Located about 200 kilometers east of Almaty, Charyn Canyon is one of Kazakhstan's most spectacular natural wonders. Often referred to as the "Grand Canyon of Central Asia," Charyn Canyon stretches for approximately 154 kilometers along the Charyn River. Recognized for its unique geological features, Charyn Canyon is a UNESCO World Heritage site, highlighting its global significance and natural beauty.
Situated 100 kilometers southwest of the Charyn Canyons amid the breathtaking scenery of Tien Shan mountains, are a natural wonder renowned for their pristine beauty and atmosphere. Consisting of three stunning alpine lakes, each with its own unique charm, the Kolsay Lakes are a paradise for all travelers.
Lake Kaindy derives its name from the birch grove that tourists pass through on their way to the lake. Formed by a powerful earthquake in 1911, a portion of the mountain slid into the gorge, obstructing the flow of the Kaindy River. This caused the river to flood the gorge, and the cold waters preserved the submerged Tian Shan spruces, creating a unique underwater forest.
Lake Kaindy derives its name from the birch grove that tourists pass through on their way to the lake. Formed by a powerful earthquake in 1911, a portion of the mountain slid into the gorge, obstructing the flow of the Kaindy River. This caused the river to flood the gorge, and the cold waters preserved the submerged Tian Shan spruces, creating a unique underwater forest.
General Information
Witness the unique underwater forest of submerged Tian Shan spruces of the Kaindy Lakes and relax at the Kolsay Lake, offering serene landscapes.
Discover the "Grand Canyon of Central Asia," known for its stunning landscapes and unique geological features.
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TOUR HIGHLIGHTS
Scenic drives through picturesque landscapes suitable for all travelers.
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What to Do When You Want to Visit the Picturesque Places of Almaty Region but Don’t Have Enough Time?
We offer a one-day express tour to the heart of the Alatau mountain range, featuring Kolsay Lakes and Charyn Canyon. In just one day, you’ll experience the beauty of Kolsay Lake, Kaindy Lake, the "Valley of Castles" Canyon, and the stunning Black Canyon along the Charyn River.
We offer a one-day express tour to the heart of the Alatau mountain range, featuring Kolsay Lakes and Charyn Canyon. In just one day, you’ll experience the beauty of Kolsay Lake, Kaindy Lake, the "Valley of Castles" Canyon, and the stunning Black Canyon along the Charyn River.
ITINERARY
05:30 - Pick up guests from their addresses and depart for Kolsay Lakes (285 km)
08:45 - Stopover at the Black Canyon
10:30 - Arrive at Kaindy Lake, followed by a short trek (1.5 km one way) to three panoramic sites: a view of the lake from above, the inflow of the Kaindy River into the lake, and a view from the shore
12:30 - Return to Saty village (15 km). Visit a panoramic site with views of the Chilik River
13:30 - Lunch at a guest house (included in the tour price)
14:30 - Visit Kolsay Lake and walk along the shore
16:30 - Depart for the "Valley of Castles" Canyon
18:00 - Visit the panoramic view of the “Valley of Castles” Canyon
19:00 - Depart for Almaty
21:30 - Arrival back in Almaty
08:45 - Stopover at the Black Canyon
10:30 - Arrive at Kaindy Lake, followed by a short trek (1.5 km one way) to three panoramic sites: a view of the lake from above, the inflow of the Kaindy River into the lake, and a view from the shore
12:30 - Return to Saty village (15 km). Visit a panoramic site with views of the Chilik River
13:30 - Lunch at a guest house (included in the tour price)
14:30 - Visit Kolsay Lake and walk along the shore
16:30 - Depart for the "Valley of Castles" Canyon
18:00 - Visit the panoramic view of the “Valley of Castles” Canyon
19:00 - Depart for Almaty
21:30 - Arrival back in Almaty
Additional Information
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DurationSingle-day tour - Route DifficultyStandard and suitable for individuals with average physical fitness.
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PrecautionsIt is mandatory to bring a sun hat, sunglasses, and insect repellent (especially during the spring period). -
Average travel timeThe round trip by road takes approximately 12 hours. -
Total route length620 km by car and 6 km by trekking. -
ChildrenInfants under 2 years old travel free of charge. Child seats can be provided upon prior arrangement.
Price List
Included in the tour price
All our tours are private, offering a personalized experience tailored to your group.
Prices vary depending on the number of people in your group.
Prices vary depending on the number of people in your group.
6 People
- Comfortable SUV transportation
- Services of an English/Chinese/Russian-speaking guide
- Lunch at a Guest House
- Eco-fees for "Charyn" National Park
- 1.5 liters of drinking water per guest per day
- Personal expenses
- Pet-Friendly Travel: Bringing your furry friends (dogs and cats) along is welcome! A fee of $10 per day applies.
Not included in the tour price
$75 per person ($450 total)
$90 per person ($450 total)
5 People
4 People
$95 per person ($380 total)
$150 per person ($450 total)
3 People
Solo Tour
$360 total
$200 per person ($400 total)
2 People
Join the Adventure
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Discover the Nomad Outfitter Team
Recognized by Lonely Planet as a leading outdoor provider in Almaty, Nomad Outfitter team has established itself as a premier choice for outdoor adventures. Since joining the Kazakhstan Tourist Association in 2018, our commitment to exceptional service and local expertise has been consistently strengthening. TripAdvisor has honored us with the "Traveler's Choice" award for five consecutive years (2020-2024), highlighting our dedication to providing unforgettable experiences based on traveler reviews.
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