Almaty: Charyn Canyon & Kolsai Lakes Private Day Trip

Almaty Region, Kazakhstan



Explore Charyn and Black Canyon before unwinding beside the crystal-clear waters of Kolsai Lake. We’ll capture your unforgettable moments on camera, including breathtaking drone footage from above.

Charyn Canyon and Kolsai Lakes Private Day Tour from Almaty

This private day tour from Almaty visits Charyn Canyon, Black Canyon, and Kolsai Lakes, ideal for nature lovers and photographers.

Overview

Travel comfortably in an air-conditioned vehicle on an early departure and return the same evening. Start at Charyn Canyon, famous for its towering rock formations and vibrant colors. Then visit Black Canyon, known for its dramatic views. The tour continues to Kolsai Lakes, alpine lakes with clear water surrounded by forests and mountains. This private tour includes flexible itinerary options and hotel pickup.

Highlights

  • See Charyn Canyon’s unique rock formations away from crowds
  • Combine desert and alpine landscapes in one curated day
  • Photograph some of Kazakhstan’s most scenic natural sites

What’s Included

  • Bottled water
  • Air-conditioned vehicle
  • Professional English/Chinese-speaking guide
  • Entrance fees to Charyn National Park and Kolsai Lakes National Park
  • Drone shooting available for an extra cost (arrange when booking)

What’s Not Included

  • Soft and hard drinks
  • Special food and drinks
  • Taxi van for hiking sections (500 KZT / $1.50)
  • Boating (30 minutes, $10 per group of 4) and horse riding (30 minutes, $10) optional extras

Important Information

  • Children under 2 years travel free. Child seats available on request.
  • Route difficulty: standard, suitable for average fitness. Trekking includes ascents and descents.
  • Kolsai Lake elevation: 1,800 meters; Kaindy Lake elevation: 1,750 meters.
  • Bring sun hat, sunglasses, and insect repellent, especially in spring.

Cancellation Policy

Full refund for cancellations up to 24 hours in advance.

Booking Tips

Book early to secure preferred dates. Bring comfortable shoes, layered clothing, and camera gear. The best time to visit is late spring through early autumn for mild weather and clear views.

Frequently Asked Questions

The tour includes transportation from Almaty in an air-conditioned vehicle, visits to Charyn Canyon, Black Canyon, and Kolsai Lakes, and opportunities for nature photography.
Charyn Canyon is located about 200 kilometers east of Almaty in southeastern Kazakhstan, near the border with China.
The trip typically lasts a full day, with early departure from and same-day return to Almaty.
Yes, the tour offers numerous chances to photograph the dramatic rock formations of Charyn Canyon and the alpine scenery at Kolsai Lakes.
The tour is suitable for families with children, but it involves some walking on uneven terrain, so appropriate footwear is recommended.
It is advisable to bring water and snacks, although some tours may offer stops where you can purchase refreshments.
Weather varies by season; summers can be warm and dry, while spring and autumn may be cooler, so check local forecasts and dress accordingly.
The tour is generally available throughout the year, but it is best to check the website for current operating hours and seasonal conditions.
Kolsai Lakes are approximately 300 kilometers from Almaty, located in the Tian Shan Mountains of southeastern Kazakhstan.
Since the tour is private, requests for itinerary adjustments can often be accommodated; contact the provider in advance to discuss options.

Trusted local guides, read by millions every month

  • 2006 online since
  • 26.4M page views a month across the network
  • 14 languages

180+ destination guides, one network

Every guide covers a single destination on its own website, with events, restaurants, things to do and places to stay chosen from local recommendations.

My Guide Network Locations

Nearby Destinations

Add to your trip

Add your travel dates so we can place this on the right day, or save it for later.

Added to your trip Added to day {[{trip.toast.day}]}, MorningAfternoonEvening Saved to your trip Already in your trip Transfer saved to your trip Save your trip to get fresh suggestions Staying in {[{trip.toast.label}]} Base cleared Trip deleted Link copied Could not save your trip Something went wrong, please try again