Golden Ring of Zhetysu (5 Days) (Group Tour)

Exploring the Golden Ring of Zhetysu: A 5-Day Adventure in Kazakhstan

Our review of the Golden Ring of Zhetysu (5 Days) tour offers a detailed look at what promises to be an unforgettable journey through Kazakhstan’s most iconic natural sites. Designed for travelers who love a mix of light trekking, scenic drives, and immersive landscapes, this small-group experience combines comfort, adventure, and cultural highlights into a compact itinerary.

What we really appreciate about this tour is its balance: it offers enough activity to keep things interesting without wearing you out, visits to three stunning national parks, and the chance to see some of Kazakhstan’s most famous natural wonders. Plus, the flexible booking and value for money—at $1,388 per person—make it accessible for a wide range of explorers.

The only thing to keep in mind is that the tour covers a lot of ground—over 1,400 km by SUV and 36 km of trekking—so it’s best suited for those who are comfortable with some travel time and light hiking. If you’re eager to experience authentic Kazakh landscapes with knowledgeable guides, this trip could be an excellent choice.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Diverse Landscapes: From mountains and deserts to lakes and canyons, the tour covers an impressive range of scenery.
• Cultural & Natural Highlights: Visit iconic sites like Charyn Canyon, Kolsay Lakes, and Aktau Mountains.
• Comfort & Convenience: Transportation in SUVs and comfortable guesthouses enhance the experience.
• Expert Guides: Bilingual guides ensure smooth navigation and insightful commentary.
• Active but Manageable: The itinerary involves light trekking and scenic drives—perfect for most fitness levels.
• Value-Driven: With inclusive meals, park fees, and accommodations, the price is reasonable considering the scope.

Introducing the Golden Ring of Zhetysu Tour

Kazakhstan’s Almaty region offers some of Central Asia’s most breathtaking scenery, but exploring it independently might mean missing out on hidden gems or wasting time trying to navigate. This organized 5-day group tour by OutfittersKZ aims to streamline the experience, letting you focus on the sights while they handle logistics.

The tour combines a variety of landscapes—from the surreal Aktau Mountains to the towering Charyn Canyon, often called the “Grand Canyon of Kazakhstan,” and the tranquil Kolsay Lakes. It’s ideal for those who want a comprehensive taste of the region’s natural beauty without the hassle of planning each leg.

Day-by-Day Breakdown of the Experience

Day 1: From Almaty to Aktau and the Aktau Mountains

Your adventure begins early, with a pickup in Almaty and a roughly 4-hour drive to the Altyn-Emel National Park. This park is a highlight, known for its striking limestone formations and the legendary Aktau Mountains—sometimes called the “Singing Mountains” due to the wind’s eerie sounds through the rocks.

Here, you’ll get your first taste of light trekking—7 km within the Aktau Mountains, exploring main canyons, small hidden valleys, and scenic viewpoints. A memorable stop is the ancient 700-year-old willow tree, perfect for a quick photo and a moment to appreciate the enduring resilience of nature.

You’ll stay overnight at a guesthouse near the park, offering a cozy base after your first day of exploration, with traditional Kazakh dinner options to relax your muscles.

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Day 2: Sands & Sculptures – Singing Dune & Sculpture Valley

The day starts with breakfast before heading to the Singing Dune—a true Kazakh natural wonder. Sitting at the base of the dune, you can enjoy the sweeping view of the desert landscape and get a sense of the vastness of the steppe.

Post-lunch, you’ll visit Sculpture Valley, a desert area dotted with unusual rock formations and sculptures, perfect for photography and a sense of surrealism. The short 2 km trek inside the valley allows you to absorb the unique landscape, then head to Zharkent, where a local café provides a chance to soak in Kazakh hospitality.

Overnight stay in Zharkent offers a different vibe, with the comforts of a local hotel.

Day 3: The Majestic Charyn Canyon & Kolsay Lakes

By Day 3, you’ll be heading to Charyn Canyon, which stretches about 180 km from Almaty. The descent into the Canyon of the Valley of the Castles reveals dramatic rock formations that evoke images of castles or old fortress walls—each erosion pattern more fascinating than the last.

After a picnic lunch, the tour continues with panoramic views from the Lunar Canyon and other viewpoints like Stone Shelf and Napoleon Viewpoint, each providing stunning vistas perfect for photography. The day ends near Saty village, where your guesthouse is situated amid the peaceful scenery of the Kolsay Lakes.

Day 4: Lakes, Trekking & Scenic Serenity

This day is dedicated to exploring Kolsay Lakes, often called the “Pearls of the Trans-Ili Alatau.” You’ll start with a short drive to Saty Lake, then trek around Mynzhylky Lake, an 8 km round trip that takes about three hours. The clear waters and mountain backdrops make for perfect photo ops.

Later, a return trek to Saty Lake allows you to enjoy the tranquility and natural beauty of these high-altitude lakes. The day ends with a cozy dinner and overnight in the guesthouse, setting you up for the finale.

Day 5: The Iconic Kaindy Lake & Return to Almaty

The final day begins with breakfast before heading to Kaindy Lake, famous for its submerged forest of pine trees standing tall in turquoise waters. Expect to visit three distinct spots—by the shore, from the panoramic viewpoint, and where the river flows into the lake, offering varied perspectives.

After the visit, it’s time for the 295 km drive back to Almaty, where the tour concludes in the evening.

Transportation & Accommodation: Comfort in the Outback

Transportation on this tour is in comfortable SUVs, which allow for scenic drives across Kazakhstan’s diverse terrain. The group size is manageable, ensuring personalized attention and easier navigation through narrow mountain roads.

Accommodations are in guesthouses that feature private showers and toilets, providing a practical yet cozy stay after days filled with exploration. The inclusion of meals—excluding only breakfast on the first day and dinner on the last—adds to the convenience, allowing you to savor local flavors without extra planning.

Guides & Language Support

You’ll be guided by bilingual guides who speak both English and Russian. This support is invaluable, especially when navigating remote areas or engaging with local communities. Based on reviews, guides are knowledgeable, friendly, and eager to share insights, making the journey as educational as it is scenic.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out

This trip’s core appeal lies in its well-rounded mix of natural wonders and cultural moments. It’s perfect for travelers who want to see a wide array of landscapes without the stress of self-driving or booking multiple accommodations. The group size keeps things intimate, fostering easy conversation and camaraderie.

The itinerary’s pacing allows for ample time at each site—enough to soak in the views or take multiple photos—without feeling rushed. The inclusion of light trekking means you’ll get close to nature, but it’s accessible even for those with moderate fitness levels.

Plus, the tour strikes a good balance between adventure and comfort. The guesthouses are simple but functional, and the transportation is efficient, making the long drives feel more like part of the experience rather than an inconvenience.

Value for Money

At $1,388 per person, this tour offers strong value considering the scope. It includes all transportation, park fees, accommodations, and meals, which can add up if you try to DIY this trip. For travelers looking for a hassle-free way to see some of Kazakhstan’s most iconic sites, this package provides a good balance of cost and experience.

The flexibility of “Reserve & Pay Later” and cancellation up to 24 hours in advance also adds peace of mind, especially if travel plans might shift.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This tour is ideal for adventure seekers who appreciate light trekking and scenic drives, nature lovers eager to see Kazakhstan’s diverse landscapes, and cultural explorers interested in the country’s natural and historical highlights. It’s suitable for travelers comfortable with some travel time and a moderate group size.

If you prefer all-inclusive, guided experiences with local insights, this trip suits you well. However, those seeking luxury accommodations or extensive cultural activities might want to explore other options.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the tour suitable for children or older travelers?
It’s generally suitable for most people comfortable with light trekking and some long drives. The walks are manageable, and accommodations are comfortable.

Are meals included?
Yes, the tour provides three meals a day, except for breakfast on the first day and dinner on the last day. It’s a good opportunity to try local Kazakh cuisine.

What language are the guides speaking?
Guides speak both English and Russian, ensuring clear communication and insights during the trip.

How much walking is involved?
Expect around 36 km of trekking spread across several sites, mostly light walks with some uphill sections at viewpoints.

What is the group size?
While not explicitly stated, the tour’s structure suggests a small group, enhancing intimacy and personalized attention.

Can I book with flexible payment?
Yes, the booking allows you to reserve your spot and pay later, with full refunds available if canceled 24 hours in advance.

What should I pack?
Bring comfortable walking shoes, layered clothing for variable weather, sun protection, and a camera to capture the vistas.

Are accommodations private or shared?
Guests stay in guesthouses with private showers and toilets, providing privacy and comfort after busy days.

How long is the drive each day?
Drive times vary from about 70 km to over 200 km, with the longest being the trip back to Almaty on day 5.

Is this tour suitable for solo travelers?
Absolutely—many travelers enjoy small-group tours for the companionship and shared experiences.

Final Thoughts

The Golden Ring of Zhetysu tour offers a fantastic way to see Kazakhstan’s diverse natural beauty in just five days. From the surreal Aktau Mountains and the legendary Charyn Canyon to the serene Kolsay Lakes and the submerged forest of Kaindy Lake, this trip hits all the highlights in a well-paced, manageable format.

It’s best suited for travelers who love outdoor adventures but also appreciate comfort and cultural insights. The mix of scenic drives, light hiking, and cozy guesthouses makes it a practical yet memorable journey.

If you’re after a hassle-free, well-organized introduction to Kazakhstan’s natural treasures, this tour provides excellent value and a chance to truly connect with the landscape in a short span.

Embark on this scenic Kazakh adventure and discover the breathtaking landscapes that make this region a must-see for nature lovers and explorers alike.

You can check availability for your dates here: