Almaty City offers more than just its bustling streets and lively markets — it’s a gateway to some of Kazakhstan’s most breathtaking natural sights. Whether you’re after picture-perfect lakes, rugged canyons, or culture, Almaty’s tour options deliver. We particularly love the Almaty: Charyn Canyon, Kolsay, and Kaindy Lakes Day Trip for its combination of easy hikes, surreal scenery, and affordability. Plus, the optional horseback ride and “lunar surface” exploration make it a memorable highlight. For those with more time, the 2-Day Kolsai-Kaindy Lakes & Charyn Canyons Tour offers an immersive experience, including staying in a yurt and tasting local cuisine.
Almaty’s tours are great for all kinds of travelers — nature lovers, culture seekers, or those simply wanting a break from city life. Below, you’ll find a detailed rundown of the best options, from quick day trips to multi-day adventures.
1. Almaty: Charyn Canyon, Kolsay, and Kaindy Lakes Day Trip
At number 1, this day trip takes you to some of Kazakhstan’s most iconic natural sights in a single day. For just around $58 per person, you’ll explore Kaindy Lake with its submerged forest, Kolsai Lakes amid lush mountain scenery, and the Charyn Canyon with its striking red cliffs. The tour stands out for its versatility and scenic stops, including an optional horseback ride at Lake Kaindy, which adds a fun and authentic touch. The trip is guided with a Soviet-era UAZ minibus, giving a nostalgic vibe while accessing remote locations. Reviewers appreciate the relaxed pace and stunning views, with many praising the value for money.
Bottom line: Perfect for travelers short on time who want a comprehensive taste of Kazakhstan’s natural beauty.
2. Almaty: Kolsai Kaindy Lakes & Charyn Canyons 2-Day Tour
For those who prefer to spend more than just a few hours, this 2-day tour offers a deeper dive into the region’s landscapes. You’ll stay overnight in a yurt, experiencing traditional Kazakh hospitality, and visit Kolsai Lakes, Kaindy Lake, and the Charyn Canyon. Travelers love the chance to enjoy the scenery without rushing, and the small-group setting means a more intimate experience. The tour includes local cuisine in a remote village, making it perfect for cultural explorers and nature lovers alike.
Bottom line: Ideal for travelers wanting a more relaxed pace and culture.
3. Almaty: Kolsai-Kaindy Lakes and Charyn Canyons Day Trip
This day trip covers many of the top sights in one go, making it a practical choice for travelers with limited time. The guide takes you through the Black Canyon, Moon Canyon, and the Valley of Castles in Charyn, along with both Kolsai and Kaindy Lakes. An optional boat or catamaran ride on Kolsai Lake adds a fun touch. The price is competitive at $43 per person, and reviews highlight the well-organized transport and stunning scenery. The tour offers a good balance of activity and rest, perfect for those wanting a snapshot of Kazakhstan’s natural wonders.
Bottom line: A well-rounded, budget-friendly option for a full day of sightseeing.
4. From Almaty: Kolsay, Kaindy Lakes and Charyn Canyon Day Trip
This extended day trip covers the same highlights as the previous but with a longer itinerary, starting early from Zyliha Hotel. It includes stops at Charyn Canyon, Kolsai Lakes, and Kaindy Lake, with a scenic ride in a Soviet-era vehicle. The 17-hour experience offers plenty of photo opportunities and a brief horseback ride at Kaindy. The detailed itinerary and dedicated guide make it a reliable choice for travelers interested in a comprehensive experience. Reviewers mention the scenic drives and authentic atmosphere as highlights.
Bottom line: Perfect for travelers who want an in-depth, all-encompassing day in nature.
5. Almaty: Kolsai & Kaindy Lakes with Charyn Small-Group Tour
This small-group tour offers an intimate look at five top destinations, including Kolsai Lakes, Kaindy Lake, Charyn Canyon, and Black and Moon Canyons. It emphasizes quality service, comfortable transportation, and local hospitality. Tourists appreciate the personalized experience and the chance to connect with fellow travelers from around the world. A home-cooked Kazakh lunch in a remote village enriches the journey. If you prefer a smaller group and more flexibility, this tour hits the mark.
Bottom line: Best suited for travelers valuing intimacy and local flavor, with excellent reviews confirming its quality.
6. Almaty: Lake Issyk with Turgen Waterfall Small-Group Tour
For a mix of mountain scenery and waterfalls, this small-group tour visits Lake Issyk and Turgen Waterfall. Traveling in a small group means less crowding and more personalized attention. Expect a short hike to witness the roaring waterfall and time to relax by Issyk Lake. The tour costs about $35 per person, offering excellent value for natural beauty and a peaceful retreat. Reviewers praise the smooth transportation and the serene atmosphere, ideal for nature lovers who want a manageable day trip.
Bottom line: Great for those who seek tranquility and scenic views without a long hike or complicated logistics.
7. Almaty: 2-Day Tour to Kolsai-Kaindy Lakes and Charyn Canyon
This two-day adventure offers an in-depth exploration of the region with overnight stays, evening bonfires, and even a disco. It covers Kolsai Lakes, Kaindy Lake, Charyn Canyon, and Valley of Castles. The tour emphasizes immersion with stays in local guest houses and the chance to experience Kazakh hospitality firsthand. It’s well-suited for travelers looking for a comfortable, comprehensive experience. Reviewers note the inclusiveness and warmth of the accommodations as major pluses.
Bottom line: Perfect for travelers who want a full, cultural, and scenic experience over two days.
8. Almaty: Esik Lake and Turgen Waterfall Day Trip
This budget-friendly day trip focuses on natural highlights like Turgen Waterfall and Esik Lake. It includes a short hike, trout farm visit, and the chance to relax by the peaceful Issyk Lake. At around $26, it offers a relaxed day out with scenic views and good value. Reviewers mention the ease of the scenic drive and the peaceful atmosphere. It’s ideal for those wanting a gentle outdoor escape without strenuous activity.
Bottom line: Best suited for budget-conscious travelers seeking a laid-back mountain experience.
9. From Almaty: Charyn Canyon with Kolsay and Kaindy Lakes Tour
This small-group tour combines Charyn Canyon, Kolsay Lakes, and Kaindy Lake with trekking through varied terrain. It emphasizes nature appreciation, with many reviews highlighting the stunning canyon formations and mountain scenery. The tour is perfect for travelers who want to see a broad range of sights without the fuss of large groups.
Bottom line: Suitable for outdoor enthusiasts looking for a comprehensive yet manageable experience.
10. Charyn, Kolsay and Kaindy 2-Day Tour with Mount View Stay
This two-day tour is for travelers craving comfort and scenic splendor. It includes mountain views, local meals, and accommodation overlooking nature. Entrance fees are included, and the guide speaks multiple languages. Reviewers love the relaxed pace and the opportunity to unwind in mountain settings. If you enjoy multi-day trips with a touch of comfort, this one qualifies.
Bottom line: Ideal for those who want scenic mountain views combined with the convenience of arranged lodging.
11. Almaty: Singing Dunes, Aktau Mountains & Altyn Emel Day Trip
This unique desert tour explores singing dunes and the Aktau Mountains in the Altyn Emel National Park. At $280 per person, it’s on the higher end but offers a distinctive landscape that’s unlike Kazakhstan’s lush mountain scenery. The tour features trekking, local cuisine, and the chance to see the mysterious dunes that produce haunting sounds. It’s suited for adventurous travelers eager to experience Kazakhstan’s diverse terrain. Reviewers highlight the remote beauty and the chance to walk among towering dunes.
Bottom line: Great for travelers seeking desert landscapes and a full-day adventure.
12. Almaty: Nomadic Lifestyle Experience at Huns Ethno Village
This cultural tour offers a chance to experience nomadic Kazakh life at the Huns Ethno Village. Visitors can explore traditional yurts, try riding a horse, and learn about ancient customs. Priced at $120 per person, it emphasizes hands-on culture rather than scenery. Tourists enjoy the friendly atmosphere and the chance to add a new dimension to their trip. This is perfect for those interested in Kazakh traditions and rural life.
Bottom line: Best suited for travelers wanting authentic cultural experiences in a welcoming environment.
13. Almaty: City tour and Medeu, Shymbulak, and Kok-Tobe
This city-focused tour combines urban sights with natural highlights like Medeu ice rink, Shymbulak ski resort, and Kok Tobe hill. For $49 per person, it offers a nice balance of city culture and mountain scenery, with scenic cable car rides and panoramic views. It’s suitable for those wanting a relaxed day out that combines sightseeing and outdoor fun. Reviewers mention the stunning mountain views from Kok Tobe and the lively atmosphere.
Bottom line: Perfect for travelers who want a blend of city exploration and mountain scenery.
14. Almaty: Kolsay & Kaindy Lakes, Charyn Canyon Private Tour
This private tour offers a tailored experience of Kolsay Lakes, Kaindy Lake, and Charyn Canyon. It includes transport, lunch at a local guesthouse, and the opportunity to explore at your own pace. Reviews highlight the comfort and flexibility of private arrangements, with detailed visits to each location. It’s ideal for travelers seeking personalized service and a more exclusive experience.
Bottom line: Best for those who value privacy and bespoke arrangements.
15. From Almaty: Charyn Canyon Full-Day Guided Tour with Hike
Concluding our list, this full-day guided hike lets you explore the Charyn Canyon in depth. The guide leads you through the canyon’s most scenic parts, including Castle Valley, with plenty of opportunities for photos and appreciating the landscape. For active travelers who want to experience the region’s geological marvels intimately, this tour delivers. Reviewers remark on the well-organized hike and the spectacular views.
Bottom line: Ideal for outdoor enthusiasts eager for a more vigorous exploration.
How to Choose the Best Tour for You
When selecting a tour in Almaty, consider your budget, available time, and personal interests. For a compact, affordable introduction to Kazakhstan’s natural wonders, the day trips are excellent. If you crave deeper immersion — like staying overnight in a yurt or enjoying a private experience — the multi-day options or private tours are worth considering. For those interested in combining city highlights with nearby mountain scenery, the city tour offers a good mix.
Timing is key; the best months are late spring through early fall when the weather is warm and the scenery at its best. Book early, especially for popular multi-day or private tours, as they tend to fill up quickly.
Almaty offers a remarkable variety of tours suited to many interests. From the stunning Charyn Canyon to the tranquil Kaindy Lake and the cultural richness of Kazakh nomadic life, each trip provides a unique way to experience this mountain city’s natural and cultural treasures. Whether you prefer a quick day trip or a multi-day adventure, there’s a tour here that will fit your style and schedule. We encourage you to book early and enjoy these incredible landscapes — they’re not to be missed.