Charyn, Kolsay and Kaindy 2-Day Tour with Mount View Stay
Almaty Region, Kazakhstan
Discover the beauty of Charyn Canyon, Kolsai, and Kaindy Lakes on a 2-day tour from Almaty. Spend the night in a hotel with mountain views and enjoy easy and comfortable travel.
Overview
This 2-day guided tour from Almaty explores Charyn Canyon, Kolsai, and Kaindy Lakes, ideal for nature lovers and active travelers.
Highlights
- Local lunch (2), dinner and breakfast included
- Photo recap of the trip
- Small local snack and bottled water
- English-Russian-Kazakh speaking guide
- Entrance fees to National Parks Charyn, Kolsai and Kaindy included
Description
Day 1 begins with an early morning pickup from designated spots in Almaty (custom pickups are not available). The journey to Charyn Canyon takes about 4 hours through Kazakhstan’s rugged landscapes. At Charyn Canyon, often called the 'Little Grand Canyon,' you can explore the rock formations, photograph the red cliffs, and walk down to the river. There is also a short stop at Black Canyon.
Next, the tour continues to the village of Saty for lunch in an authentic local setting. After lunch, enjoy a peaceful walk along the shores of Kolsai Lake, surrounded by forests and mountains.
Accommodation is arranged in local guesthouses run by villagers near Kolsai Lake, offering shared rooms separated by gender. Private rooms are available for an additional 30 USD per night; please confirm details when booking. Dinner is served in the village, with views of the surrounding mountains.
On Day 2, travel by Soviet van to Kaindy Lake, known for its submerged forest and turquoise waters created by an earthquake. Explore scenic trails and the sunken spruce tree trunks. There is a short photo stop at Moon Canyon as a bonus site.
The guide will provide insights on the region’s geology, history and culture throughout the trip. Afterward, the group returns to Almaty with a rest stop for coffee and facilities, arriving between 18:00 and 20:00 depending on traffic. Drop-off occurs at one fixed location or nearby to avoid congestion.
Includes
- Transportation
- Accommodation for 1 night
- Two lunches, one dinner, and one breakfast
- Small local snack
- Bottled water
- Entrance tickets for national parks
- English-Russian-Kazakh speaking guide
- Photo recap of the tour
- Soviet van to Kaindy Lake
- Hotel pickup and drop-off (if option selected)
Excludes
- Meals other than those specified
- Transfers other than those specified
- Optional activities such as boating and horseriding
Important Information
- This tour involves walking and light hiking, so a moderate level of fitness is required
- Wear comfortable walking shoes
- Bring warm clothing as temperatures may drop
Cancellation Policy
Cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
Booking Tips
Book early to secure accommodation preferences. Bring a camera, comfortable hiking shoes, and layered clothing. The best time to visit is late spring to early autumn for milder weather and clear trails.
