From Almaty: Charyn Canyon with Kolsay and Kaindy Lakes Tour

Exploring Kazakhstan’s Natural Wonders: From Almaty’s Charyn Canyon to Kolsay and Kaindy Lakes

If you’re dreaming of a journey that combines breathtaking scenery, diverse terrains, and expert guides, this 2-day tour from Almaty is worth considering. We haven’t personally taken this trip, but based on detailed reviews and the robust itinerary, it offers a well-rounded experience of Kazakhstan’s most famous natural sights.

What makes this tour stand out? First, the small group format makes it intimate and flexible. Second, the diverse landscapes—from the rugged Charyn Canyon to the mountain lakes—are truly Instagram-worthy. Third, the knowledgeable guides help bring these natural wonders to life with stories and insights. The only thing to keep in mind is that the trip involves some bumpy roads and a fair amount of walking, so it’s best suited for those with a moderate level of mobility. If you love exploring iconic landscapes with local expertise, this tour hits many of the right notes.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Diverse landscapes: Experience Kazakhstan’s iconic canyon, mountain lakes, and forested waters.
• Expert guides: Knowledgeable locals like Daniyar and others enhance the experience with insider stories.
• Comfortable transport: Small group tours with a reliable vehicle make for a stress-free journey.
• Authentic local meals: Home-cooked style meals at a guesthouse bring a taste of local Kazakh hospitality.
• Active experiences: Short treks, photo stops, and optional horse riding make it engaging without overexertion.
• Value for money: All entrance fees, meals, and accommodations are included, making it a hassle-free package.

An In-Depth Look at the Tour Experience

Starting point: Almaty at 8 am

The tour begins bright and early from central Almaty, with hotel pickup arranged by the provider, Easy Nomad. This alleviates the hassle of navigating public transportation or arranging your own ride, especially in a new country. The scenic drive to the Charyn Canyon takes approximately three hours, giving you a chance to settle in and soak in the Kazakh landscape.

Charyn Canyon: The Crown Jewel

Arriving around 11 am, you’ll spend roughly two hours exploring the Charyn Canyon, often called the “Grand Canyon of Central Asia”. The reviews highlight that the experience isn’t just about looking at the canyon but actively engaging with it through trekking and photo sessions. The canyon’s dramatic rock formations, carved by nature over millennia, offer perfect photo opportunities.

One reviewer, Corrine, appreciated the thoughtfulness of her guide, Aysylzhan, who ensured they experienced the canyon’s most iconic features, including its famous river. She mentions how he went out of his way to get tickets for the van ride back when her mother tired during the hike — a small detail but one that made a big difference. This personal care is often echoed in other reviews, suggesting guides genuinely love sharing Kazakhstan’s natural beauty.

More Great Tours Nearby

Moving to Satty Village for lunch and rest

By early afternoon, the group heads to Satty Village for check-in and a hearty local meal. The break at the guesthouse is perfect after the morning’s exploration, offering a chance to chat with fellow travelers and enjoy Kazakh hospitality. The included meals are described as delicious, with some reviews specifically praising the taste and quality of the food.

Kolsay Lakes: The “Kazakhstani Switzerland”

At 4 pm, the journey continues to Kolsay Lakes, a highlight for many. Surrounded by lush mountain scenery, the lakes are ideal for walking, horse riding, or simply soaking in the tranquility. The two-hour stop allows enough time to enjoy the scenery, snap photos, or even try a short trek around the lakes.

Reviewers like Ling rave about the spectacular views and the friendly guides who help coordinate activities like horse riding. The lakes’ crystal-clear waters reflect the mountains, creating an image that sticks with visitors long after the trip.

Evening in Satty Village

The evening offers free time and a relaxed dinner, giving travelers a chance to unwind, reflect, or explore the village further. Many reviews mention how well-organized the itinerary feels, balancing activity with downtime.

Day 2: From Mountain Lakes to Kaindy Lake

Starting at 8 am with breakfast, the second day is equally packed. The group heads to Kaindy Lake, arriving around 9:30 am. The lake’s formation is a true wonder — a natural dam caused by an earthquake, which flooded a forest, leaving only the tree tops protruding from the water. Reviewers like Oskar mention that the bumpy ride to Kaindy is part of the adventure but still feels safe.

Expect around two hours here for tracking, photography, and soaking in the surreal landscape. The clear waters and submerged trees make for iconic photos only found at Kaindy. Many travelers highlight the early morning visit as ideal for avoiding crowds and capturing the lake in its most pristine form, as Maximilian states.

Return to Almaty

The tour wraps up around noon with a drive back to Almaty, arriving by 3 pm. The whole experience is designed to be immersive yet manageable, with enough time at each site to appreciate the scenery without feeling rushed.

Transport, Guides, and Meals: Why They Matter

The tour’s transportation is a key feature — comfortable, air-conditioned vehicles with a driver, and small group sizes (usually around 4-8 travelers). This setup ensures flexibility and intimacy, making it easier to enjoy the sights and ask questions. The guides, who speak fluent English, are praised for their knowledge, friendliness, and genuine care. Daniyar and Danyer, for example, are frequently mentioned as being attentive, patient, and eager to share Kazakhstan’s secrets.

Meals are included at strategic points, with most reviewers praising the local cuisine served at the guesthouse and during the stops. Having all entrance fees and meals included simplifies planning and offers great value, especially considering the remote locations visited.

Practical considerations

The packing list emphasizes essentials like warm waterproof jackets, hiking shoes, sun protection, and personal medication. The roads can be bumpy, particularly around Kaindy Lake, so sturdy shoes and weather-ready clothing are recommended. Given the possibility of rain, packing a light waterproof layer is wise.

Authentic Experiences Shared by Travelers

Many reviews highlight how guides enhance the trip. Corrine appreciated that her guide, Aysylzhan, sprinted ahead to secure tickets when her mother was tired, showing a level of care that elevates the experience. Others mention how the guides’ love for their land shines through their storytelling, making the scenery even more meaningful.

The small group format fosters genuine connections among travelers. Laura notes, “We met great people from all over and had a fantastic guide,” which makes the experience more memorable.

The opportunity to taste local Kazakh dishes, stay in cozy guesthouses, and share stories with fellow travelers turns a sightseeing trip into an authentic cultural experience.

The Practical Value of This Tour

Compared to self-guided trips, this organized tour offers excellent convenience. Everything from transport to meals, entrance fees, and accommodation is handled, saving you time and stress. The tour is priced for the value it offers — covering multiple sites over two days without extra costs or logistical worries.

The duration (two days) makes it an ideal introduction for travelers short on time but eager to see the top highlights of the Almaty region. The small group size ensures personalized attention, which reviewers say makes all the difference in experiencing the sights comfortably and safely.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This tour is perfect for adventurers who enjoy active days and scenic landscapes. It suits those who want a guided experience with local insights and a touch of comfort. Families, couples, or solo travelers who appreciate good organization and authentic moments will find this especially rewarding.

It’s also a great choice for first-time visitors to Kazakhstan, offering a taste of the country’s natural beauty without the hassle of logistics. Travelers with an interest in photography will love the early morning visits and stunning vistas.

The Sum Up

This 2-day tour from Almaty to Charyn Canyon, Kolsay Lakes, and Kaindy Lake offers a well-balanced mix of adventure, relaxation, and cultural insight. The inclusion of expert guides, comfortable transportation, and authentic local meals provides excellent value for money. It’s a fantastic way to see some of Kazakhstan’s most iconic landscapes in a manageable, memorable package.

If you’re after a trip that combines stunning scenery with knowledgeable storytelling and seamless organization, this tour is an excellent pick. It’s particularly well-suited for travelers who want to avoid the hassle of planning and just enjoy the natural beauty and warm hospitality of Kazakhstan.

FAQ

• How long is the drive from Almaty to Charyn Canyon?

Approximately three hours by comfortable vehicle.

• What should I bring for this tour?

A warm, waterproof jacket, hiking shoes (preferably with grip), sun protection like a hat and sunglasses, personal medication, and a camera.

• Is the tour suitable for children or older travelers?

While most activities are manageable, the tour involves some walking and bumpy roads, so assess personal mobility.

• Are meals included?

Yes, breakfast, lunch, and dinner are included along with water.

• What is the group size?

Typically small groups, around 4-8 travelers, ensuring a personalized experience.

• Can I do horse riding at Kolsay Lakes?

Yes, some stops offer horse riding, but it’s not included in the price.

• What if it rains?

Rain is possible; bring appropriate clothing, as some parts of the tour are outdoor.

• Is it necessary to speak English?

Guides speak fluent English, so communication is straightforward.

• What is the return time to Almaty?

You’ll arrive back around 3 pm on the second day.

• Is this tour good for photography?

Absolutely. Early mornings and scenic stops provide perfect photo opportunities.

This tour packs a lifetime of Kazakhstan’s natural splendor into just two days, creating a memorable journey for anyone eager to explore the country’s most stunning sights with ease and insight.

You can check availability for your dates here: