Kolsay & Kaindy Lakes and Charyn Canyon are among the most breathtaking and “must-see” attractions in the Almaty region, all explored on this two-day tour. At Charyn Canyon, you’ll marvel at the dramatic landscapes, walk through the enchanting Castle Valley sculpted from rocks and sand, and take in stunning panoramic views.

Just a few hours from the canyon, the scenery transforms into the majestic mountains often called the “Swiss Alps of Kazakhstan.” Here, you’ll immerse yourself in pristine nature and discover the serene beauty of the Kolsay Lakes.

Nearby, we will visit one of Kazakhstan’s natural wonders – Kaindy Lake. Formed after an earthquake blocked a river, the lake flooded a forest, leaving the tree tops emerging above the water, creating a truly magical and unique landscape found nowhere else in the world.

PLACES you will visit:
  • Charyn Canyon
    A surreal landscape of towering cliffs and ancient formations, offering breathtaking views and unforgettable adventures.
  • Lower Kolsay Lake
    A peaceful mountain lake surrounded by pine forests, perfect for hiking, boating, and reconnecting with nature.
  • Kaindy Lake
    A mystical “sunken forest” with emerald waters and ghostly submerged trees rising toward the light.
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ITINERARY
05:30, Pick-up
Pick up guests from their addresses and depart for Kolsay Lakes (285 km)
09:00, Charyn Canyon "Valley of the Castles"
Stopover at the Black Canyon
11:00, Kaiyndy Lake
Arrive at Kaindy Lake, followed by a short trek (1.5 km one way) to three panoramic sites: a view of the lake from above, the inflow of the Kaindy River into the lake, and a view from the shore
12:30, Saty Village
Return to Saty village (15 km). Visit a panoramic site with views of the Chilik River
13:30, Lunch
Lunch at a guest house (included in the tour price)
14:30, Kolsay Lake
Visit Kolsay Lake and walk along the shore
17:00, Valley of Castles
Depart and visit the panoramic view of "Valley of Castles" Canyon
21:30, Drop-off
Arrival back in Almaty
OPTIONS & PRICES
Group
2 person
4 person
6 persons
8 persons
Total Price
$ 300
$ 360
$ 400
$ 450
Price Includes
  • ✅ Hotel pick-up/drop-off

  • ✅ Comfortable vehicle
  • ✅ English /Arab /Chinese speaking Guide
  • ✅ Bottled Drinking water
  • ✅ Lunch at a Guest House
  • ✅ National park entrance fee
  • ❌ Horseback-riding/boating is paid on site (from 6000 KZT/person)
  • ❌ Any Personal Expenses

⚠️ If you’re traveling in a larger group, please contact us and we’ll give you a custom quote;

⚠️ We reserve the right to cancel or rearrange tour stops depending on seasons, climate conditions, or other events outside our control;

Kolsay 1, Kaindy and Charyn Canyon


Lakes Kolsay 1,2,3 are high-altitude lakes with the clearest azure water. They are called the Pearls of Tien-Shan because they are located close to each other, like beads in a necklace.
Lake Kolsay 1 offers tourists to enjoy scenic views and walks along the coast, or rent a boat or catamaran and sail around the lake.
Kayindy (Kaindy) - the famous lake with the trunks of pine trees growing straight out of the water. this phenomenon is explained by the fact that the lake was formed as a consequence of an earthquake, flooding the gorge. Very cold water doesn't let the pines destroy, so they please the tourists with their unusual views.
Charyn Canyon will be a pleasant contrast after the green-blue colors of the mountains. called the younger brother of the Grand Canyon, Charyn delights with thousands of years of landscapes.

Lakes Kolsay 1,2,3 are located in Kolsay National Park, 350 km from Almaty, between Kungei Alatau and Zailiysky Alatau ridges. They are located in the Kolsai Gorge in the border area with Kyrgyzstan.
Lake Kolsay 1 is at an altitude of 1800m, to Kolsay 2 you have to climb another 8 km on foot or on horseback.

Lake Kaiyndy is located in the neighboring gorge. The road to the lake is mountainous, so it is advisable to go there in 4 WD off-road vehicles. Famous for the centuries-old pines rising from the depths, which looks stunningly picturesque in both summer and winter.

Charyn Canyon is on the way to the lakes, 170 km from the city.
The excursion to Kolsay and Kayindy lakes implies two days. During this time you can comfortably enjoy your rest.

You can choose from three options for spending the night: a guesthouse in the village of Saty with meals included, hotels on the shore of Lake Kolsay 1 with a view of the lake or tents in the warm season.
The order of visiting the lakes and the canyon can be changed, usually we visit Kolsay 1 lake on one day and Kayindy and Charyn on the second.
You are supposed to walk around the lake Kolsay 1, to Kayindy lake and along the Charyn canyon, so we advise to wear comfortable shoes.
The trip is possible at any time of the year - autumn colors of the contrast of spruce and deciduous trees, fresh summer greenery and coolness, or winter fairy-tale charm.
Frequently Asked Questions
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