2 Days Private Kolsai Kaindy Lakes with Charyn Canyon Tour

Travelers looking for an authentic adventure beyond the city buzz will find this 2-day private tour around Almaty a real highlight. It promises a blend of breathtaking scenery, cultural insights, and comfortably-paced exploration of some of Kazakhstan’s most iconic spots: Charyn Canyon, Uzunbulak (Moon Canyon), Black Canyon, and the stunning Kolsai and Kaindy Lakes.

What stands out most is the guided experience — a knowledgeable, personable guide takes you through each location, sharing insider tips and stories that you won’t find in any guidebook. The scenery alone makes this worth a try, but the added touches like included meals, comfortable transport, and flexibility for activities such as boating or horseback riding elevate the experience.

One thing you might want to consider is the drive itself. The journey involves quite a bit of time in the SUV, with some gravel roads and hikes, especially near Kaindy Lake. While this may be perfect for adventurous travelers or those craving a deep connection with nature, it might be less suitable if you prefer very easy, leisurely travel or have mobility concerns.

This tour is best suited for travelers who enjoy natural beauty, don’t mind a bit of adventure, and appreciate having a local guide to enrich their understanding of Kazakhstan’s landscapes. Families, couples, or solo explorers with a taste for scenic escapades will find plenty to love here.

Key Points

• Authentic landscapes and scenic diversity: From canyons to lakes, the trip showcases Kazakhstan’s natural beauty.
• Expert-guided experience: Knowledgeable local guides enrich the journey with stories and tips.
• Comfortable transportation: Private SUV with AC ensures a smooth ride across varying terrains.
• Inclusions enhance value: Meals, entrance fees, water, and overnight stays are covered, making it budget-friendly.
• Flexible activities: Optional horseback riding and boat rides add a fun, personalized touch.
• Ideal for adventure lovers: The hikes, gravel roads, and scenic walks cater to active travelers seeking authentic experiences.

A Deep Dive into the 2-Day Kazakh Adventure

This tour offers a carefully curated itinerary that balances sightseeing, cultural insight, and leisure. Over two days, you’ll get an immersive taste of some of Kazakhstan’s most striking natural wonders, all with the comfort of private transport and a licensed English-speaking guide.

Day 1: Charyn Canyon and Uzunbulak (Moon Canyon)

The adventure kicks off early at 6:00 am, with a pickup in Almaty. The first stop is Charyn Canyon, often called the “Grand Canyon of Central Asia.” Stretching for about 80 km, this geological marvel features layered rock formations carved over millions of years. Expect a walk along the canyon rim, descending down to the Charyn River, which offers excellent vantage points for photos. The walk is about four hours, and the admission ticket is included, so no surprises there.

Reviewers like Irina praised the “perfectly organized tour with stunning views,” emphasizing how the experience felt seamless, especially with the comfortable vehicle and attentive guide. Some travelers also noted the optional side trail, ideal for experienced hikers wanting a bit more adventure, adding to the flexibility of the day.

Next, the tour ventures to Uzunbulak Canyon, or the “Moon Canyon,” a tranquil and less touristy spot with moon-like terrain on the riverbank. The gravel approach keeps the crowds away, making it feel like a true escape. You’ll walk around and soak in the serenity, with the chance to enjoy untouched scenery. A quick drive further along the river leads you to Black Canyon, another scenic highlight, where you can appreciate the rugged, dark-hued rocks that contrast beautifully with the greenery.

Day 2: Kolsai and Kaindy Lakes

The second day begins with a scenic drive towards Kolsai Lake, often called the “Pearl of the Northern Tien Shan.” The area offers several picturesque spots along the lake’s shoreline, perfect for a relaxed walk. Here, you can choose to partake in boating or horseback riding—just let your guide know in advance, as these activities are optional but highly recommended for the added fun and unique perspective of the lakes.

One of the tour’s standout features is Lake Kaindy, famous for its submerged forest and the eerie, sunken trees rising from the lake’s surface. The last 1.5 km to the lake involves a hike over gravel terrain, which adds a bit of adventure. You can also opt for horseback riding or take a taxi if hiking isn’t your thing. The admission fee is included, and the views of the rainbow-colored lake with its reflective waters are worth every step or bump.

Reviewers like Vasily, who did two trips with guide Max, highlight how well-organized and enjoyable the experience was, especially in good weather — September is often mentioned as the best time for such trips. The photos of Kaindy Lake, with its sunken trees and crystal-clear waters, look like something from a fairy tale.

Comfort and Practicalities

Transport is via a private SUV with air conditioning, ensuring comfort throughout long drives and bumpy roads. The tour includes two lunches, breakfast, dinner, bottled water, and overnight accommodation in a guesthouse, all of which add up to excellent value for the price of around $428 USD per person. The accommodation is a double standard guesthouse, providing a cozy base after days of exploring.

Guides are licensed and speak English fluently, making the experience educational and engaging. According to reviews, guides like Max and Ramil are not only knowledgeable but also friendly and attentive, often sharing little stories or tips that elevate the trip.

Optional Extras and Considerations

While the core experience covers most of your needs, optional activities like horse riding (from 12 EUR) and boat rides (from 20 EUR) are available. These are easy to add if you want to make your trip even more memorable, though they’re not included in the base price.

The tour’s pacing is generally relaxed, with plenty of time to enjoy each scenic spot. Keep in mind that some walking and hiking are involved, especially near Kaindy Lake, so comfortable footwear is advised.

Who This Tour Is Perfect For

This experience appeals most to nature lovers and curious travelers eager to see Kazakhstan’s diverse landscapes. The guided format makes it ideal for those who want to learn about the scenery without the hassle of planning, plus the private setup offers flexibility. It’s well-suited for couples, families, or solo explorers who appreciate comfort and authentic natural beauty.

If you love stunning views, enjoy a bit of hiking, and want the convenience of all logistics handled, this tour hits many of the right notes. It’s also a good choice if you’re interested in local culture and want to hear stories from experienced guides.

Final Thoughts

This 2-day private tour offers a fantastic way to see some of Kazakhstan’s most photogenic spots without feeling rushed. The combination of diverse landscapes, expert-guided commentary, comfortable transportation, and inclusive meals makes it a solid investment in memorable travel experiences. The ability to customize activities like horseback riding or boating adds a personal touch that can turn a good trip into a great one.

For those with a sense of adventure, a love for scenic beauty, and a desire to explore beyond urban Almaty, this tour provides a well-rounded, immersive experience. It’s especially appealing to travelers who want to combine ease and comfort with authentic, breathtaking vistas.

FAQ About the 2 Days Private Kolsai Kaindy Lakes with Charyn Canyon Tour

Is transportation provided for the entire tour? Yes, you’ll be traveling in a private SUV with air conditioning, which ensures a comfortable ride across all the scenic stops.

Are meals included? Correct, the tour includes breakfast, lunch (two times), and dinner, with options available for vegan, halal, or allergy-sensitive diets upon request.

Do I need to book optional activities in advance? It’s best to inform your guide beforehand if you’re interested in activities like boating or horseback riding, as these are optional extras.

How long are the walks and hikes? Expect around four hours of walking on Day 1, mainly at Charyn Canyon, and a hike of approximately 1.5 km to Kaindy Lake on Day 2.

What kind of accommodation is included? One overnight stay in a double standard guesthouse, providing a cozy base to relax after a day of exploring.

Are the entrance fees to parks and sites included? Yes, all national park entrance fees are included in the tour price.

Can I cancel this tour if my plans change? Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the scheduled start, with a full refund.

Is this tour suitable for children or those with mobility issues? While most travelers can participate, some walking and hiking are involved, so it’s best suited for those comfortable with active travel.

What is the best time of year to take this tour? Many reviews mention September as ideal, thanks to good weather, but the tour is generally suitable during most seasons with favorable weather.

In summary, this private Kazakh adventure combines natural beauty, expert guidance, and thoughtful amenities, making it an excellent choice for travelers wanting an authentic and comfortable way to explore Kazakhstan’s unparalleled landscapes.