Small group tour to Kolsai, Kaindy Lakes and Charyn Canyon

Exploring Kazakhstan’s Natural Wonders in a Day: A Close-Up of Kolsai, Kaindy Lakes, and Charyn Canyon

If you’re dreaming of a day filled with breathtaking landscapes, discovering Kazakhstan’s most iconic natural landmarks without the hassle of planning, then this small group tour from Almaty might be exactly what you need. With most travelers booking it around a month in advance, it’s clear this experience is popular among those eager to see some of Central Asia’s most photogenic spots in just one day.

What makes this tour stand out? First, the expert guidance provided by knowledgeable guides like Nazerke, who many reviewers praise for her friendliness and professionalism. Second, the diverse scenery — from the dramatic cliffs of Charyn Canyon to the tranquil, emerald waters of Kolsai Lakes and the surreal underwater forest of Kaindy Lake. Third, the value for money at $180 per person, which includes transport, water, and a guide, offering a comprehensive experience at a reasonable price.

However, a consideration to keep in mind is the long day’s schedule, starting as early as 5 am and returning around 10 pm. This might be a stretch for those who prefer a more leisurely pace or have mobility issues. Still, for adventurous travelers eager to cover multiple highlights in one go, this tour offers an efficiency that’s hard to beat.

This experience suits travelers who love nature and photography, are comfortable with early mornings, and want a guided, hassle-free day exploring Kazakhstan’s most captivating landscapes. It’s perfect for those short on time but eager to see a variety of natural wonders with a friendly, professional group.

Good To Know

• Highly Rated: Consistently praised with a 5.0/5 rating and 26 reviews, reflecting strong satisfaction.
• Expert Guides: Guides like Nazerke and others are lauded for their friendliness and knowledge.
• Stunning Scenery: From canyon vistas to mountain lakes, the landscapes are truly photogenic.
• All-Inclusive: Transportation, bottled water, and taxes are covered, with optional activities like horseback riding or boating.
• Efficient Itinerary: Covers three major sites in one day with well-paced stops.
• Limited Group Size: Max 15 travelers, ensuring a more personalized experience.

An In-Depth Look at the Tour

Early Morning Pickup and Transfer

The adventure kicks off between 5:00 and 6:00 am from your meeting point on Baytursynova Street in Almaty. Expect a comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle to whisk you away. The early start is necessary to maximize daylight and cover all three sites, but reviewers note that it’s well-organized, and the driver is helpful, ensuring a smooth start to your day.

Charyn Canyon – “Valley of the Castles”

First stop is the Charyn Canyon, often dubbed the “Valley of the Castles” because of its towering, castle-like formations. Here, you’ll walk along the canyon’s bottom, taking in the impressive rock formations and rugged terrain. Many visitors find the canyon breathtaking, with reviews describing it as “simply amazing”. The opportunity to walk at the bottom allows for some fantastic photo opportunities and a sense of scale when gazing up at the towering cliffs.

Reviewer feedback highlights how memorable the canyon is, noting the variety of spots visited and the chance to explore different viewpoints. The canyon’s remote, untouched feel offers an authentic experience, far from touristy spots.

Kaindy Lake – The Underwater Forest

Next, the tour heads to Kaindy Lake, a surreal sight with its submerged forest creating a haunting, mirror-like reflection. The short hike (~20 minutes) to viewing spots allows you to get up close without overexerting. Many describe visiting Kaindy as “ecstatic,” especially those who enjoy unique landscapes that look like scenes from a fantasy film. The lake’s underwater trees and the vivid blue water are especially photogenic, making it a favorite stop.

Reviewers mention that the amount of time here is just right — enough to soak in the view and snap photos, but not so long as to tire out. The lake’s serenity contrasts beautifully with the rugged canyon, offering a peaceful pause in the day.

Lunch in Saty Village

Midday, you’ll stop at a guesthouse in Saty village for a traditional Kazakh lunch. Reviewers appreciate the chance to relax and sample local cuisine, which adds a cultural touch to the trip. The guesthouse ambiance is described as cozy, providing a nice break before heading to the next scenic stop.

Kolsai Lakes – The Mountain Jewel

The highlight for many is Kolsai Lakes, a chain of three mountain lakes surrounded by lush forests and towering peaks. The tour visit typically focuses on the lower lake, where you’ll walk around several spots, enjoy the scenery, and even opt for optional activities such as horseback riding or boating, according to personal preference.

One review enthusiastically states, “We loved the way the guide took us around the lakes, sharing insights and making sure we saw the best viewpoints.” The lakes are the perfect spot for photography and relaxing in nature. The crisp mountain air and emerald waters offer a stark contrast to the rocky canyon and the underwater forest.

Return Journey and Coffee Stops

After a full day of sightseeing, the group makes a quick stop for coffee and WC breaks before heading back to Almaty. The return journey is typically smooth, with many reviewers expressing how satisfied they are with the well-planned schedule and friendly guides.

End of Day Drop-off

Expect to be back in Almaty between 9:00 and 10:00 pm, tired but full of unforgettable impressions. The long day might be tiring, but reviewers agree it’s worth it, especially given the variety of landscapes packed into one trip.

Why This Tour Offers Great Value

At $180, this tour packs several key experiences into a single day, including transportation, a guide, bottled water, and all taxes. When you consider how much ground you cover — from canyon vistas to mountain lakes — it’s a cost-effective way to see some of Kazakhstan’s most iconic scenery.

The small group size (max 15) ensures that you won’t be lost in a crowd, and the knowledgeable guides like Nazerke or Dauren are often praised for their friendly, attentive service. They make the day not just about sightseeing but about understanding the stories behind the landscapes, adding depth to the experience.

Many reviewers mention how the guides made the trip special, with their professionalism and sincere friendliness. For instance, one reviewer appreciated how Zhan managed to handle a toddler effectively during the trip, highlighting the flexibility and family-friendly atmosphere.

Transportation and Timing

The use of air-conditioned vehicles makes a big difference on a day that involves a fair amount of driving. The early start and late return are designed to maximize sightseeing time, but it’s worth noting that the schedule is quite packed and requires stamina.

Accessibility and Booking

Most travelers can participate, but it’s advisable to be prepared for some walking and light hikes. The tour’s popularity means booking around 26 days in advance is recommended, ensuring you secure a spot on this sought-after experience.

Who Is This Tour Perfect For?

This trip is ideal for adventurous travelers eager to see Kazakhstan’s most stunning natural sites in one day. If you’re short on time but want a rundown, this tour offers great value. It’s suited for nature enthusiasts, photographers, and cultural curious travelers who appreciate guided experiences and small groups.

Those who prefer a slow pace or have mobility concerns should consider whether the early start and long day are suitable. But overall, if you’re happy to pack in a lot of scenery and adventure, this tour provides a balanced, well-organized day that leaves you with lasting memories of Kazakhstan’s natural beauty.

FAQ

How early does the tour start?
The pick-up begins between 5:00 and 6:00 am, allowing enough time to visit all sites comfortably within a day.

What is included in the price?
The price covers transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle, bottled water, all fees and taxes, and a guide. Meals are not included.

How long is the trip to each site?
The schedule is designed to maximize sightseeing with manageable stops, including walking at each site, like the 20-minute hike to Kaindy Lake.

Can I do optional activities at Kolsai Lakes?
Yes, visitors can choose to horseback ride or boat on Kolsai Lakes, depending on availability and personal preference.

Is the group size small?
Yes, the tour is limited to a maximum of 15 travelers, which helps facilitate a more personalized experience and better interaction with guides.

What if I need to cancel?
You can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours before the tour for a full refund. Cancellations less than 24 hours in advance are non-refundable.

Is this tour suitable for families?
Most travelers can participate, and some reviews mention family-friendly handling, but it’s best to be prepared for some walking and a long day.

How do I book this tour?
Booking can be done in advance, with most travelers reserving about a month before. You’ll meet at Baytursynova Street in Almaty for pickup.

To sum it up, this small group tour to Kolsai, Kaindy Lakes, and Charyn Canyon offers a well-rounded, value-packed day of Kazakh natural beauty. The combination of expert guides, breathtaking landscapes, and efficient itinerary makes it an excellent choice for travelers who want to maximize their time and experience. Whether you’re a photography enthusiast, an adventure seeker, or simply in awe of stunning scenery, this trip delivers a memorable taste of Kazakhstan’s wild, untouched charm.