1 Day Group Tour to Charyn Canyon, Kolsay Lake and Kaindy Lake

Set out on a captivating 1-day group tour that immerses you in the breathtaking natural wonders of Kazakhstan. Venture to the majestic Charyn Canyon, the serene Kolsay Lake, and the enchanting Kaindy Lake, all while enjoying inclusive meals, air-conditioned transportation, and optional activities like boating and horseback riding. Led by knowledgeable guides, this personalized adventure showcases the country’s stunning wilderness, promising an unforgettable experience. With a maximum of 49 participants and a minimum requirement of five, this tour offers a seamless journey for fellow travelers seeking to explore the beauty of Kazakhstan. But the true magic lies in the stories that await…

This experience made our list of the 25 Best Tours In Almaty.

Key Points

• A 1-day group tour that visits Charyn Canyon, Kolsay Lake, and Kaindy Lake in Kazakhstan, with prices starting from $130 per person.
• The tour includes all necessary fees, taxes, meals, and air-conditioned transportation between the sites.
• Additional optional activities such as boating and horseback riding are available at an extra cost.
• The tour is not suitable for individuals with back problems, pregnant women, or those with serious medical conditions, and is not wheelchair accessible.
• The tour requires a minimum of 5 travelers, with a maximum capacity of 49 participants, and has received overwhelmingly positive reviews from past customers.

Tour Overview

The 1-day group tour to Charyn Canyon, Kolsay Lake, and Kaindy Lake offers visitors an opportunity to explore some of Kazakhstan’s stunning natural wonders from the city of Almaty, with prices starting from $130.00 per person.

With a total of 23 reviews and an impressive 5.0 average rating on Viator and Tripadvisor, this tour is a popular choice for those seeking to enjoy the region’s breathtaking landscapes.

The tour includes all necessary fees and taxes, as well as meals, transportation, and the option to participate in additional activities like boating and horseback riding for an additional fee.

Included in the Tour

This 1-day group tour includes all necessary fees and taxes, as well as providing travelers with various meals throughout the day.

Specifically, the tour offers breakfast, lunch (either local or vegetarian), dinner, and bottled water (1 liter per person).

Plus, the tour provides air-conditioned transportation to transport participants between the different sites.

For travelers aged 18 and above, the tour also includes the option to purchase alcoholic beverages.

Boating and horse riding activities are available for an additional cost of $16 and $23 for 30 minutes, respectively.

The tour’s inclusions aim to ensure a comfortable and convenient experience for all participants as they explore the stunning natural wonders of Charyn Canyon, Kolsay Lake, and Kaindy Lake.

Meeting and Pickup Details

Participants meet at the Museum of Folk Musical Instruments located on Zenkov St 24 in Almaty, Kazakhstan, with the tour starting promptly at 5:00 AM. The tour concludes at the same meeting point at the end of the day. Transportation is provided via an air-conditioned vehicle for the duration of the excursion.

The meeting point is conveniently located and easily accessible:

• Near public transportation options
• Not wheelchair accessible
• Infants must sit on laps

This early morning departure allows for a full day of exploring the stunning natural landscapes of Charyn Canyon, Kolsay Lake, and Kaindy Lake before returning to the starting point in the evening.

Tour Restrictions

Certain restrictions apply to this group tour, as it may not be suitable for all travelers.

Individuals with back problems, pregnant women, or those with serious medical conditions aren’t recommended to participate. Plus, the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, requiring all participants to be able-bodied. Infants must sit on laps during the tour, as no separate seating is provided for them.

The tour has a minimum requirement of 5 travelers, and a full refund will be issued if this minimum isn’t met. On the other hand, the maximum number of participants is capped at 49, ensuring a personalized experience.

It’s crucial for travelers to consider these restrictions before booking to ensure the tour meets their needs and abilities.

Minimum and Maximum Participants

A minimum of 5 travelers is required for the tour to proceed, with a maximum capacity of 49 participants allowed. This group size policy ensures an intimate and personalized experience while also maintaining logistical efficiency.

If the minimum number of participants isn’t met, the tour will be canceled, and travelers will receive a full refund. This policy is in place to guarantee that the tour can be conducted as advertised, providing the best possible value for all participants.

The maximum capacity of 49 travelers allows the tour to accommodate a larger group while still maintaining a comfortable and enjoyable experience for everyone involved. This cap ensures that the tour doesn’t become overcrowded and that each traveler has ample opportunity to engage with the guide and explore the natural wonders of the region.

Positive Customer Reviews

The overwhelmingly positive customer reviews highlight the tour’s exceptional quality, with travelers consistently praising the breathtaking natural scenery, knowledgeable and passionate guide Alina, and the overall seamless experience from start to finish.

Reviewers have described the Charyn Canyon, Kolsay Lake, and Kaindy Lake as ‘incredibly beautiful and dramatic‘, raving about the tour’s ability to showcase Kazakhstan’s stunning landscapes.

Alina, the guide, has been widely commended for her deep expertise and infectious enthusiasm, with one reviewer going so far as to call her ‘the best guide ever.’

The tour’s efficient pre-tour communication and overall execution have also drawn acclaim, leaving customers with a profound appreciation for the country’s natural wonders.

Optional Activities

Along With the core tour itinerary, travelers have the option to partake in various supplementary activities, including boating on the crystalline waters of Kolsay Lake and horseback riding along the scenic trails surrounding the canyon and lakes.

The boating excursion costs $16 and allows visitors to admire the stunning lakeside vistas from a unique on-water perspective. Meanwhile, the horseback riding experience, priced at $23 for a 30-minute session, offers a more immersive way to explore the rugged landscapes.

These optional add-ons provide an opportunity to further customize the tour and create lasting memories of the Kazakh wilderness.

• Boating on Kolsay Lake ($16)

• Horseback riding (30 minutes for $23)

• Explore the region from different perspectives

Transportation and Meals

Transportation for the tour is provided via an air-conditioned vehicle, ensuring a comfortable journey to the stunning natural attractions of Charyn Canyon and Kolsay Lake.

Meals throughout the day include a hearty breakfast, a locally-sourced or vegetarian lunch, and a dinner, all complemented by refreshing bottled water at a rate of 1 liter per person.

Whether you’re a nature enthusiast or simply seeking a well-rounded experience, the carefully curated meal plan and reliable transportation combine to make this tour both enjoyable and hassle-free.

With all fees and taxes included in the price, you can focus on taking in the breathtaking scenery and enjoying the natural beauty of these remarkable Kazakhstani destinations.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can We Book Multiple Tours on the Same Day?

Based on the provided information, it does not appear possible to book multiple tours on the same day. The tour description indicates this is a single 1-day group tour, with a specified start and end time at the same meeting point.

What Is the Dress Code for the Tour?

The tour does not have a strict dress code, but it’s recommended to wear comfortable, weather-appropriate clothing and sturdy walking shoes. Layers are advised as the weather can vary across the different locations visited.

Are There Any Discounts Available for Group Bookings?

Yes, the tour operator offers discounts for group bookings. Travelers can inquire about group rates when making their reservation, as the price per person may decrease for larger parties. Discounts typically start at 5 or more travelers.

Can We Customize the Tour Itinerary?

The tour operator allows some customization of the itinerary, though the core activities at Charyn Canyon, Kolsay Lake, and Kaindy Lake are typically included. Travelers can discuss options with the operator to potentially add or modify certain aspects of the tour.

What Is the Cancellation and Refund Policy?

The tour has a flexible cancellation policy. If the minimum number of 5 travelers is not met, customers receive a full refund. Otherwise, the provider offers partial refunds up to 24 hours before the tour’s start time.

Recap

This 1-day group tour to the stunning Charyn Canyon, Kolsay Lake, and Kaindy Lake is an exceptional opportunity to explore Kazakhstan’s breathtaking wilderness.

With all-inclusive meals, air-conditioned transportation, and optional activities, it’s an adventure you won’t want to miss.

Whether you’re a nature enthusiast or simply seeking an unforgettable experience, this personalized tour led by knowledgeable guides is sure to leave you with lasting memories.