Altyn Emel + Charyn Canyon + Kolsai & Kaindy Lakes
3-Day Jeep Adventure Tour
Embark on an unforgettable 3-day journey through some of Kazakhstan’s most diverse and breathtaking landscapes. This jeep tour combines the surreal desert beauty of Altyn Emel National Park, the dramatic formations of Charyn Canyon, and the serene alpine wonders of Kolsai and Kaindy Lakes, offering travelers a complete immersion into the natural treasures of the Tian Shan region.
Your adventure begins in Altyn Emel, a protected national park famous for its otherworldly geological formations. Here, you will encounter the iconic Singing Dune, a massive sand mountain that produces a mysterious humming sound when the wind moves its surface. You will also explore the colorful Aktau Mountains, known as “the rainbow mountains of Kazakhstan,” showcasing millions of years of Earth’s history in their layered rock formations. Nearby, the rugged Katutau Mountains reveal ancient volcanic landscapes and unique rock structures shaped by time and erosion.
The next destination takes you to the majestic Charyn Canyon, often compared to the Grand Canyon for its scale and beauty. The highlight is the Valley of the Castles, a winding trail surrounded by towering red rock walls sculpted by nature into fortress-like shapes. This location offers not only spectacular panoramic views, but also an exhilarating opportunity to walk through the canyon floor and feel its ancient power up close.
Your journey continues into the mountains of the Kungey Alatau, where you will visit the enchanting alpine lakes. Lower Kolsai Lake welcomes you with emerald water, dense spruce forests, and peaceful mountain scenery — a perfect spot for leisurely walks and photography. A short jeep ride deeper into the mountains leads to Kaindy Lake, famous for its submerged spruce trees rising eerily from crystal-blue waters. This surreal “sunken forest” is one of Kazakhstan’s most unique natural wonders and a highlight for every traveler.
Throughout this 3-day tour, you will travel in a comfortable off-road vehicle, allowing you to reach remote and stunning locations inaccessible by regular transport. Guests enjoy the perfect blend of adventure, nature, comfort, and cultural discovery — including local cuisine, mountain villages, and breathtaking viewpoints.
This tour is ideal for nature lovers, photographers, and travelers seeking a deep and authentic experience of Kazakhstan’s landscapes. In just three days, you will witness deserts, canyons, mountains, forests, and lakes — a rare combination that makes this itinerary one of the most diverse and memorable in Central Asia.