Kolsai and Kaindy Lakes with Charyn Canyons Day Trip

This tour promises a full day of awe-inspiring scenery, taking travelers to three of Kazakhstan’s most iconic natural sites—Kolsai Lakes, Kaindy Lake, and the Charyn Canyon. While I haven’t personally taken this exact trip, the detailed reviews and itinerary paint a clear picture of an adventure packed with breathtaking views, moderate hiking, and expert guidance.

What makes this experience stand out? First, the chance to see three diverse landscapes in a single day—from mountain lakes to limestone cliffs. Second, the knowledgeable guides who enrich the experience with local insights and tips. Third, the value—at just $57 per person, it offers an extensive day of exploration with all entrance fees included. The only consideration? It’s a long day out, starting early at 5:00 am, so it’s best suited for active travelers comfortable with walking and some hiking. If you’re looking for an authentic nature escape with plenty of photo opportunities and cultural insights, this trip should be right up your alley.

Key Points

Diverse landscapes—from mountain lakes to dramatic canyons, offering a variety of photo and hiking opportunities.
Expert guiding—local guides with extensive knowledge, making the experience informative and engaging.
All-inclusive price—covering entrance fees, transportation, and bottled water, providing excellent value.
Long but rewarding day—a 16-hour trip that requires moderate physical effort, but packed with sights.
Small group size—max 20 travelers, ensuring a personalized and comfortable experience.
Authentic experiences—hiking to Kaindy Lake and walking along the shores of Kolsai Lake provides a closer look at the natural beauty.

Discovering the Top Natural Attractions

This tour is designed to maximize your experience of Kazakhstan’s natural beauty by visiting three key sites in one day. It’s perfect if you want to see the highlights without the hassle of planning each stop yourself. Let’s break down what each location offers and why it’s worth every minute.

Charyn Canyon: The Grand Introduction

Your day begins early with a pickup from the meeting point on Abay Ave. The Charyn Canyon is often compared to the Grand Canyon for its striking cliffs and vibrant hues. The tour includes a walk along the canyon, allowing you to absorb the scale and beauty of this geological marvel. The guides usually take you on a short walk into the canyon and suggest some photo spots along the Sharyn River, which adds a refreshing water element to the rugged landscape.

Expect about 1 hour 30 minutes here. Although this might seem brief, it’s enough time to get a good feel for the canyon’s dramatic scenery. Plus, the admission ticket is included, so you won’t be surprised by extra costs.

From reviews, travelers comment on the incredible knowledge of the guides and how they help make the most of this stop. One reviewer mentions that the small hikes and photo stops make the experience both scenic and manageable.

Black Canyon Viewpoint: A Sneak Peek

Next, you’ll visit the Black Canyon Viewpoint within Charyn National Park for a quick 15-minute stop. This offers a spectacular vantage point for panoramic photos of the canyon’s layered cliffs and vibrant colors. The 20-minute stay is perfect for some quick snaps and soaking in the view without feeling rushed.

Kaindy Lake: The Unique Underwater Forest

After a short drive, the group heads to Kaindy Lake, famous for its submerged forest of pine trees emerging from the water. You’ll hike approximately 2.5 kilometers to reach this surreal sight, which takes about 1 hour 30 minutes. The hike isn’t strenuous but allows you to enjoy the natural surroundings at a relaxed pace.

Reviews highlight how special this lake is, with one noting that seeing the pine trees rising through the water feels almost magical. Interestingly, the tour includes free entrance tickets here, so you can focus on capturing the ethereal landscape.

Kolsai Lakes: Mountain Serenity

The final stop is at Kolsai Lake, a serene mountain lake surrounded by lush forest and towering peaks. You’ll have around 1 hour 30 minutes to walk around the lake, take photos, or simply soak in the tranquility. The guides often recommend this stop as a peaceful way to end the day, with plenty of opportunities for photos and relaxing.

This part of the tour is highly praised for its scenic beauty, with reviews emphasizing how the clear waters and mountain backdrop create the perfect setting for reflection and photos. The entrance fee is included, making this a seamless part of your day.

Practical Aspects of the Tour

Transportation and Group Size

The tour includes round-trip transport from the designated meeting point, which adds convenience and comfort. With a maximum of 20 travelers, the experience remains intimate, allowing for more personalized attention from your guide. The early start at 5:00 am means a long day, but it maximizes your time at each location.

Price and Value

At $57 per person, this tour offers substantial value, considering that all entrance fees are included, along with bottled water on warm days. The cost covers transportation, guiding, and access to all sites, making it an economical option to see some of Kazakhstan’s best natural scenery.

Physical Activity and Preparation

While the tour is accessible for most with moderate physical fitness, be prepared for walking, some hiking, and a long day. The guides recommend comfortable shoes and sun protection. The hike to Kaindy Lake is about 2.5 km but isn’t overly challenging, ensuring most travelers can enjoy it.

What Reviewers Say

Many travelers highlight the expertise and enthusiasm of the guides, who are praised for their in-depth knowledge. One reviewer, William B., noted the guide’s incredible knowledge of the parks and how they kept the group engaged throughout the 16-hour adventure.

Jasmina S. appreciated the long walks, hikes, and stunning scenery, emphasizing that the tour is a must-do experience in Kazakhstan. Both reviewers agreed that the tour strikes an excellent balance between sightseeing, walking, and relaxing.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This trip is ideal for adventurous travelers eager to explore Kazakhstan’s most iconic natural sites in a single day. It suits those with moderate fitness levels who enjoy walking and scenic views. If you’re after a well-organized, value-packed day with knowledgeable guides, this tour is a fantastic choice.

However, it’s worth noting that long hours and early start may not appeal to everyone, especially those who prefer a more leisurely pace or have limited mobility. The tour’s focus on outdoor sightseeing makes it perfect for nature lovers and photo enthusiasts.

The Sum Up

For travelers wanting to see stunning lakes and dramatic canyons without the hassle of planning, this tour offers a compelling package. The mix of natural beauty, expert guides, and value for money makes it a standout option for those visiting Almaty. It’s especially suited for active travelers eager to make the most of their time and capture unforgettable vistas.

While the day is long and involves some walking, the rewards are worth it—crystal-clear lakes, towering cliffs, and the chance to experience Kazakhstan’s diverse landscapes firsthand. If you’re ready for a full-day outdoor adventure that delivers both photo opportunities and a sense of achievement, this trip will not disappoint.

FAQ

What is the start time of the tour?
The tour begins early at 5:00 am, allowing plenty of time to explore all three sites in a single day.

How long is the total duration?
The entire trip lasts approximately 16 hours, including travel, sightseeing, and walking.

Are entrance fees included?
Yes, all entrance fees to Charyn National Park, Kolsai Lakes, and Kaindy Lakes are covered in the price.

What should I bring for the hike to Kaindy Lake?
Comfortable walking shoes, sun protection, and water. The hike is about 2.5 km but manageable for most.

Is transportation provided?
Yes, round-trip transport from the meeting point is included, ensuring a hassle-free experience.

Is the group small or large?
The maximum group size is 20 travelers, which helps keep the experience intimate and comfortable.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Is this tour suitable for children?
While the tour is generally appropriate for most physically capable travelers, children should be comfortable with walking and early mornings.

This tour offers an excellent way to explore Kazakhstan’s outdoor treasures with minimal fuss and maximum scenery. Whether you’re snapping photos, hiking, or simply soaking in the views, it’s designed to make your day memorable.