3 DAYS trip to the Charyn Canyon, Kolsay and Kaindi Lakes

A 3-Day Adventure to Kazakhstan’s Natural Wonders: Charyn Canyon, Kolsay, and Kaindy Lakes

If you’re craving a quick escape into some of Central Asia’s most striking landscapes, this 3-day tour from Almaty offers an excellent mix of dramatic canyon scenery and pristine highland lakes. For around $657 per person, we’re talking about a carefully curated experience that combines geological marvels and serene mountain vistas—perfect for travelers who love outdoor adventures and are okay with a moderate pace.

What we particularly like about this trip is the way it balances adventure and comfort. The tour’s inclusion of private transportation means you won’t be stuck with a crowded bus, and the schedule is flexible enough to enjoy each spot without feeling rushed. Also, the guides seem knowledgeable and friendly—based on reviews, they really enhance the experience with local insights and helpful tips.

One thing to consider is that the tour demands moderate physical fitness; some walking and light hiking are involved, especially around the lakes and canyon. If you’re traveling with young children or those with limited mobility, it’s worth thinking about how much walking you’re comfortable with.

This trip is best suited for nature lovers, adventurers, and those interested in seeing Kazakhstan’s incredible geological formations firsthand. If you enjoy stunning vistas and want a hassle-free way to explore these remote locations, this tour hits the mark.

Key Points

• Diverse Landscape: Visit both the dramatic 12-million-year-old Charyn Canyon and the peaceful, high-altitude lakes of Kolsay and Kaindy, showcasing Kazakhstan’s varied terrain.
• Expert Guides: Knowledgeable guides (like Hakim, who gets praise from travelers) enrich the experience with local stories and helpful advice.
• Convenient & All-Inclusive: Private transport, meals, and entrance fees are covered, giving you a smooth, worry-free trip.
• Authentic Experience: Small group sizes ensure a personal touch and more time to appreciate each location.
• Unforgettable Views: From the Valley of Castles in the canyon to the sunlit waters of lakes, you’ll get plenty of photo opportunities.
• Good Value: For the price, you get an intensive, well-organized tour that includes several iconic sites in just three days.

Exploring the Itinerary in Detail

Day 1: Charyn Canyon

The journey begins around 9:30 a.m. with a pickup from Almaty, heading 230 km east through Kazakhstan’s rugged terrain to the famous Charyn Canyon. Known for its striking “Valley of Castles”, this canyon is often called the “Grand Canyon of Central Asia,” and for good reason. The towering 150-300 meter cliffs and undulating rock formations create a landscape that’s both surreal and awe-inspiring.

Travelers love the way the guide’s explanations bring the landscape to life. As one reviewer noted, “Hakim was friendly, helpful, and very knowledgeable,” making the long drive more engaging. The visit includes exploring the Charyn river and relaxing in the scenic setting—perfect for a picnic or just soaking in the views.

Next, a short drive takes you to the Black Canyon, another intriguing geological feature. The darker rock formations and narrower canyon walls add variety to the landscape, providing excellent photo opportunities. You’ll spend around three hours here, with entrance fees included, so you can focus on snapping pictures and enjoying the scenery.

Day 2: Kolsay Lakes

After an overnight stay in Saty village—where many travelers enjoy the cozy guesthouses—the morning begins with breakfast before heading to Kolsay Lake. The journey includes a scenic ascent through mountain roads, culminating in the first lake, which is often described as stunningly clear and peaceful.

On this day, you’ll enjoy a boat tour on Kolsay Lake, with plenty of time to appreciate the reflections of mountain peaks in the calm waters. The hike to the second Kolsay Lake offers a chance to absorb more of the mountain air and panoramic views. Lunch is included, allowing you to relax and fuel up amid nature.

In the evening, you’ll return to Saty for dinner and an overnight stay. A reviewer appreciated the experience, noting that the full day involved “a tour on Kolsai Lake and an ascent to the second lake,” which highlights the scenic and active nature of this part of the trip.

Day 3: Lake Kaindy and Return to Almaty

The final day starts with breakfast and a short 15 km drive to Lake Kaindy. This lake is famous for its submerged forest—trees sticking out of the water like ghostly sentinels—created by a strong earthquake that uplifted the lake basin.

The excursion on Lake Kaindy is brief but memorable, offering a unique landscape where nature’s resilience is on full display. Afterward, the group heads back to Saty village before beginning the four-hour drive back to Almaty.

This last stretch provides time to reflect on the trip’s highlights and enjoy the scenery along the way. Reviewers mention that the entire trip is well-organized, with “good weather” crucial for enjoying the outdoors, but flexible enough for changes if needed.

Why This Tour Offers Great Value

For roughly $657 per person, this 3-day journey is packed with diverse sights, from rugged canyons to tranquil lakes. The all-inclusive price—covering entrance fees, meals, private transport, and accommodations—makes budgeting straightforward. The convenience of a small group (max 10 travelers) ensures more personalized attention and fewer crowds, giving you a more intimate experience.

You’ll also benefit from the expert guidance of local guides like Hakim, whose friendly and knowledgeable demeanor is frequently praised. They help you understand the geology and local stories, making the scenery much more meaningful.

The itinerary’s pacing strikes a nice balance between sightseeing and relaxation. While some walking is involved—mainly around the lakes and canyon rim—the trips are doable for most people with moderate fitness levels.

Who Would Love This Experience

This tour is ideal for nature enthusiasts eager to explore Kazakhstan’s most iconic natural sights without the hassle of planning every detail. It suits travelers who appreciate stunning landscapes, and who are comfortable with a moderate level of physical activity. If you’re traveling with someone who loves photography, the wide vistas and unusual formations will keep cameras busy.

It’s also perfect if you want a guided experience that covers the key highlights efficiently, without sacrificing authenticity or comfort. You’ll get a taste of Kazakhstan’s rugged beauty in just three days, making it a great addition to a broader itinerary or a focused trip for landscape lovers.

FAQs

Is transportation provided? Yes, private transportation is included, making the trip smooth and comfortable.

Are meals included? The tour includes two dinners, three lunches, and two breakfasts, so you won’t have to worry about finding food during the trip.

How long is each day’s activity? The first day involves about 4-3 hours of sightseeing, the second day packs in around 8 hours, and the last day is approximately 4 hours back to Almaty.

What should I wear? Comfortable, weather-appropriate clothing and sturdy shoes are recommended, especially for walking around the lakes and canyon.

Is the tour suitable for children? The tour requires moderate physical activity, so it’s best for travelers who are comfortable with some walking.

Can I cancel if my plans change? Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the start, with a full refund.

What’s the maximum group size? The tour is limited to 10 travelers, ensuring a more personal experience.

Are entrance fees included? Yes, all fees for parks and natural sites are covered in the price.

Who leads the tour? The tour is guided by knowledgeable local guides, such as Hakim, who gets high praise for friendliness and insights.

Is weather a concern? The tour requires good weather for outdoor activities. If canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

In The Sum Up,

This 3-day tour offers an excellent, well-organized way to see some of Kazakhstan’s most captivating natural landscapes. From the dramatic cliffs of Charyn Canyon to the tranquil, mountain-fringed lakes of Kolsay and Kaindy, you’ll experience a variety of scenery that’s both visually stunning and geologically fascinating.

Travelers who appreciate authentic landscapes, expert guides, and hassle-free logistics will find this tour a rewarding choice. It’s especially suited for those with a moderate fitness level who want to explore remote sites comfortably and safely.

If you’re after a trip that combines adventure, scenic beauty, and local insights, this tour offers outstanding value and memories to last a lifetime.