Almaty:Kaindy and Kolsai lakes with Black Canyon 1 Day Tour

If you’re planning a trip to Almaty and craving breathtaking scenery, this full-day tour to Kaindy and Kolsai lakes offers a fantastic way to experience Kazakhstan’s natural beauty. Guided by knowledgeable locals, you’ll travel through diverse landscapes, snapping photos of mountain lakes, rocky canyons, and lush forests—all in one day. From the comfort of a bus to scenic hikes and optional horse rides, this experience packs in a lot for a reasonable price.

What we love about this tour is its efficiency—covering three major sights in one day, it’s perfect for travelers short on time but eager to see Kazakhstan’s highlights. The expert guides make a difference, sharing stories and local insights that make each stop more meaningful. Plus, the value is hard to beat at just $48 per person, especially when considering the entrance fees and transportation included. A minor consideration might be the long hours on the bus, which could be tiring for some, but the scenery makes it worthwhile.

This tour is best suited for outdoor lovers, photography enthusiasts, and those interested in discovering Kazakhstan’s raw natural landscapes. If you’re looking for a hassle-free way to see some of the country’s most famous lakes with expert commentary, this trip is a solid choice.

Key Points

• Comprehensive day trip covering Kaindy, Kolsai, and Black Canyon in one go.
• Value for money with transportation, entry tickets, and guides included.
• Expert guides enhance the experience with local stories and helpful information.
• Scenic drives and hikes offer numerous opportunities for photography and outdoor fun.
• Optional activities like horse riding and boat rides available at your own expense.
• Long travel hours, but the scenery and experiences make it worthwhile.

This one-day tour is designed to maximize your time and include some of Kazakhstan’s most iconic natural sights. It begins early from Almaty, with a meeting point at Abay 50 in the Circus parking lot, easily accessible via metro (Auezov station). The journey kicks off with a scenic drive northward, giving you your first glimpse of the country’s varied terrain.

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The Drive to Lake Kaindy

The drive to Lake Kaindy is about an hour or more, depending on traffic, but the real highlight is the atmosphere. The route offers beautiful views of rolling hills, open steppe, and even glimpses of China from certain vantage points, as noted by travelers. The road up to Kaindy is described as chaotic and somewhat bumpy—so be prepared for a lively ride on a UAZ van. Once at the lake, you’ll find a surreal landscape: a forest of submerged pine trees rising from an emerald-green lake that’s famous for its natural limestone formation.

At Kaindy, you can take a walk along the shoreline, absorbing the tranquility of this unusual lake. Reviewers like Elena mentioned the “amazing scenery,” and Dane praised the “breathtaking” views. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can opt for a horse ride (at your own expense), which adds a fun, rustic element to your visit. The lake’s cool waters and fascinating limestone formations make it a photography favorite.

Transition to Lake Kolsai

After some time at Kaindy, you’ll hop back into the bus to head to Lake Kolsai, known as the “Pearl of the Tien Shan.” The drive offers more mountain vistas and lush greenery, setting the scene for this second stunning stop. Once at Kolsai, you’ll have the chance to relax by the lakeshore, breathe in crisp mountain air, and enjoy a leisurely stroll.

The reviews highlight the beauty of Kolsai Lake—Olivia called the views “very nice,” and Mouit appreciated the “great experience” of soaking in the scenery. There’s time for a lunch break at your own expense, which gives you flexibility to choose local options; some travelers noted limited choices, but others found the food satisfying and authentic.

Activities at Kolsai and Optional Extras

While many visitors opt just for relaxation, there are optional activities available, like boat rides on Kolsai Lake or exploring more of the surrounding hiking trails. These extras, though paid separately, can significantly enhance your visit if you’re keen on more outdoor adventures.

The Return Journey

As the day winds down, you’ll board the bus for the scenic drive back to Almaty, passing through more picturesque landscapes. The drive back offers a final chance to photograph mountain vistas or simply relax after a full day of exploring. Reviewers like Juri and Daniel appreciated the “well-organized” nature of the trip and the “breathtaking” views on the way back.

This tour is ideal for those who want an efficient, guided introduction to Kazakhstan’s most famous lakes without the hassle of planning transportation and entrance fees. It’s perfect if you’re short on time but eager to see diverse landscapes—from submerged forests to mountain lakes. Nature lovers, photographers, and outdoor enthusiasts will find plenty to enjoy.

However, be prepared for a long day on the road, with some bumpy sections and variable mountain weather. It’s not suitable for pregnant women or those with mobility issues, given the hiking options and sometimes rough terrain.

At $48 per person, the tour offers solid value considering that transportation, guide services, and entrance tickets are included. The small group size and knowledgeable guides, like Alina and Rollan, ensure you’re well cared for and get plenty of insights. Many reviews emphasize how much guides enhance the experience, with Alina’s friendly approach and storytelling abilities standing out.

Participants appreciated the balance of structured sightseeing with free time for personal exploration and photos. The optional horse riding and boat rides, purchased on-site, add a touch of adventure for those interested.

The trip’s flexibility, allowing you to skip or add activities and the convenience of meeting at a central location, makes it accessible. Plus, the tour provider’s “reserve & pay later” option provides peace of mind for flexible planning.

Bring your passport or ID, comfortable shoes, snacks, and cash for extras. The weather in the mountains can be unpredictable, so layer your clothing and be prepared for sun or rain. Since the tour is quite long, a hat, sunglasses, and sunblock are recommended in summer. As some reviewers noted, the drive can be bumpy—so hold on tight!

You might find the lunch options limited at the lakes, so packing some snacks or a small picnic can keep you energized for the walks and photo stops.

How long is the total trip?
The tour typically lasts around 12 hours, including travel time to and from Almaty, making it a full but rewarding day.

Is transportation comfortable?
Transportation is by UAZ van, which can be bumpy and chaotic on mountain roads, but it’s suited for the rugged terrain. The guides do their best to keep everyone comfortable.

Are the entrance tickets included?
Yes, the fee for entry to Kolsai Lakes National Park and Kaindy Lake is included in the price.

Can I do activities like horse riding or boat rides?
Yes, these are optional and paid on the spot if you want to add some extra fun.

What should I bring?
Bring your passport or ID, comfortable shoes, snacks, cash, and weather-appropriate clothing. Water is provided in summer.

Is the tour suitable for children?
While the scenery is family-friendly, the long bus ride and some walking may be tiring for very young children. Use your judgment based on your family’s endurance.

How do I meet the guide?
At Abay 50, in the Circus parking lot, accessible via metro Auezov station. The activity ends back at the same point.

This Almaty: Kaindy and Kolsai Lakes with Black Canyon Tour offers a fantastic snapshot of Kazakhstan’s natural beauty in one well-organized day. It balances scenic drives, outdoor walks, and cultural insights, all at a charming price point. While the long hours might not suit everyone, the breathtaking views and expert guides make it a worthwhile experience for outdoor lovers and first-time visitors eager to see Kazakhstan’s most photogenic spots.

It’s especially perfect for those wanting a guided, hassle-free adventure—no need to worry about entrance fees, transportation, or navigating mountain roads. With flexible options for extra activities and a small, friendly group, you’ll come away with memories and photos to cherish.

If you’re after a comprehensive, affordable introduction to Kazakhstan’s stunning lakes and mountain landscapes, this tour is a smart pick. Just pack your camera, some patience for the ride, and a sense of adventure—you won’t be disappointed.

You can check availability for your dates here:

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