From Almaty: Charyn Canyon, Kolsay & Kaindy Lake Day Trip

From Almaty: Charyn Canyon, Kolsay & Kaindy Lake Day Trip
Location: Almaty Region, Kazakhstan
Country: Kazakhstan
Rating: 5/5 (8 reviews)
Price: $150 per person
Supplier: Kazadventure

A Perfect Day Out for Nature Lovers and Curious Travelers

If you’re looking to escape the city’s hustle and see some of Kazakhstan’s most breathtaking scenery, this full-day tour is an excellent choice. For around $150, you get a comfortable ride in a Mercedes Sprinter, an English-speaking guide, and visits to notable sites like Charyn Canyon, Kolsay Lake, and Kaiyndy Lake. The tour begins with a hotel pickup, making your morning easy and stress-free, and wraps up with a personalized lunch tailored to your dietary preferences.

Two things we love about this trip are the well-organized transportation — the Sprinter provides a smooth and spacious ride — and the insightful guides who are praised for their expertise, helpfulness, and engaging storytelling. The scenic stops are balanced with comfort and accessibility, making it suitable for most travelers.

However, a possible consideration is that you’ll need to bring your own snacks and water, as food isn’t included, and the UAZ ride to Kaiyndy Lake might be a bit of an off-road adventure. This trip is ideal if you’re eager to cover multiple sites in one day without sacrificing comfort or local authenticity. It suits travelers who appreciate guided nature explorations and stunning landscapes without the hassle of self-driving.

Key Points

• Comprehensive Experience: Covers key sites like Charyn Canyon, Kolsay Lake, and Kaiyndy Lake, with insight from knowledgeable guides.
• Comfort & Convenience: Travel in a spacious Mercedes Sprinter with USB ports and well-planned pickups.
• Authentic Natural Beauty: See canyons that rival the grandeur of the Grand Canyon, crystal-clear lakes, and scenic river views.
• Flexible and Personal: Options for tailored lunch, and the opportunity to take a UAZ ride to Kaiyndy Lake.
• Excellent Reviews: Consistently high ratings based on real traveler feedback praising guides and scenery.
• Value for Money: The combination of comfort, access, and expert guidance makes this a worthwhile investment.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Exploring Kazakhstan’s Natural Wonders: A Practical Breakdown

The Itinerary: What You’ll See and Why It Matters

This tour packs a lot into one day, making it perfect for travelers with limited time who want a comprehensive taste of Kazakhstan’s highlights. It kicks off with a hotel pickup in Almaty, where you board a spacious Mercedes Sprinter. The journey is as much about comfort as it is about the scenery — the van’s air conditioning and USB ports keep you relaxed and connected throughout the day.

Your first stop is Charyn Canyon, often called “Kazakhstan’s answer to the Grand Canyon.” Expect impressive rock formations, layered cliffs, and dramatic vistas that make for unforgettable photos. The Valley of Castles within the canyon is particularly photogenic, with natural formations that resemble medieval fortresses carved by time and water.

Next, your guide will take you to Charyn River and the Black and Moon Canyons if visiting in summer. These less-visited but equally stunning sites offer a different perspective on the canyon’s breadth, with flowing water and unusual rock formations adding to the landscape’s drama.

In the afternoon, you’ll head toward Kolsay Lakes, a series of three pristine mountain lakes, known for their crystal-clear waters and peaceful surroundings. Travelers rave about the horseback ride at Kolsay — a real highlight, offering a different way to experience the landscape and making for great photos. The lakes are framed by lush forests and mountain peaks, with reflections so clear you’ll want to pull out your waterproof camera.

Then, a UAZ vehicle will whisk you to Kaindy Lake, famous for its submerged forest and hauntingly beautiful sunken trees. This trek includes some off-road driving, which adds a bit of adventure, but the guides are praised for their safety and professionalism. The lake’s surreal, turquoise waters and submerged tree trunks create an otherworldly atmosphere that’s hard to match anywhere else.

Transportation and Group Size

The tour uses a Mercedes Sprinter with 16 seats, meaning you’ll be traveling comfortably with a relatively small group. This size allows for personal interaction with guides and fellow travelers, without feeling crowded. The vehicle is equipped with USB and Type-C ports, so you can keep your devices charged — always handy for snapping photos or checking maps.

Guide Quality and Local Insights

Multiple reviews emphasize the expertise of the guides, mentioning Abdul, Abdou Amid, and Archy as knowledgeable, friendly, and engaging. They’re praised for their clear explanations, helpful attitude, and ability to make complex histories and natural features accessible.

According to travelers, the guides go beyond just pointing out sights — they share stories, tips, and practical advice, making the day both educational and enjoyable.

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The Food and Additional Costs

While the lunch is personalized to accommodate dietary needs, the cost of food isn’t included in the $150 price tag. Travelers report that the provided lunch options are delicious and thoughtfully prepared, with choices spanning Indian vegetarian, Asian, and European cuisines.

However, note that UAZ rides to Kaiyndy Lake are not included in the price. The off-road trip to the lake is a fun, adventurous addition, but you’ll want to account for the extra cost if you wish to experience it.

The Experience: What Travelers Underline

From the glowing reviews, it’s clear that this tour is praised for its stunning scenery, knowledgeable guides, and excellent value. One traveler called it “an unforgettable day,” while another noted the “perfect itinerary” and “clear explanations.” The quality of transportation, rated 5/5, and the guides’ professionalism, make the trip feel luxurious without the hefty price tag.

Many travelers also enjoy the flexibility — pickup from their hotel, options for different dietary needs, and the chance to ask questions along the way. The trip’s pace is well-balanced, leaving plenty of time at each stop to soak in the views and take photos.

Final Thoughts: Who Will Love This Tour?

This day trip from Almaty is suited for nature lovers, photography enthusiasts, and anyone curious about Kazakhstan’s stunning landscapes. It’s a great choice if you want a comfortable, guided experience that covers multiple highlights in one day. If you’re eager for scenic views, engaging guides, and a touch of adventure (especially at Kaiyndy Lake), this trip offers excellent value and memorable moments.

On the flip side, if you prefer visits to fewer sites with more time at each, or if you want a more in-depth cultural experience, you might consider other options. But for the sheer beauty, ease of travel, and positive reviews, this tour hits many of the right notes.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is included in the tour?
You get transportation in a Mercedes Sprinter, an English-speaking guide, all environmental and entrance fees, and waterproof shoe covers. The tour also includes hotel pickup.

Are meals provided?
Lunch is not included, but you can enjoy a personalized meal tailored to your dietary preferences. Options include Indian vegetarian, Asian, or European cuisine.

Is the UAZ ride to Kaiyndy Lake part of the tour?
The UAZ ride is not included in the price. It’s an optional off-road adventure to reach Kaiyndy Lake, and travelers typically pay extra for this experience.

How long does the tour last?
The exact duration isn’t specified, but it’s a full-day trip beginning with hotel pickup and ending back in Almaty, enough time to explore each site comfortably.

What should I bring?
Pack comfortable shoes, warm clothing, a hat, snacks, sunscreen, water, a waterproof camera, and charged smartphone for photos.

Can I cancel or change the booking?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. You can also reserve now and pay later to keep your plans flexible.

In essence, this tour offers an engaging, scenic, and comfortable way to explore some of Kazakhstan’s most iconic natural spots. With friendly guides, seamless transportation, and the chance to see landscapes that rival some of the world’s most famous canyons and lakes, it’s a practical choice for anyone wanting a memorable day outside Almaty.

You can check availability for your dates here: