Embark on a 2-day adventure from Almaty that will immerse you in some of Kazakhstan’s most stunning landscapes—the tranquil Kolsay Lakes and the dramatic Charyn Canyon. This tour offers the perfect escape for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts seeking a blend of relaxation and exploration amid breathtaking surroundings.
Your journey begins with a comfortable morning drive from Almaty to the scenic Kolsay Lakes, known as the “Pearls of the Northern Tien Shan.” Nestled in the mountains, these lakes are renowned for their clear, deep waters reflecting the surrounding alpine meadows and dense forests of coniferous trees. Upon arrival, enjoy a leisurely picnic lunch by the lake, breathing in the crisp mountain air. Later, explore the surreal beauty of Kaindy Lake, a unique natural wonder where the trunks of submerged trees rise eerily from the water’s surface, resembling a “sunken forest.” This mystical setting, formed by a natural disaster, has become one of Kazakhstan’s most iconic sights.
After a cozy evening and restful night in the village of Saty, the tour continues to the remarkable Charyn Canyon. Often compared to the Grand Canyon, Charyn impresses with its vibrant red rock formations, towering cliffs, and surreal landscapes formed over 12 million years. Take a scenic walk along the canyon, marvel at the geological formations, and capture unforgettable photos. A picnic amid this natural wonder offers the ideal pause to appreciate the scenery.
Whether it’s the serene beauty of Kolsay or the rugged grandeur of Charyn, this two-day escape promises a memorable experience, blending adventure, relaxation, and the unforgettable beauty of Kazakhstan’s great outdoors.
Our journey begins early in the morning at 7:00 am when our guide and driver will meet you at your hotel in Almaty. We’ll set off on a scenic drive towards the Kolsay Lakes, a series of beautiful, alpine lakes famously called the “Pearls of the Northern Tien Shan.” The drive showcases the shifting landscapes of Kazakhstan, from the bustling cityscape of Almaty to the tranquility of the mountainous countryside. Upon arrival at Kolsay Lakes around noon, we’ll pause to enjoy a packed lunch amidst a backdrop of pristine waters and coniferous woods. You’ll have some time to relax and enjoy the refreshing air as well as the stunning lake views framed by alpine meadows.
After lunch, we’ll make our way to the remarkable Kaindy Lake, located around 2000 meters above sea level within the Kungei Alatau Mountains. Kaindy, meaning “birch” in Kazakh, is an unforgettable sight—an ethereal, 400-meter-long lake formed by a natural landslide that caused a gorge to flood. The lake’s striking feature is its underwater forest: partially submerged pine trees, whose branches rise above the water surface like ancient sentinels. This “sunken forest” creates an atmosphere that is both mysterious and captivating. After exploring Kaindy, we’ll head to the nearby village of Saty, where you’ll be welcomed to a guesthouse for dinner and an overnight stay, offering a glimpse of local Kazakh hospitality.
On our second day, after breakfast at the guesthouse, we’ll drive towards one of Kazakhstan’s most iconic natural landmarks, Charyn Canyon. Located within Charyn National Park, the canyon is a stunning, multi-colored marvel carved by the Charyn River and known for its unique rock formations that have been shaped by natural forces for over 12 million years. With cliffs towering up to 300 meters, Charyn’s vast red and orange rock layers form surreal landscapes that captivate visitors and provide ample opportunities for photography and scenic walks.
Arriving at the canyon, we’ll embark on a gentle hike through this otherworldly terrain, admiring the intricate formations in the “Valley of Castles” section, named for the rock spires resembling castle towers. Midway through the tour, we’ll take a relaxing break for a picnic, allowing you to absorb the grand scenery. Following this, we’ll continue exploring and capturing photos of the striking geological features.
In the afternoon, we’ll begin our return drive to Almaty, where we’ll arrive at approximately 7:00 pm, marking the end of this incredible two-day journey through some of Kazakhstan’s most celebrated natural wonders. This tour offers a unique combination of tranquil lakes and rugged canyons, making it an unforgettable experience in the heart of the Kazakh wilderness.
| Number of Tourists | 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Economy* (per tourist) | $870 | $470 | $350 | $290 | $250 |
All transportation throughout the tour Sightseeing tour program with English speaking guide Environmental and entrance fees to sights as per itinerary Accommodation (shared double/twin room) Full board (2 lunches, 1 dinner)
Any Private Expenses Tips are not included, but would be appreciated Travel insurance Consular fees for tourist visa
This two-day tour was just what I hoped for and more! From the peaceful Kolsay Lakes to the eerie beauty of Kaindy’s sunken trees, every stop was incredible. The picnic by the lakes was a nice touch, letting us take in the tranquil surroundings. Charyn Canyon was just as amazing, and walking through the canyon with its deep red rock formations was so much fun. Our guide was knowledgeable and patient, making sure everyone felt included. I highly recommend this tour to anyone visiting Kazakhstan—it’s a wonderful mix of natural beauty and cultural discovery!
A truly unforgettable adventure!
This tour was a highlight of our Kazakhstan trip! The Kolsay Lakes were just breathtaking, surrounded by beautiful alpine scenery that made for incredible photos. Kaindy Lake was unlike anything I’d ever seen, with the sunken trees creating such a surreal, otherworldly atmosphere. Our guide was fantastic, providing fascinating details on the area’s history and nature. The drive to Charyn Canyon was comfortable, and exploring the canyon felt like stepping into a natural wonder from another era. I highly recommend this tour to anyone looking for unique landscapes and an authentic outdoor experience.
The tour was well-organized and full of unforgettable sights. I loved the serenity of Kolsay Lakes—it felt like a hidden paradise surrounded by pine forests and mountains. Kaindy Lake’s submerged trees were such a unique sight. The stay in Saty village added a wonderful cultural touch, and the guesthouse there was very comfortable. Charyn Canyon was truly impressive, and the walk through its stunning rock formations was worth every moment. The guide was very friendly and gave great insights into Kazakh culture. Definitely a memorable journey for those who enjoy nature and picturesque views.