Big trip in 1 day: Kolsai, Kaindy Lake, Black, Charyn, Canyon.

Discover Kazakhstan’s Natural Wonders in a Single Day

If you’re eyeing a whirlwind adventure that packs in some of Kazakhstan’s most breathtaking sights, this one-day tour from Almaty might just be your perfect match. Offering a mix of majestic gorges, shimmering lakes, and dramatic canyons, it promises a full day of awe-inspiring landscapes. While it’s a long day on the road, the value for seeing four major natural attractions in one go makes it an appealing choice.

What we love about this trip are three things: the well-organized itinerary, the variety of landscapes, and the friendly guides who know how to share stories and tips along the way. A potential consideration? The journey involves quite a bit of travel, so if you’re prone to fatigue or prefer a less rushed pace, this might be a full-on day for you. Overall, it suits travelers craving authentic natural beauty and good value, especially those with limited time in Almaty who want a comprehensive taste of Kazakhstan’s outdoors.

Good To Know

• Efficient All-in-One Tour: Covering four major sites in roughly 16 hours.
• Great Value: At $44 per person, including eco fees and transportation.
• Comfortable Transport: Air-conditioned vehicle for the long day.
• Expert Guides: Knowledgeable and friendly, enhancing your experience.
• Authentic Scenic Spots: From lakes to canyons, each has unique charm.
• Limited Group Size: Max 12 travelers for a more personalized feel.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

This tour’s strength lies in its ability to combine several of Kazakhstan’s top natural sights into one seamless day. For travelers who want to maximize their sightseeing without the hassle of planning each stop, it offers a practical and rewarding solution. You get to experience the rugged beauty of Charyn Canyon, the serene waters of Kolsai Lake, the surreal Kaindy Lake with its submerged forest, and the striking Black Canyon of the Charyn River.

The price point of around $44 is quite attractive considering the full-day experience, eco fees at each site, and transportation. The tour includes a minivan for up to 12 people, meaning you won’t be crammed, and the air conditioning helps keep everyone comfortable during the long drive.

Itinerary Breakdown: What to Expect

Charyn Canyon – The Grand Entrance

Your adventure begins early, with pickup around 5:00 am from the designated meeting point in Almaty. Charyn Canyon is often called the “Grand Canyon of Central Asia,” and for good reason. Its vibrant, layered cliffs stretch out in dramatic formations that seem to change with every twist and turn. Reviews highlight how stunning and unique this place is—some describe feeling like they’ve stepped onto another planet. The admission to the canyon is free, but the eco fee is included in your tour price, ensuring access to protected areas.

While one reviewer mentioned that the drive to Charyn can be tiring, they also emphasized the awe-inspiring views, making the journey worthwhile. The short 1 hour 30 minutes spent here allows plenty of time for photos and soaking in the scenery before moving on.

Kolsai Lakes – A Picturesque Paradise

Next up is the Kolsai Lakes, renowned for their crystal-clear waters and surrounding pine forests. The route might change depending on weather, but the plan usually starts here. You’ll have about an hour to enjoy the tranquility, take photos, and breathe in the mountain air. Reviewers have praised the scenery as one of the most picturesque in Kazakhstan, confirming that this stop deserves its reputation.

Kaindy Lake – The Submerged Forest

One of the most talked-about sites is Kaindy Lake, famous for its submerged forest of century-old fir trees poking out of the emerald water. The silence and serenity here make it feel almost magical, and many say it’s one of the most incredible sights they’ve seen in the country. The guided eco-fee ensures access to this natural phenomenon, and the hour you spend here is enough to marvel at the unusual landscape.

Black Canyon of the Charyn

The Black Canyon offers a darker, more dramatic contrast with its towering, steep cliffs. It’s a quick stop—about 20 minutes—but one that leaves a lasting impression. The views are breathtaking, and the name hints at the deep shadows cast by the cliffs. Reviewers loved this part for its breathtaking vistas and natural majesty.

Transportation and Logistics

The tour’s air-conditioned vehicle ensures comfort for the nearly 16-hour day. The minivan size (up to 12 people) helps maintain a cozy, friendly atmosphere. The long drive is unavoidable given the distances, but many reviews mention how well-organized and smooth the trip felt. Guides like Ali and the driver are praised for their welcoming attitude, adding a personal touch to the journey.

While the overall trip is efficient, travelers should prepare for a full day with early starts and a lot of walking at each site. Some reviews mention that walking is recommended for exploring certain attractions like Charyn Canyon and Lake Kaindy, so comfortable shoes are advised.

Included and Optional Extras

The tour price includes:

• Eco fees at all locations
• Pickup and drop-off within Almaty
• Guide, transportation, and eco fees
• Transfer to Kaindy Lake’s lower parking area

Extras that are not included:

• Taxi UAZ to Lake Charyn (about 1000tg)
• Horse riding (around 7000-10,000tg)
• Food at cafes or restaurants (~$7)

The walking recommended note at certain stops suggests you’ll get the most out of the experience by exploring on foot, which is manageable and rewarding.

What Travelers Say

The consistent five-star reviews highlight the knowledgeable guides, especially Ali, who makes the trip engaging with local insights. Reviewers emphasize the stunning scenery and good organization as key reasons for their high satisfaction. One reviewer describes it as “the best tour ever,” praising the perfect organization, guiding, and the overall vibe.

Many mention the value for money—seeing four major sites for just $44 feels like a steal, especially considering the eco fees included. A common theme is the delicious food and good logistics, making the long day surprisingly comfortable.

A few travelers noted the road could be tiring, but most agreed that the spectacular views outweighed the fatigue. The tour’s early start and extensive itinerary suit those eager to maximize their sightseeing in Kazakhstan.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This trip is ideal for adventurous travelers who want a rundown of Kazakhstan’s natural beauty in a single day. It suits those comfortable with long days and walking, as well as anyone eager to tick off major sights without extensive planning. It’s perfect for photo enthusiasts, nature lovers, and anyone pressed for time but eager for authentic experiences.

If you’re traveling on a budget, the value for money is compelling, especially with all included eco fees. However, if you prefer a slower pace or more time at each site, this might feel a bit rushed.

Final Thoughts

This tour offers an impressive mix of scenery, organization, and value. Traveling with knowledgeable guides and a comfortable vehicle, you’ll visit some of Kazakhstan’s most dramatic landscapes—from the colorful cliffs of Charyn Canyon to the mysterious submerged trees at Kaindy Lake. For those who want a broad, authentic taste of the country’s natural side in just a day, this is a strong choice.

While it’s a packed itinerary, the diversity of sites and the friendly atmosphere make it an experience worth the early wake-up. It’s especially suited for travelers who enjoy scenic drives, outdoor photography, and discovering off-the-beaten-path gems in a well-structured format.

FAQ

How early does the tour start?
The tour begins at around 5:00 am with pickup from Almaty, allowing ample time to fit all stops into the day.

How long is the total driving time?
The entire day involves quite a bit of travel, but the vehicle is air-conditioned for comfort. Exact drive times aren’t specified, but the journey is part of the adventure.

What is included in the tour price?
The cost covers eco fees at all locations, transportation, guide services, and the eco fee for Charyn Canyon, Kolsai Lake, and Kaindy Lake.

Are there any additional costs I should be aware of?
Yes, optional extras like taxi UAZ to Lake Charyn (~1000tg), horse riding (~7000-10,000tg), and food (~$7) are not included.

Is walking necessary at each site?
Yes, some walking is recommended, especially at Charyn Canyon and Lake Kaindy, to fully enjoy the scenery and take photos.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, making it flexible for last-minute changes.

Who is this tour best suited for?
Travelers looking for a full-day, value-packed trip focused on Kazakhstan’s outdoor wonders. It suits those comfortable with long days, moderate walking, and scenic drives.

In summary, this one-day Kazakh adventure offers a well-rounded introduction to the country’s most striking natural landscapes. If you’re after a practical, scenic, and memorable experience, it’s a tour that promises plenty of awe without breaking the bank.