Almaty: City Tour Kolsai Lake, Kaindy Lake, Charyn Canyon

Traveling through Kazakhstan often means venturing beyond the usual tourist spots — and that’s exactly what makes this Almaty-based private tour so appealing. Covering highlights like Kolsai Lake, Kaindy Lake, and Charyn Canyon, it promises a day packed with awe-inspiring scenery, adventure, and comfortable luxury in a premium Land Cruiser. While the 10-hour experience is a bit intensive, it’s tailor-made for travelers eager to see some of Central Asia’s most iconic landscapes in style.

What we love about this tour is the personalized approach, with a VIP Land Cruiser that guarantees comfort, an itinerary that balances active exploration with scenic downtime, and the inclusion of drone photography to immortalize your trip. The option to spend a night under the stars or in cozy yurts and guesthouses adds a special touch for those wanting an authentic Kazakh experience. However, a potential consideration is the weather dependency and the fact that some activities, like horseback riding or off-road adventures, depend on your physical readiness and weather conditions.

This tour is best suited for adventurers with a taste for comfort, families or groups who want a manageable yet comprehensive snapshot of Kazakhstan’s natural beauty, and anyone interested in unique photo opportunities. If you’re after a well-organized, immersive day with plenty of insider perks, this could be your ideal Kazakhstan escape.

Good To Know

• Luxury and Adventure Combined: Travel in a premium Land Cruiser 200 with professional photography included.
• Stunning Natural Landmarks: Visit Kolsai Lake, Kaindy Lake, and Charyn Canyon, each offering unique landscapes.
• Flexible Experience: Options for overnight stays and optional activities like horseback riding or hiking.
• All-Inclusive Pricing: Entrance tickets, transportation, and professional photos included.
• Time-Managed Itinerary: Well-structured 10-hour day with careful attention to timing and flow.
• Authentic Kazakh Experience: Enjoy mountain breakfasts, local guides, and striking scenery.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Itinerary in Detail: What You Can Expect

Pickup and Transportation

The adventure begins with a pickup in Almaty, where you’ll meet your driver in a recognizable SUV marked with the BarsTravel sticker. Traveling in a Land Cruiser 200 or Lexus LX 570, you’ll immediately appreciate the comfort and space these vehicles provide, especially after a long day of exploring rugged terrains. The journey itself, spanning roughly 3 hours, is a comfortable start to your day, offering scenic views and a chance to get acquainted with your guide.

Kolsai Lake: The First Stop

Arriving at Kolsai Lake, often called the “Pearl of the Northern Tien Shan,” will likely be a highlight. This serene alpine lake is renowned for its clear waters and surrounding forests. You’ll enjoy complimentary activities like catamaran rides and horseback riding, which are both fun ways to experience the lake from different angles. Guests have mentioned that these options add a playful element, but it’s worth noting that horseback riding might appeal more to those comfortable with outdoor activities.

A mountain breakfast at Tary Café is included, offering fresh, local fare with spectacular views. This restful moment sets a relaxed tone after the drive, giving you time to absorb the peaceful mountain atmosphere.

Kaindy Lake: The Sunken Forest

Next, the tour takes you to Kaindy Lake, famed for its sunken forest. This surreal sight—where upright tree trunks rise above teal waters—truly feels like stepping into a dream. The lake’s surreal turquoise waters and submerged forest make it one of Kazakhstan’s most photogenic spots. The tour makes sure to capture every angle using professional photography and drone footage, giving you stunning keepsakes without extra effort on your part.

Guests have shared that the drone footage made for unforgettable memories, especially given the lake’s otherworldly appearance. It’s a short, 2.5-hour stop that allows plenty of time for walking, exploring, and snapping photos.

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Black Canyon: Raw, Rugged Beauty

After Kaindy, the journey continues to the Black Canyon, a dramatic landscape where dark, jagged rocks contrast sharply with the sky. It’s a place that radiates wild, untouched beauty, perfect for quiet reflection and photography. The silence and majesty of this natural feature often leave visitors with a sense of awe. You might find this to be a more contemplative part of the day, with ample time to breathe in the rugged environment.

Charyn Canyon: The Grand Finale

The tour’s grand finale is the Charyn Canyon, often called the “Little Grand Canyon,” and sometimes compared to Mars because of its red, wind-carved cliffs. The canyon offers breathtaking vistas, especially during the sunset, when the colors deepen and shadows lengthen. You’ll enjoy a mix of guided walks, free time for photos, and the chance to marvel at this geological masterpiece. Many guests appreciate how well-paced this stop is, giving enough time to soak in the views without feeling rushed.

Return to Almaty

After an intense but rewarding day, you’ll head back to Almaty, reflecting on the spectacular scenery and the stories you’ll be sharing for years.

Why This Tour Offers Great Value

While the $649 price for a group of up to five may seem steep at first glance, it’s important to consider what’s included: VIP private transportation, all entrance tickets, professional photos, and drone footage. For travelers craving a luxurious, all-inclusive day with personalized attention, this tour offers excellent value.

The small group or private format ensures you won’t feel lost in a crowd — the focus is on comfort and authentic connection. Plus, the flexibility to add overnight stays or customize activities like horseback riding adds to the experience’s appeal.

Practical Benefits

The tour’s timing, starting early and wrapping up in the evening, maximizes daylight and sightseeing opportunities. The professional driver and guide make navigation smooth, especially given the challenging mountain roads, while the inclusion of local guides and multilingual support ensures clear communication.

The Experience: What Past Guests Say

Multiple reviews praise the personalized service and attention to detail. One guest noted, “The drone footage was truly stunning, capturing the landscape from angles I could never have achieved myself.” Others appreciated the comfortable ride and expert guidance, making the long journey feel effortless.

Some travelers mentioned that the horseback riding at Kolsai was a highlight, but also that activities depend on weather and individual stamina. Weather can sometimes affect visibility or accessibility, so packing layers, sunscreen, and sturdy shoes is recommended.

A few reviews also highlight the café breakfast as a refreshingly local experience that complements the outdoor adventure, while some noted that timing at each stop is well-managed, avoiding overly rushed sightseeing.

Practical Tips for Making the Most of the Tour

• Bring a camera and extra batteries — the scenery is stunning and photo opportunities plentiful.
• Wear comfortable hiking shoes and layered clothing. Mountain weather can change unexpectedly.
• Sunscreen and sunglasses are essential to protect against strong sunlight at higher altitudes.
• If horseback riding is appealing, confirm your comfort level with the activity beforehand.
• Be prepared for limited mobile network coverage in mountain and canyon areas — download maps or offline guides.
• Consider overnight options if you wish to extend your experience, but confirm availability in advance.

Is This Tour Right for You?

This private, VIP experience suits travelers who value comfort, personalized service, and authentic adventure. It’s perfect if you want to see Kazakhstan’s major natural highlights without sacrificing convenience or quality. The inclusion of professional photography adds a special touch, making it ideal for those who love capturing memories.

Travelers who enjoy active outdoor pursuits—like walking, horseback riding, or light hiking—will find plenty to love. However, it’s not suited for those with limited mobility or who prefer a gentler sightseeing pace.

For Families or Groups

The small group size allows for flexible pacing and personal attention, making it suitable for families or friends traveling together. The optional overnight stays offer a chance to deepen the experience if desired.

For Photographers and Nature Lovers

The drone footage and professional photo services make this tour especially attractive for photography enthusiasts eager to document Kazakhstan’s unique landscapes from spectacular angles.

Final Thoughts: Who Will Love This Tour?

This Almaty day trip offers a well-rounded glimpse into Kazakhstan’s most iconic natural sights, wrapped in comfort and style. It’s best suited for travelers seeking a mix of adventure, scenic beauty, and VIP treatment. If you’re excited about capturing stunning photos, exploring rugged terrains, and enjoying local hospitality, this tour delivers.

While it’s a full day, the included luxury transportation, expert guides, and memorable scenery justify the cost for those wanting a seamless and immersive experience. If you’re prepared for some physical activity and unpredictable mountain weather, this tour will surely leave a lasting impression of Kazakhstan’s wild, beautiful spirit.

FAQ

What is included in the tour price?
All entrance tickets, private transportation in a premium vehicle, professional photography, drone footage, and a mountain breakfast are included.

How long is the total driving time?
The drive from Almaty to the first stop is about 3 hours, with additional drives between sites, making it a comfortable journey overall.

Can I extend the experience overnight?
Yes, overnight options such as camping, yurts, or guesthouses are available but need to be confirmed in advance.

Is horseback riding suitable for children?
Guests can enjoy horseback riding at Kolsai Lake, but suitability depends on individual comfort and experience levels.

What should I bring?
Bring a camera, hiking shoes, sunscreen, comfortable clothes, and possibly a hat. Layers are advisable due to mountain weather.

Are activities flexible?
Some activities depend on weather and individual preferences. The itinerary is designed to be well-paced, but slight adjustments may occur.

Is this tour suitable for families?
Yes, the small-group format and mix of activities make it family-friendly, especially if children are comfortable with outdoor pursuits.

What is the best time of year to do this tour?
While not specified, the scenery is stunning in warmer months, but always check local weather conditions before booking.

How physically demanding is the tour?
It involves walking, some hiking, and horseback riding, so a moderate level of fitness is recommended.

How do I book and what is the cancellation policy?
You can reserve now and pay later, with free cancellation available up to 24 hours beforehand for a full refund.

This tour offers a memorable way to see some of Kazakhstan’s most iconic natural wonders in comfort, making it a compelling choice for those wanting an authentic, scenic, and well-organized adventure.

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