One day Private Tour to Charyn Canyon, Kaindy and Kolsay Lakes

If you’re looking to explore some of Kazakhstan’s most breathtaking scenery in just a day, this private tour taking you from Almaty to Charyn Canyon, Kaindy Lake, and Kolsay Lakes is an excellent choice. It promises an action-packed day with plenty of opportunities for incredible photos, fresh mountain air, and a touch of adventure.

What we particularly love about this experience is how it combines iconic natural sites with local cuisine, making it a well-rounded day. Plus, reviews highlight the knowledgeable guides and the stunning views that leave a lasting impression. That said, keep in mind that it involves quite a long day of driving—about 12 to 14 hours—so it’s best suited for those with a good level of fitness and patience for long road trips.

One consideration is the busy schedule packed into just one day. It’s a full-on adventure and might feel a bit rushed if you’re keen on spending more time exploring each location. However, if you’re short on time but want a taste of Kazakhstan’s natural beauty, this tour delivers excellent value. It’s perfect for curious travelers who want a comprehensive, guided experience with a mix of hiking, sightseeing, and local culture.

Key Points

• Incredible landscapes: Visit three of Kazakhstan’s most spectacular sites—Charyn Canyon, Kaindy Lake, and Kolsay Lakes—all in one day.
• Expert guides and good value: Knowledgeable guides help bring the experience to life, with reviews praising their friendliness and professionalism.
• Long but rewarding day: Expect a 12-14 hour trip with lots of driving, but the sights make it worthwhile.
• Authentic local experience: Includes lunch in a local guesthouse or yurt, offering a taste of regional cuisine.
• Flexible activity options: For hiking enthusiasts, optional walks are available, while others can admire views from the comfort of an open-roof car.
• Limited free time: Each stop has a set duration, meaning you’ll see a lot but won’t linger long at each location.

A Deep Dive into the Experience

Starting at Charyn Canyon: Kazakhstan’s Grand Canyon Lookalike

The tour kicks off early in the morning with a private car pickup from Almaty, heading about 2.5 hours toward Charyn Canyon. It’s worth starting early because the landscape is best enjoyed in the morning light, and you’ll beat some of the crowds. The canyon itself stretches approximately 150 km long, with depths reaching up to 300 meters. Many describe it as the “little brother of the Grand Canyon”, and honestly, it’s easy to see why.

The standout attraction here is the Valley of Castles, a 2.5 km stretch where weathered rock formations resemble a fortress. The story behind the canyon’s formation is that it’s about 25 million years old, giving it an almost ancient aura.

If you’re a hiker, you can opt for a 2.5 km walk along the canyon to the Charyn River, which adds a bit of physical activity to your day. Alternatively, the open-roof car option is a fantastic way to soak in uninterrupted panoramic views while staying comfortable. Reviewers love this because it allows for both sightseeing and relaxation. The admission ticket is included, so no surprises there.

From Canyon to the Lakes: Saty Village and Local Flavors

After the canyon, the tour head’s just 40 minutes to Saty village for lunch. Here, you can choose to eat in a traditional guesthouse or a yurt, enjoying authentic Kazakh cuisine—often described as hearty, simple, and delicious. Many reviews mention the homely, tasty food as a highlight, complementing the scenery perfectly.

Post-lunch, the journey continues to Lake Kaindy, a geological wonder at an altitude of 2000 meters. Formed after an earthquake in 1911, this 400-meter-long lake is famous for its submerged forest of spruce trees, which appear as eerie, sunken silhouettes beneath the water. We loved the way the lake’s unique formation creates a mysterious, almost surreal atmosphere. Expect a short walk of about 15 minutes to reach the lake, and you’ll have around an hour for photos and soaking in the scenery.

Kolsay Lakes: The Mountain Serenity

The final leg of the trip takes you to Kolsay Lakes, a complex of three high-altitude lakes. The first, at 1818 meters, is particularly accessible and offers a tranquil setting with calm waters and lush surroundings. It’s a place where you’ll understand why travelers describe it as “magnificent” and “calm.” The lakes sit at different elevations—1800, 2250, and 2700 meters—showing off a stunning vertical landscape.

The time spent here is around three hours, which, thanks to the scenic vistas, feels just right. Many reviews note that the lakes’ peacefulness and majestic views are unforgettable. For those who love to take photos or just want to sit and breathe in mountain air, this stop hits the mark.

Logistics, Transport, and Practicalities

The entire experience is conducted in an air-conditioned private vehicle, ensuring comfort during the long drive. From the start time at 5:00 am, expect a very early departure but also a flexible, hassle-free day. The tour includes all fees and taxes, bottled water, and a delicious lunch. Optional activities like horse riding or boating are available for an extra fee if you want to extend your adventure.

While the long hours might seem daunting, the reviews suggest that the guides and driver are helpful, friendly, and attentive—making the journey smoother. Many mention that the long drives are manageable thanks to good company, comfortable cars, and beautiful views along the way.

Highlighted Reviewer Insights

One review mentions how the guide Alina was “very professional and attentive,” making sure the group was well taken care of, which is a hallmark of this tour. Another reviewer appreciated the helpfulness of the guides in coordinating with locals, which made the day more seamless.

Many travelers also appreciated the delicious, homestyle meal, and some even mentioned that they didn’t expect such tasty food in a remote mountain area. This adds a special touch, making the trip more than just sightseeing—it’s a taste of local life.

The Value of This Tour

At $260 per person, this tour offers a solid value for the sheer amount of stunning scenery, knowledgeable guiding, and included amenities like lunch and entrance fees. It’s a great way to tick off some of Kazakhstan’s most famous natural wonders without the hassle of planning multiple trips or renting a vehicle.

Given the reviews praising the professionalism of the guides and the enchanting vistas, the experience truly feels curated to ensure visitors leave with lasting memories. Its group discounts and private nature make it adaptable whether you’re traveling solo, with a partner, or as a family.

While the day is long, many reviewers felt it was worth every minute for the extraordinary scenery and the comfort of choosing a private, guided experience. Just be prepared for the early start and the amount of driving involved.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This trip is ideal for travelers with limited time in Almaty who want to see the best of Kazakhstan’s outdoor beauty. It suits those who enjoy gentle hikes, breathtaking landscapes, and local hospitality. If you’re comfortable with long drives and want a hassle-free, guided experience that packs a punch, this tour is perfect.

It’s also a good choice for photographers or nature lovers eager to capture iconic shots of the canyon and lakes. However, if you prefer slow-paced exploration or have mobility restrictions, you might find the schedule a bit rushed.

FAQs

Is this a full-day tour?
Yes, it runs approximately 12 to 14 hours, starting early at 5:00 am and returning late in the evening.

What’s included in the price?
The tour price covers all fees and taxes, bottled water, private transportation, and a local lunch. Optional activities like horse riding or boating cost extra.

Can I hike at the sites?
Yes, at Charyn Canyon, you can hike 2.5 km to the river if you wish. Other stops are mainly for sightseeing and photos, with walks ranging from 10 to 15 minutes.

What should I bring?
Bring comfortable shoes for walking, sun protection, water, and a camera. The open-roof car option offers great views, but dressing in layers is advisable for mountain weather.

Is this suitable for children?
Most travelers say yes, especially if children are comfortable with long car rides. Keep in mind the full-day schedule and pack accordingly.

Are meals included?
Yes, a traditional local meal or vegetarian options are included in the tour, served at a guesthouse or yurt in Saty village.

Final Thoughts

This private tour to Charyn Canyon, Kaindy Lake, and Kolsay Lakes delivers a fantastic snapshot of Kazakhstan’s natural beauty within a single day. It balances adventure, comfort, and local culture, making it a smart pick for those eager to see the most iconic sites without multiple separate trips.

The guides’ professionalism, combined with the stunning landscapes and authentic meal experience, makes this a memorable outing. While it’s a long day, the value for money and the quality of sights make it well worth the time. Whether you’re a nature enthusiast, a photographer, or simply seeking a scenic escape, this trip will leave you with plenty of “wow” moments.

In summary, this tour suits travelers who are flexible with long days of driving, eager to explore diverse landscapes, and interested in experiencing Kazakhstan’s outdoor treasures through the comfort of private transportation and expert guidance. It’s a carefully curated adventure that highlights the very best of the country’s natural wonders, ensuring you leave with unforgettable memories and fantastic photos.