From the very first minutes, this felt like a trip I would remember for years. The ride was super comfortable — the Mercedes had heating, which made the early start much easier, and the charging ports were a small but very useful detail. Olzhas handled everything so smoothly that this became one of the best travel experiences of my life 💯
Charyn Canyon, Kaindy & Kolsai Lakes 1-Day Private Tour from Almaty
Highlighted reviews from other travelers
What stayed with me most was the beauty of the landscapes and how peaceful the whole journey felt. This Almaty day trip was absolutely worth it, and the team made us feel safe and well looked after from beginning to end. Olzhas was cheerful, attentive, and genuinely caring. The only thing I would improve is having a more suitable stop for prayer during the trip.
The day ran in a very clear and organized way, which made the whole experience even better. At the start, Olzhas explained the plan and timing really well, so everyone knew what to expect. That structure made the trip feel relaxed, and his upbeat personality kept the energy high throughout the day.
Some tours are beautiful but forgettable — this one was neither. Everything was arranged thoughtfully, and Olzhas made the experience feel welcoming and easy for everyone in the group. He was patient, informative, and clearly enjoyed what he was doing, which made the trip much more memorable.
Exploring the natural side of Almaty in one day was such a fun experience. The whole route was full of amazing views, and the trip never felt dull for a second. A big reason for that was Olzhas — friendly, funny, and always ready to help 😁
Detailed itinerary
Pick-up in Almaty and departure toward Charyn Canyon.
Arrival at Charyn Canyon.
Explore the Valley of the Castles with a walk along the canyon floor and time for photos (approximately 2 hours, admission included).
Continue to Lake Kaindy. Spend around 3 hours exploring the area, walking to scenic viewpoints and enjoying the unique landscape.
Proceed to the Kolsai Lakes. Enjoy approximately 4 hours at the Kolsai Lake, with time for walking, relaxing, and optional activities (admission included).
Return drive to Almaty.
Drop-off at your preferred location.
Highlights
- •Charyn Canyon (Valley of Castles)
- •Kaindy Lake
- •Kolsai Lakes area (Saty)
Full description
- •Discover three of the most iconic destinations near Almaty in one expertly planned day tour. This experience combines the vast landscapes of Charyn Canyon, the unique submerged forest of Lake Kaindy, and the serene alpine beauty of the Kolsai Lakes.
- •Start your journey with a comfortable pick-up in Almaty and travel through changing landscapes — from steppe to canyon to mountain forest. At Charyn Canyon, explore the famous Valley of the Castles, walking along the canyon floor and capturing its dramatic rock formations.
- •Continue to Lake Kaindy, known for its crystal-clear waters and the striking trunks of submerged spruce trees rising above the surface — one of the most photogenic natural sites in Kazakhstan.
- •The journey then leads to the Kolsai Lakes area, often called the “Pearls of the Tien Shan,” where you’ll enjoy time by the Lower Kolsai Lake, surrounded by forested slopes and peaceful mountain scenery.
- •This tour is designed for comfort and flexibility: pacing can be adjusted to your group, and all key logistics — including park entrance fees — are arranged in advance.
What's included
- Transportation along the route
- Guide service
- Main itinerary stops
- Basic trip coordination
Before you book
Not suitable for
- Pregnant women
- People with back problems
- Wheelchair users
Bring with you
- Bring your passport or ID card
- Wear comfortable shoes and weather-appropriate clothing
- Cash is useful for personal purchases outside the program
Good to know
- Mobile signal may be unstable in remote locations
- Stop order may change due to weather or road conditions
- Exact departure time is confirmed after booking
Meeting point
in Almaty and departure toward Charyn Canyon.
Look at our other tours
Duration
Attractions
Overnight







