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

Planning a full-day escape from the hustle of Almaty? This tour promises a visit to some of Kazakhstan’s most breathtaking natural spots—think shimmering lakes, towering canyons, and rugged red rocks. While it’s a lengthy day (about 17 hours), it packs in a variety of sights that are well worth the early start and long hours in the bus.

What really makes this trip stand out are three things: the knowledgeable guides who keep things interesting, the stunning scenery at every stop, and the excellent value for money given the extensive itinerary. That said, it’s not suited for everyone—particularly those who prefer a more relaxed pace or have mobility issues, since there’s quite a bit of walking and uneven terrain. This tour is perfect for adventurous travelers eager to see Kazakhstan’s natural beauty in a single day.

Key Points

• Value for money with a comprehensive 17-hour adventure for just $43 per person.
• Expert guides like Karina and Nus, who bring enthusiasm and local insight.
• Stunning scenery at lakes and canyons with plenty of photo opportunities.
• Comfortable transport in Soviet-era UAZ minibuses, adding a nostalgic touch.
• Optional activities like horseback riding and boat trips enhance the experience.
• Long but rewarding — suitable for those ready for a full day of exploration.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An Overview of the Experience

This tour from Panda Travel is designed for those who want to tick off several of Kazakhstan’s top natural sights in one go. It’s a long day, but one filled with scenic views, fascinating geological formations, and friendly guides. Starting early from Almaty, you’ll venture into the mountains and step into a landscape that feels both untouched and majestic.

The price of $43 might seem modest, but considering the number of stops, transportation, and guides involved, it’s a solid deal—especially since reviews consistently praise the guides’ knowledge and friendly demeanor. Plus, the tour provides amenities like USB chargers and summer neck fans, which make the journey more comfortable in warm weather.

The Itinerary Breakdown

Early Morning Departure

The adventure kicks off from a designated meeting point at Baitursynov 104, opposite the Astana International Hotel, with a small van marked with Panda stickers. Expect the journey to begin around 4:30 to 5 a.m., so an early wake-up is necessary. The group size tends to be manageable, and the vehicle, though nostalgic, is well-equipped with modern chargers and warm or cool comforts depending on the season.

First Stop: Lake Kolsai

After about 2.5 hours in the van, you arrive at Lake Kolsai, often called the “Pearl of the Northern Tien Shan.” As one of the most popular lakes in Kazakhstan, it offers crystal-clear waters and lush surroundings. You’ll have roughly two hours to stroll, take photos, or hop on a boat or catamaran (not included in the price but available for extra). Several reviews highlight the peaceful beauty of Kolsai, with visitors commenting on how it’s an ideal spot for a picnic or simply soaking in the scenery.

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Lunch Break

Following Kolsai, a stop at a local café allows you to sample traditional fare like pilaf, Lagman, or shish kebabs (around 5000 tenge/10 USD). While not included in the tour price, many reviewers found the food satisfying and a nice chance to rest before heading to the next lakes.

Visiting Lake Kaindy

Next up is Lake Kaindy, famous for its submerged forest and stunning turquoise waters. The ride there is about 30 minutes in a Soviet-era UAZ minibus, which some find charming and adds a nostalgic element. Here, you can enjoy about 1.5 hours exploring the area, snapping photos of the reflection of evergreen trees, and walking around the forested shore.

An optional horseback ride from a nearby village costs about 7000 tenge (roughly 12 USD). Reviewers loved the added thrill and the chance to experience local traditions, with one mentioning that it was “a bit of a thrill but lots of fun.”

The Canyons: Charyn and Black Canyon

The highlight for many is the Charyn Canyon, often compared to the Grand Canyon for its dramatic cliffs and vibrant red rock formations. You’ll spend about an hour walking along the canyon rim, with plenty of opportunities to photograph the rugged landscape.

Then, you move on to Black Canyon—known for its dark rocks and caves—adding a different geological perspective. The scenery here is more mysterious, with large caves and darker formations, perfect for those who love the unusual.

Final Stop: Moon Canyon (Summer Season)

In summer, the tour may include a stop at Moon Canyon, a surreal landscape with a moon-like surface. It’s a magical spot to reflect on the day’s adventures before heading back to Almaty.

Return Journey

The return to Almaty involves a 3.5-hour drive, giving you time to relax, share photos, or just enjoy the changing scenery. The last drop-off is at the original meeting point, around 9 p.m., marking a full but fulfilling day.

Transportation and Comfort

Transport is in a Soviet-era UAZ minibus, which might feel a bit vintage, but reviews emphasize the cheerful guides’ efforts to keep everyone comfortable. Each seat is equipped with USB and Type-C chargers, and during summer, travelers receive free neck fans to beat the heat. In winter, warm gloves are provided, and warm socks can be purchased for extra comfort. The long drive is made more enjoyable thanks to the guides’ entertaining commentary and local insights.

Optional Extras & Practicalities

• Horseback riding is available for about 7000 tenge (~12 USD). Reviewers say it’s worth the extra fee if you’re up for some adventure.
• Boat or catamaran rides can be added on at around 10,000 tenge (~10 USD). These are not included but are popular for capturing the lakes’ beauty from a different perspective.
• Food and drinks are not included, so bringing cash (local currency) for meals and extras is recommended.
• Physical requirements: No child seats on the bus, and moderate walking is involved at each stop. Not suitable for pregnant women, wheelchair users, or those with back problems.

Guides and Experience

The reviews consistently praise the guides’ friendliness, knowledge, and energy. Guides like Nus, Karina, and Ice are often mentioned as highlights, with many travelers noting how they went above and beyond—suggesting the best photo spots, sharing local stories, and keeping the group engaged on a long day.

One traveler appreciated that the guides managed the tight schedule well, ensuring everyone saw the key sights without feeling rushed. The guides’ passion really shines through, making even a long day feel fun and informative.

Value for Money

At $43, this tour covers an impressive amount of ground, offering access to several of Kazakhstan’s key natural attractions, transportation, and guided insights. The reviews underscore the value and quality, with travelers feeling they got a full day of memorable sights at a reasonable price. The optional extras like horseback riding and boat tours, while paid separately, add a personalized touch and can make the experience even more special.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This trip is best suited for adventurous souls who don’t mind a long day in a minibus and are eager to see Kazakhstan’s natural beauty. It’s ideal for solo travelers, couples, or groups looking for an affordable way to explore multiple sites. Those with limited mobility may find the walking and bus ride challenging. If you love scenic landscapes, engaging guides, and a full day of outdoor exploration, this tour will leave you with plenty of incredible memories.

FAQ

Is the tour suitable for children?
There are no child seats on the bus, and some walking and uneven terrain are involved, so it might not be ideal for very young children or those with mobility issues.

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

How long is the trip?
It lasts approximately 17 hours, starting early in the morning and returning around 9 p.m., making it a full-day commitment.

Can I reschedule if I have bad weather?
Yes, you can reschedule to another date if needed, and the tour runs regardless of weather conditions.

Are meals included?
No, meals are not included, but a lunch stop at a local café is planned, costing around 5000 tenge (~10 USD).

What are the optional activities?
Horseback riding costs about 7000 tenge (~12 USD), and boat or catamaran rides are around 10,000 tenge (~10 USD). These are paid on-site in cash.

Final Thoughts

This day trip from Almaty offers a fantastic opportunity to see some of Kazakhstan’s most iconic natural wonders without breaking the bank. With knowledgeable guides, comfortable transport, and a carefully curated itinerary, it’s a rewardingly full day that will appeal to travelers eager for scenic landscapes and authentic experiences.

While it’s quite long, the mix of lakes, canyons, and local charm makes every moment worth it. Perfect for adventure lovers and those wanting a comprehensive taste of Kazakhstan’s outdoors, this tour will leave you with lasting impressions and plenty of photos to prove it.

If you’re after a well-organized, value-packed excursion that covers multiple highlights in one day, this trip is hard to beat. Just pack your camera, some cash, and your sense of adventure.

You can check availability for your dates here: