Travelers seeking a taste of Kazakhstan’s breathtaking scenery will find this 2-day tour covering Charyn Canyon, Kolsai Lakes, and Kaiyndy Lake to be an excellent choice. With a solid 5.0 rating based on 24 reviews, this trip offers a well-balanced mix of adventure, comfort, and authentic local charm. The best part? It’s designed to be accessible and fun, even for those with moderate physical fitness.

We love how this tour combines stunning landscapes with informative guides and comfortable transportation—all for a reasonable price of $135 per person. It’s particularly suited for travelers who want to see Kazakh nature at its finest without the hassle of planning every detail themselves. One thing to keep in mind: the tour is weather-dependent, so good conditions are key.

This experience is perfect if you’re after a memorable, scenic escape that truly captures the beauty of Kazakhstan’s wild side. Whether you’re a nature lover, photography enthusiast, or simply curious about this lesser-known part of the world, you’ll find plenty to love here.

Key Points

Beautiful landscapes including the iconic Charyn Canyon, tranquil Kolsai Lakes, and otherworldly Kaiyndy Lake.
Expert guides like Aika, who share insightful facts and make the journey more engaging.
Comfortable transport including air-conditioned vehicles and a Soviet van for Kaiyndy Lake.
Authentic local experience, including overnight stays in Saty village and local snacks.
Excellent value, with all entrance tickets, meals, and accommodations included.
Limited group size (max 15), providing a personalized atmosphere and better interaction with guides.

The Itinerary in Detail

Here are more experiences we've reviewed in Almaty

Day 1: From Moon Canyons to Kolsai Lakes

The adventure begins early, with pickup at “Almaty” hotel on Kabanbay Batyr St 85 at 8:00 am. The first stop is Uzunbulak Canyon, also called Moon Canyon. The drive takes around four hours, giving you time to settle into the journey and enjoy the Kazakh countryside. When you arrive at Moon Canyon, you’re greeted by colorful rock formations that seem almost painted by nature itself. The trails here are straightforward, allowing for easy hikes that reward with panoramic views perfect for photos—just beware of the sometimes rugged terrain if you’re prone to slips or knee issues.

Next, the group heads to the Black Canyon of Charyn, where a quick 15-20 minute stop offers some of the most iconic views of rugged cliffs and layered rock formations. The scenery here is often compared to the Grand Canyon, albeit on a smaller scale, but equally dramatic.

Later, it’s time to relax at Kolsai Lake, a serene body of water surrounded by lush greenery and mountain scenery. Spending about 1.5 hours here, you’ll have ample opportunity to take photos, breathe in the fresh air, or simply soak in the tranquility. The tour includes an overnight stay in Saty village, a small local settlement that offers a cozy atmosphere and the chance to experience rural Kazakh hospitality.

Day 2: Lakes & Canyon – With a Touch of Adventure

Start your second day with a hearty breakfast in the village, fueling up for a visit to Kaiyndy Lake. A Soviet van takes you through scenic mountain roads to this striking lake, famous for its sunken forest—trees that have been submerged for decades, creating surreal reflections on the water’s surface. Here, you can stroll along scenic trails, snap photos of the hauntingly beautiful submerged forest, and enjoy the peaceful surroundings.

After exploring Kaiyndy, the group heads back to Saty village for lunch, where you might find local delicacies and snacks. The afternoon includes a return visit to Charyn Canyon around 4 pm, where a short walk at the canyon’s bottom leads to stunning views from above. The hike isn’t strenuous but offers plenty of opportunities for photographs and appreciating the canyon’s vast scale.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out

Comfortable Transportation & Logistical Ease

Travel is made simple with air-conditioned vehicles and a Soviet van for Kaiyndy Lake, ensuring a hassle-free experience. The tours are designed to keep travel times reasonable, with most stops timed to maximize your sightseeing without feeling rushed.

There's plenty more to explore in Almaty

Authentic Local Experience & Hospitality

Staying overnight in Saty village offers a glimpse into local life, and many reviewers praise the friendly hosts and delicious local snacks. One traveler mentioned the hostess’s sweet nature and her food as a highlight, adding an authentic touch to the trip.

Knowledgeable Guides Making a Difference

Guides like Aika and Fariza receive high praise for their friendly demeanor, insightful commentary, and ability to manage groups smoothly. Multiple reviews highlight guides sharing interesting facts that enrich the experience, making the scenery come alive with stories and context.

Photogenic & Unique Stops

From the colorful Moon Canyon to the magical Kaiyndy submerged forest, each stop offers photo opportunities that are truly memorable. Reviewers have expressed delight at how sunny weather can turn these landscapes into postcard-perfect scenes.

Value for Money

All entrance tickets, daily meals, snacks, and accommodations are included in the $135 fee, which reviewers see as excellent value. Considering the diverse scenery and expert guides, this tour offers a great deal for those wanting quality experiences without hidden costs.

Practicalities & Considerations

Timing & Group Size

The tour begins at 8 am and lasts approximately two days, covering a lot of ground without feeling overly rushed. With a maximum of 15 travelers, the group size offers a good balance of camaraderie and personal attention.

Physical Fitness & Suitability

Most stops involve easy hikes and walking, suitable for those with moderate fitness levels. However, travelers with knee problems or visual impairments are advised to consider their comfort, as some terrain can be uneven. Children under 4 years are not recommended, mainly due to the walking involved.

Weather & Cancellation

The experience is weather-dependent, and if canceled due to poor conditions, travelers are offered alternative dates or a full refund. It’s wise to check the forecast before booking to ensure optimal weather for sightseeing.

Booking & Advance Notice

Most travelers book about three weeks in advance, indicating demand and limited availability. The tour offers mobile tickets and pickup service for convenience.

Who Will Benefit Most from This Tour?

This tour is ideal for adventure seekers who want to see some of Kazakhstan’s most stunning natural sights without the hassle of organizing transport or accommodations. It’s also great for photographers and nature lovers eager to capture unique landscapes. The guided format makes it suitable for those who prefer to learn about the sites from knowledgeable locals while enjoying a relaxed pace.

It’s a good fit for travelers comfortable with moderate physical activity, but less suited for those with mobility issues or very young children. If you’re after authentic local hospitality, beautiful scenery, and good value, this tour ticks all the boxes.

FAQs

Is transportation included?
Yes, transportation is included, including an air-conditioned vehicle for most of the journey and a Soviet van for Kaiyndy Lake, making travel comfortable and hassle-free.

How long are the stops at each site?
Most stops range from 15 minutes at Charyn Canyon to about 1.5 hours at Kolsai Lake, giving you enough time to explore, take photos, and relax.

What is the tour price?
The tour costs $135 per person, which covers entrance tickets, meals, snacks, accommodations, and guided service—offering great value for the diverse experiences.

Can I book this tour in advance?
Yes, most travelers book around 21 days ahead. Good weather and group minimums are required for the tour to proceed.

Is this tour suitable for children?
It’s not recommended for children under 4 years old, mainly due to walking and terrain considerations.

What should I bring?
Bring comfortable shoes, sun protection, a camera, and layered clothing to adapt to weather changes, especially if you plan to hike or walk around the lakes and canyon.

Final Thoughts

This 2-day Kazakh adventure packs in some of the most stunning natural sights, guided by friendly experts who make the experience engaging and educational. The blend of scenic beauty, authentic local stays, and value-packed inclusions makes it a smart choice for travelers eager to see Kazakhstan’s wild side.

If you’re after beautiful landscapes with a touch of adventure, want to avoid the logistics hassle, and enjoy small-group experiences, this tour is a fantastic way to explore. It’s especially well-suited for those who cherish photography opportunities and authentic local hospitality.

While weather can influence your experience, most travelers find the trip well worth the investment, and the reviews consistently highlight the knowledgeable guides and stunning scenery as the main highlights. Whether you’re visiting Almaty for a short time or planning a dedicated Kazakh adventure, this tour offers a memorable snapshot of the country’s natural beauty.