Highlights
- Private tour for up to 4 people in a modern, comfy SUV
- English speaking guide who knows every hidden photo spot
- See the “sunken forest” at Kaindy Lake & hike Charyn Canyon
Description
Day 1: Almaty → Kaindy Lake → Kolsai Lake
Your adventure begins with a morning pickup from your Almaty hotel in a comfortable private SUV (up to 4 people). After a scenic 3 hour drive through the Tien Shan mountains, you’ll arrive first at Kaindy Lake – the famous «sunken forest». Dead spruce trees rise from crystal-clear turquoise water like ghost ship masts, creating a surreal, otherworldly landscape.
Next, we drive to Kolsai Lake, the «Pearl of the Tien Shan». You’ll have time to walk along the turquoise shore, breathe the fresh alpine air, and take stunning photos. Another drone session here ensures you get breathtaking aerial perspectives of the lake and surrounding peaks.
After lunch at a local village, you’ll check into your cozy guesthouse. The evening is yours – rent a boat (optional summer only), hike along the shore, or simply relax and enjoy the mountain serenity.
Day 2: Kolsai Lake → Black Canyon → Charyn Canyon → Almaty
Enjoy breakfast in the morning. Then we drive to the lesser-known stop viewpoints Black & Moon Canyon, hidden gems with dramatic dark volcanic cliffs and panoramic viewpoints – far from the usual tourist crowds.
Afterwards, we explore the world-famous Charyn Canyon. You’ll hike along the rim of the «Valley of Castles», a 12-million-year-old natural wonder with towering red rock formations.
After a final lunch together, we begin our comfortable drive back to Almaty, arriving in the late afternoon with incredible memories and beatiful photos.
Includes
Private SUV (1‑4 people)
English‑speaking guide / drone operator
Short drone video + photos
Overnight stay near Kolsai Lake (guesthouse)
Meals: 1 lunch, 1 dinner, 1 breakfast
Water
All entrance fees
Excludes
Horse riding on Kaindy (optional)
Boat trip on kolsai Lake (optional)
Easy cancellation
Cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund