Kolsai and Kaindy Lakes with Charyn Canyons Day Trip

If you’re visiting Almaty and craving a day of awe-inspiring landscapes, this day trip offers a fantastic way to experience some of Kazakhstan’s most breathtaking natural sights. For around $57, you’ll spend about 16 hours exploring three iconic spots: the Kolsay Lakes, Kaindy Lake, and the Charyn Canyon. Led by knowledgeable guides, this tour is packed with scenic walks, photo opportunities, and a splash of adventure, all within a comfortable group size.

What we love most about this tour is its combination of stunning scenery and genuine authenticity — you get to walk around crystal-clear lakes, see poplars growing directly out of the water at Kaindy, and marvel at the vibrant, layered cliffs of Charyn Canyon. Plus, the included entrance fees and bottled water add good value for a full day out.

The only consideration? It’s a long day and involves a fair bit of walking and hiking, so it’s best suited for travelers with a moderate level of physical fitness. If you’re after a comprehensive, well-organized experience that captures the essence of Kazakhstan’s natural beauty, this tour suits those eager to learn, explore, and take memorable photos.

Key Points

• Stunning Scenery: Visit three diverse natural locations, each offering unique landscapes.
• Expert Guides: Guides with extensive knowledge enhance the experience with insights and stories.
• All-Inclusive Value: Entrance fees and bottled water included, making it straightforward and budget-friendly.
• Comfort and Convenience: Round-trip transport makes it easy to relax and focus on the sights.
• Active Day: Expect walks and some hiking—good for those with moderate fitness.
• Authentic Experience: Small group size and well-planned stops provide a genuine feel of Kazakhstan’s wilderness.

An In-Depth Look at the Experience

The Early Start and Transportation

The day begins bright and early at 5:00am on Abay Avenue — yes, it’s a long day, but that’s part of the adventure. The round-trip transportation is included, which means you can leave the logistics to someone else and just enjoy the scenery. Traveling in a small group (max 20 people), we appreciated that the ride was comfortable, allowing us to relax or even nap between stops.

Stop 1: Charyn Canyon

Our first stop is the Charyn Canyon, often called the “Grand Canyon of Central Asia.” It’s a striking place with layered, vivid cliffs carved by time and water. We took a walk along the canyon rim and did a short hike down to the Sharyn River, where the views are even more dramatic. The admission ticket to the canyon is included, so no worries about extra costs.

Guides, like the one we had, share stories about how the canyon was formed and point out interesting rock formations. As one reviewer put it, “You will see so much during the day,” which is true, because Charyn alone is worth the trip for its vivid colors and breathtaking vistas.

Stop 2: Black Canyon Viewpoint

Next, we visited the Black Canyon Viewpoint within the same national park. This quick stop offers a panoramic perspective of the canyon’s darker, more mysterious sections. It’s a brief 15-minute stop but worth it for the photo opportunities and to get a sense of the canyon’s scale. There’s no extra fee here, which keeps the whole outing simple and transparent.

Stop 3: Kaindy Lake

After a scenic drive, we arrived at Kaindy Lake, famous for its submerged forest and the tall, slender spruce trees that rise above the water’s surface. We hiked about 2.5 kilometers to reach the lake, which was described as a “must-see” by many travelers. The hike offers opportunities to appreciate the landscape and prepare for the stunning view ahead.

The water here is an extraordinary shade of greenish-blue, and the trees emerging from the lake create a surreal atmosphere. Our guide explained that Kaindy was formed by an earthquake and landslide, which gives this lake its unique character. The entrance here is free, and the hike is manageable for most, but those with mobility issues might find it a bit demanding.

Stop 4: Kolsai Lake

Our final destination was Kolsay Lake, often called the “Pearl of the Northern Tien Shan.” We wandered around the lake, soaking in the tranquility and capturing photos of the reflective surface framed by forested mountains. The walk around the lake takes about 1.5 hours and is a perfect way to wind down after a busy day of sightseeing.

The guide shared stories about local legends and the lake’s ecological significance, making the experience more meaningful. The entrance fee is included, and the peaceful scenery makes this a highlight for many.

Authentic Experiences and Practical Details

The tour’s small group size ensures you’re not just another face in a crowd. Guides like the one we had clearly love sharing their knowledge, making the day educational and engaging. Reviews repeatedly mention “incredible knowledge” and “lots to show,” which really enhances the visit.

The value is impressive considering entrance fees, bottled water, and transport are all included. For $57, it’s an excellent way to see some of Kazakhstan’s most iconic natural sites without the hassle of planning separate trips or paying multiple entrance fees.

The timing is tight — the tour starts early at 5:00am and ends back in Almaty after sunset. This means a full, rewarding day, but also a long one. Be prepared for some walking and hiking, especially at Kaindy Lake, which has a 2.5 km hike involved. Reviews mention “a long walk, hiking and amazing nature,” so this tour is best for those in moderate physical condition.

Who Would Love This Tour?

• Nature lovers eager to see striking landscapes that are hard to access independently.
• Photographers looking for breathtaking scenes like Kaindy’s submerged forest or Charyn’s vibrant cliffs.
• History and geology enthusiasts interested in how these landscapes were formed.
• Travelers with a full day available who want a guided, hassle-free way to explore outside Almaty.

This isn’t a tour for someone seeking a relaxed day with minimal activity, but it’s perfect for those wanting immersive outdoor experiences with expert guides.

Final Thoughts

This Kolsai and Kaindy Lakes with Charyn Canyons Day Trip offers a well-rounded taste of Kazakhstan’s natural beauty in a single day. The combination of stunning scenery, expert guiding, and included fees makes it a good value for travelers wanting to maximize their time outside the city.

You’ll walk through iconic landscapes that seem almost otherworldly, learn about their geological origins, and capture photos sure to impress friends back home. The long day is balanced by the comfort of transportation and the chance to focus fully on the sights.

If you’re after a balanced, authentic outdoor adventure that’s packed with scenic highlights and accessible logistics, this tour hits the mark. It’s especially suited for those who appreciate natural beauty and are comfortable with some walking and hiking.

FAQs

What time does the tour start? The tour begins at 5:00am, so be prepared for an early start to make the most of the day.

Is transportation included? Yes, round-trip transport from Almaty is provided, making the trip convenient and stress-free.

How long is the total duration? The tour lasts approximately 16 hours, covering multiple stops and scenic walks.

What’s the group size? The maximum group size is 20 travelers, ensuring a more personalized experience.

Are entrance fees covered? All entrance fees to Charyn Canyon, Kolsai Lakes, and Kaindy Lakes are included.

Is bottled water provided? Yes, bottled water is supplied, especially on warm days.

Is this tour suitable for children or those with mobility issues? The tour involves walking and hiking, so it’s best for those with moderate fitness. Mobility issues might make some parts challenging.

This full-day adventure from Almaty reveals extraordinary landscapes that will stay with you long after you leave. Whether snapping photos at Kaindy Lake, walking along the canyon rim, or soaking in the peaceful scenery of Kolsai, you’ll come away with a deeper appreciation of Kazakhstan’s natural treasures.