Charyn Canyon, Kolsai and Kaindy Lakes Day Trip from Almaty

Charyn Canyon and the Valley of Castles

Charyn Canyon is a long gorge cut by the Charyn river through red and orange sandstone, and its best-known section is the Valley of Castles, where wind and water have carved towers, arches and ridges. The Charyn Canyon day trip from Almaty is one of the most popular excursions in Kazakhstan, and the ticket to the canyon is included in this tour.

You walk down a path into the canyon floor and spend time among the formations, then return to the viewpoint above. Many travellers ask how long to spend at Charyn Canyon; a good visit takes one to two hours, with the light at its warmest in the late afternoon. Bring sun protection, because there is little shade.

Kaindy Lake and its sunken forest

Kaindy Lake was created in 1911 when a powerful earthquake triggered a landslide that dammed a mountain gorge. The rising water flooded a spruce forest, and today the bare trunks still stand in the cold turquoise water, a scene that looks like nothing else in Central Asia. Kaindy Lake tickets are included in this option.

The road up to the lake is rough in places, so the group travels together with the guide, and you walk along the shore to see the trunks from several angles. The water is cold and the altitude is high, so bring a warm jacket. Many visitors ask whether Kaindy Lake is worth the long journey from Almaty; the surreal underwater trees make it one of the most memorable stops.

Kolsai Lake in the Kungey Alatau

The Kolsai Lakes are three alpine lakes in the Kungey Alatau range, rising in steps from about 1,800 metres to more than 2,700 metres. The tour visits the lake reached most easily, where spruce forest reaches the water's edge and the mountains reflect in calm weather. Kolsai Lake tickets are included, and the visit fits the itinerary of a full-day trip.

You can walk along the shore, take photos from the pier or enjoy the views from a viewpoint. Boat and horse rides are sold on site and are not part of the price. The best time to visit Kolsai Lake is between late spring and early autumn, when the road is open and the forest is green.

A long day trip from Almaty

This day trip from Almaty to Charyn, Kaindy and Kolsai covers a great distance, which is why the meeting time is very early, between 04:30 and 05:00, and the return to the city is late at night. The drive passes steppe, villages and mountain foothills, with stops for meals, toilets and photos.

The minibus is comfortable and our guide explains the geology and history of each place along the way. Food is not included but is available to buy on site, so bring some snacks and water. If you prefer a slower pace with an overnight stay, ask us about the two-day version of this route.