1 Day Group Tour to Charyn Canyon, Kolsay Lake and Kaindy Lake

An overview of this scenic adventure

This highly-rated day trip from Almaty offers a fantastic way to see some of Kazakhstan’s most breathtaking natural sights in just one day. The tour packs in visits to Charyn Canyon, often called the “little brother of the Grand Canyon,” along with Kolsay Lake and Kaindy Lake, two sparkling gems in the Tyan Shan Mountains. With a small group, knowledgeable guides, and a full itinerary, it’s perfect for travelers who want a comprehensive taste of the country’s incredible landscapes without the hassle of planning multiple trips.

What we particularly love about this tour is its focus on authentic experiences—local cuisine, scenic drives, and walking around these iconic sites—delivered with a friendly, professional touch. One possible consideration is the long day’s duration, which might be tiring for some, especially if you’re not used to spending most of your day on the move.

This tour suits those who are eager to see Kazakhstan’s natural highlights, appreciate detailed guided commentary, and enjoy a mix of light hiking, sightseeing, and local cuisine. If you’re after an efficient yet immersive day out, this could be a great choice.

Key Points

• All-inclusive value: The tour covers all fees, taxes, lunch, bottled water, and transportation.
• Diverse landscapes: From dramatic canyon views to tranquil lakes, varied scenery is guaranteed.
• Expert guides: Knowledgeable guides like Alina enhance the experience with insightful commentary.
• Comfortable transport: Air-conditioned vehicles and small group sizes make for a relaxed journey.
• Authentic food: Lunch in a local guest house or yurt introduces you to Kazakh cuisine.
• Good for most travelers: The tour is suitable for those with a reasonable level of mobility and interest in nature.

A detailed look at what to expect

Starting early from Almaty – the journey begins

Your day kicks off bright and early at 5:00 am from Zenkov Street. Given the early start, it’s worth planning a good night’s rest beforehand. The minibus ride to Charyn Canyon takes around 2.5 hours, giving you time to wake up with some coffee, enjoy the scenery, and meet your fellow travelers.

Exploring Charyn Canyon – a natural masterpiece

Arriving at Charyn Canyon, you’ll immediately understand why it’s dubbed the “little brother” of the Grand Canyon. Stretching about 150 km, with some sections up to 300 meters deep, the canyon offers dramatic, layered rock formations carved over 25 million years. The highlight here is the “Valley of Castles,” a 2.5 km-long stretch with towering, castle-like rock formations, some reaching 20-80 meters in height.

If hiking appeals to you, the tour offers a 2.5 km walk one-way to the Charyn River, ideal for those who want a close-up experience of the canyon’s rugged beauty. Alternatively, for a more relaxed approach, you can opt for a short ride (about 500 tenges) in an open roof car to admire the view from above. Reviewers like Peterssonjanne appreciated this flexibility, noting the stunning vistas from the car and the chance to hike for those inclined.

Lunch and a scenic drive to Kaindy Lake

After soaking in the canyon views, the group heads to Saty village for a traditional lunch. You’ll enjoy local Kazakh cuisine or vegetarian options, often in a guest house or yurt—an authentic experience that adds flavor to your day. Michelle_Z praised the pre-tour communication and the delicious food, highlighting how well-organized the meal was.

Post-lunch, the journey continues to Kaindy Lake, about 40 minutes away. You’ll change vehicles twice, riding in older cars, which adds a touch of local charm. Once at the site, you’ll walk roughly 15 minutes to reach this surreal lake, formed after an earthquake in 1911 created a limestone dam, flooding a forest of spruce trees. The lake’s sunken woodland and crystal-clear waters create a hauntingly beautiful scene, especially at an altitude of 2000 meters.

You’ll have about an hour to explore the lake, photograph the submerged trees, and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere. The reviews mention how unique and mysterious Kaindy Lake looks—many describe it as an “incredible” natural wonder that’s unlike anything else.

The tranquil Kolsay Lakes – a peaceful finale

Next, you’ll head to the Kolsay Lakes, with a scenic drive through Saty village. The Kolsay Lakes sit at different elevations—1800, 2250, and 2700 meters—and each offers a different perspective on the same pristine beauty. We loved the first lake, at 1818 meters, which is about 1 km long and 300 meters wide, with calm, reflective waters surrounded by mountains.

Kolsay Lake is widely praised for its serenity and stunning mountain backdrop. Visitors report that even a short visit here leaves a lasting impression of tranquility and grandeur.

End of the tour – back to Almaty

After a couple of hours of soaking in the peaceful scenery, the group heads back to Almaty, arriving in the evening. The comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle and the small group size help make the long day manageable, even enjoyable.

Real insights from travelers

Multiple reviews highlight the guides’ expertise and friendly attitude. Arkadiusz_Z described Alina as “the best guide,” noting her extensive knowledge and helpfulness, which truly elevates the tour. Michelle_Z also appreciated the pre-tour communication and the guide’s management skills, making the whole experience smooth and enjoyable.

Food also gets special mention—local lunches or yurt dinners provide authentic tastes, and reviewers say it’s a highlight of the day. The combination of stunning scenery and friendly guidance makes this tour not just a sightseeing trip but a memorable cultural experience.

The value of this experience

At $97 per person, this tour offers impressive value considering the comprehensive itinerary and all included fees, lunch, water, and transportation. The long day (12-14 hours) might seem daunting, but travelers find the trip well-organized and the scenery worth every minute.

The tour’s small group setting (up to 49 travelers, often fewer) ensures personalized attention, which can be rare on larger tours. It’s especially suited for those who appreciate natural beauty, cultural experiences, and a bit of adventure—all in one day.

Who this tour is perfect for

This trip is ideal for travelers with a curiosity for Kazakhstan’s landscapes and those who prefer guided tours with local insights. If you love stunning views, don’t mind a long day, and want a hassle-free way to visit multiple sites, this tour ticks all those boxes. Families, couples, or solo travelers looking for a full immersion into nature will find this trip rewarding.

It’s also a great choice if you want to avoid the logistics of self-driving or organizing multiple day trips from Almaty. Just remember—be prepared for an early start and a full day of exploration.

Final thoughts

If you’re after a well-balanced, scenic, and culturally enriching day out from Almaty, this tour delivers. You’ll experience some of Kazakhstan’s most iconic natural wonders, guided by knowledgeable locals who know how to make the trip both fun and informative. The combination of dramatic canyon views, the eerie beauty of Kaindy Lake, and the peaceful lakes of Kolsay makes for a truly memorable adventure.

With great reviews, excellent value, and a focus on authentic experiences, this tour is a solid pick for anyone eager to see the best of Kazakhstan’s outdoors in a single day. Just pack your camera, good walking shoes, and an appetite for adventure!

FAQ

Is there any age restriction for this tour?
Most travelers can participate, as the tour is designed for a wide range of mobility levels. However, very young children or those with mobility issues should consider the walking involved.

What should I bring on the tour?
Bring comfortable walking shoes, layered clothing for varying weather, a camera, and plenty of water. The tour provides bottled water, but extra snacks could be helpful.

How long is the journey to each site?
From Almaty, it’s about 2.5 hours to Charyn Canyon, 40 minutes to Kaindy Lake, and then a scenic drive to Kolsay Lakes. The total time on the road is balanced by plenty of sightseeing and walking.

Are meals included?
Yes, the tour includes lunch in a local guest house or yurt, offering traditional Kazakh cuisine or vegetarian options.

Can I take part in optional activities like horse riding or boating?
These activities are available at additional costs and are not included in the main price. For example, horse riding costs around $23 per half hour, and boating is about $16.

What is the group size?
The maximum is 49 travelers, but most groups tend to be smaller, providing a more intimate experience.

What is the best time of year for this tour?
While the tour runs year-round, the scenery is especially stunning in late spring and early autumn when weather is mild and the landscapes are vibrant.

What happens if the weather is bad?
The tour requires good weather; if canceled due to poor conditions, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

This full-day Kazakhstan adventure offers a carefully curated mix of natural beauty, culture, and expert guidance. Perfect for travelers wanting a comprehensive yet relaxed way to explore the country’s highlights in one go.