Kolsai and Kaindy Private 2 Days Tour via Charyn Canyon From Almaty

Embark on an unforgettable journey through Kazakhstan’s captivating landscapes with the Kolsai and Kaindy Private 2 Days Tour. This expertly curated experience whisks you away from the bustling city of Almaty, immersing you in the natural wonders of Charyn Canyon, Lake Kaindy, and the serene Kolsai Lakes. Savor traditional Kazakh cuisine, hike through picturesque trails, and uncover the country’s rich cultural heritage. With comfortable transportation and personalized service, this tour promises an exceptional exploration of Kazakhstan’s breathtaking beauty. Prepare to be enchanted by the sheer magnificence that awaits, as you embark on an unforgettable adventure.

This experience made our list of the 15 Best 2 Day Tours In Almaty.

Key Points

• A comprehensive two-day private tour exploring Kazakhstan’s natural wonders, including Charyn Canyon, Lake Kaindy, and Kolsai Lakes.
• Includes transportation, meals, and admission, with a well-paced itinerary allowing ample exploration time at each destination.
• Offers a five-star rated immersive experience, suitable for moderate fitness levels and operating daily for accessibility.
• Charyn Canyon exploration features dramatic rock formations and stunning vistas, while a traditional Kazakh lunch in Saty Village showcases local hospitality and cuisine.
• The Kolsai Lakes hike through lush forests rewards trekkers with serene views of turquoise waters and insights into the local ecosystem.

Tour Overview

The tour offers a comprehensive two-day exploration of some of Kazakhstan’s most stunning natural wonders, combining visits to the dramatic Charyn Canyon, the serene Lake Kaindy, and the picturesque Kolsai Lakes.

Rated 5.0 out of 6 reviews, the tour provides an immersive experience, with inclusions such as transportation, meals, and admission tickets.

The itinerary is well-paced, allowing ample time to explore each destination, from the striking rock formations of Charyn Canyon to the ethereal beauty of Lake Kaindy and the lush forests surrounding the Kolsai Lakes.

The tour is suitable for moderate fitness levels and is operated daily, making it an accessible and memorable way to discover the natural beauty of Kazakhstan.

Itinerary: Day 1

On the first day, the tour begins with a pickup from a convenient location in Almaty at 7:40 AM. The first stop is a visit to the local market in Baiseit. By 11 AM, the group arrives at the Charyn Canyon, also known as the Valley of Castles, and explores the stunning canyon for 3 hours. After the canyon visit, the tour proceeds to Saty Village for a traditional Kazakh lunch at 1:30 PM. In the afternoon, the group departs for Lake Kaindy at 3 PM, where they embark on a 2-hour walk around the picturesque lake before returning to Saty for dinner and local legends by the fire.

Destination	Arrival Time	Duration
Baiseit Market	7:40 AM	–
Charyn Canyon	11:00 AM	3 hours
Saty Village (Lunch)	1:30 PM	–
Lake Kaindy	3:00 PM	2 hours
Saty Village (Dinner)	–	–

Charyn Canyon Exploration

After arriving at the Charyn Canyon, also known as the Valley of Castles, the group embarks on a 3-hour exploration of this natural wonder.

Carved over millennia by the Charyn River, the canyon’s dramatic red and orange hues create a surreal landscape. Guests wander through the "Valley of Castles," a section featuring towering rock formations resembling ancient ruins.

They marvel at the intricate geological formations, shaped by wind and water, and snap photos of the breathtaking vistas.

The guided tour provides insights into the canyon’s formation and the unique flora and fauna that thrive in this harsh, arid environment.

Lunch in Saty Village

Following a scenic drive to Saty Village, the group arrives at a local hotel for a traditional Kazakh lunch.

The rustic setting and friendly staff create an authentic atmosphere, inviting guests to enjoy the local culture.

The menu features a variety of hearty and flavorful dishes, including shashlik (grilled meat skewers), plov (rice pilaf), and homemade bread.

As the group savors each bite, they’re struck by the depth of flavor and the care put into the preparation.

The meal is a true highlight, offering a taste of Kazakh hospitality and cuisine in the heart of the stunning natural landscape.

Lake Kaindy Adventure

With rejuvenated spirits, the group departs Saty Village and ventures towards the captivating Lake Kaindy.

After a 2-hour drive, they arrive at the trailhead, eager to explore this natural wonder. The group embarks on a 2-hour walk around the serene lake, taking in the stunning views of the emerald-green water and the submerged trees that have become a trademark of this unique landscape.

Upon returning to Saty, the group enjoys a traditional Kazakh dinner and listens to local legends by the fire, seeing the rich culture of the region.

Itinerary: Day 2

The second day of the tour begins with breakfast served at 7 AM.

After a hearty meal, the group departs for the Lower Kolsai Lake at 8 AM, a 30-minute drive from their accommodation.

From there, they embark on a 3-hour trek through the forest to reach the Middle Kolsai Lake, marveling at the stunning natural surroundings along the way.

The tour then departs from the Upper Kolsai Lake at 2 PM, returning to Almaty by 9 PM, concluding the immersive two-day experience exploring the breathtaking Kolsai Lakes and the serene Lake Kaindy.

Kolsai Lakes Hike

After a hearty breakfast at 7 AM, the group heads out at 8 AM for the Lower Kolsai Lake, a 30-minute drive from their accommodation.

The hike to the Middle Kolsai Lake takes around 3 hours through a lush forest. Trekkers are rewarded with stunning vistas of the turquoise waters nestled between the snow-capped peaks.

The guide points out the diverse flora and fauna along the way, sharing insights into the local ecosystem. Upon reaching the Middle Kolsai Lake, the group has time to admire the serene beauty and take photographs before beginning the return journey.

At 2 PM, they depart from the Upper Kolsai Lake, bound for Almaty, where they’ll arrive around 9 PM.

Meeting and Pickup Details

Guests can select a convenient pickup location in Almaty for the start of their tour. The tour operates daily from 5:00 AM to 9:00 AM until September 15, 2025. Guests should confirm the exact start time with the local provider in advance.

The tour includes:

1. Pickup from a designated location in Almaty.
2. Transportation in an all-wheel drive SUV.
3. Return to Almaty by 9:00 PM on the second day.

This private tour ensures that only your group will participate, allowing for a personalized experience.

Guests should plan accordingly and be prepared for the scheduled activities and transportation.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can We Customize the Itinerary to Fit Our Preferences?

Yes, the tour can be customized to fit your preferences. The local provider is flexible and willing to adjust the itinerary, activities, and timings to accommodate your specific needs and interests.

What Is the Maximum Group Size for the Private Tour?

The private tour has no maximum group size. It’s a customizable experience where only your group will participate, allowing you to tailor the itinerary to your preferences.

Are Hiking Poles or Walking Sticks Available for the Treks?

The tour provider does not explicitly mention if hiking poles or walking sticks are provided. However, they recommend bringing proper hiking gear, so participants may want to bring their own or inquire about availability when booking the tour.

Can Dietary Restrictions Be Accommodated for the Meals?

Yes, the tour provider can accommodate dietary restrictions for the meals. They work closely with the local restaurants and caterers to ensure all participants’ dietary needs are met, including vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options.

Is There Any Additional Equipment We Should Bring for the Activities?

For the activities, it’s recommended to bring hiking boots, a daypack, rain/cold weather gear, sun protection, and water. The tour operator can also advise on any specialized equipment needed for the Kolsai Lakes hike.

Recap

This private 2-day tour from Almaty offers an immersive experience in Kazakhstan’s natural wonders. Explore the dramatic Charyn Canyon, the enchanting Lake Kaindy, and the serene Kolsai Lakes. With comfortable transportation, traditional meals, and engaging cultural experiences, it’s perfect for nature lovers and adventurers. Witness the breathtaking beauty of this stunning region and create lasting memories on this comprehensive tour.