3 Day Tour to Kolsai Kaindy Lakes and Charyn Canyon

A natural adventure through Kazakhstan’s stunning landscapes

This 3-day tour to Kolsai Lakes, Kaindy, and Charyn Canyon promises an immersive experience into some of Kazakhstan’s most breathtaking sights. While we haven’t personally taken this trip, reviews and detailed itineraries give us a solid picture of what travelers can expect. From shimmering mountain lakes to surreal rocky gorges, this journey is perfect for those craving authentic, scenic, and culturally rich explorations.

What we find particularly appealing are the expert guides who speak multiple languages, giving visitors valuable insights, and the variety of landscapes packed into just three days. Plus, the inclusion of local hospitality means you’ll genuinely feel part of the Kazakh countryside. The main consideration? The tour starts at a surprisingly late hour—8 p.m.—which might seem odd at first but is designed to maximize sightseeing time over the course of the trip. This tour suits nature lovers, photographers, and those eager for a taste of Kazakhstan’s wilderness on a well-organized budget.

Good To Know

• Stunning scenery: Lakes, mountains, and canyons that make for memorable photos.
• Guided expertise: Guides speak English, Russian, and Kazakh, adding depth to your experience.
• Local hospitality: Comfortable guesthouses and traditional meals enhance the authentic feel.
• Great value: At $105 per person, the trip offers a lot of scenery and culture for the price.
• Well-paced itinerary: Highlights include lakes, sunken forests, and dramatic gorges.
• Early planning recommended: Book about 17 days in advance for the best availability.

An in-depth look at the tour experience

The starting point and journey to Saty village

The tour begins in Almaty, with an early evening meet-up scheduled at 8:00 p.m. at Abay Ave 50. This late start might raise eyebrows—after all, many tours kick off in the morning. However, in this case, it allows the group to travel through the night and arrive in Saty village in the early hours. As one reviewer noted, “Despite starting at the odd time of 8 p.m., everything was orderly, with guesthouse owners waiting to receive us at 2 or 3 a.m. in Saty.” This approach also helps optimize daytime sightseeing, especially since much of the scenic beauty is best experienced in daylight.

Accommodation and local hospitality in Saty

Once in Saty, you’ll stay in simple yet clean guesthouses, providing a genuine taste of rural Kazakh life. The rooms are modest but comfortable, with reviewers mentioning that they are “adequate and okay.” The hosts prepare straightforward meals, which add to the authentic experience—nothing fancy, but hearty and local. This stopover is crucial for acclimatization and sets a relaxed tone for the adventures ahead.

Day 2: Lakes and sunken forests

The second day is packed with two standout natural sites. First up is Kolsai Lake, a jewel of the Kazakh mountains. Visitors typically spend around two hours exploring its shores, taking photos, or simply soaking in the serene vistas. The clarity of the water and the surrounding pine-covered hills make this a favorite for nature lovers. As one reviewer highlighted, the scenery here is breathtaking and perfect for memorable photos.

Next, the journey continues to Kaindy Lake, famous for its submerged forest—trees rising from the water like ghostly monoliths. The excursion takes about three hours, with a UAZ SUV transporting you closer to the lake. The unique optical illusion of sunken trees against the mountain backdrop makes Kaindy an absolute highlight. From a practical standpoint, the guided tour ensures you won’t miss the best viewpoints or the perfect angles for photography.

Day 3: Charyn Canyon and its hidden gems

The final day takes you to Charyn Canyon, often called the “Grand Canyon of Kazakhstan.” The first stop is Black Canyons, where dramatic, dark cliffs tower over narrow gorges—an instantly impressive sight. Then, you’ll explore Moon Canyons, named for their surreal rock formations resembling lunar landscapes, offering peaceful trails and excellent photo opportunities.

The main attraction is the full exploration of Charyn Canyon itself, which takes about 2.5 hours. The expansive cliffs and scenic hiking routes make this the grand finale of your trip. Reviewers repeatedly emphasize the beauty of the canyon’s vistas, with one noting the “stunning cliffs and breathtaking photo spots.” Guides provide insightful commentary, making sure you understand the geological features and natural history.

Transport, timing, and group size

The tour uses comfortable transportation, with a focus on ensuring smooth travel between sites—though specific vehicle types aren’t detailed, the mention of UAZ SUVs at Kaindy indicates capable off-road vehicles. The group size caps at 45 travelers, maintaining a balance between social interaction and personalized attention. The timing, especially the late start, allows travelers to maximize daylight hours for sightseeing and photography.

Value and booking considerations

At $105 per person, this tour offers significant value for such a comprehensive exploration of Kazakhstan’s natural highlights. The reviews praise the organization and the “orderly” planning, which helps offset the unconventional start time. Booking around 17 days in advance is recommended to secure your spot, especially during peak season.

Authentic experiences and tips

From the reviews, it’s clear that the local hosts and guides contribute significantly to the experience. They’re knowledgeable, friendly, and speak multiple languages, which enriches the journey. Travelers have found the simple guesthouses to be more than adequate, and the traditional meals provide a taste of local Kazakh cuisine.

Photographers will love the diversity of landscapes—lakes, forests, gorges—and the quiet trails. Nature lovers will appreciate the untouched beauty and the chance to see Kazakh wilderness up close. Keep in mind that some parts of the trip involve walking and light hiking, so comfortable footwear and layered clothing are recommended.

Who is this tour best suited for?

This itinerary is ideal for adventurous travelers eager to see Kazakhstan’s iconic natural sites without the hassle of arranging transportation or guides. It’s perfect if you value authentic local experiences combined with stunning scenery. The tour’s pace suits those comfortable with early mornings and some walking, but it also offers enough flexibility for photography and quiet reflection.

If you’re after a budget-friendly, well-organized trip that delivers spectacular views and cultural insights, this tour is a smart choice. It’s especially suitable for travelers interested in landscapes rather than urban sightseeing, and for those happy to join a larger group for social and logistical convenience.

Final thoughts

This 3-day tour to Kolsai Lakes, Kaindy, and Charyn Canyon offers a thoughtfully curated glimpse into Kazakhstan’s natural beauty. The combination of lakes, mountains, and gorges makes for unforgettable photo opportunities and a chance to connect with the country’s wild side. The knowledgeable guides, simple but comfortable accommodations, and authentic local hospitality add depth and warmth to the experience—all at an accessible price point.

While the late start might seem unusual, it’s actually a clever way to maximize sightseeing and avoid daytime traffic. The small group size and well-planned itinerary ensure you’ll get plenty of time at each site without feeling rushed. For lovers of outdoor adventure, breathtaking scenery, and culture, this trip checks all the boxes.

In summary, if you’re looking for an affordable, well-organized introduction to some of Kazakhstan’s most iconic landscapes, this tour offers exceptional value and a memorable adventure. It’s a great way to step outside the city and into the stunning natural world that this fascinating country has to offer.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for all fitness levels?
While it involves some walking and light hiking, most travelers with moderate fitness should be comfortable. Guides are helpful in managing the pace, but be prepared for uneven terrain at some sites.

What language do guides speak?
Guides speak English, Russian, and Kazakh, ensuring clear communication and insightful commentary during the trip.

What time does the tour start and end?
The tour begins at 8:00 p.m. in Almaty and ends back at the meeting point, with the overall experience spanning three days.

Are meals included?
The tour includes traditional meals in Saty village, giving you a taste of local Kazakh cuisine. The specifics aren’t detailed but are part of the authentic experience.

What’s the best time to book?
Booking about 17 days in advance is recommended due to limited availability and popular demand, especially in peak seasons.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, there’s free cancellation up to 24 hours before the tour, allowing flexibility if your schedule shifts.

This trip is a gateway to some of Kazakhstan’s most stunning natural sights, offering both adventure and culture at a very reasonable price. Whether you’re snapping photos, seeking tranquility, or simply want to see the country’s wild side, this tour delivers a memorable experience.