Almaty: 4-Day Five Famous Lakes, Charyn Canyon & City Tour

This 4-day guided tour in southeastern Kazakhstan suits nature lovers and active travelers seeking mountain lakes, canyons, and cultural experiences near Almaty.

Highlights

• Marvel at the vibrant turquoise waters of Big Almaty Lake
• Explore the dramatic landscapes of Charyn Canyon and Castle Valley
• Discover the mysterious sunken forest of Kaindy Lake
• Hike in Kolsai Lakes National Park and enjoy peaceful views
• Experience the culture of Almaty with a city tour and local snacks

Description

Day 1: Big Almaty Lake and Almaty City Tour

Drive into the Ile Alatau National Park mountains to visit Big Almaty Lake at 2,511 meters altitude. Surrounded by Tien Shan peaks, the lake’s turquoise waters change color with the seasons. Enjoy a short walk at the viewpoint and photograph this iconic landscape.

Return to Almaty for a city tour including the Park of 28 Panfilov Guardsmen and Ascension Cathedral, the oldest wooden Orthodox church in the city. Visit the Old Green Bazaar to sample local products and snacks. The day ends with panoramic views from Kok-Tobe Hill.

Day 2: Issyk Lake and Charyn Canyon

Travel to Issyk Lake inside Ile Alatau National Park at 1,760 meters elevation. Take a relaxing lakeshore walk surrounded by forested mountains. Continue to Charyn Canyon, often compared to the Grand Canyon, and explore Castle Valley with its sandstone formations. Hike a short route through the canyon and photograph the desert landscape. Overnight in a guesthouse in Saty village.

Day 3: Kolsai Lakes National Park

After breakfast, visit the Kolsai Lakes, known as the Pearls of the Northern Tien Shan. Start at Lower Kolsai Lake, the largest and most accessible, with walking trails through pine forests and mountain views. For active travelers, hike to Middle Kolsai Lake through alpine meadows and forests. Return to Saty village for the night.

Day 4: Kaindy Lake and Return to Almaty

Visit Kaindy Lake, famous for its submerged spruce forest created by an earthquake over 100 years ago. Walk along the lakeshore and experience this surreal alpine landscape. Return to Almaty in the afternoon.

Includes

• Visit to Big Almaty Lake
• Almaty City Tour
• Visit to Issyk Lake
• Visit to Charyn Canyon
• Visit to Kolsai Lakes National Park
• Visit to Kaindy Lake
• Overnight accommodation in Saty village guesthouse with meals (breakfast, lunch, dinner)
• Environmental fees for national parks
• Entrance tickets

Excludes

• Meals outside of provided
• Personal expenses
• Travel insurance
• Additional activities such as horseback riding, boating, archery

Important information

• Moderate fitness level required due to hiking and walking
• Mountain weather changes rapidly; bring appropriate clothing
• Guesthouse accommodation in Saty village may have basic facilities

Easy cancellation

Cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

For best experience, book in advance and bring sturdy walking shoes, weather-appropriate clothing, and a camera. The tour is best visited from late spring to early autumn.