Charyn, Kolsay and Kaindy 2-Day Tour with Mount View Stay

This 2-day adventure from Almaty promises a mix of dramatic canyons, serene mountain lakes, and a cozy mountain hotel experience. Based on recent traveler reviews and detailed itineraries, it’s clear that this tour offers a fantastic way to see Kazakhstan’s natural beauty without the hassle of planning every detail yourself.

What we love about this experience:

• The chance to explore multiple iconic sites in just two days, making it perfect for a quick but immersive escape.
• The inclusion of local meals, which means you get a taste of authentic Kazakh cuisine along the way.
• The small group size and attentive guides, ensuring a more personalized and engaging experience.
• The stunning scenery—from the red cliffs of Charyn Canyon to the submerged forest of Kaindy Lake—delivering countless photo-worthy moments.

A potential consideration:

• The itinerary involves quite a bit of driving (around 4 hours on Day 1), which might feel long for some. Still, the scenic views and stops make it worthwhile.

This tour is ideal for: travelers craving authentic Kazakh landscapes, who value guided experiences with local insights, and who don’t mind a moderate amount of walking and hiking.

Key Points

• All-inclusive: Meals, entrance fees, transportation, and accommodation are covered, offering great value.
• Expert guides: Guides speak multiple languages and share insightful info about the region’s geology, culture, and history.
• Comfortable logistics: Pickups are organized from designated spots, and transport is modern, with a cozy hotel overnight stay.
• Stunning scenery: From red canyon walls to turquoise lakes, the visuals are unforgettable.
• Photo opportunities: Plenty of chances for capturing incredible memories, especially at Kaindy Lake and Charyn Canyon.
• Active but manageable: Expect some walking and hiking, suitable for most fitness levels.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Exploring the Itinerary in Detail

Day 1: From Almaty to Charyn Canyon and Kolsai Lake

Your adventure kicks off early in the morning with a pickup from designated spots in Almaty. The drive to Charyn Canyon takes roughly four hours through Kazakhstan’s rugged, untouched landscapes. This is a chance to see the countryside and get a sense of the country’s expansive steppe scenery, which travelers found captivating.

Charyn Canyon is often dubbed the “Little Grand Canyon” because of its dramatic, red rock formations carved over millennia. Travelers consistently praise the site for its striking scenery and ample space for exploration. You’ll have plenty of time to wander along the canyon edge, snap photos of the towering cliffs, and walk down to the river for a different perspective. A quick stop at Black Canyon adds another layer of rugged beauty—its dark, narrow crevices provide a contrast to the vibrant reds of Charyn.

Following the canyon visit, your group heads to Saty village for a delicious traditional lunch, a highlight noted by many. The meal provides a taste of local cuisine, often described as flavorful and hearty—perfect fuel for the next leg of the journey.

Post-lunch, the focus shifts to Kolsai Lake, nestled among dense forests and mountain peaks. The lake’s tranquil waters and scenic surroundings appeal to nature lovers and photographers alike. Many reviews mention enjoying a peaceful walk along the shores, soaking in the mountain atmosphere, and catching breathtaking views that are particularly stunning in the late afternoon.

As the day winds down, you’ll check into a locals-owned hotel with spectacular mountain vistas. Guests rave about the comfortable, clean accommodations and the chance to unwind with a view of the peaks at sunset.

Day 2: From Kolsai Lakes to Kaindy Lake and Return to Almaty

Day 2 begins with a scenic ride in a Soviet-era van to Kaindy Lake, famous for its eerie submerged forest and striking turquoise waters. Formed by an earthquake, this lake’s sunken spruce trunks create a surreal landscape that travelers find unforgettable. Visitors often comment on the haunting beauty of the scene, where the trunks rise eerily from the water—a perfect spot for reflective photos and quiet admiration.

Plus, as a bonus stop, you’ll visit Moon Canyon. Its unique terrain offers additional photo opportunities and a chance to enjoy more of the region’s natural diversity. Your guide shares interesting insights about the geology and history of the area, enriching the experience beyond simple sightseeing.

Throughout the trip, guides like Aika, Azamat, and Aigerim are praised for their knowledge and friendliness. Several reviews highlight how guides take care of travelers, not just by sharing facts but also by helping with photos—many guests appreciated guides who knew exactly how to frame the perfect shot or offer tips on capturing the moment.

The return journey includes a brief stop for a WC break and coffee before heading back to Almaty, arriving roughly around 8 p.m. The long drive is balanced by the incredible scenery and the relaxed pace the tour maintains, ensuring the experience remains enjoyable rather than rushed.

Why This Tour Delivers Value

At $150 per person, this experience offers strong value, considering meals, entrance fees, accommodation, and guided expertise are included. Travelers consistently praise the tour for its balance of sightseeing, comfort, and cultural exposure. The small group size enhances the personalized feel, allowing guides to better attend to individual interests.

The hotels in mountain villages are clean and cozy, giving you a genuine local experience. The meals—both lunch and dinner—are highlighted for their deliciousness, often included in reviews as a memorable part of the trip.

The transportation, mostly a comfortable bus and Soviet van, makes the long driving stretches manageable, especially with scenic stops to stretch and take photos. The guides, particularly those who speak English, Russian, and Kazakh, help demystify the landscape and history, making this more than just a sightseeing tour.

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What to Keep in Mind

While the tour is well-organized, expect some walking and hiking—moderate fitness is recommended. Packing warm clothing is advised, as mountain temperatures can drop quickly, especially in the evenings. The long drive on Day 1 might be tiring for some, but travelers say the scenery and stops make it worthwhile.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This trip is perfect for those seeking an authentic Kazakh landscape experience without the hassle of planning logistics. If you love nature photography, you’ll find plenty of awe-inspiring scenes. It’s also great for adventure seekers who enjoy light outdoor activity, such as walking and exploring.

Travelers who value local culture and authentic meals will appreciate the included dining experiences. The friendly, knowledgeable guides provide a warm welcome and insightful commentary, making it ideal for first-time visitors to Kazakhstan.

However, this tour isn’t suitable for very young children, pregnant women, or those with mobility or health issues, given the walking involved and the mountain altitude.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is transportation provided?
Yes, transportation is included, with a comfortable bus for the long drive and a Soviet van to access Kaindy Lake.

Are meals included?
Yes, the tour includes two lunches, one dinner, and one breakfast, along with a small local snack and bottled water.

Can I customize the pickup location?
No, pickups are organized from designated spots in Almaty; custom pickups are not available.

What should I wear?
Wear comfortable shoes suitable for walking and bring warm clothing, as temperatures can drop in the mountains.

How long is the drive each day?
Day 1 involves about a 4-hour drive to Charyn Canyon, with some stops, and Day 2 includes a longer drive back with a short coffee break.

Are entrance fees included?
Yes, entrance tickets to all national parks and sites are included in the tour price.

Is this tour suitable for children?
It’s not recommended for children under 4, pregnant women, or travelers with mobility challenges due to walking and outdoor activities.

How far in advance should I book?
Booking at least a few days ahead is advisable, especially during peak travel months, with payment flexible until 24 hours before the tour.

What is the cancellation policy?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering some flexibility in your plans.

Final Thoughts

This 2-day Kazakh landscape tour offers a balanced mix of natural beauty, cultural insight, and comfortable logistics. The inclusion of authentic meals, knowledgeable guides, and stunning scenery makes it a compelling choice for those eager to explore Kazakhstan’s highlights without the stress of planning every detail.

While the drive can be long, the breathtaking sights like Kaindy Lake’s sunken forest and Charyn Canyon’s striking cliffs ensure it’s a journey worth taking. The small group setting and friendly guides make the experience personal and engaging, perfect for travelers wanting a genuine, memorable adventure.

If you’re after scenic vistas, cultural richness, and a well-organized trip, this tour provides excellent value and a truly memorable experience in Kazakhstan’s Almaty region.

Note: As this review is based on detailed tour descriptions and authentic traveler feedback, it aims to help you decide if this trip fits your travel style. Always check the latest details and confirm specific arrangements directly with the provider before booking.

You can check availability for your dates here: