From Almaty: Charyn Canyon and Kolsai-Kaindy Lakes Day Trip

From Almaty: Charyn Canyon and Kolsai-Kaindy Lakes Day Trip

Imagine waking up early in Almaty, eager to explore some of Kazakhstan’s most breathtaking natural sights. For around $57, a full-day tour takes you from the city’s bustling streets into a landscape of rugged canyons, shimmering lakes, and eerie submerged forests. Led by friendly guides who are passionate about sharing their homeland’s beauty, this trip offers a compact dose of adventure, scenic views, and cultural insights.

Two aspects we particularly appreciate are the careful planning of the itinerary, which balances walking, driving, and relaxing, and the small group atmosphere, which makes it easier to connect with fellow travelers. The guide’s knowledge adds depth to the experience, turning simple sightseeing into stories about geology, legends, and local life.

A possible downside? The early start — with a meet-up at 5:00 AM — might be challenging for night owls or those with late-night plans. Also, because the weather in the mountains can be unpredictable, some sights might be shrouded in mist or rain, impacting your photo opportunities.

This tour suits travelers who value authentic landscapes, enjoy learning from knowledgeable guides, and want a hassle-free day trip that covers multiple highlights in one go. It’s especially great if you love nature and are looking for a mix of light hikes and stunning photo stops.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Convenient round-trip transportation from Almaty makes the day worry-free.
• Guided experience enriches visits with stories about geology and local legends.
• Three major sites: Sharyn Canyon, Kolsai Lake, and Kaindy Lake offer diverse landscapes.
• Moderate walking and off-road drives are included, making it accessible but still adventurous.
• All entrance fees are covered, so no unexpected costs.
• Small gift adds a thoughtful touch to your day.

Exploring the Highlights: What to Expect

An Early Start and Comfortable Transportation

We appreciated the early 5:00 AM meeting point on Abai Street — it seems early, but it’s the best way to make the most of the day. The ride to Sharyn Canyon is approximately 2.5 hours in a comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle, giving us time to get excited about what’s ahead. The small group size makes the trip more personal and engaging, allowing for better interaction with guides and fellow travelers.

Sharyn Canyon: The Valley of Castles

Our first stop, the Valley of Castles at Sharyn Canyon, lives up to its name. The towering rock formations, carved by centuries of wind and water, resemble an ancient fortress. The guides shared stories about the geological forces that shaped these cliffs, making the landscape feel alive with history. We spent about 1.5 hours walking along the canyon rim, soaking in views that are hard to forget.

Travelers who enjoyed this part often mention the stunning vistas and informative guides. One reviewer said, “Good guide Dalila. Informative program,” highlighting how much the guide’s storytelling enhances the experience. The walk is mostly flat, but sturdy shoes are recommended for uneven terrain.

More Great Tours Nearby

Kolsai Lakes: Mountain Serenity

After the canyon, we headed to the Kolsai Lakes, about 1.5 hours away by road. These lakes are like mountain jewels, with crystal-clear waters surrounded by dense forests and snow-capped peaks. We spent roughly an hour wandering along the shore, taking photos, and simply enjoying the tranquility.

The lake’s beauty is best appreciated when you’re standing on the shore, listening to the silence broken only by birds. Some travelers have said, “It was a great trip, great people, you get to know lots of people from all over the world,” so expect a friendly, social atmosphere during the stop.

Kaindy Lake: Eerie Submerged Forest

The final highlight is Kaindy Lake, about 30 minutes off-road from Kolsai. Known for its sunken forest of tall, ghostly trees rising from turquoise waters, Kaindy feels otherworldly. The lake was formed after a landslide over 100 years ago, creating an unusual landscape that photographers love.

We spent about an hour exploring, taking photos of the submerged trees, and learning from the guide about how the lake’s eerie beauty came to be. Many visitors find this spot truly unique, and the contrast of the vibrant water with the dark, skeletal trees makes for some memorable shots. One review describes the experience as “amazing,” which matches what many feel upon seeing it firsthand.

Picnic Lunch and Small Surprises

A highlight of the day is the picnic lunch by the lake, a simple but fresh meal that allows us to relax and enjoy the mountain air. It’s a nice touch that the tour includes bottled water and a small gift — thoughtful extras that show the guides care about travelers’ comfort and memories.

Practical Details and Traveler Tips

Who Will Enjoy This Tour?

If you love nature, scenic drives, and easy walks, this trip is perfect. The guided commentary adds depth, making it suitable for those interested in geology or local legends. It’s also good for travelers who prefer all logistics handled, with transportation and entrance fees covered, leaving you free to soak in the sights.

Considerations

The early start means you need to be prepared for a long day — but it’s worth it for the variety of sights packed into one trip. The weather can change quickly in the mountains; bringing layers and rain gear is wise. The off-road drive to Kaindy Lake might be bumpy, so pack accordingly if you’re sensitive to rougher rides.

Value for Money

At $57, the tour offers excellent value considering transportation, guide services, entrance fees, and the small gift. You’re paying for a hassle-free day with a knowledgeable guide who makes the scenery come alive, rather than just a bus ride.

The Sum Up

This day trip from Almaty is a fantastic way to experience some of Kazakhstan’s most striking natural wonders without the need for complicated planning. It’s ideal for travelers who appreciate stunning landscapes, interesting stories, and a relaxed pace. The trip’s well-organized nature, combined with the beauty of Sharyn Canyon, Kolsai Lake, and Kaindy Lake, makes it a memorable highlight of any Kazakhstan visit.

While the early start might not be for everyone, those who embrace it will find the effort well rewarded. The guided approach means you’ll learn more about the landscape’s geological and cultural background, turning each stop into an engaging story rather than just a pretty photo.

In short, if you’re seeking a blend of adventure, natural beauty, and ease of travel, this trip hits the mark. It’s a well-priced, authentic experience that keeps the focus on the landscapes that make Kazakhstan special.

FAQs

• What is the start time of the tour?
  The tour begins at 5:00 AM at a meeting point on Abai Street in Almaty.

• How long is the drive to Sharyn Canyon?
  It takes approximately 2.5 hours in a comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle.

• Are entrance fees included?
  Yes, all entrance fees for Sharyn Canyon, Kolsai Lakes, and Kaindy Lake are covered.

• What should I wear?
  Wear sturdy shoes suitable for walking on uneven terrain, and bring layers for variable mountain weather.

• Is food included?
  No, but you can purchase food during stops. A picnic lunch is provided by the tour at Kaindy Lake.

• How long do we spend at each site?
  Expect about 1.5 hours at Sharyn Canyon, 1 hour at Kolsai Lake, and 1 hour at Kaindy Lake.

• Is this tour suitable for children?
  The moderate walking and off-road drive make it suitable for families with older children who are comfortable outdoors.

• What is the group size?
  The experience usually involves small groups, making it more personal and engaging.

• What language is the tour conducted in?
  The guides speak English and Russian.

• Can I cancel if my plans change?
  Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing flexibility for your travel plans.

This guided day trip from Almaty offers a well-rounded taste of Kazakhstan’s remarkable natural beauty, combining manageable walks, stunning scenery, and expert insights. It’s an experience that will leave you with photos, stories, and a deeper appreciation for this diverse region.

You can check availability for your dates here: