Kolsai & Kaindy Lakes + Charyn Canyon private 2-day tour

Exploring Kazakhstan’s Natural Wonders in Two Days: A Closer Look at the Kolsai & Kaindy Lakes + Charyn Canyon Tour

This 2-day private tour offers a comprehensive glimpse into some of Kazakhstan’s most breathtaking natural sights—Charyn Canyon, Kolsai Lakes, and Kaindy Lake. Designed for those who want a flexible, full-service experience without sacrificing value, it’s perfect for travelers eager to see stunning landscapes and enjoy authentic cultural touches. What we particularly love is how this tour balances adventurous exploration with comfortable transportation and a personal guide, making it accessible even for those with limited time.

A possible consideration is the long car rides—around 2.5 hours on the first day and roughly 1.5 hours on the second—so those prone to motion sickness or looking for a more leisurely pace might want to prepare accordingly. Nonetheless, if you’re craving jaw-dropping views, this tour packs in some of the most iconic Kazakh scenery in just two days. It’s especially suitable for travelers who appreciate nature, scenic drives, and cultural insights but also want the convenience of a private, well-organized experience.

Key Points

• Authentic Experience: The tour offers a private, guided journey through Kazakhstan’s top natural sights, avoiding large group tours.
• Stunning Scenic Views: Expect breathtaking landscapes like the Valley of Castles in Charyn Canyon, crystal-clear Kolsai Lakes, and the surreal submerged forest of Kaindy Lake.
• Comfortable Logistics: Included private transportation, off-road transfers, and cozy accommodations ensure a smooth adventure.
• Expert Guides: Reviewers highlight guides like Nursultan and Chingiz for their helpfulness, knowledge, and ability to tailor the experience.
• Value for Money: At $399 per person, including meals, accommodations, and all entrance fees, this tour offers impressive value—especially considering the personalized service.
• Flexible Activities: Optional boat rides, horse riding, and local dining add to the experience, with plenty of free time to relax and soak in the scenery.

A Detailed Look at the 2-Day Itinerary

Day 1: From Charyn Canyon to Kolsai Lakes

Starting Early: The journey kicks off at 8:00 am with a hotel pickup, which is a real plus for convenience. You’ll head out in a private vehicle—likely a comfortable SUV or similar—that can handle the off-road sections, especially crucial for visiting Kaindy Lake.

Charyn National Park & Valley of Castles: After a scenic 2.5-hour drive, you arrive at one of Kazakhstan’s most iconic sites. The Charyn Canyon was carved over 2.5 million years ago, and its “Valley of Castles” resembles a miniature Grand Canyon with impressive stone formations. You’ll spend about three hours here, walking along the canyon floor or hopping into eco park jeeps, which many reviewers found adds a fun, local touch—like riding in a rugged, open-air taxi through a natural sculpture park.

What Our Reviewers Say: Nurjehan_B described the experience as “a lovely trip despite the long drive,” noting the panoramic views of snowy mountains and local farm animals like lambs, cows, and horses. The guides are praised for their professionalism, ensuring comfort during the long ride.

Kolsai Lakes: After a 1.5-hour drive, you’ll arrive at the first of the Kolsai Lakes—an idyllic, crystal-clear mountain lake known for its beauty and tranquility. The chain of three lakes, separated by forests and rocky outcrops, creates a perfect backdrop for relaxing or light activities like boat rides (seasonal) and horse riding, which are available if you want to extend your adventure. There are also several cafes and restaurants on-site for lunch, allowing you to enjoy local cuisine amid stunning natural scenery.

Overnight Stay: The first night is spent at a cozy guesthouse, where you’ll enjoy a warm dinner prepared by hospitable hosts. This personal touch often stands out in reviews, with many noting the friendly atmosphere and the opportunity to experience local hospitality.

Day 2: From Kaindy Lake to the Black Canyon of Charyn

Morning at Kaindy Lake: Rising early, you’ll depart to visit the surreal Kaindy Lake, formed after an earthquake in 1911. Its submerged forest, where old spruces reach above the water surface, makes it one of the most photogenic spots on the tour. The cold water preserves the trees and creates a haunting, fairy-tale-like landscape. Expect about three hours to explore and take countless photos—it’s a true highlight, especially for nature photography lovers.

What Our Reviewers Say: Jessica_R described Kaindy Lake as “breathtaking and unforgettable,” praising the guide Minara for her storytelling skills and kindness. Many travelers find this spot to be a perfect combination of nature’s artistry and geological history.

Charyn Canyon Viewpoint & Local Lunch: On the way back to Almaty, you’ll stop at the Black Canyon viewpoint, where the Charyn River flows between towering black cliffs. The panoramic vistas here are a fantastic way to wrap up your Kazakh adventure. You’re then taken to a local village for lunch or snacks, giving you a taste of traditional Kazakh fare or simple local hospitality before heading back.

Return to Almaty: The drive back takes about an hour and a half, with a relaxed pace, allowing for conversation and reflection on the trip’s highlights.

Why This Tour Stands Out

Expert Guides and Personalized Service

Multiple reviews highlight the guides like Nursultan, Chingiz, and Minara for their attentive, friendly, and knowledgeable approach. They seem genuinely committed to making the experience special, adjusting the pace for children, and sharing fascinating stories about each site. This level of personalized care is often what makes the difference between a good tour and a memorable one.

Breathtaking Landscapes

From the dramatic cliffs of Charyn Canyon to the tranquil, mirror-like Kolsai Lakes, and the eerie submerged forest of Kaindy Lake, the scenery is nothing short of spectacular. Many reviewers remark on how these views are worth the long drives, and the tour’s timing allows for ample exploration and photography.

Value for Money

At $399 per person, the package includes all entrance fees, accommodations, breakfast, dinner, and private transportation—features that many group tours charge extra for. The inclusion of off-road trips to Kaindy Lake and the cozy guesthouse experience add comfort and authenticity that many travelers appreciate.

Flexibility and Comfort

The private nature of the tour means you can enjoy a relaxed pace, ask questions, or skip certain activities if you prefer. The transportation is comfortable, and the schedule is well-organized to maximize sightseeing without feeling rushed.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

If you’re looking for a convenient, all-inclusive experience that takes the hassle out of logistics and still offers plenty of adventure, this tour is a great fit. It’s ideal for travelers who want to see Kazakhstan’s top natural wonders with a small, friendly group or private guide. Nature lovers, photography enthusiasts, and those seeking culture will find this tour particularly rewarding.

It also suits those with limited time but big expectations for authentic scenic experiences. Families with children seem to feel comfortable thanks to guides like Nursultan who go out of their way to accommodate different paces and needs.

Final Thoughts

This 2-day private tour presents an excellent way to explore Kazakhstan’s most celebrated natural landmarks without the stress of self-organizing transport or navigating language barriers. The combination of stunning landscapes, knowledgeable guides, and comfortable accommodations makes it a memorable, value-packed experience.

While the long drives might not suit everyone, most travelers find that the awe-inspiring scenery more than compensates for the time spent on the road. Whether you’re snapping photos at Kaindy Lake, wandering through the Valley of Castles, or simply soaking in the views from the Black Canyon, you’ll leave with a deeper appreciation of Kazakhstan’s natural beauty and local hospitality.

This tour is best suited for those who crave authentic encounters, scenic diversity, and the convenience of a guided private experience. If you’re ready to explore beyond the urban landscape of Almaty and into the wild, this trip offers a truly unforgettable introduction to Kazakhstan’s natural treasures.

FAQ

Is pickup included in the tour?
Yes, pickup from your hotel in Almaty is offered as part of the package, making logistics simple and stress-free.

How long are the drives between sites?
Expect approximately 2.5 hours from Almaty to Charyn Canyon, about 1.5 hours from Charyn to Kolsai Lakes, and around 1.5 hours back on the second day from Kaindy Lake to Almaty.

Are meals included?
Breakfast and dinner are included, with the opportunity to have lunch at local cafes or restaurants at Kolsai Lakes and during the journey.

Can I participate if I am traveling with children?
Yes, many reviewers mention guides like Nursultan who adapt the pace for children, making it suitable for family travel.

What activities are optional?
Boat rides at Kolsai Lakes and horse riding are available but not included in the price. You can choose to indulge or simply enjoy the scenery.

What if the weather is poor?
The tour requires good weather for optimal experience. If canceled due to weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

This detailed, authentic review should give you a clear picture of what to expect from this two-day adventure. Whether you’re chasing perfect photos or just soaking in spectacular views, it’s a journey worth considering for your Kazakhstan itinerary.