Almaty: Charyn Canyon, Kolsay, and Kaindy Lakes Day Trip

Almaty: Charyn Canyon, Kolsai, and Kaindy Lakes Day Trip offers an engaging journey through some of Kazakhstan’s most iconic natural wonders. For $58 per person, you’ll spend around 17 hours exploring three breathtaking lakes—Kolsai, Kaindy, and the mysterious Moon Canyon—plus two impressive canyons: Charyn and Black Canyon. Led by experienced guides, this tour is packed with scenic views, geological marvels, and opportunities for a bit of adventure.

What makes this trip truly worthwhile is the chance to see colorful lakes and dramatic canyon walls in one day. We loved the way the guide shared stories and insights that made the landscape come alive, especially at Charyn Canyon, with its towering red cliffs. The horseback ride at Lake Kaindy adds a fun, optional element, while the Soviet-era UAZ minibus offers a nostalgic touch to the journey.

One potential consideration is the long duration—expect a 17-hour day with a lot of driving. If you’re comfortable with extended travel and enjoy nature, this trip suits travelers eager to pack in a full Kazakh adventure. It’s especially good for those who appreciate expert guiding, authentic scenery, and a mix of leisure and light activity.

Key Points

• Stunning landscapes: Experience the natural beauty of lakes, canyons, and caves in Kazakhstan.
• Expert guides: Knowledgeable, energetic guides enhance the experience with storytelling and local insights.
• Value for money: At $58, the tour offers comprehensive access to major sights with included tickets.
• Flexible options: Optional horseback riding, boat trips, and a scenic UAZ ride allow personalized adventure.
• Comfortable transport: Traveling in a Mercedes Benz Sprinter with USB and TYPE-C chargers keeps you connected.
• Long but rewarding: The extensive itinerary means a full day on the road, but the scenery makes it worthwhile.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Deep Dive into the Kazakh Landscape

This tour from Almaty is a whirlwind of natural beauty, perfect for travelers who want to see Kazakhstan’s highlights without the hassle of planning every detail themselves. The journey begins early, with pickup at the designated meeting point, where you’ll hop into a comfortable Mercedes Benz Sprinter equipped with USB and TYPE-C chargers—an appreciated touch for keeping devices alive during long drives.

Exploring Lake Kolsai

Your first stop is Lake Kolsai, often called the “Pearl of the Northern Tien Shan.” This mountain lake’s pristine waters are surrounded by dense forests and rugged peaks. Expect around two hours to wander, take photos, or simply soak in the scenery. Some reviews mention boat or catamaran rides, though these are extra, so you might want to bring some cash if you wish to indulge.

Travelers have repeatedly praised the peaceful atmosphere and crystal-clear water. As one traveler put it, “We loved the way the guides shared stories about the area,” making the experience more than just a pretty picture. The lake feels remote, yet accessible enough for a relaxed walk — ideal for those who want a quick nature escape without straying far from Almaty.

Lake Kaindy: A Surreal Underwater Forest

Next is Lake Kaindy, famous for its submerged forest and striking turquoise waters. The lake’s unique formation is a result of an earthquake, creating a natural “sunken forest” scene that looks like it belongs on another planet. You’ll travel in a Soviet-era UAZ minibus to the lake’s parking area, which adds a nostalgic flavor to the day.

At Kaindy, you can walk around and admire the reflection of the spruce trees rising through the water, giving the scene a surreal, almost lunar feel. An optional horseback ride is available, taking you from the nearby village to the lake’s shores—though you pay extra for this experience. Many reviews mention the crystal-clear water and the forested surroundings as highlights, with one describing the scene as “feels like the moon on earth.”

Charyn Canyon: Kazakhstan’s Mini-Grand Canyon

Arguably the star of the tour, Charyn Canyon is often compared to the Grand Canyon for its impressive cliffs and bright red rock formations. Visitors can walk along the canyon’s edge or explore the bottom gorges—your guide will explain the geological history, making it more meaningful than just a pretty view. This stop lasts for several hours, giving you plenty of time to take photos, marvel at the cliffs, and appreciate the vast landscape.

Reviews frequently mention the vivid colors and towering formations. One traveler described the experience as “magnificent,” noting that the canyon’s grandeur makes it well worth the long drive. For those interested, the tour often includes a sunset view here, adding to the magic.

More Great Tours Nearby

Black Canyon and Moon Canyon

From Charyn, the journey continues to Black Canyon, characterized by dark rocks and caves. Its gothic, almost eerie appearance offers a different mood and a chance to see Kazakhstan’s geological diversity. If visiting during summer, you’ll also get a visit to Moon Canyon, which has an otherworldly landscape resembling the surface of the moon.

This part of the tour is more exploratory, and some reviews mention that time at each stop is generous, allowing for photos and just soaking in the scenery. The Moon Canyon, if open during your visit, provides a mysterious, almost cinematic backdrop for photos.

Transportation and Comfort

Traveling in a Mercedes Benz Sprinter ensures a smooth ride, and the inclusion of USB and TYPE-C chargers means you can keep your devices charged. Tour guides are usually described as informative, cheerful, and well-versed in local history and geology, making the long hours more engaging.

In hot weather, the company provides free neck fans, and in winter, warm gloves, which are thoughtful touches that improve comfort. Waterproof shoe covers are also supplied in case of rain or muddy terrain, which can happen especially near lakes and canyon edges.

The trip is long, often over 17 hours, so be prepared for a lot of sitting. Reviewers note that the guides try to keep the schedule flexible, but the extensive itinerary requires stamina and patience.

Food and Extras

Lunch at a local cafe costs around 3000 tenge (roughly 7 USD), which is quite reasonable considering the variety of traditional dishes like pilaf, lagman, or shish kebab. Since food isn’t included, you might want to carry some snacks or extra cash for refreshments.

Optional activities such as horseback riding, boat trips, or catamaran rides are available onsite but cost extra. The horseback ride, in particular, is a favorite among some travelers, offering a different perspective of Lake Kaindy, but note it’s not included in the base price.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This trip appeals most to adventure seekers, nature lovers, and those eager to see some of Kazakhstan’s most iconic sights in one day. It’s perfect if you enjoy long drives paired with spectacular scenery and don’t mind a packed schedule.

It’s also great for travelers who value knowledgeable guides who make the journey informative and fun. From reviews, people praise the enthusiasm, humor, and local insights guides bring to the trip.

However, if you prefer a more relaxed pace or are sensitive to long hours of travel, this might feel a bit rushed. It’s not suitable for very young children, pregnant women, or those with mobility issues, given the long day and some optional horseback riding.

Final Thoughts

This tour from Almaty offers a well-rounded adventure into Kazakhstan’s scenic landscapes, combining lakes, canyons, and geological wonders in a single day. The mix of stunning vistas, expert guides, and authentic transportation makes it a memorable experience—especially for those who appreciate photography, geology, and outdoor activity.

While the long hours can be demanding, the access to nature’s masterpieces makes it worthwhile for most travelers. The price point is reasonable, considering the number of sites visited and the included entrance fees. You’ll come away with unforgettable views, a few stories, and plenty of photos to show back home.

This tour is best suited for adventurous travelers looking for a full day of exploration, ready to enjoy Kazakhstan’s natural beauty with a friendly, knowledgeable guide leading the way. If you love scenic landscapes, are comfortable with long travel days, and want an authentic experience outside the city, this trip will deliver.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
It’s not recommended for children under 17, mainly because of the long day and some optional horseback riding. Also, note there are no child seats on the UAZ bus, so bring your own if necessary.

What should I bring for the trip?
Bring your passport or ID, comfortable shoes, warm clothing for varying weather, and cash for extras like food, horseback rides, or boat trips.

Are meals included?
No, meals are not included, but you can purchase food at local cafes for around 3000 tenge. The tour includes a traditional Kazakh lunch option if you choose to buy it.

How long does the tour last?
Expect around 17 hours, starting early in the morning and returning in the evening. The extensive itinerary means plenty of sightseeing but also a long day on the road.

Can I opt for additional activities?
Yes, horseback riding, boat trips, and catamaran rides are available at extra cost. These are not included in the base price but are worthwhile if you want a more personal experience at each location.

What kind of transportation is used?
Travel is in a modern Mercedes Benz Sprinter with amenities for comfort and charging, plus a nostalgic Soviet-era UAZ minibus for transfers to the lakes.

Is the tour affected by weather?
The company conducts the tour regardless of weather, so be prepared for rain or sun. Proper clothing and waterproof covers are recommended.

In essence, this tour combines Kazakhstan’s natural grandeur with professional guidance and good value. Perfect for those who want a comprehensive day out exploring the country’s impressive landscapes without sacrificing comfort or insight.

You can check availability for your dates here: