Shared Almaty Day Tour to Kolsai Lake by Coach

Exploring Kazakhstan’s Natural Wonders in a Day: A Detailed Look at the Almaty to Kolsai Lake Tour

If you’re considering a guided day trip from Almaty to some of Kazakhstan’s most breathtaking sites, you’ll find this tour covers three iconic natural attractions. While reviews are limited and somewhat mixed, the promise of discovering surreal landscapes like Charyn Canyon, the submerged forest of Kaindy Lake, and the tranquil Kolsai Lakes sounds compelling.

What we love about this experience? First, the diversity of scenery—from the striking red cliffs of Charyn Canyon to the mysterious sunken forest of Kaindy Lake, and the peaceful mountain lakes. Second, the luxury transport in VIP vehicles ensures comfortable travel across long distances. And third, the authentic Kazakh-style lunch offers a genuine taste of local cuisine with mountain views.

However, one important consideration is the mixed quality of reviews, especially regarding reliability and communication. At a price of $50 per person, it’s crucial to weigh whether the experience matches expectations, particularly given the reported issues with refunds and equipment support.

This trip seems best suited for travelers who prioritize seeing multiple natural highlights in one day and are flexible with the potential uncertainties involved.

Key Points

• Stunning landscapes: From deep canyon views to submerged forests and alpine lakes.
• Comfortable transport: VIP air-conditioned vehicles with small group sizes.
• Authentic meal: Traditional Kazakh cuisine served at a scenic mountain resort.
• Long day: Approximately 17 hours, starting early at 4:30 am.
• Mixed reviews: Some concerns about reliability and refunds, so proceed with caution.
• Inclusions: Entrance fees, snacks, bottled water, power banks, and UAZ transfer to Kaindy Lake.

A Deeper Dive into the Tour Itinerary

Starting Early at Almaty’s Meeting Point

The tour kicks off at 4:30 am from Baytursynova Street in Almaty, near the Renion Zyliha Hotel. An early start might seem daunting but is necessary to maximize the day, considering the long drive and multiple stops ahead. The small group size, capped at 16 travelers, promises a more intimate experience compared to large bus tours.

First Stop: Charyn Canyon

After a roughly two-hour journey, you arrive at Charyn Canyon, often called the “Grand Canyon of Central Asia.” The landscape here is dramatic: towering red cliffs, rugged valleys, and the famous Valley of Castles, which resembles an ancient fortress. Expect to walk around for about two hours, with admission included.

You’ll love the photogenic views and the opportunity to walk through the valley’s unique formations. The canyon’s scenery is both vast and intricate, offering plenty of spots for photos and quiet moments. As one reviewer pointed out, this stop is perfect for nature lovers craving striking vistas.

Second Stop: Lake Kaindy

Next, you’ll take a short UAZ off-road ride to the mysterious Kaindy Lake. This submerged forest is a surreal sight—tall spruce trees rising straight from turquoise waters, a result of a devastating earthquake over a century ago. The calm waters and the eerie, sunken trees create a scene reminiscent of a fantasy film.

Expect about two hours here, with admission included. Reviewers note that the short UAZ ride adds a fun adventure element and that the lake’s underwater forest is a must-see. One reviewer mentioned, “The submerged forest is unlike anything I’ve seen before—absolutely magical.”

Third Stop: Kolsai Lakes

The final highlight is the Kolsai Lakes, a chain of three mountain lakes surrounded by lush forests and alpine meadows. You’ll have around two hours to stroll along the lakeshore, soak in the mountain air, and take photos of the crystal-clear waters reflecting the surrounding peaks.

This part of the tour provides a peaceful break after the more dramatic canyon and lake visits. It’s an ideal spot for a relaxed walk or simply to sit and enjoy the tranquil scenery. Many find this the most “refreshing” part of the day and a perfect way to conclude the trip.

Lunch and Additional Comforts

A highlight is the Kazakh-style lunch at a private mountain resort. The meal includes hot bauyrsak (traditional fried bread), fresh dishes, salad, and tea, served in a scenic setting. The tour also provides bottled water, a Kazakh chocolate bar, a warm blanket, raincoat if needed, and on-board power banks—small touches that add comfort and convenience.

Optional Extras and Extra Costs

While the main stops are included, activities like boating ($5) and horse riding ($14) are optional extras. These can add to the overall experience but will require additional fees and planning.

Transport, Pricing, and Overall Value

Traveling in a luxury air-conditioned vehicle with a small group enhances comfort, especially on the long drive. The $50 price tag covers most major expenses: entrance fees, lunch, snacks, water, and the UAZ transfer to Kaindy Lake.

Given the length of the day and the included amenities, this represents decent value, provided everything runs smoothly. Keep in mind that the early start means you should be prepared for a long day, especially if you’re not an early riser.

What the Reviews Reveal

While most feedback is limited, one review warns against relying on this specific provider—citing issues with equipment support and refund delays. The reviewer stated, “they told us their equipment could not support the trip and asked us to cancel,” and the refund had yet to be received.

On the plus side, the beautiful scenery at Charyn Canyon, Kaindy Lake, and Kolsai Lakes is consistently praised. Travelers mention that the views are truly stunning, making the long day worthwhile if you’re flexible and prepared for some unpredictability.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This tour is best for adventurous travelers eager to tick off three of Kazakhstan’s most famous natural attractions in a single day. It suits those who don’t mind an early start, long hours in transit, and some optional activity costs. If you’re hoping for a smooth, flawless experience without last-minute hiccups, you might want to research other options or prepare for potential surprises.

Final Thoughts

This day trip from Almaty offers a rich snapshot of Kazakhstan’s diverse landscapes, from rugged canyons to mysterious sunken forests and tranquil mountain lakes. The included lunch and amenities add to the convenience, while the small group size fosters a more personal experience.

However, the mixed reviews about the provider’s reliability suggest you should proceed with some caution. Confirm all details before booking, and consider how flexible you’re willing to be if plans change unexpectedly.

Overall, if you’re craving epic scenery and a chance to connect with nature, this tour could be a memorable part of your Kazakhstan adventure—just keep your expectations realistic and your camera charged.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for all ages?
Yes, most travelers can participate, but the early start and long hours might be tiring for very young children or older adults.

What should I bring for the day?
Bring comfortable walking shoes, a hat, sunscreen, and a camera. The tour provides raincoats and warm blankets if needed, but dressing in layers is recommended.

Are meals and drinks included?
Yes, a traditional Kazakh lunch is included, along with bottled water and a chocolate bar. Extra drinks or snacks are not included but can be purchased separately.

How long is the total travel time?
The entire trip lasts about 17 hours, starting early at 4:30 am and returning the same evening. Be prepared for a long but scenic day.

Are there any additional costs?
Optional activities like boating and horse riding cost extra. Also, souvenirs or other personal expenses are not included.

What if the weather is bad?
The tour requires good weather. If canceled due to poor conditions, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

To sum it up, this tour offers a chance to see some of Kazakhstan’s most dramatic natural sites in one day, with the convenience of VIP transport and authentic cuisine. Ideal for those who love scenic photography and are comfortable with the long hours and potential uncertainties. Just be sure to check recent reviews and confirm details before booking to make the most of your adventure in Kazakhstan.