2 Day Tour to Almaty Kolsay and Kaindy Lake and Charyn Canyon

This 2-day tour in Almaty offers an exciting glimpse into some of Kazakhstan’s most breathtaking landscapes. Featuring visits to Kaindy Lake, known for its submerged forest, the Kolsay Lakes, and the Charyn Canyon, this experience is perfect for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike. With knowledgeable English-speaking guides, comfortable 4WD transport, and a well-paced itinerary, it promises a smooth and memorable journey.

What truly stands out to us is how this tour combines stunning scenery with insightful commentary from guides who clearly love sharing their region’s beauty. One of the best parts? The opportunity to see places that are often missed by casual travelers, making it a more authentic and immersive experience.

However, a consideration is the weather—since many of these sites are outdoors and exposed, a readiness for variable conditions is key. If you’re someone who enjoys energetic, scenic excursions and values expert guidance, this tour could be a perfect fit. It’s especially suited for those wanting a comprehensive, hassle-free way to explore these iconic sites without the stress of planning.

Key Points

• Authentic Local Guides: Knowledgeable and friendly guides, like Mr. Almas, enhance the experience with helpful advice and fluent English.
• Stunning Landscapes: From submerged forests to rugged canyons, the scenery is truly extraordinary.
• Comfortable Transport: The use of 4WD vehicles means navigating diverse terrain is easy and comfortable.
• Flexible & Private: This is a private tour, so it caters specifically to your group, offering a personalized touch.
• Value for Money: At $350 per person, you get access to multiple sites, transportation, and guided expertise.
• Ideal for Adventure & Nature Enthusiasts: Perfect for travelers looking for a full, immersive experience with plenty of photo opportunities.

A Deep Dive into the Experience

Overall Impression of the Tour

This 2-day adventure packs a lot into a relatively short time. It’s designed for those who want to see some of Kazakhstan’s most spectacular natural attractions with ease. The reviews consistently highlight the expert guides, with many travelers mentioning how guides like Mr. Almas and Rolan made a significant difference, offering insightful commentary and ensuring everything went smoothly even when dealing with delays or late arrivals.

How the Tour Runs

Starting early from the meeting point on Dostyk Avenue, your journey begins with a comfortable pickup in a 4WD vehicle—an essential feature given the rough terrain of these sites. The tour operates daily, with timings from early morning until evening, giving you plenty of flexibility.

Day 1: Lakes and Forests

Lake Kaindy

The highlight of Day 1 is undoubtedly Lake Kaindy, famous for its “sunken forest”. Once a natural lake, it’s now a surreal landscape where petrified trees rise from the water, creating a fairy-tale scene. The turquoise waters, combined with the remnants of the forest, make for endless photo opportunities. You’ll spend around two hours here, with admission included, giving you enough time to walk around, take photos, or just soak in the scenery.

Travelers rave about this stop, with one reviewer describing it as a “dream-like encounter with nature’s mystery,” and mentioning that the guide provided good advice on how best to explore the area. The water is cold but worth a dip or just a photo from the shore.

Kolsay Lakes

Next, the Kolsay Lakes are a peaceful haven with three pristine, turquoise lakes set in the mountains. The lakes reflect snow-capped peaks and dense pine forests, creating a picture-perfect scene. We loved the way the paths weave along the lakeside, offering great vantage points. The guide’s local knowledge means you’ll learn about the region’s flora and fauna, and some may even venture for a quick trek along the trails. This stop lasts around two hours and is free, making it an excellent value add.

Reviewers often mention how quiet and untouched this area feels, a stark contrast to busy tourist spots elsewhere. The lakes are accessible but still feel like a hidden gem, perfect for those wanting to escape city life for a bit.

Day 2: The Majestic Charyn Canyon

Charyn Canyon

Day 2 kicks off with a visit to Charyn Canyon, often called the “Grand Canyon of Central Asia”. Its dramatic red cliffs and layered rock formations are awe-inspiring. The “Valley of Castles” showcases natural structures that look like medieval fortresses, sculpted over centuries by wind and water.

Spending around two hours here, visitors can stroll along designated paths, take panoramic photos, or simply marvel at the scale of the landscape. The canyon’s rugged beauty is complemented by the knowledge of your guide, who explains how the different rock layers tell a story of geological change.

Reviewers have praised guides like Rolan for keeping them well-informed and relaxed, even when navigating the heat or tight spots. Many mention that the experience felt both authentic and well-organized, with enough time to appreciate each site fully.

Transportation & Logistics

Travel in a comfortable 4WD vehicle means you’ll avoid the rough and often dusty roads, especially in more remote areas like Kolsay Lakes and Kaindy Lake. The tour’s schedule is designed to maximize sightseeing while allowing enough time at each stop. The start point is centrally located on Dostyk Avenue, and since the tour is private, your group gets a personalized experience.

Pricing & Value

At $350 per person, this tour offers a comprehensive package that includes guides, transportation, and entry fees for Kaindy and Charyn Canyon. The reviews show that many travelers felt the value was excellent, especially considering the quality of guidance and the exclusive access to sites. Plus, the small group setting or private arrangement means more flexibility and comfort.

Practical Tips

• Weather prep: Since many stops are outdoors, check the forecast and bring sunscreen, hats, and water.
• Footwear: Sturdy shoes are recommended for walking around lakes and canyon trails.
• Timing: Early start means you’ll beat some crowds and enjoy cooler temperatures.
• Photographers: Bring a good camera or smartphone—these sites are perfect for memorable shots.
• Language: Guides speak excellent English, making explanations accessible and engaging.

Who Should Book This Tour?

This tour is ideal for nature lovers seeking a full day of scenic beauty with minimal hassle. It suits travelers who appreciate expert guides that can tell stories behind the landscapes, and those wanting a private experience for a more personalized touch. It’s suitable for families, couples, or small groups, especially because reviews highlight how friendly and accommodating the guides are.

It’s also perfect for those on a tight schedule but still craving quality and adventure. The price may seem high initially, but considering the transportation, guided insights, and access to multiple stunning locations, many find it offers solid value.

The Sum Up

This 2-day tour in Almaty offers an excellent way to see some of Kazakhstan’s most extraordinary natural sights without the stress of planning multiple trips or worrying about navigation. The combination of Kaindy Lake, Kolsay Lakes, and Charyn Canyon presents a diverse range of landscapes—each more breathtaking than the last.

What makes this experience shine is the knowledge and friendliness of the guides, who turn an already stunning landscape into a personal and engaging journey. The comfortable transport and well-organized itinerary mean you can focus on soaking in the views and making memories.

While the outdoor nature of the trip requires some weather readiness, the overall experience is highly rewarding for those eager to explore Kazakhstan’s wild side. Whether you’re an avid photographer, a nature enthusiast, or simply someone wanting a break from city life, this tour offers a balanced mix of adventure, comfort, and awe-inspiring scenery.

If you’re after a hassle-free, authentic, and visually stunning escape into Kazakhstan’s mountains and canyons, this tour is a fantastic choice.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for all ages?
Yes, it generally is, as the itinerary involves walking around scenic sites. However, moderate physical activity might be needed at some stops, so wear suitable footwear.

Are meals included?
The tour price covers transportation, guides, and entry fees, but meals are not specified. Pack snacks or inquire if you want to arrange meals separately.

How long are the stops at each site?
Stops are around two hours each at Kaindy Lake, Kolsay Lakes, and Charyn Canyon—enough time to explore, take photos, and relax.

Is transportation comfortable?
Yes, the tour uses 4WD vehicles that are well-equipped for the diverse terrain, ensuring a comfortable ride throughout.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, the tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

What should I bring?
Bring weather-appropriate clothing, sturdy shoes, sun protection, water, and a camera to capture the stunning scenery.

Is the guide’s English fluent?
Yes, reviews consistently mention guides like Mr. Almas and Rolan speak very good English and are helpful and considerate.

How many people typically join the tour?
It’s a private tour, so your group will be the only participants, providing a more personalized experience.

This exploration of Kazakhstan’s natural beauty promises an unforgettable journey, blending scenic vistas with expert guidance. Perfect for adventure-minded travelers ready to see some of Central Asia’s most iconic landscapes in comfort and style.