Almaty: 2-Day Tour to Kolsai-Kaindy Lakes and Charyn Canyon
Almaty Region, Kazakhstan
Discover the natural beauty of Kolsai and Kaindy lakes, the Charyn Canyon, and the Valley of Castles on a 2-day tour from Almaty. Stay in a guest house in a Kazakh village for 1 or 2 nights.
Overview
This is a 2-day guided tour from Almaty ideal for nature lovers, featuring Kolsai and Kaindy lakes, Charyn Canyon, Black Canyon, and Moon Canyon.
Highlights
- Visit Kolsai and Kaindy lakes
- Explore Charyn Canyon and the Valley of Castles
- Tour Black Canyon and Moon Canyon
- Enjoy a bonfire and evening disco
- Stay overnight in a guesthouse with local residents
Tour Description
Embark on a 2-day adventure exploring natural attractions outside Almaty. Choose between two tour options based on your schedule and preferences.
Option 1
Day 1: Departure from Almaty at 8 pm. Travel overnight to the village of Saty and stay in a guesthouse.
Day 2: After breakfast, travel by Soviet UAZ SUVs to Lake Kaindy. Enjoy a 2 km walk or optional horse ride. Return for lunch at the guesthouse. In the afternoon, visit Kolsai Lake with opportunities for walking, boating, or horseback riding. Return to the village for local dinner and overnight stay. Weather permitting, gather for a campfire and disco.
Day 3: Visit Black Canyon, Moon Canyon, and the Valley of Castles in Charyn Canyon. Walk to the viewpoint before returning to Almaty, arriving around 8-9 pm.
Option 2
Day 1: Start at 6 am and travel to the village of Saty. Visit Lake Kaindy by UAZ SUVs with a 2 km walk or optional horse ride. Return for lunch at the guesthouse. In the afternoon, visit Kolsai Lake and explore the area with optional boat or horse rides for an additional fee. Return to the village for dinner and overnight stay. Weather permitting, enjoy a campfire and disco in the evening.
Day 2: After breakfast, visit Black Canyon, Moon Canyon, and Valley of Castles in Charyn Canyon. Return to Almaty by evening, arriving around 8-9 pm.
Includes
- Comfortable bus transport
- Accommodation in guesthouses
- Meals: 1 breakfast, 1 lunch, 1 dinner
- Travel by Soviet UAZ off-road vehicles to Kaindy
- Entrance tickets to Kolsai Lake, Kaindy Lake, Charyn Canyon
- English-speaking guide services
- Evening program with bonfire
Excludes
- Horse rides (optional, purchased on-site)
- Boat rentals at Kolsai Lake (optional, purchased on-site)
Important Information
- Arrival times depend on traffic and group punctuality
- Vegetarian meal options available upon prior notice to the guide
Cancellation Policy
Full refund available for cancellations made at least 24 hours before the tour start.
Book in advance and bring comfortable walking shoes, weather-appropriate clothing, and a camera. The best months to visit are from late spring to early autumn for favorable weather conditions.
