enjoyed the experience.

This well-rounded tour offers an excellent value, authentic scenery, and a chance to experience Kazakhstan’s natural wonders in one memorable day.

You can check availability for your dates here: