Small group tour to Kolsai, Kaindy Lakes and Charyn Canyon

A Complete Guide to the Small Group Tour of Kolsai, Kaindy Lakes, and Charyn Canyon

This tour offers an incredible chance to see some of Kazakhstan’s most breathtaking natural landmarks in just one day. Designed for travelers who crave adventure and beautiful landscapes without the hassle of planning, it covers Charyn Canyon, Kolsai Lakes, and Kaindy Lakes—the top highlights of the Almaty region.

What makes this experience especially appealing is the small group size—capped at 15 participants—ensuring a more personal, relaxed journey with plenty of opportunities for questions and spontaneous discoveries. The tour’s all-inclusive approach, with transportation, guide, bottled water, and all fees covered, means you can focus on soaking up the scenery.

One thing to keep in mind: the start time is early, around 5:00 to 6:00 AM, which requires an early wake-up call but pays off with cooler weather and fewer crowds at the sites. It’s ideal for travelers who want a comprehensive day trip that balances active exploration with comfort.

This tour is best suited for adventure seekers, nature lovers, and anyone eager to see Kazakhstan’s wild side in a single, well-organized day. If you’re after a relaxing tour with a relaxed pace or prefer exploring at your own pace, this might not be the right fit. But if you’re ready for a packed day of stunning views and memorable moments, this could be just what you’re looking for.

Key Points

• All-in-one experience: Covers Charyn Canyon, Kolsai Lakes, and Kaindy Lakes in one day.
• Small group atmosphere: Max 15 travelers for a more personalized experience.
• Expert guide: Knowledgeable guides like Miras enhance the trip with local insights.
• Early start: Departure around 5-6 AM ensures cooler weather and fewer crowds.
• Active itinerary: Includes walking, short hikes, and optional activities like horseback riding or boating.
• Great value: For $180, you get transportation, guide, bottled water, and all fees.

The Itinerary Breakdown – What You Can Expect

Early Morning Departure from Almaty

The journey begins with a pick-up between 5:00 and 6:00 AM. This early start might sound challenging, but it’s worth it. Cooler temperatures and an almost-empty road make for a smoother journey. Plus, it leaves plenty of daylight for exploring the sights. You’ll hop into an air-conditioned minivan, which makes the long drive comfortable, and meet your guide, who will be your source of local knowledge and good humor throughout the day.

Stop at Charyn Canyon – “Valley of the Castles”

Your first major stop is the iconic Charyn Canyon, often called the “Grand Canyon of Central Asia”. The canyon’s dramatic rock formations and layered cliffs are mesmerizing. You’ll visit several spots along the canyon’s edge, and then walk down into the bottom of the canyon itself—a highlight for many. Reviewers like the “best tour experience” praise the “amazing views” and the chance to walk along the canyon floor, which adds a different perspective to the towering cliffs above.

The guide will point out interesting geological features, and you might find yourself marveling at how the canyon has been carved over millions of years. Expect to spend around 2-3 hours here, so bring comfortable shoes and your camera.

Trip to Kaindy Lake

Next, you’ll head to Kaindy Lake, famous for its submerged forest and striking azure waters. The trip involves a short hike—about 20 minutes—to viewpoints where you can take in the surreal scenery. Reviewers mention that the views are “magical,” with some describing it as a “snowy paradise” even if it’s not winter.

The lake’s sunken trees, standing upright in the water, make for incredible photos; it’s a scene straight out of a fairy tale. The guide might suggest the best spots for photos or quick tips for capturing the landscape’s essence.

Lunch in Saty Village

A hearty meal in a local guesthouse in Saty village provides a welcome break. The reviews reveal that the guide’s support and friendliness make the meal feel warm and authentic, giving you a genuine taste of Kazakh hospitality. The meal isn’t included in the original data, but it’s implied that the tour provides a traditional or local-style lunch to keep you energized for the afternoon.

Transfer to Kolsai Lakes

Post-lunch, you’ll transfer to the lower Kolsai Lake. The journey offers scenic views of the surrounding mountains and forests, adding to the anticipation. Once there, you’ll engage in walking around the lake, visiting several spots, and soaking in the tranquil mountain scenery.

Exploring Kolsai Lakes – Optional Activities

Kolsai Lakes are renowned for their stunning beauty. Here, visitors can opt for horseback riding or boating—activities that reviewers have enjoyed as fun ways to experience the lake’s serenity. Many have mentioned how “hands-on” these activities made the trip more memorable, although they are optional and involve extra costs.

Final Stop and Return to Almaty

After a relaxing afternoon enjoying Kolsai, you’ll stop for a quick coffee or WC break, then start heading back to Almaty. The drive back usually takes around 2 hours, and the tour concludes with a drop-off between 9:00 and 10:00 PM. The late return makes it a full day, but the experience leaves you with unforgettable memories.

What’s Included and What’s Not

The tour provides bottled water, an air-conditioned vehicle, all fees and taxes, and a guide—covering the essentials for a smooth day trip. The transportation is via minivan or similar vehicle, ensuring enough space and comfort for the group.

Meals are not included, so you’ll want to bring some snacks or plan for a meal at Saty village. The guide’s support in arranging meals or additional activities like horseback riding can enhance your experience, but these are optional extras.

The Real Value – Why It’s Worth the Price

At $180 per person, this tour offers excellent value considering the logistics involved. The cost covers transportation, guide, bottled water, and entry fees—saving you the hassle of organizing each part independently.

Many reviewers emphasize the knowledgeable guide—like Miras—who adds context and humor, making the journey even more enjoyable. They also appreciate how the small group size fosters camaraderie and allows for spontaneous photo stops and questions.

The early start and full-day itinerary maximize your time, allowing you to see three major landmarks in a single day. Considering the scenic beauty, the diversity of landscapes, and the professional organization, travelers are often left feeling they received more than their money’s worth.

Final Thoughts – Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is perfect for adventurous travelers eager to cram an abundance of natural beauty into one day. If you’re into stunning landscapes, short hikes, and authentic local scenery, you’ll find this tour highly rewarding.

It’s also ideal for those who prefer small group tours over large, busy excursions. The personal touch from guides like Miras ensures you’ll learn about the sites and enjoy the journey. The early start might not suit everyone, but it pays off with cooler weather and fewer crowds—especially at popular spots like Charyn Canyon.

While the day is packed, it’s well-paced, with enough flexibility for spontaneous photos or optional activities at Kolsai Lakes. If you’re after a comprehensive, hassle-free way to experience Kazakhstan’s natural wonders, this tour offers a practical, memorable, and beautiful adventure.

FAQ

What time does the tour start and end?
The tour departs between 5:00 and 6:00 AM and returns around 9:00 to 10:00 PM, making it a long but rewarding day.

Is transportation comfortable?
Yes, the trip uses air-conditioned minivans or similar vehicles, designed for group comfort during the long drive.

What’s included in the price?
Bottled water, all fees and taxes, transportation, and a guide are included. Meals are not included, so plan accordingly.

Can I participate if I have limited mobility?
The tour involves walking and a short hike (~20 minutes) at Kaindy Lake, so those with mobility issues should consider this.

Are activities like horseback riding or boating available?
Yes, at Kolsai Lakes, optional horseback riding or boating can be arranged for an extra cost, enhancing your experience.

Is this tour suitable for all ages?
Most travelers can participate, but very young children or those with mobility constraints should consider the walking involved.

How many people typically join?
The group size is capped at 15, ensuring a more intimate experience and better interaction with guides.

What should I bring?
Bring comfortable shoes for walking, sunscreen, sunglasses, a hat, and a camera. Optional snacks or extra water can be helpful.

Is the guide knowledgeable?
Yes, reviews consistently praise the guides, especially Miras, for their support, friendliness, and local insights.

To sum it up, this small group tour delivers a whirlwind of Kazakhstan’s most captivating natural sights in a single day. Whether you’re into incredible landscapes, engaging guides, or just want a hassle-free way to explore, it offers excellent value. Ideal for adventure lovers, nature enthusiasts, and those keen to tick off must-see landmarks in style—this trip promises a memorable, photo-worthy experience that you’ll talk about long after.