Charyn, Kolsay&Kaiyndy Lakes 2days tour with Mount View Stay

If you’re exploring Almaty and looking for an adventure beyond the city’s limits, the Charyn, Kolsay, and Kaiyndy Lakes 2-Day Tour offers a fantastic way to experience some of Kazakhstan’s most breathtaking natural sights. This tour is a well-balanced mix of stunning landscapes, cultural insights, and comfortable travel—all packed into two days.

What makes this experience stand out? First, the guides’ knowledge and friendliness truly elevate the trip. Second, the diverse scenery—from the dramatic chasms of Charyn Canyon to the peaceful lakes and sunken forest of Kaiyndy—keeps things visually exciting. Third, the value for money is notable considering the included entrance fees, meals, and accommodations.

One thing to keep in mind: the tour involves some walking and light hiking, so a moderate level of fitness is recommended. This makes it less suitable for travelers with knee issues or visual impairments. Overall, it’s best suited for those craving an immersive natural experience, who appreciate good organization, and enjoy a taste of Kazakhstani wilderness.

Good To Know

• Stunning Landscapes: From the colorful moon-like formations of Uzunbulak to the sunken forest of Kaindy Lake, the scenery is genuinely captivating.
• Comfortable Experience: Air-conditioned transport and well-organized logistics ensure a smooth journey.
• Authentic Encounters: Guides like Aika and Fariza are praised for their friendliness and local knowledge, making the trip more meaningful.
• Balance of Relaxation & Exploration: Ample time at each site allows for photos, leisurely walks, and soaking in the views without feeling rushed.
• Culinary Highlights: Meals are thoughtfully included, with special mention of the delicious local snacks and options for vegetarians.
• Great Value: For $135, the price covers entrance fees, meals, accommodation, and transport, which is impressive given the scenery and experience.

Day 1: From Almaty to the Moon Canyon and Charyn Canyon

Your adventure begins with a pickup from your Almaty hotel at 8:00 am. The first stop is Uzunbulak Canyon (Moon Canyon), about a four-hour drive from the city. This route takes you through Kazakhstan’s diverse terrain, culminating in a landscape that looks almost alien—think vibrant, layered rock formations resembling a lunar surface. Reviewers mention that this site offers a surreal, colorful environment that feels like stepping onto another planet. The admission is included, so you can focus on snapping photos or just appreciating this unusual landscape.

Next is Charyn Canyon, often called the “Grand Canyon of Central Asia.” The Black Canyon viewpoint provides a panoramic vista perfect for photography and soaking in the canyon’s immense, rugged beauty. The 15-20 minute stop here offers enough time for some quick photos and to breathe in the scenery without feeling hurried.

Afterward, the journey takes you to Kolsai Lake, a serene mountain spot where you’ll spend about 1.5 hours. Reviewers highlight the tranquility here, with many noting how the peaceful water and surrounding forest create an ideal setting to relax, take photos, or enjoy a picnic. The included admission fee grants you access and ensures you won’t need to worry about extra costs.

Day 2: From Kolsay to Kaindy and Beyond

The second day starts with a hearty breakfast in the village, giving you energy for the day’s exploration. The highlight is Kaindy Lake, about a two-hour drive away. Here, you’ll explore an otherworldly sunken forest—a submerged grove of trees that appear to float in the lake’s clear waters. The walking around the lake is easy, with scenic trails offering plenty of opportunities for stunning photographs. Reviewers mention that sunny weather makes the views especially spectacular, with some describing the sight as magical.

Later, your group heads back to Charyn Canyon for a short walk at the canyon bottom and a small hike to enjoy a different perspective. The review quotes praise the guides for their safe driving and insider knowledge, which make the journey both enjoyable and educational.

The tour includes air-conditioned vehicles, making long drives comfortable, especially given the roughly four-hour trip on the first day. The Soviet van used for the Kaindy Lake trip adds a touch of local charm and practicality. For the overnight, you’ll stay at a hotel with mountain views—a perfect spot to unwind after a day of exploring. Reviewers especially appreciated the clean, quiet guesthouse and the delicious local food, often describing it as a highlight of the trip.

Meals and Extras

Meals are well-curated, with breakfast, dinner, and two lunches included. Reviewers rave about the local snacks and tasty dishes, with many mentioning that vegetarian options are available. Bottled water and a photo recap from the tour are also provided, making it easy to relive those unforgettable moments.

The tour is capped at 15 travelers, creating an intimate atmosphere without sacrificing social opportunities. Guides like Aika and Fariza receive high praise for their friendliness, knowledge, and ability to manage small groups with ease. Their insight adds depth to the experience, with one reviewer noting that Aika introduced them to off-the-beaten-path locations that really enhanced the trip.

The tour costs $135 per person, which covers a lot of ground—entrance fees, meals, accommodation, and transport. Booking on average happens 27 days in advance, which suggests it’s popular among travelers seeking a well-organized Kazakh adventure. The tour is scheduled for two days, and while weather-dependent, it generally runs from 8:00 am to late afternoon or early evening.

The activity offers pickup from your hotel in Almaty and ends back at the same location, making logistics straightforward. It’s suitable for those with moderate physical fitness, as some walking and light hiking are involved. However, it’s not recommended for children under four, or travelers with knee or visual impairments.

This two-day adventure provides excellent value, offering a comprehensive view of Kazakhstan’s natural beauty without the hassle of planning individual trips. If you’re someone who loves scenic landscapes, appreciates good guides, and prefers a mix of relaxation and exploration, you’ll find this tour rewarding. The inclusion of meals, accommodation, and entrance fees makes it a hassle-free way to see some of the most iconic sites near Almaty.

The tour’s emphasis on authentic experiences, like exploring the submerged forest of Kaiyndy or hiking the canyon, means you’ll leave with not just photos but genuine memories. The small group setting and professional guides ensure you get personalized attention, making the experience both safe and enriching.

Who Should Book This?

Ideal for travelers seeking a nature-centered escape from city life, those with a moderate fitness level, and anyone wanting a balanced mix of adventure, comfort, and cultural insight. It’s perfect for first-timers in Kazakhstan or repeat visitors wanting a structured, well-organized tour.

Is transportation included? Yes, the tour provides air-conditioned vehicles for the entire trip, including the transfer from and back to your hotel.

How many people will be in the group? The tour caps at 15 travelers, ensuring a small-group feel that allows for personalized attention and easier socializing.

Are meals included? Yes, breakfast, dinner, and two lunches are part of the package. Local snacks are also provided, with vegetarian options available.

What is the weather like? Good weather is necessary for the tour to run smoothly. If canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered an alternative date or a different tour.

Is this tour suitable for children? It’s not recommended for kids under four years of age due to the physical activity involved and the nature of the sites.

What should I pack? Bring comfortable shoes for walking, a camera for photos, sun protection, and layered clothing to adapt to mountain weather.

How far in advance should I book? On average, travelers book about 27 days ahead, indicating good availability but also popularity.

What makes this tour a good value? Considering entrance fees, meals, accommodation, and transport, the $135 price offers a comprehensive experience at a fair rate.

The Charyn, Kolsay & Kaiyndy Lakes 2-Day Tour in Kazakhstan offers a wonderful mix of scenic beauty, cultural insight, and relaxed exploration. The expert guides and thoughtfully planned itinerary ensure you get the most out of every stop, from the otherworldly Moon Canyon to the sunken forests of Kaiyndy.

This tour is perfect for travelers eager to see Kazakhstan’s natural wonders without the stress of self-planning. If you love landscapes that inspire awe, enjoy local hospitality, and want a balanced adventure, this experience fits the bill perfectly.

Whether you’re a landscape photography enthusiast, a nature lover, or simply seeking a unique getaway, this tour delivers memorable moments, good company, and lots of fresh air. It’s an authentic taste of Kazakhstan’s wild side, served in a well-organized, value-packed package.