All-incl: Kolsay, Kaindy lakes, Charyn Canyon, Black Canyon
Kazakhstan
Get your best travel experience and explore kazakh culture with "Almaty Guides!"
Overview
This two-day guided tour from Almaty explores Charyn Canyon, Kolsay Lake, and Kaindy Lake, ideal for nature lovers and hikers.
Highlights
- Tranquil turquoise lakes surrounded by lush forests
- Surreal underwater forest at Kaindy Lake
- Majestic hiking trails with panoramic landscapes
- Diverse flora and fauna including rare species and birds
- Warm local hospitality with traditional meals, folklore, and music
Description
Explore Kazakhstan's natural wonders on a two-day tour featuring Charyn Canyon, Kolsay Lake, and Kaindy Lake:
- Charyn Canyon: Known as the 'Grand Canyon of Central Asia,' this 90-kilometer canyon offers towering cliffs, unique rock formations, and vibrant colors, perfect for photography and nature appreciation.
- Kolsay Lake: A series of three alpine lakes nestled in the Tien Shan Mountains, surrounded by green forests and snow-capped peaks. The turquoise waters offer a peaceful setting for relaxation.
- Kaindy Lake: Formed by an earthquake, this lake features a submerged forest of spruce trees standing upright beneath crystal-clear waters.
- Hiking Trails: Trek along canyon rims and lakeshores to enjoy fresh mountain air and panoramic views of these natural landscapes.
- Biodiversity: Encounter varied plant and animal life, including wildflowers, birds, ibex, and snow leopards in their natural habitat.
- Cultural Experience: Meet local Kazakh people, enjoy traditional meals, and experience regional folklore and music.
- Comfort and Guidance: Professional English-speaking guides provide expert insights, with comfortable accommodation and transportation arranged.
Includes
- Hotel pick-up and drop-off (4WD vehicle with air conditioning)
- Entry tickets to Kolsay, Kaindy, and Charyn Canyon
- Meals:
- Day 1: Lunch and dinner
- Day 2: Breakfast
- Unlimited water supply
- Overnight accommodation at guesthouse, yurt, or camping
- Driver
- English-speaking guide
Excludes
- Alcoholic drinks
- Snacks and soft drinks
- Optional additional services (horse ride, boat ride)
Important Information
- Schedule:
- Day 1: Departure from Almaty at 6:30 AM; visit Kolsay and Kaindy lakes
- Day 2: Visit Black Canyon and Charyn Canyon; return to Almaty by 6:00 PM
Cancellation Policy
Cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
Book in advance and bring comfortable hiking shoes, warm clothing, and a camera to capture the diverse landscapes.
Frequently Asked Questions
The tour includes visits to Kolsay Lake and Kaindy Lake in Kazakhstan.
Charyn Canyon is located in southeast Kazakhstan and is one of the main highlights of the tour.
Yes, the tour offers hiking trails around Kolsay Lake and panoramic trekking routes near Charyn Canyon.
Kaindy Lake is known for its submerged spruce tree trunks creating an underwater forest in Kazakhstan.
Yes, the tour includes traditional Kazakh meals, folklore, and music for an authentic cultural experience.
The tour is best suited for nature lovers and hikers with moderate fitness, as it involves trekking in mountainous areas.
The tour is typically recommended during late spring to early autumn for favorable weather, but check local conditions before booking.
Access to Kolsay and Kaindy lakes involves both vehicle transport and hiking on established trails.
You can observe diverse flora, fauna, rare plant species, wildflowers, and various bird species native to Kazakhstan's Tien Shan Mountains.
Check the official tour website or booking platform for up-to-date hours and reservation information.
