Almaty: City Tour Kolsai Lake, Kaindy Lake, Charyn Canyon

If you’re seeking a day packed with breathtaking scenery, authentic adventure, and a touch of luxury, this Almaty-based Jeep tour offers an enticing escape into some of Kazakhstan’s most iconic landscapes. From sunken forests to dramatic canyons, the tour blends comfort, adventure, and cultural charm into a single memorable experience.

What makes this trip stand out? We particularly appreciate the personalized approach with a private Land Cruiser, the inclusion of professional drone photography, and the opportunity to see some of Central Asia’s most photogenic sites in one day. A minor consideration is that the itinerary may shift depending on weather or road conditions, so flexibility is key.

This tour is ideal for travelers who want a luxurious, all-in-one adventure that combines natural beauty with small-group intimacy. It’s a good fit for those who prefer comfort, personalized service, and stunning photo opportunities over large bus crowds.

Key Points

• All-Inclusive Experience: Entrance tickets, professional photos, and drone footage included.
• Comfort and Convenience: Travel in a premium Land Cruiser Land Cruiser 200 or Lexus LX 570.
• Diverse Landscapes: From alpine lakes and sunken forests to dramatic canyons.
• Flexible and Personal: Small group or private tour, with options for overnight stays.
• Photographic Highlights: Drone photography captures every breathtaking moment.
• Ideal for Adventure Seekers: Horse riding, off-road adventures, and scenic walks.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Starting the Day: Pickup and Transportation

Your adventure begins in Almaty, where a driver will meet you at your designated pickup point. The vehicle is a clearly marked SUV (Land Cruiser or Lexus), ensuring easy recognition. Travelers mention that the vehicle’s comfort level is exceptional, making the whole 3-hour drive to the first stop quite pleasant.

The luxury Jeep Land Cruiser 200 or Lexus LX 570 is built for both adventure and comfort, with ample space for your gear and passengers. This is a major plus, especially for those who dislike cramped group tours or noisy buses. The small group size (up to 5 people) enhances the personal touch, allowing for more flexible stops and tailored experiences.

First Stop: Kolsai Lake

The tour’s highlight is undoubtedly the Kolsai Lakes, often called the “Pearl of the Northern Tien Shan.” This location, set amidst towering mountains, is perfect for leisurely exploration. The tour includes complimentary catamaran rides and horseback riding, offering unique ways to experience the pristine waters and rugged terrain.

Travelers often comment on the serenity of the setting, perfect for a relaxed breakfast at Tary Café with mountain views. The fresh mountain air, combined with the scenic surroundings, sets a peaceful tone for the day. Expect a solid 4 hours here, filled with light hikes, photo opportunities, and perhaps a little horseback adventure that makes the landscape come alive.

What’s special about this stop? It’s the genuine tranquility and the chance to get some Instagram-worthy shots, especially with the included professional photography. Some reviews mention that guides are attentive, sharing interesting facts about local flora and fauna, which adds depth to the experience.

The Surreal Beauty of Kaindy Lake

Next, you’ll venture about an hour in your premium vehicle to Kaindy Lake, known for its sunken forest and surreal turquoise waters. The lake is a photographer’s paradise, with the submerged pine trees creating the illusion of an underwater forest.

Visitors rave about the dreamlike atmosphere. One reviewer describes it as “like stepping into a fairy tale,” with the reflective surface of the lake doubling the forest’s mystique. You’ll have around 2.5 hours here, which includes walking, some horseback riding, and plenty of time for capturing the perfect shot.

Note: The inclusion of drone photography means you’ll have access to incredible aerial shots of this otherworldly site, making your photos truly stand out.

Black Canyon: Wild and Untamed

After Kaindy, a short drive takes you to the Black Canyon, a rugged landscape of jagged cliffs and dark, shadowy depths. The area exudes a raw, untamed energy—a stark contrast to the serene lakes. It’s a spot where silence reigns, punctuated only by the wind or your camera shutter.

Visitors often mention how peaceful and awe-inspiring it is to stand at the edge and absorb the wild beauty. You’ll have some free time here to walk, take photos, and breathe in the mountain air, feeling connected to nature in a very tangible way.

More Great Tours Nearby

The Grand Finale: Charyn Canyon

The day concludes at the Charyn Canyon, often called Kazakhstan’s “Grand Canyon” or even “Mars of the Earth” because of its reddish, layered cliffs. The canyon has been carved over centuries by wind and water, revealing stunning formations that look almost like sculptures.

A guided tour here offers insights into the geology and history of this impressive site. You’ll also enjoy a spectacular sunset, which brings out the vivid red hues of the canyon walls. Expect about 2.5 hours to walk, take photos, and soak in the scenery—an unforgettable climax to your journey.

Reviews note that the panoramic views are breathtaking, and many mention that the tour guides are knowledgeable, helping visitors navigate the area and find the best photo spots.

Practical Details: What You Need To Know

Duration & Flexibility: The tour lasts approximately 10 hours, starting early in the morning to maximize daylight. The itinerary can change depending on weather or road conditions, so a degree of flexibility is advisable.

Transportation: Travel is in a private SUV or Land Cruiser, providing a comfortable ride through mountainous terrain. This small-group setup enhances interaction and customization, making the experience more intimate and tailored.

Price & Value: At $649 per group up to 5, the price reflects the luxury transport, entrance fees, professional photography, and your guided experience. Compared to similar full-day tours, this package offers good value—especially considering the inclusion of drone footage and personal service.

What to Bring: Pack camera, hiking shoes, sunscreen, and comfortable clothes. The terrain varies from smooth lakeside walks to rocky canyon edges, so be prepared for some walking and outdoor exposure.

Limitations: Mobile network coverage may be limited in mountain and canyon areas. Alcohol and drugs are not allowed, aligning with safety and preservation policies.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience suits travelers seeking a luxurious adventure with fewer crowds and a focus on authentic scenery. It’s perfect for photography lovers, nature enthusiasts, and anyone wanting a personalized, hassle-free way to explore Kazakhstan’s natural highlights. Active travelers will appreciate the horseback riding and light hikes, while those craving comfort will value the VIP transport and intimate group size.

Final Thoughts

This private Jeep tour from Almaty offers a well-rounded, immersive journey into some of Kazakhstan’s most stunning landscapes. You’ll enjoy luxury transport, professional photography, and stops at iconic sites like Kolsai Lakes, Kaindy Lake, Black Canyon, and Charyn Canyon—all within one day.

The seamless blend of adventure, comfort, and cultural richness makes it ideal for those who want to see the country’s nature without sacrificing convenience. The flexibility to add overnight stays in yurts or guesthouses is a bonus if you want to extend the experience.

Overall, it’s a fantastic choice for travelers who value quality, personalized attention, and the chance to capture unforgettable moments in Kazakhstan’s wild beauty.

FAQ

What is included in the tour price?
The price covers transportation in a luxury SUV, entrance tickets to all sites, professional photography, including drone footage, and a guide. Overnight options like yurts or guesthouses must be booked separately.

How long is the driving time during the tour?
The total driving time is roughly 3 hours, spread out across different sections of the journey, with the rest of the day spent exploring the sites.

Can I customize the itinerary?
While the itinerary is designed as a standard route, it may change depending on weather or road conditions. The tour focuses on a small group or private experience, which allows some flexibility.

What should I bring?
Bring your camera, hiking shoes, sunscreen, and comfortable outdoor clothing. Pack light but be prepared for outdoor walks and variable weather.

Is this tour suitable for families?
Yes, especially if children are comfortable with outdoor activities and light hiking. The small group size makes it more manageable for families with kids.

Are there options to stay overnight?
Yes, overnight options like camping, yurts, or guesthouses are available but must be confirmed in advance.

What languages are available for the tour guide?
Guides speak Arabic, English, Kazakh, Turkish, and Russian, ensuring a good range of language support.

This tour balances adventure with comfort, making it a superb way to explore Kazakhstan’s natural treasures while enjoying personalized service and top-tier photography. Perfect for those looking to combine scenery, culture, and a touch of luxury into one seamless day.

You can check availability for your dates here: