2 Days Private Kolsai Kaindy Lakes with Charyn Canyon Tour

Discover the 2 Days Private Kolsai Kaindy Lakes with Charyn Canyon Tour

If you’re craving a true escape into Kazakhstan’s most breathtaking landscapes, this 2-day private tour around Almaty offers an immersive experience of some of the most iconic natural wonders. For $428.02 per person, you’ll visit Charyn Canyon, known for its dramatic, layered formations; Kolsai Lakes, with their tranquil shores and horseback riding opportunities; and the mysterious Kaindy Lake, famous for its submerged forest and striking turquoise waters. Guided by a licensed English-speaking expert, the journey takes you through diverse climates and landscapes, giving a real sense of Kazakh countryside and nomadic life.

What makes this tour stand out? First, the well-organized itinerary ensures you cover all highlights comfortably, with plenty of time to soak in the scenery and take photographs. Second, the personal guide makes a significant difference—sharing local insights and making the long drives engaging and educational. We also appreciate that the tour includes meals, entrance fees, and overnight accommodation—offering great value for an all-inclusive experience.

A potential consideration: the gravel road to Kaindy Lake can be bumpy, and the last 1.5 km involves some hiking, so it might not be suitable for travelers with mobility issues or those seeking a purely relaxed experience.

This tour is perfect for nature lovers, photography enthusiasts, and anyone interested in experiencing Kazakhstan’s natural beauty beyond the city. If you appreciate authentic landscapes, knowledgeable guides, and a thoughtfully curated itinerary, this trip likely belongs on your shortlist.

Key Points

• Stunning Landscapes: Experience a diverse range of scenery, from deep canyons to alpine lakes and submerged forests.
• Expert Guides: Knowledgeable, licensed guides enrich your understanding with local stories and insights.
• All-Inclusive Value: Meals, entrance fees, and overnight stay are included, making it simple to enjoy without extra planning.
• Comfortable Transportation: Private SUV ensures a smooth ride through varied terrains.
• Authentic Experiences: Opportunity for horseback riding, boating, and hiking that add adventure and variety.
• Balanced Schedule: Well-paced stops with enough time for photos and relaxation.

A Deep Dive into the Kazakh Wilderness: The Itinerary Explored

Day 1: Charyn Canyon and Uzunbulak (Moon) Canyon

Our journey begins bright and early at 6:00 am, in a comfortable private SUV with air conditioning. The first stop, Charyn Canyon, is often called the “Grand Canyon of Central Asia” for its striking, layered rock formations carved over millennia. Expect to walk down along the canyon to the Charyn River, which gives the canyon its life and character. The walk is about four hours, with plenty of scenic viewpoints and photo opportunities along the way. The admission fee is included, and the Visit-center nearby offers clean restrooms, a small souvenir shop, and a cozy coffee spot—ideal for a quick snack or coffee break.

Many reviews highlight how the views at Charyn Canyon are truly breathtaking. One traveler mentioned, “The views on the way and walking back to the parking lot offer fantastic photo spots,” which makes this a must-see. For those craving more, there’s an optional side trail for experienced hikers that adds a bit of adventure.

Next, we visit Uzunbulak Canyon, often called Moon Canyon due to its lunar-like terrain. The gravel approach keeps this spot relatively off the beaten path, so it doesn’t get crowded. Here, we enjoy the tranquility and take a gentle walk through the surreal landscape — an ideal moment to breathe and reflect. Just 20 minutes further along the river, the Black Canyon offers another scenic stop, with its dark, narrow passageways adding variety to the landscape.

Day 2: Kolsai Lakes and Lake Kaindy

The second day takes us higher into the mountains. Kolsai Lake greets us with its peaceful, mirror-like surface. We walk along the shore, soaking in the panoramic views, and get a chance to explore some nearby picturesque spots. For those interested, there’s an option to rent a boat or go horseback riding—both activities that enhance the experience and are worth planning ahead for, as advised by the guide.

The highlight here is Lake Kaindy, a submerged forest known for its striking turquoise waters and the sunken pine trees that rise from the depths. Reaching the lake involves a bumpy gravel ride, followed by a 1.5 km hike to the water’s edge. Horseback riding or taking a taxi to the lake is possible, but most travelers find the hike manageable with the right footwear. The scenery is surreal and perfect for photos—many visitors describe it as “breathtaking,” echoing several reviews.

Throughout the tour, the included meals and overnight stay at a guesthouse ensure you’re well-cared for, with options for vegan, halal, or allergy-sensitive meals available upon request. The bottled water and entrance fees are part of the package, so you don’t need to worry about extra costs.

Authentic Encounters and Practical Details

Transport is in a private SUV with air conditioning, making long drives comfortable and flexible. The small group size, limited to your booking, allows for personalized attention and spontaneous stops. The tour schedule balances sightseeing with enough downtime to enjoy the scenery without feeling rushed.

Our guide, Max, receives glowing reviews for his knowledge and friendly demeanor. Many travelers appreciate him as a guide—saying, “Demand Max as a guide,” or “He made the trip memorable with his insights.” The inclusion of meals, entrance fees, and accommodation in the price adds value, especially since some similar tours may charge extra for these.

The tour starts early at 6:00 am, giving you a full two days of exploration. The flexibility to cancel up to 24 hours in advance with a full refund offers peace of mind, especially if weather conditions turn unfavorable.

What Travelers Like About This Tour

• The stunning vistas at each stop, especially Charyn Canyon and Kaindy Lake, are consistently praised.
• The knowledgeable guides enrich the experience with local stories and practical tips.
• The well-organized itinerary ensures you see the highlights without feeling overwhelmed.
• The authenticity of the landscapes, away from overly touristy spots, gives a real taste of Kazakhstan’s natural beauty.

Possible Drawbacks

The gravel roads, especially to Kaindy Lake, can be bumpy. The last stretch involves a hike of about 1.5 km, which might be tiring for some or not suitable for those with mobility challenges. Also, the tour’s focus on natural scenery means it’s less ideal for travelers seeking cultural or urban experiences.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This tour is ideal for adventurous travelers eager to explore rugged landscapes and enjoy outdoor activities like hiking, horseback riding, and boating. It’s perfect for photography lovers keen to capture diverse scenery, from dramatic canyons to submerged forests. Nature enthusiasts seeking authentic, less commercialized spots will find this tour rewarding.

If you value guides with local knowledge, a thoughtfully curated itinerary, and inclusive pricing, this experience offers excellent value. It’s also suitable for those who want a private, personalized trip with flexible options for meals and activities.

Final Thoughts: Is This the Right Tour for You?

This 2-day Kazakh adventure provides solid value for those looking to see the best of Almaty’s surroundings without the hassle of planning each detail. The inclusion of meals, accommodations, and entrance fees makes it straightforward, and the private guide ensures your journey is both educational and enjoyable.

You’ll love the diversity of landscapes — from the towering cliffs of Charyn Canyon to the peaceful, reflective waters of Kolsai Lake and the surreal mystery of Kaindy Lake. The comfort of private transportation and expert guiding makes the long drives feel short, and the authentic scenery will stay with you long after the trip ends.

Whether you’re a nature lover, a photography buff, or simply seeking a memorable Kazakh adventure, this tour ticks many boxes. It’s best suited for travelers who want a well-organized, immersive experience with a touch of adventure, and who appreciate the natural beauty of Kazakhstan’s highlands and canyons.

FAQ

How early does the tour start?
The tour begins promptly at 6:00 am, allowing plenty of time to explore each site thoroughly.

Is the tour suitable for children?
While the tour involves some walking and hiking, it’s generally suitable for older children and teens with good mobility. Always check with the provider for specific age recommendations.

Are meals included?
Yes, breakfast, dinner, and two lunches are included. Special dietary requests such as vegan or halal are available upon request.

What should I bring for the hike to Kaindy Lake?
Comfortable hiking shoes are recommended, along with water, sun protection, and possibly a camera for capturing the surreal scenery.

Can I do horse riding or boat riding?
Yes, both activities are optional. Horse riding starts from 12 EUR, and boat rides from 20 EUR. It’s best to inform your guide in advance.

Is the accommodation comfortable?
Overnight stays are in a guesthouse with double standard rooms, providing a simple but comfortable base for resting after long days outdoors.

What if the weather is bad?
The tour is weather-dependent; if canceled due to poor conditions, you will be offered a different date or a full refund.

How large are the groups?
It’s a private tour, so only your group will participate, ensuring personalized attention.

Are the guides speak good English?
Yes, guides are licensed and speak English fluently, making explanations clear and engaging.

Is this tour suitable for solo travelers?
Absolutely. Solo travelers can join a private group and enjoy the full experience without the need for a large group.

This 2-day adventure around Almaty caters perfectly to travelers seeking authentic landscapes, expert guidance, and seamless logistics. If stunning scenery, outdoor activities, and personalized service appeal to you, this is a journey worth considering.