Almaty: Kolsai & Kaindy Lakes with Charyn Canyon Tour

Day Tour to Kolsai, Kaindy Lakes and Charyn & Black Canyons from Almaty

This full-day guided tour from Almaty suits nature lovers interested in lakes, canyons, and mountain landscapes in southeastern Kazakhstan.

Highlights

• Marvel at submerged spruce trees rising from Kaindy Lake
• Explore the geological formations of Charyn Canyon and Black Canyon
• Enjoy a scenic drive through the Tien Shan Mountains
• Walk along the shoreline of Kolsai Lake, known as the Pearl of the Northern Tien Shan
• Learn about the region’s nature, geology, and cultural heritage from local guides

Description

Begin early with a central Almaty meeting point and board a modern minibus fitted with USB and Type-C chargers. Travel first to Kolsai Lake, surrounded by forested slopes, where you will have around two hours to walk along the shore and take photos. Optional boat or catamaran rides are available at the lake (not included).

Next, stop at a local café for lunch (not included), offering traditional Kazakh and Central Asian dishes such as plov, lagman, manti, kebabs, and fresh salads.

Continue to Kaindy Lake, accessed via a Soviet-era UAZ vehicle for a unique experience. The lake is famous for its submerged spruce trees in clear water. Horse rides from the nearby village to the lake are available for an extra fee.

In the afternoon, explore Charyn Canyon, known for its towering red rock cliffs and deep gorges. Then visit Black Canyon, notable for its darker rock layers and cave-like formations. During summer, a visit to Moon Canyon, with its lunar-like landscape, is included.

Throughout the tour, experienced guides provide insights into Kazakhstan’s natural and cultural heritage. Seasonal comfort items such as cooling neck fans in summer and warm touchscreen gloves in winter are provided. The tour operates in all weather conditions with rescheduling options before departure if needed.

The day ends with a return transfer to Almaty in the evening.

Includes

• Entrance fees to Kolsai Lake
• Entrance fees to Kaindy Lake
• Entrance fees to Charyn Canyon (if this option is selected)
• Entrance fees to Black Canyon
• Transportation by modern minibus
• Transfer to Kaindy Lake parking by Soviet-style UAZ minibus (if this option is selected)

Excludes

• Lunch
• Optional boat or catamaran rides at Kolsai Lake
• Optional horse ride to Kaindy Lake

Important Information

• The tour runs in all weather conditions
• Payments for optional activities must be made in cash (Kazakh tenge) on site
• Optional activities incur additional fees

Cancellation Policy

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

For the best experience, wear comfortable walking shoes and dress according to the season. Booking in advance is recommended, especially in summer months.