From Almaty: Kolsai Lakes, Black Canyon, Charyn Canyon Tour

Experience the Best of Kazakhstan’s Natural Wonders: Kolsai Lakes, Black Canyon, and Charyn Canyon from Almaty

If you’re looking for a day that combines incredible scenery with a taste of adventure, this tour from Almaty is a fantastic choice. For around $230 per person, you’ll visit the enchanting Kolsai Lakes, marvel at the dramatic Black Canyon, and explore the iconic Charyn Canyon. The tour includes transportation, entrance fees, and a delicious lunch with views of the lakes—making it both convenient and memorable.

What we love most? First, how the scenic drives let you soak up Kazakhstan’s rugged beauty without tiring yourself out. Second, the chance to take part in hands-on activities like kayaking, horse riding, and trekking, which truly bring the landscape to life.

The only consideration? The full day of travel means you’ll spend a good amount of time on the road—something to keep in mind if you prefer more relaxed, less packed sightseeing days.

This tour suits travelers who enjoy outdoor adventures, spectacular scenery, and are keen to see some of Kazakhstan’s most stunning natural landmarks in a single day. It’s especially perfect for those who don’t mind a bit of driving and love capturing beautiful landscapes with their camera.

Key Points

• Stunning Views: Expect awe-inspiring vistas of emerald lakes, towering canyon walls, and dramatic rock formations.
• Active Experiences: Kayaking, trekking, and horse riding make the trip memorable and engaging.
• Convenience: All transportation, entrance fees, and a mountain-view lunch are included, streamlining your day.
• Diverse Landscapes: From alpine lakes to desert-like canyon scenery, the tour showcases a variety of Kazakhstan’s natural beauty.
• Time on the Road: Be prepared for approximately 1.5 hours driving to Kolsai Lakes and 2.5 hours back from Charyn Canyon.
• Tour Size and Flexibility: Group sizes can vary, and you can reserve with flexibility—pay later and cancel up to 24 hours ahead.

Kazakhstan isn’t a country that often makes it onto the typical tourist itinerary, yet its landscapes are truly worth seeing. This full-day tour from Almaty takes you through three of the most remarkable natural sites—Kolsai Lakes, Black Canyon, and Charyn Canyon—each offering unique scenery and photo opportunities.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Starting Out: Comfort and Convenience

The journey begins with hotel pickup, which we found to be both punctual and hassle-free. Your driver and guide (name not specified, but friendly and knowledgeable) will whisk you away from the city into the countryside. The transportation is comfortable, making the long drives more bearable and giving you a chance to relax and enjoy the passing scenery.

The first stop is the Kolsai Lakes, often referred to as the “pearls of the Tian Shan Mountains.” The drive itself is part of the thrill, with views of coniferous forests, rolling hills, and distant peaks. You’ll appreciate how this initial section sets the tone for the day—an immersion into Kazakhstan’s wild, unspoiled landscape.

Kolsai Lakes: Nature’s Mirror

Arriving at Kolsai Lakes, the setting is immediately captivating. The lakes’ emerald waters are framed by tall pine trees and mountain peaks. The air feels crisp, and the silence broken only by the gentle lapping of water and bird calls.

You can choose to kayak on the lakes, which is a highlight for many. The calm waters and stunning backdrop make paddling a peaceful and scenic activity. Alternatively, trekking along the shoreline or taking a horse ride offers different ways to appreciate the surroundings. The guides are keen to share insights about the local flora and fauna, adding a layer of education to the experience.

A special treat here is the lunch at a mountain-top restaurant, where you can enjoy traditional dishes with panoramic views of the lakes below. Many reviews mention how this meal feels both satisfying and authentic, with some noting the “magical view” as a perfect backdrop for your meal.

Black Canyon: A Brief but Bitting Stop

On the way back from Kolsai, you’ll stop at an observation deck overlooking the Black Canyon. This spot offers a panoramic view of the narrow, steep-sided gorge carved by the Turgen River. The rugged, dark rocks contrast with the lush green vegetation, creating a striking visual.

Though a quick stop, it’s appreciated for the “breathtaking scenery” and provides excellent photo opportunities. It’s a reminder of how Kazakhstan’s landscapes can be both gentle lakes and dramatic canyons, all in a few hours.

Charyn Canyon: Earth’s Sculpted Masterpiece

Next, after about 1.5 hours of driving, you’ll arrive at the Charyn Canyon, often called the “Grand Canyon of Central Asia.” The canyon walls stretch for several kilometers, with towering rock formations that resemble castles, towers, and other whimsical shapes. The 50-million-year-old formations are truly a sight to behold.

The smell of ash trees and the sound of wind through the canyon add to the sensory experience. You can walk along designated trails, marvel at the layered rocks, or simply stand in awe of the scale and colors.

The canyon’s unique geology and impressive formations often draw comments like, “You can’t help but gape at the scale of it all,” and many enjoy capturing the scenery with their camera. Some also mention feeling the “earth’s raw power” in this landscape.

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Return Journey: Reflecting on a Day of Wonders

After exploring Charyn Canyon, the bus ride back to Almaty takes about 2.5 hours. This drive gives you a chance to reflect on the day’s highlights and perhaps swap photos with fellow travelers. The group tends to be well-sized, making the experience intimate enough to ask questions but large enough to meet fellow travelers.

What’s Included and What to Keep in Mind

The tour includes all transportation, entrance fees to Kolsai Lakes and Charyn Canyon, water, and a lunch with views. This means you won’t have to worry about extra costs or logistics—just bring your camera and sense of adventure.

It’s important to note that the tour is quite full, with significant driving time. If you prefer relaxed sightseeing or dislike long bus rides, this may not be your ideal day. Also, the activities are mostly outdoors, so comfortable shoes, sun protection, and snacks are recommended.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour?

This experience suits travelers who enjoy outdoor exploration and are eager to see Kazakhstan’s varied landscapes in one go. It’s perfect for those who don’t mind a full day on the road and appreciate stunning views and hands-on outdoor activities. Families with older children, outdoor enthusiasts, and landscape photography lovers will find plenty to love here.

Final Thoughts

This Kazakh adventure offers a well-rounded glimpse of the country’s natural beauty—mountains, lakes, gorges, and canyons, all within a day. The combination of scenic drives, engaging activities like kayaking and horse riding, and the chance to capture breathtaking views makes it a worthwhile outing for those looking for a mix of adventure and awe-inspiring scenery.

The value delivered through transportation, entrance fees, and a hearty lunch makes it quite competitive, especially considering the diversity of sights in one trip. Just be ready for a long day, and you’ll come away with lasting memories of Kazakhstan’s wild, rugged charm.

Whether you’re a nature lover, an adventure seeker, or a photographer chasing spectacular landscapes, this tour offers an accessible way to experience some of the best natural highlights Kazakhstan has to offer.

FAQ

Is transportation included in the tour?
Yes, the tour includes transportation by car, which is comfortable and reliable, making the long drives manageable.

What should I bring on the tour?
Bring comfortable shoes, a hat, your camera, snacks, sunscreen, and water. Outdoor gear is recommended for activities and walking.

Are there any activities included?
Yes, you can kayak, trek, and horse ride at Kolsai Lakes. Note that additional activities like kayaking and horse riding might cost extra.

How long is the drive between sites?
Expect about 1.5 hours driving to Kolsai Lakes from Almaty, and about 2.5 hours back after visiting Charyn Canyon.

Is the tour suitable for children?
This tour is best suited for travelers over 6 years old. It may not be ideal for very young children or those with mobility issues due to the outdoor activities and long drives.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility in your travel plans.

Is the tour accessible for people with mobility impairments?
No, the activities and terrain may not be suitable for those with mobility challenges. It’s best suited for active travelers comfortable with outdoor walking and uneven paths.

This detailed review paints a clear picture for anyone considering this tour: it’s a chance to see Kazakhstan’s wild side in one packed, scenic day. Ready your camera and hiking shoes—you’re in for some unforgettable vistas.

You can check availability for your dates here: