+7 776 111 73 00
+7 776 111 73 00
Charyn canyon +
Kolsay Lake +
Kaindy Lake
1–2-Day Tour
1 day
from $ 420
Charyn National Park, Northern Tien Shan
Book a tour to Charyn canyon + Kaindy lake + Kolsay lake (Express)
Leave your contacts so we could contact you and choose the right day and time for the tour
The hit of sales in 2026 in the Almaty region. The tour amazes with the variety of landscapes.
The tour to Charyn Canyon and lakes is the most popular in the Almaty region. It is here that the stars of show business come to make unique photos and videos against the background of the stunning nature of our region.
Charyn Canyon is a unique object of nature. A small version of Grand Canyon in Colorado. According to the genera of the canyon, it is about 400-500 million years old.
Lake Kolsay is called a "Natural mirror" in which the sky and trees are reflected.
Kaindy Lake is a mysterious turquoise lake with flooded fir trees that give the lake a mystical look. The nature around the lakes is extraordinary. The tour combines the most beautiful places of Kazakhstan, and also gives an opportunity to get acquainted with Kazakh hospitality in the village.
If you have a day, then take this tour without hesitation!
1 day.
There is an opportunity to slowly see everything in 2 days.
There is an opportunity to slowly see everything in 2 days.
Almaty - Charyn (270km) – Saty village(100km) - Kaindy (12km) – Kolsay (20km)
- 6:00 - Departure from the hotel to the Charyn Canyon "Valley of Castles".
- 7:30 - Baiseit village (open air market).
- 8:30 - Arrival at the canyon.
- 10:00 -11:30 Road towards the Kaiyndy lake (120km). Visiting Black canyon on the way;
- 11:30 - 13:00 Kaiyndy lake excursion (trekking or horse riding about 2 km uphill)
- 13:00 – 13:30 Lunch
- 13:30 - 14:00 Drive to Kolsai lake (20 km).
- 14:-30 -15:30 Walk by the lake. You can boating (May-Okt period),
- 16:30 – 21:00 Return to Almaty
*** Please take your passport with you, citizens of the Republic of Kazakhstan - an identity card. Passport verification at the border zone
Plan:
Day 1:
- 8:00 — Departure from the hotel to Charyn canyon "Valley of Castles". Our driver will meet you at your hotel.
- 9:30 — Bayseit village.
- 10:30 — Arrival at the canyon.
- 12:00 -13:30 Road to Kolsay Lake.
- 13:30 – 14:00 Drive to Kolsay Lake.
- 14:00 – 16:00 Walk by the lake.
- 17:00 - return to the guest house.
Day 2:
- 8:00 After breakfast departure to Kaindy Lake.
- 11:00 – 12:00 return to the village. Lunch, Check-out from the guest house.
- 13:00 – 17:00 Travel to Almaty
Price for on 1 Day Express tour
Price for on 2 Day tour
Price includes: transport, guide, accommodation, 3 times meal
Group tours start from 35,000₸ per person.
What should you take with?
-
Camera or phoneAccessories for a photo shoot. -
ClothesThe temperature in the canyon is +7 degrees higher, it is often windy.. -
Sun protectionWe recommend sun glasses and SPF cream. -
MoneyBring cash if there will be problem with WiFi
Photo of Kaindy, Kolsay Lakes and Charyn canyon
Other tours featuring Charyn Canyon: active recreation and stunning landscapes
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 3 tours
Transfer to the location
Guide support
Free cancelation policy
Free cancelation of tour is available until 24 hours before your tour starts
Read our 230+ 5* reviews on TripAdvisor, Viator,
- StevenUK
★★★★★
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....
- RekaHungary★★★★★
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... - NaoJapan★★★★★
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 ....
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, it is possible to organize a one-day tour, though it will be full and active. It is optimal to start early in the morning from Almaty. For a comfortable experience, a tour with a professional guide and transfer is recommended to safely visit all sites without rushing. We also offer 2-day tour options.
The distance from Almaty to Lake Kaindy is about 280–300 km. The drive takes 5–6 hours one way, with the last 15 km from the village of Saty to the lake itself passing through rough off-road terrain and crossing a mountain river. That is why it is safer and more comfortable to travel as part of an organized tour with properly equipped transport.
The most convenient way is through an organized tour with transfer from Almaty. The road is partially unpaved, navigation can be difficult, and parking at Kolsay and Kaindy is limited. The tour includes transportation, an experienced guide, and all necessary permits in the national parks, making the trip safe and comfortable.
For a comfortable trip, it is recommended to bring comfortable shoes with a tread for walking, light covered clothing in summer or thermal underwear and a jacket in winter, a hat and sunscreen, water and light snacks, as well as a camera or smartphone to capture the landscapes and the submerged forest at Kaindy Lake.
You can plan a trip at any time of the year. From May to October, the roads are passable and the weather is comfortable; in summer, it is advisable to bring light clothing, a hat, and sunscreen. In winter, the landscapes are especially picturesque, with snow on the canyon and lakes creating a unique atmosphere, and warm clothing and shoes with good traction are needed for walks.
All main routes are accessible to tourists without special training. The walking trails to the viewpoints of Charyn Canyon and along the Kolsay Lakes are convenient and safe. The tour to Kaindy Lake includes a walk along a forest trail. The guide will help manage energy and choose optimal stops for photos and rest.
The tour is safe for all ages when simple rules are followed. It is recommended to stay on marked trails, wear comfortable shoes with good traction, maintain the group’s pace, and rest at stops. Children should be supervised by adults, and adults and elderly visitors should avoid steep climbs and slippery areas. The guide will always point out safe routes and rest stops, ensuring a comfortable and enjoyable trip for the whole family.
The lake was formed in 1911 after an earthquake, when a landslide blocked the gorge. A flooded spruce forest has been preserved under the water — the tree trunks rise from the clear water, creating an unusual and memorable landscape.
Lakes Kolsay, Kaindy and Charyn Canyon are the three most frequently visited natural wonders located near Almaty, Kazakhstan.
Charyn Canyon is a 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 of such impressive size is a popular place among tourists and outdoor enthusiasts. Here visitors can go hiking, set up camp and even go rafting on the Charyn River. There are also several specially designated viewing platforms that offer stunning views of the canyon and its unique rock formations.
While the outer beauty of Charyn Canyon is undoubtedly breathtaking, the inner beauty of the canyon lies in its unique ecosystem and rich biological diversity. The canyon is home to a diverse flora and fauna, many of which are endemic to the region.
Kaindy Lake is another popular attraction in the same region of Kazakhstan. The lake is famous for its crystal clear water and flooded forest. The lake was formed after an earthquake in 1911, which caused a landslide that blocked Kaindy River and created the lake. Visitors can swim or rent a boat to explore the lake and see the sunken trees up close.
However, this lake is a truly wonderful sight, with its crystal clear water and flooded forest, creating a unique and beautiful landscape. The turquoise blue-green color of the lake, surrounded by the lush greenery of the surrounding forest, creates a picturesque view that is truly breathtaking.
The lake is about 400 meters long and up to 30 meters deep. The water in the lake is crystal clear and has a blue-green color, which makes it a popular place for divers and photographers. Visitors can rent boats and explore the lake or go hiking in the surrounding forest.
Kolsay is a "natural mirror" in which the sky and trees are reflected. There is a beautiful legend about this "Pearl of the Tien Shan". It is said that the God of Heaven, Tengri, had a daughter named Umai. All the animals admired her incredible beauty. And only Umai complained that she didn't know how beautiful she was. Then, at her request, Tengri created Lake Kolsai, in the reflection of which everyone will see their face and everything around them.
Kolsai 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.
Don't forget to wear comfortable clothes and shoes suitable for hiking, and take a camera with you to capture the stunning views and natural beauty of these parts.
Lakes Kolsay, Kaindy and Charyn Canyon are popular tourist destinations in Kazakhstan, and they are easily accessible from Almaty. The stunning natural beauty and unique landscapes make both destinations a must-visit for everyone who visits the Almaty region.
Charyn Canyon is a 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 of such impressive size is a popular place among tourists and outdoor enthusiasts. Here visitors can go hiking, set up camp and even go rafting on the Charyn River. There are also several specially designated viewing platforms that offer stunning views of the canyon and its unique rock formations.
While the outer beauty of Charyn Canyon is undoubtedly breathtaking, the inner beauty of the canyon lies in its unique ecosystem and rich biological diversity. The canyon is home to a diverse flora and fauna, many of which are endemic to the region.
Kaindy Lake is another popular attraction in the same region of Kazakhstan. The lake is famous for its crystal clear water and flooded forest. The lake was formed after an earthquake in 1911, which caused a landslide that blocked Kaindy River and created the lake. Visitors can swim or rent a boat to explore the lake and see the sunken trees up close.
However, this lake is a truly wonderful sight, with its crystal clear water and flooded forest, creating a unique and beautiful landscape. The turquoise blue-green color of the lake, surrounded by the lush greenery of the surrounding forest, creates a picturesque view that is truly breathtaking.
The lake is about 400 meters long and up to 30 meters deep. The water in the lake is crystal clear and has a blue-green color, which makes it a popular place for divers and photographers. Visitors can rent boats and explore the lake or go hiking in the surrounding forest.
Kolsay is a "natural mirror" in which the sky and trees are reflected. There is a beautiful legend about this "Pearl of the Tien Shan". It is said that the God of Heaven, Tengri, had a daughter named Umai. All the animals admired her incredible beauty. And only Umai complained that she didn't know how beautiful she was. Then, at her request, Tengri created Lake Kolsai, in the reflection of which everyone will see their face and everything around them.
Kolsai 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.
Don't forget to wear comfortable clothes and shoes suitable for hiking, and take a camera with you to capture the stunning views and natural beauty of these parts.
Lakes Kolsay, Kaindy and Charyn Canyon are popular tourist destinations in Kazakhstan, and they are easily accessible from Almaty. The stunning natural beauty and unique landscapes make both destinations a must-visit for everyone who visits the Almaty region.
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