Treasures of Almaty lakes Kaindy and Kolsai,Charyn Canyon VIP car

Exploring Kazakhstan’s Natural Wonders: Lakes Kaindy & Kolsai, and Charyn Canyon

If you’re visiting Almaty and craving a day immersed in some of Central Asia’s most breathtaking scenery, this tour offers a solid way to see the country’s natural treasures without the hassle of planning every detail yourself. For $49 per person, you’ll spend about 17 hours exploring Kaindy Lake, Kolsai Lakes, and Charyn Canyon—each offering a different taste of Kazakhstan’s stunning landscape. Led by knowledgeable guides, you’ll travel comfortably in a VIP vehicle equipped with chargers and thoughtful amenities like fans or warm gloves depending on the season.

What we really love about this experience are two key things: first, the quality of the guide, who is described as energetic, cheerful, and very well-informed—making the long day feel engaging rather than exhausting. Second, the variety of sights packed into one day, from the submerged forest at Kaindy to the rugged cliffs of Charyn Canyon, ensures you’ll walk away with a true appreciation for Kazakhstan’s natural diversity.

A possible consideration is the long travel time, which could be tiring for some, especially if you’re not accustomed to full-day outings. The tour starts early at 4:30 am, so be prepared for an early start, though the time on-site is well balanced to avoid feeling rushed.

This tour is best suited for travelers who want an affordable, all-in-one experience of Kazakhstan’s top natural attractions, and who are comfortable with a full day of activity, including some walking and sightseeing.

Key Points

• All-in-one Day Trip: Visits three of Kazakhstan’s most iconic natural sites—Kaindy Lake, Kolsai Lakes, and Charyn Canyon.
• Comfortable Transport: VIP vehicle with charging ports, fans, and season-appropriate extras like gloves or blankets.
• Expert Guides: Guides are praised for their energy, knowledge, and cheerful demeanor, making long hours feel lively.
• Authentic Experiences: Opportunities for boat rides, horse riding, and enjoying popular local foods.
• Balanced Itinerary: Sufficient time at each stop to explore without feeling overly rushed.
• Great Value: For under $50, you get a full day of sightseeing with all entry fees included.

The Experience in Detail

Starting Early for a Full Day of Adventure

Your journey begins at 4:30 am from Zyliha Hotel, giving you a head start on the day’s adventure. It’s an early rise, but the goal is to maximize your time at each destination. The comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle ensures that long hours on the road are not uncomfortable, and with USB and TYPE-C charging ports at every seat, you can keep your devices powered for photos and social media.

First Stop: Kolsai Lake

Kolsai Lake is often called the “Pearl of the Northern Tien Shan,” and rightly so. Surrounded by pine forests and mountain peaks, this tranquil waterbody offers stunning scenery. You’ll have about 1 hour and 20 minutes here, which is enough to soak in the views, take photos, or even hop onto a boat or catamaran if you wish—many travelers do. A cozy café is available on-site, serving traditional dishes like pilaf, lagman, manti, shish kebabs, and salads, making it convenient to grab a bite without straying far.

Reviews praise the balance here: “Although it was a long day and we had a lot of miles… we didn’t feel too rushed or that we didn’t have enough time at the sights,” says Georgina. Having the entrance fee included simplifies the experience, and the chance to enjoy local cuisine adds a nice touch of Kazakh hospitality.

Second Stop: Kaindy Lake

The highlight for many is Kaindy Lake, famous for its submerged forest and surreal turquoise waters. The water’s clarity is so high that it appears almost invisible from the surface, revealing trees that have been submerged since an earthquake created this natural wonder. Traveling to Kaindy involves a scenic ride in UAZ vehicles, and on request, you can even explore on horseback with experienced guides—an option that adds an authentic touch to the adventure.

One reviewer notes, “Kaindy Lake captivated me with its submerged forest and stunning turquoise waters,” and many agree this is a place that will stay in your memory. The site allows for some casual exploration and photography, and waterproof shoe covers are provided in case of rain or mud.

Third Stop: Charyn Canyon

No Kazakhstan trip is complete without marveling at Charyn Canyon, often called the “Grand Canyon of Central Asia.” The red cliffs and jagged gorges have been carved over millions of years, and you’ll enjoy views of the Valley of Castles, the Charyn River, Black Canyon, and Moon Canyon. The time allocated—about 1 hour and 20 minutes—is enough for a quick walk along the rim, some photos, and soaking in the vastness of this dramatic landscape.

It’s one of the most praised spots of the tour, with travelers commenting on its “grandiose cliffs” and “bright red formations” that seem almost lunar in their appearance.

Returning and Practicalities

The tour concludes back at the meeting point, giving you a full day of natural wonder. The inclusion of all fees, the vehicle amenities, and a cheerful, professional guide make it a good value—especially considering how much ground you cover in one day.

Additional Considerations

While the tour is well-organized according to most reviews, a few travelers noted some minor hiccups, such as late start times or communication issues during hikes. Also, the long hours and early start might not suit everyone, especially if you prefer more relaxed or shorter excursions. It’s also worth noting the tour is capped at 25 travelers, keeping it somewhat intimate but still lively.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This trip is ideal for adventurous travelers eager to see multiple natural sites in one day without the hassle of individual planning. If you enjoy scenic drives, opportunities for photography, and don’t mind a full schedule, you’ll find this tour rewarding. It’s perfect for those who want a comprehensive experience at a reasonable price, especially if they’re interested in Kazakh landscapes, lakes, and canyons.

Travelers who value good guides and comfortable transportation will appreciate the personal touches, like chargers and seasonal extras. On the other hand, if you’re seeking a more leisurely or luxury experience, this might feel a bit rushed or basic.

FAQs

Is the tour suitable for all ages?
Generally, yes. The itinerary involves some walking at the sites, but the overall pace and vehicle comfort suit most travelers, including families with older children.

What should I bring for the trip?
Bring cash (around 5,000 to 10,000 tenge) for pocket money or optional purchases, comfortable shoes for walking, sunglasses, and a camera. Seasonally, pack warm gloves or a fan, depending on when you visit.

Does the tour include lunch?
No, lunch is not included. There are cafes at Kolsai Lake with local dishes if you wish to buy food onsite.

What is the vehicle like?
Travelers praise the VIP vehicles for being comfortable and well-equipped with charging ports. However, some reviews mention the vehicle may be an older model, so don’t expect high-luxury but rather functional comfort.

How long is each stop?
You’ll have roughly an hour or more at each site, allowing time for photos, exploring, or a quick rest.

Are the guides knowledgeable?
Yes, reviews highlight guides as energetic, cheerful, and very informed about the sites and local tips, making the long day enjoyable and educational.

Final Thoughts

This tour offers a stellar value for those eager to see some of Kazakhstan’s most spectacular landscapes without breaking the bank or enduring complicated logistics. It balances adventure, comfort, and cultural flavor, making it suitable for travelers who want authentic natural experiences in a single day.

You’ll love the way the guides bring the scenery to life, and the chance to stand in awe of lakes with submerged forests and cliffs that seem to stretch to the sky. The price-point is attractive, but the real reward is the memories you’ll bring home—photos, stories, and a deeper appreciation for Kazakhstan’s untouched beauty.

If you’re short on time but want a comprehensive, authentic taste of Kazakhstan’s natural wonders, this tour is a smart choice. Just be prepared for an early start and a full day of sightseeing—you’ll thank yourself for taking the plunge.