Almaty: Kolsai Kaindy Lakes & Charyn Canyons 2-Day Tour

Imagine a journey that takes you through some of the most breathtaking natural sights in Kazakhstan, all within just two days. That’s exactly what this Almaty: Kolsai Kaindy Lakes & Charyn Canyons tour promises—and it mostly delivers. While we haven’t personally been on this exact trip, the glowing reviews, detailed itineraries, and passionate traveler accounts give us plenty of insight into what makes this experience so appealing.

We love how the tour combines stunning lakes and dramatic canyons with authentic Kazakh culture, like staying overnight in a yurt and enjoying traditional cuisine. The carefully crafted itinerary offers plenty of time at each location to soak in the views, plus the chance to connect with fellow travelers from around the world. One potential consideration? The long travel distances might be tiring for some, especially those less comfortable with prolonged bus rides. This trip suits adventurous, curious travelers who want to see Kazakhstan’s natural beauty without feeling rushed.

Whether you’re a nature lover, culture enthusiast, or someone seeking a unique overnight experience, this tour packs a lot into just two days. The friendly guides and smooth organization ensure you’ll enjoy the journey, but knowing what to expect helps you prepare for the adventure ahead.

Good To Know

• Stunning natural sights including lakes, canyons, and diverse landscapes
• Authentic cultural experience staying in a yurt and tasting local Kazakh dishes
• Comfortable transportation with English-speaking guides keeping you informed
• Well-paced itinerary that balances sightseeing, relaxation, and culture
• Great value for the price, especially considering included meals, accommodation, and expert guidance
• Long distances covered, so good physical condition and preparation are recommended

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Overview of the Tour Experience

This 2-day journey offers a well-rounded taste of Kazakhstan’s most photogenic spots, from shimmering lakes to rugged canyons, with plenty of cultural moments sprinkled in. It’s designed to maximize sightseeing while maintaining a relaxed pace, making it suitable for most travelers with an average level of fitness.

The Itinerary Breakdown

Day 1: Lakes and Canyons

Starting from your hotel in Almaty, the tour kicks off with a scenic drive out into the Almaty region. The first stop is Kolsai Lakes, often called the “Pearls of the Northern Tianshan Mountains.” These three interconnected lakes are famous for their emerald waters and mountain backdrop—think postcard-perfect. Reviewers rave about the tranquility here, especially if you take a pedal boat across the lake, as one traveler noted, “Kolsai was particularly impressive, do get the pedal boat as it’s quite peaceful.”

Next, the group heads to Charyn Canyon, sometimes called the “Grand Canyon of Central Asia.” The expansive, layered rock formations are awe-inspiring, with plenty of time for walking and photo stops. Travelers appreciated how the guide Serzh scheduled transport back to avoid us walking in the midday heat, making the experience more comfortable.

Day 2: The Hidden Gem of Kaindy Lake and Canyons

Early morning, you’ll visit Kaindy Lake, a surreal site famous for its submerged forest and striking turquoise waters. One reviewer described it as “genuinely stunning” and perfect for wandering and photos. The lake’s natural beauty and the tranquility make it a highlight of the trip.

Additional canyon formations like the Black and Moon Canyons are included for variety, offering different landscapes and photo opportunities. The guide Aidar was praised for his energy, storytelling, and care—”Aidar was an absolute legend,” wrote one traveler—adding a personal touch to the sightseeing.

Accommodation in a Yurt: A Cultural Highlight

Spending a night in a yurt is a core part of the experience. Travelers love the chance to feel the nomadic lifestyle firsthand, with many noting that the yurts are surprisingly comfortable, and some even have plug sockets for devices. The yurt camp is located far from city noise, with only the sound of mountain rivers and a star-studded sky overhead. The bonfire evenings, filled with games and stories, are both fun and authentic.

Some reviewers mentioned that accommodation options also include traditional homes if preferred, ensuring comfort is prioritized.

Food and Hospitality

The included meals are home-cooked Kazakh dishes, which get high praise for their flavor and authenticity. Reviewers mention hearty lunches and dinners, often with vegetarian options available upon request. The food is described as tasty, filling, and a great way to connect with local culture.

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Transportation and Group Size

Traveling in a comfortable van or bus with air conditioning, the long drives between sites are manageable, with many reviewers highlighting the smooth driving despite the distances. Group sizes are typically around 14 people, fostering a friendly, social atmosphere. Some travelers noted that the bus might feel a bit cramped, and the outlets sometimes don’t work, so carrying a power bank is advised.

Guided Tours and Support

Guides like Aidar, Zhenis, and Farrukh consistently receive high praise for their knowledge, friendliness, and attentiveness. They share interesting facts, cultural stories, and hidden tips, making the trip more than just sightseeing. Several reviews mention that guides go beyond expectations, ensuring everyone feels cared for and involved.

What Makes This Tour a Great Choice?

Value for Money is a strong selling point—considering all meals, accommodation, transportation, and expert guiding, many travelers feel the trip offers excellent bang for your buck. The overnight yurt stay, in particular, adds a unique cultural dimension that’s hard to find elsewhere.

Authentic experiences like staying in a yurt, tasting traditional Kazakh food, and listening to local legends create a memorable journey. The scenery is genuinely stunning, with lakes like Kaindy and Kolsai often exceeding expectations, especially for first-time visitors.

The social atmosphere with travelers from different countries, sharing stories around the bonfire or at mealtimes, enhances the trip’s appeal. Guides are skilled at managing diverse groups and ensuring everyone gets a chance to participate.

The long drives might be a downside for some, especially those sensitive to motion sickness or with limited stamina. But most see it as part of the adventure, with beautiful scenery passing by the window, and the guides making the journey enjoyable.

Practical Tips for Travelers

• Pack essentials like hiking shoes, sunscreen, insect repellent, a hat, and a rain jacket—mountain weather can be unpredictable.
• Bring a power bank to keep your devices charged during long day trips.
• The tour is suitable for most with an average fitness level, but be prepared for some walking and hiking in uneven terrain.
• Vegetarian meals are available if requested in advance—trust the guides to accommodate dietary needs.
• Don’t forget your passport for registration at various sites, and note that no baby strollers or oversize luggage are permitted.
• If you’re prone to motion sickness, consider taking medication beforehand as the bus ride can be lengthy.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for families with young children?
It depends. The physical activity level is average, but the long bus rides and uneven terrain might be challenging for very young children. Check with the tour provider for specific age restrictions.

What is included in the price?
The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, transportation in a comfortable air-conditioned van or bus, all meals (including vegetarian options), bottled water, and accommodation in yurts or shared rooms.

Can I stay in a private yurt or room?
Accommodation in yurts is shared and in a camp setting. The option for private rooms is available but may incur extra charges—check with the provider.

Are there any optional activities?
Yes, optional activities like horseback riding and boating are available at extra cost, starting from 6,000 KZT per person.

How physically demanding is the tour?
The physical difficulty is rated as average. Expect some walking, hiking, and altitude exposure, so a moderate level of fitness is recommended.

What should I bring?
Essential items include passport, hat, hiking shoes, sunscreen, rain gear, insect repellent, a power bank, and warm clothing.

Is the tour suitable for vegetarians?
Yes. Vegetarian options are available upon request, and reviewers confirm the food was delicious.

Are there any age restrictions?
The tour is not recommended for pregnant women, people with back, heart, or respiratory issues, or those with altitude sickness or recent surgeries.

Final Thoughts

This 2-day Kazakhstan tour offers a well-balanced mix of spectacular scenery, culture, and comfortable logistics. It’s perfect for adventurous travelers wanting to explore the country’s natural beauty without the hassle of planning every detail.

Travelers looking for a meaningful and scenic escape will find this trip rewarding, especially if they enjoy meeting new people and trying authentic local cuisine. The guides’ warmth and knowledge make the experience even richer, turning a simple sightseeing trip into a memorable adventure.

If you seek a unique, well-organized journey that showcases Kazakhstan’s most photogenic sites and cultural treasures, this tour is a solid choice. Just prepare for some long drives and uneven terrain, and you’re set for a truly special experience.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby

To sum it up, this tour is best suited for those who value stunning landscapes, cultural authenticity, and good company. It offers a fantastic way to see Kazakhstan’s natural treasures, enjoy traditional hospitality, and create stories worth sharing for years to come. Whether you’re snapping photos of Kaindy Lake or swapping stories around the campfire, you’ll leave feeling refreshed, inspired, and connected to this beautiful part of the world.