Charyn canyon +
Kolsay lake

1 day
from $ 200
Charyn National Park, Northern Tien Shan

One of the most popular tours in the Almaty region.

If you have one full day, then you should go on this tour.


The tour amazes with the variety of landscapes. Kolsay is simply fascinating. You can see everything in it: tall fir trees, small birch twigs, trout playing, and even every feature of your face you will see in this magic mirror. Canyons, mountains, passes, alpine meadows, the clearest sky, snowy peaks, soaring eagles, herds of horses - all this you will see along the way on the highway. And the places of visit will delight even the most sophisticated tourist.


We will be glad to go on this journey with you!

About tour to Charyn canyon and Kolsay Lake
Kazia Tour organizes excursions to the Charyn Canyon by transport (individual only) and hiking for small and large groups.

Kolsay Lakes and Charyn Canyon are two other natural wonders located near Almaty, Kazakhstan.

During the tour:

  • The guide will meet you in the lobby of your hotel. You will go straight to Charyn. On the way, we stop at gas stations so that you can buy coffee, tea, a light snack.
  • In 1.5 hours you will pass a village where you can buy fresh fruit, homemade bread.
  • Upon arrival at the canyon, we will pay an environmental fee and walk down the stairs into the canyon. The walking part will take about 20-30 minutes one way (2.6 km of a comfortable wide trail).
  • At the end of our walk we will see the stormy Charyn river. We'll take photos, relax and go back
  • On the way back, we can use the transfer inside the canyon.
  • We will go to the Panoramic view of Charyn
  • We will continue our journey to Kolsay Lake (1.5 hours)
  • On the way we will have lunch at the guest house. You will experience the famous Kazakh hospitality
  • We will visit the lake. There is a small descent to the lake.
  • You can go boating in the summer (May-September), or you can just walk along the shore to the pier.
  • We will take you to the Almaty hotel.
Price for the trip

The price includes: comfortable transport, professional guide, entrance tickets to the eco-park, lunch

Option "driver" - If English speaking driver is available we provide. If not - Kazakh speaking driver

What should you take with?
  • High Quality
    Passport or ID card
  • Camera or phone
    Accessories for a photo shoot.
  • Clothes
    It is always cooler on the lake than in the city at 7°C.
  • Sun protection
    We recommend sun glasses and SPF cream.
Photo of Charyn canyon and Kolsay Lake
Book a tour and get a free airoport pick up from us!
What is included in service of Kazia Tour?
Meeting at airport if booking 2 tours
Transfer to the location
Guide support
Free cancelation policy
Free cancelation of tour is available until 24 hours before your tour starts
  • Steven
    UK

    ★★★★★

    We became friends!

    We had an amazing four-day adventure, made all the more enjoyable by Gulzat's personality. Through discussion, we arrived at the perfect bespoke four-day road trip. We did everything that we wanted to do and it was fantastic that we could return to the Charyn Canyon to take photographs in better light....

  • Reka
    Hungary
    ★★★★★
    See you in Budapest!
    We spent teo days with her! She was so nice and plesent and helpful. I always felt safe. She was helpful! We spoke so much about our familiy and culture, we learned a lot from Kazakhstan! Thank you for the unfogetable experience! I recommend her to anyone! It was amazing how she can speak on three language...
  • Nao
    Japan
    ★★★★★
    We spent a great day!
    I had a great experience with my guide, Gulzat. She is very polite, kind and caring person. She replied me very quick any time. I came to Almaty from Japan alone. I was a little bit nervous before but I was very relieved by her support. She invited me to a nice riverside lunch on the way to Big Almaty Lake. I had an amazing afternoon. The lake was beautiful ....
Kolsay Lakes and Charyn Canyon are two natural wonders located near Almaty, Kazakhstan.

Kolsay Lakes are a series of three lakes located in the mountains of the northern Tien Shan, about 300 kilometers southeast of Almaty. The lakes are known for their stunning beauty, crystal clear water and picturesque surroundings. Visitors can stroll around the lakes, go fishing or just relax and admire the stunning views. The area is also home to various species of flora and fauna, including rare birds and animals such as the snow leopard.

There are 3 lakes in total: Kolsay-1, Kolsay-2, Kolsay-3.
Small Kolsay Lake, also known as Kolsay-3, is a stunning alpine lake located in the mountains of southeastern Kazakhstan, near the border with Kyrgyzstan. The lake is part of Kolsay Lakes National Park, a protected area known for its natural beauty and biodiversity.
The lake is located at an altitude of 1800 meters and is surrounded by lush forests and high mountains. It feeds on melted glacial water and has a bright turquoise color, which is truly breathtaking.
Visitors can hike to Small Kolsay Lake along a well-marked trail that starts at the entrance to Kolsay Lakes National Park. The hike takes about 2-3 hours and is moderately challenging, with several steep sections along the way.
In addition to the most beautiful lake, the area is home to a variety of wildlife, including brown bears, lynxes and wild boars, as well as a wide range of bird species.

Charyn Canyon is another natural wonder located about 200 kilometers east of Almaty. It is often compared to Grand Canyon in the United States because of its similar appearance. The canyon has a length of more than 150 kilometers and is known for its unique rock formations that have been eroded by Charyn River for millions of years. Visitors can stroll through the canyon, admire the stunning views and explore various formations such as the Valley of Castles.

The canyon also has cultural significance for the local Kazakh people who have lived in this region for thousands of years. They have developed a unique lifestyle that is closely related to the natural environment of the canyon, including traditional cattle breeding and the use of natural resources for food and medicine production.

Charyn Canyon is a must-visit place for everyone who visits Kazakhstan or Central Asia. Its natural beauty and enchanting relief make this place truly unforgettable. Without a doubt, you should not miss the opportunity to enjoy and memorize this place!

Lake Kolsay and Charyn Canyon are popular tourist destinations in Kazakhstan, and they are easily accessible from Almaty. Visitors can arrange excursions or transportation to both locations, and camping is also a popular activity in both areas. The stunning natural beauty and unique landscapes make both destinations a must-visit for everyone who visits the Almaty region.

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