Almaty: Kolsai Kaindy Lakes & Charyn Canyons 2-Day Tour

Almaty Region, Kazakhstan



Visit the most famous sites of the Almaty region on this 2-day tour to the Canyons, Kolsai and Kaindy Lakes. Enjoy a night stay in a real yurt (nomadic housing) and delicious meals of Kazakh cuisine.

Two-Day Cultural and Nature Tour in Almaty Region

This 2-day guided tour in the Almaty Region suits travelers seeking Kazakh nature and cultural immersion with comfortable group travel.

Highlights

  • Explore natural sites including Kolsai and Kaindy Lakes, and Charyn, Black, and Moon Canyons
  • Experience authentic Kazakh national cuisine and hospitality in a remote village
  • Spend a night in a traditional yurt to understand the nomadic lifestyle
  • Travel comfortably with an international group and English-speaking guide

Description

This 2-day journey through the Almaty Region combines nature exploration with cultural experiences. Visit notable landscapes such as Kolsai and Kaindy Lakes, as well as Charyn, Black, and Moon Canyons, allowing ample time to enjoy each location.

Immerse yourself in Kazakh culture with a visit to a remote village, including a traditional meal and local hospitality. Spend the night in a yurt situated in quiet foothills with mountains and a river nearby, offering a genuine nomadic experience. Guesthouse accommodation is also available as an alternative.

In the evening, gather around a bonfire for dinner and enjoy the natural surroundings under the night sky. Wake up to fresh mountain air before continuing the tour.

Your journey is accompanied by a professional English-speaking guide who provides local insights, historical context, and guidance to the best photo spots, enhancing the experience for the international group.

Includes

  • Pickup and drop-off at selected meeting points
  • Comfortable van or bus transportation with air conditioning
  • Off-road trip to Lake Kaindy in a Soviet van
  • Meals: 1 breakfast, 2 lunches, 1 dinner (vegetarian options available)
  • Bottled water throughout the tour
  • Accommodation in rooms with attached WC or shared yurts by gender
  • On-site WCs and showers
  • Shower gel, shampoo, and towels provided
  • Bonfire and evening entertainment after dinner

Excludes

  • Private accommodation (contact provider to arrange)
  • Optional activities such as horseback riding and boating (from 6000 KZT per person, paid locally)
  • Special dietary meals, including gluten-free, are not available

Important Information

  • The tour returns to the city between 8 and 9 pm on day two
  • Physical activity level is average
  • Vegetarian meal options available
  • Pre-trip details will be sent via the booking portal one day before departure
  • Accommodation options include rooms with attached bathroom or yurts shared by participants of the same gender

Cancellation Policy

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

Book in advance for best availability. Bring weather-appropriate clothing, comfortable shoes, and a camera. The best time to visit is late spring through early autumn for comfortable weather and access to natural sites.

Frequently Asked Questions

The tour visits Kolsai Lake, Kaindy Lake, Charyn Canyon, Black Canyon, and Moon Canyon in the Almaty Region of Kazakhstan.
Participants spend one night in a traditional nomadic yurt, experiencing authentic Kazakh culture.
Yes, the tour is conducted with an international group and includes an English-speaking guide, making it suitable for solo travelers.
The tour includes Kazakh national cuisine and local hospitality; you should inform the provider in advance about any dietary restrictions.
The tour involves moderate walking and some hiking around lakes and canyons, suitable for most travelers with reasonable fitness.
The tour is available during warmer months when the weather is favorable for outdoor activities; check the website for current seasonal availability.
The tour typically starts and ends in Almaty, the largest city in Kazakhstan's Almaty Region.
No special permits are required as the tour includes all necessary access permits to these protected natural sites in Kazakhstan.
Travel between lakes and canyons ranges from one to three hours per segment, allowing time for exploration and rest stops.
Yes, comfortable transportation is included as part of the guided tour throughout the Almaty Region.

We Are Part of the My Guide Network!

My Guide Kazakhstan is part of the global My Guide Network of Online & Mobile travel guides. We are now in 180+ Destinations and Growing.

Nearby Destinations

Add to your trip

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