2 Days Tour: Charyn Canyon, Kaindy & Kolsay Lakes

A Quick Glimpse of the Kazakhstan Natural Wonders
This 2-day adventure takes you through some of Kazakhstan’s most breathtaking landscapes, including the impressive Charyn Canyon, the surreal Kaindy Lake, and the serene Kolsay Lakes. Priced at $391 per person, the tour is operated by Explore Kazakhstan and includes a mix of sightseeing, local food, and cozy guesthouse stays. Guided by friendly and knowledgeable locals, you’ll get a genuine taste of Kazakhstan’s natural beauty and hospitality.

What we love most about this experience is how it balances spectacular scenery with authentic cultural touches. The visit to the Charyn Canyon offers jaw-dropping views, while the Kaindy Lake’s limestone formations feel like stepping onto another planet. Plus, staying in a Kazakh family guesthouse adds a personal and warm element to the trip.

One thing to keep in mind is that the tour involves some long drives, so it’s best suited for travelers who don’t mind a bit of time on the road. Also, it’s a private tour—so you’ll have the advantage of personalized attention, making it especially good for those who prefer a flexible schedule or want to avoid crowded groups.

This tour is ideal for nature lovers, adventure seekers, and those interested in cultural exchanges. If you’re eager to see Kazakhstan’s iconic landscapes with expert guides and enjoy local cuisine, this trip offers a wonderful introduction.

Key Points

• Stunning Landscapes: From the towering cliffs of Charyn Canyon to the limestone formations of Kaindy Lake, this tour showcases some of Kazakhstan’s most photogenic spots.
• Authentic Cultural Experience: Staying with a Kazakh family offers insight into local life and hospitality.
• Expert Guides: Guides like Madi and Mischa are praised for their friendliness, responsiveness, and knowledge, making the journey even more memorable.
• Good Value: At $391, the tour includes transportation, entrance fees, and some meals, offering a comprehensive experience for the price.
• Flexible and Private: As a private tour, it caters to your group only, with flexibility in timing and stops.
• Breathtaking Views & Unique Sites: Expect landscapes that look almost unreal, especially Kaindy Lake’s sunken forest and Charyn’s dramatic cliffs.

Exploring Kazakhstan’s Natural Treasures

This 2-day tour gives you an excellent overview of Kazakhstan’s geological and ecological diversity. It’s designed for travelers who want more than just a snapshot of the country’s scenery. Instead, it offers an immersive experience, starting with Charyn Canyon, which rivals the Grand Canyon in its grandeur. The canyon stretches roughly 150-300 meters high, carved by nature over centuries into stunningly jagged formations that seem almost otherworldly.

The admission ticket included at Charyn means you can focus on the views and taking photos without worrying about extra costs. The guides are knowledgeable about local flora and fauna, which adds an educational element to the visit, especially if you’re a nature enthusiast.

Next, you’ll visit Lake Kaindy, famous for its sunken forest and limestone composition. Located over 2000 meters above sea level, Kaindy looks like a scene from a fantasy film, with submerged trees rising from the water. This lake was formed by a landslide, and many travelers find it a surreal spot. One reviewer describes it as “a truly amazing example of the creation of nature,” highlighting its uniqueness.

You’ll spend about two hours here, with the chance to walk along the shoreline, paddle in the clear waters, or simply marvel at the forest of submerged trunks. The admission ticket included makes it easy to enjoy this natural wonder without additional hassle.

Day 2: Kolsai Lakes and Local Hospitality

The second day introduces you to Kolsai Lakes, a series of three deep mountain lakes in the Northern Tien Shan range. The Lower Kolsay Lake, at 1818 meters above sea level, offers a tranquil setting with options for boat rides, horse riding, or just relaxing by the water. The lakes’ scenic beauty is complemented by the surrounding dense forests and mountain backdrop.

Many reviewers praise the well-organized itinerary, noting how the driver, Chingiz, kept the trip smooth and enjoyable. The lakes are accessible by road, and the free admission makes this stop particularly value-packed. You’ll find guesthouses and campsites nearby, making it easy to extend your experience if you wish.

Staying in a guest house of a Kazakh family provides a warm, authentic experience. You’ll have the chance to try local cuisine, which many find to be a highlight. One reviewer mentions the “local family treated us very well,” emphasizing how this adds a personal touch to the journey.

Transportation & Logistics

Traveling between these sites involves some time on the road, but the comfortable transportation and the expertise of your guides make it manageable. The tour provides pickup options and is suited for most travelers, including those with mobility considerations.

The group size is private, meaning you won’t be sharing the experience with strangers, allowing for a more personalized and flexible itinerary. Guides like Mischa and Chingiz are praised for their friendliness and readiness to help with photos or questions, making the trip more engaging.

Food & Hospitality

Trying Kazakh national food is a part of this tour’s appeal. Staying with local families means authentic home-cooked meals, offering a taste of the local cuisine that’s often described as delicious and hearty. Many reviews highlight the warmth and friendliness of the hosts, making this part of the experience memorable.

Overall Value & Recommendations

At $391 per person, the tour provides a comprehensive package that covers transportation, entrance fees, and cultural experiences. The positive reviews, rating of 5.0 from 12 travelers, and the consistent praise for guides like Madi and Mischa suggest it’s a value-rich experience. It’s especially well-suited for those wanting a guided, hassle-free way to see Kazakhstan’s natural splendors, with the added benefit of cultural insights.

Just remember, if you’re prone to long drives or have limited mobility, it’s good to prepare accordingly. The scenery makes the journey worthwhile, but it’s not just a quick sightseeing trip—it’s an in-depth exploration of a country’s wild side.

Who Should Consider This Tour

This tour is perfect for adventurous travelers seeking authentic experiences and breathtaking landscapes. Nature buffs will love the variety of scenery—from deep canyons to crystalline lakes. Those interested in local culture will appreciate the opportunity to stay with Kazakh families and sample traditional foods.

If you value guided ease and local insight, this is an excellent choice. It’s especially good for first-time visitors wanting a well-rounded introduction to Kazakhstan’s natural beauty without the hassle of planning every detail themselves.

FAQs

• How long is the tour?
  The tour lasts approximately 2 days, covering key sites in Kazakhstan’s scenic north.

• What is included in the price?
  The price covers transportation, entrance tickets to Charyn Canyon and Kolsay Lakes, and the stay in a guesthouse. Meals are typically part of the experience, especially at the guesthouse.

• Is this tour suitable for all travelers?
  Most travelers can participate, but those sensitive to long drives or with mobility issues should consider their comfort level.

• Are guides experienced and friendly?
  Yes, reviews praise guides like Madi, Mischa, and Chingiz for their friendliness, knowledge, and helpfulness.

• Can I cancel the tour?
  Yes, the tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

• Is this a private tour?
  Correct, only your group will participate, allowing for personalized attention and flexibility.

• Are meals included?
  While not explicitly detailed, staying with Kazakh families implies home-cooked meals are part of the experience.

• How do I get to the meeting point?
  The tour offers pickup options, with convenient access near public transportation.

• What is the best time to take this tour?
  The tour is available year-round, but the best weather tends to be in spring and autumn for outdoor activities.

To sum it up, this 2-day Kazakhstan tour offers an enriching blend of stunning scenery, culture, and expert guiding. It’s an ideal choice for travelers eager to explore famous natural landmarks like Charyn Canyon and Kaindy Lake while enjoying the warmth of local hospitality. Whether you’re taking your first steps into Kazakhstan or seeking a well-organized, authentic adventure, this tour packs a lot of value and unforgettable moments into just two days.