Kolsay lake and Charyn Grand Canyon

Planning a trip to Kazakhstan and looking for a full-day excursion that combines stunning natural beauty with a taste of the local landscape? This tour to Kolsay Lake and Charyn Grand Canyon offers just that. While it’s not perfect and has mixed reviews, it remains a worthwhile experience for those eager to see some of Kazakhstan’s most iconic sights without venturing far from Almaty.

What we particularly like about this tour are the diverse landscapes—from the vibrant, rugged canyon walls to the tranquil, mirror-like lakes; the chance to experience nature’s grandeur in a single day; and the value it offers at around $75 per person. The downside? The schedule can feel quite rushed, and certain aspects like transportation conditions and food options could be improved. Still, if you’re a traveler who appreciates quick, scenic escapes and can handle a busy itinerary, this trip could fit your plans.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour?

This experience is ideal for nature lovers, photographers, or anyone wanting a taste of Kazakhstan’s famed landscapes in one day. Keep in mind, it’s a packed schedule—so it’s best suited for those comfortable with early mornings and a full day of sightseeing. If you prefer slow-paced, leisurely exploration, you might find this tour a bit hurried.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Diverse Landscapes: Experience everything from canyons to alpine lakes in one trip.
• Value for Money: At $75, the tour includes entrance fees to key sites.
• Busy Itinerary: Several stops in a short period—expect a fast-paced day.
• Mixed Review Feedback: Some travelers report discomfort with transport and schedule tightness.
• Authentic Views: Offers scenic views that are perfect for photography enthusiasts.
• Group Size & Language: English and Russian-speaking guides; group size varies.

A Closer Look at the Itinerary

Starting Point and Transportation

The tour kicks off early—usually around 5:30 am—from a parking lot near Almaty’s Alatau metro station. This might seem inconvenient, especially if you’re staying centrally, but it’s common for full-day excursions in the region. The bus ride is approximately 6-7 hours round-trip, during which transportation quality varies. According to one traveler, the AC in the bus didn’t work well, making the journey somewhat uncomfortable, especially on hot days. The driver’s aggressive driving style was also noted, with some feeling it was reckless, though no accidents occurred during the trip.

This aspect highlights the importance of choosing a reputable provider, as safety and comfort can vary widely. The group size can range from small to larger groups, which impacts how personally you feel engaged during stops.

Charyn Grand Canyon: A Geological Kaleidoscope

The first major stop is the Charyn Grand Canyon, renowned for its striking, rust-colored rock formations that tell stories of millions of years of geological activity. As you walk along the canyon’s rim, you’ll notice how the interplay of sunlight and shadow accentuates the vibrant colors and layered textures—truly a photographer’s dream.

The canyon’s unique shape and vivid hues make it stand out from other natural attractions. It’s a quick stop—roughly 15 minutes—but enough for some photos and a quick walk along the rim. Some reviews mention feeling rushed here, which is a common complaint about this tour. Still, the landscape’s beauty makes it worth the brief visit.

More Great Tours Nearby

The Lakes of Kolsay: Reflections of Peace

Next, the tour moves to the Kolsay Lakes, a trio of alpine lakes set against the rugged backdrop of the Tien Shan mountains. This part of the trip is often highlighted as the most tranquil and beautiful. The lakes boast a mirror-like surface that reflects the surrounding peaks so perfectly it’s almost surreal.

Travelers will likely spend around two hours here, giving plenty of time for photography, a leisurely walk, or a picnic. One reviewer mentioned that the lakes are nice, but there are better lakes in the region, which suggests that while beautiful, Kolsay might not be the most impressive in the broader context of Kazakhstan’s lakes. Still, the serenity here provides a peaceful contrast to the canyon’s ruggedness.

Optional Activities and Additional Stops

The tour mentions optional activities like horse riding at the lakes, which many find appealing. However, these are not included in the base price—meaning you’ll need to bring cash if you want to try riding a horse or renting a boat. Interestingly, the tour does not include food and drinks, so packing your own snacks is highly advisable, especially since the lunch spots are reported to lack vegetarian options.

Final Stop and Return

After exploring Kolsay, the trip circles back to Almaty, ending at the same meeting point. The long day can be tiring, especially with the tight schedule and limited time at each stop, but it offers a concentrated dose of natural beauty in a single outing.

What to Expect: Realities and Practicalities

The Good

• Spectacular Scenery: The canyon and lakes each offer their own visual magic—perfect for nature photography and quiet contemplation.
• Entrance Fees Included: The cost covers entry to both the canyon and lakes, streamlining your experience.
• Authentic Landscapes: You’ll see landscapes that are emblematic of Kazakhstan’s rugged, natural beauty, not just touristy spots.

The Challenges

• Rushed Schedule: Several travelers felt the itinerary was packed tight, with some stops lasting only 15 minutes—enough for quick photos but little else.
• Transport Conditions: The bus’s condition and driver safety have been criticized in reviews, so travelers should prepare for a potentially uncomfortable ride.
• Limited Food Options: No vegetarian or diverse meal options are provided, so bringing snacks or a packed lunch is a smart move.
• Language Barriers: Guides speak both English and Russian, but some reviews note limited English information, so come prepared with your own curiosity and questions.

Value and Overall Impression

For $75, this tour offers a solid introduction to some of Kazakhstan’s most photogenic sites. The entrance fees are included, which adds to its value, but the overall experience depends heavily on your expectations. If you’re after a relaxing, leisurely day with ample time at each site, this might not be your best choice. However, if you’re eager to see a variety of landscapes in one day and don’t mind a busy schedule, this tour delivers on that promise.

It’s worth noting that some travelers reported the experience as being too crammed, with one saying, “it feels rushed and crammed in the schedule,” but others appreciated that they managed to see everything in a short time despite the weather challenges. The trip is best for those prepared for early mornings, long bus rides, and a fast-paced itinerary.

Who Should Book This Tour?

This tour suits travelers who want a snapshot of Kazakhstan’s natural beauty without the hassle of planning multiple trips or hikes. It’s good for those comfortable with early starts and limited free time at each stop. If you’re a photography enthusiast eager to capture iconic landscapes and don’t mind the group setting and logistical constraints, this is a solid choice.

However, if you prefer slow travel, more in-depth exploration, or comfort during transit, you might want to consider more tailored or private options—though these usually come at a higher cost. Also, for vegetarians or those with specific dietary needs, bringing your own food will make the day more enjoyable.

FAQ

Is transportation comfortable on this tour?
Transportation conditions vary; some travelers mention the bus’s AC doesn’t work well and note the driver’s reckless style. Be prepared for a long ride in possibly less-than-ideal conditions.

How much time do I spend at each stop?
Expect around 15 minutes at each canyon stop and about two hours at Kolsay Lakes. The schedule is quite full, so don’t expect extended visits.

Are entrance fees included?
Yes, the price includes entry to both the Charyn Canyon and Kolsay Lakes, simplifying your planning.

Can I do activities like horse riding?
Horse riding and boat rentals are available, but they are not included in the price. You should bring extra cash if you wish to partake.

What about food?
Food and drinks are not included, and the lunch spot has limited options, especially for vegetarians. Bringing snacks or a packed lunch is recommended.

Is the tour suitable for families?
It can be, but keep in mind the long travel time and packed schedule. Younger children or those who prefer a more relaxed pace may find it tiring.

Do I need to speak Russian or English?
Guides speak both languages, but some reviews note limited English information. Basic knowledge of either language or an interest in local culture will help.

Final Thoughts

The Kolsay Lake and Charyn Grand Canyon tour offers a snapshot of Kazakhstan’s stunning landscapes, packed into a single day. It’s a good choice for travelers eager to tick off must-see sights without extensive planning or hiking. The experience is undeniably scenic, with the landscapes offering plenty of photo opportunities and moments of tranquility.

However, the tour’s fast pace and logistical issues mean it’s not for everyone—especially those seeking a leisurely experience or more personalized attention. If you’re adaptable, enjoy quick stops, and want to add a sense of adventure to your trip, this could be a memorable part of your Kazakhstan journey.

For those who prioritize comfort and flexibility, exploring these sites with a private guide or on a multi-day trek might be better. But for a cost-effective, scenic overview of some of the region’s most iconic landscapes, this tour will deliver a good dose of nature and photo-worthy vistas.

To sum it up, this tour is best suited for travelers who want an efficient, budget-friendly way to see Kazakhstan’s natural highlights with a sense of adventure. Be prepared for a busy day, bring your own snacks, and hold on tight during the drive—you’re in for some truly unforgettable views.

You can check availability for your dates here: