PRIVATE TOUR Charyn, Kolsay and Kaindy lakes (2 Days)
Almaty Region, Kazakhstan
An exhilarating 2-day tour of Almaty’s top sights: explore Charyn’s canyons, Kolsay’s serene alpine lake, and Kaindy’s unique underwater forest with breathtaking views at every stop.
This 2-day guided tour from Almaty explores Charyn Canyon, Kaindy Lake, and Kolsay Lakes, ideal for travelers seeking nature, trekking, and scenic panoramas.
Highlights
- Panoramic views of Charyn Canyon from exclusive guide viewpoints
- Unique underwater forest of submerged Tian Shan spruces at Kaindy Lake
- Comfortable accommodations with local hospitality
- Scenic drives through diverse landscapes suitable for all travelers
Description
Located about 200 kilometers east of Almaty, Charyn Canyon is a UNESCO World Heritage site known as the Grand Canyon of Central Asia for its unique geological formations.
Approximately 100 kilometers southwest of the canyon, the Kolsay Lakes are three alpine lakes surrounded by Tien Shan mountain scenery, each offering distinct natural beauty and atmosphere.
Kaindy Lake, formed in 1911 when a landslide dammed the Kaindy River, features a rare underwater forest of preserved Tian Shan spruces, visible beneath its cold waters. The route includes panoramic views of the Chilik River valley on the return journey.
Itinerary
Day 1
- 07:00 - Pick up from guest addresses and depart for Charyn Canyon (200 km)
- 10:00 - Visit Valley of Castles Canyon with a 2.5 km trek and photo stops
- 11:00 - Rest on the Charyn River bank
- 12:00 - Return trek to car park (2.5 km); optional park cab service during high season
- 13:30 - Lunch break
- 14:00 - Depart for Moon Canyon (25 km)
- 14:30 - Panoramic view stop at Moon Canyon
- 15:30 - Depart for Stone Shelf panoramic view (15 km)
- 16:00 - Photo stop at Stone Shelf
- 16:30 - Depart for 'Napoleon' panoramic site (2.5 km)
- 17:00 - Photo stop at 'Napoleon'
- 17:30 - Depart for 'Austrian View' panoramic site (2 km)
- 18:00 - Visit 'Austrian View' then depart for Saty village (120 km)
- 19:00 - Visit Black Canyon section of the Charyn River canyon
- 20:00 - Check-in at guest house and dinner
- 21:30 - Campfire time
- 22:30 - Overnight at guest house
Day 2
- 08:30 - Breakfast at guest house
- 09:00 - Depart for Kaindy Lake (15 km, unpaved road)
- 09:30 - Arrive parking area and trek 2 km to the lake (horse rentals available in high season, extra cost)
- 10:30 - Visit lake shore, panoramic viewpoint, and Kaindy River inflow
- 12:00 - Return trek to parking area (2 km)
- 13:00 - Depart for guest house with stop at panoramic Chilik River valley viewpoint
- 13:30 - Lunch at guest house
- 14:30 - Depart for Kolsay lower lake (15 km)
- 15:00 - Short walk along Kolsay lake shore
- 16:30 - Depart for Almaty (300 km)
- 20:30 - Arrive in Almaty
Includes
- Comfortable SUV transportation
- Services of an English/Chinese/Russian-speaking guide
- Eco-fees for the National Parks
- Accommodation in private rooms at a guest house
- Three meals per day (excluding breakfast on day 1 and dinner on day 2)
- 1.5 liters of drinking water per guest per day
Excludes
- Personal expenses
Important Information
- Children: Infants under 2 years travel free. Child seats available on request.
- Route difficulty is standard, suitable for average fitness. Trekking at Kolsay and Kaindy includes ascents and descents, with lake altitudes around 1750-1800 meters.
- Bring a sun hat, sunglasses, and insect repellent, especially in spring.
- Carry identity documents when visiting Kolsay Lakes (border zone regulations).
Cancellation Policy
Cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
For the best experience, book in advance, wear sturdy footwear for trekking, and plan your visit between late spring and early autumn for favorable weather.
Frequently Asked Questions
The tour includes guided visits to Charyn Canyon, Kaindy Lake, and Kolsay Lakes, transportation, and guest house accommodations with local hospitality.
Charyn Canyon is located about 200 kilometers east of Almaty in southeast Kazakhstan.
Kaindy Lake is accessed via a scenic drive from Almaty as part of the guided itinerary covering natural landscapes in southeast Kazakhstan.
Yes, Kaindy Lake features a unique submerged forest of Tian Shan spruce trees visible below the water surface.
Yes, the scenic drives and guided walks are designed to accommodate most fitness levels and travelers.
Overnight accommodation is provided in comfortable guest houses that offer local hospitality near the lakes.
The best time to visit is during the warmer months for easier access and better weather; check the website for updated seasonal information.
Basic hiking or walking shoes are recommended, but no specialized equipment is required for the moderate trails included.
The drive to Charyn Canyon takes about 3–4 hours, with additional travel time between Kaindy and Kolsay Lakes during the 2-day tour.
Yes, a knowledgeable guide accompanies travelers throughout the tour, providing insights into Kazakhstan’s natural landscapes.
