Kolsai, Kaindy Lakes and Charyn Canyons 2 Days Small Group Tour

Exploring the natural wonders of Kazakhstan can be a captivating experience. The Kolsai, Kaindy Lakes and Charyn Canyons 2-day small group tour offers an opportunity to take in the country’s stunning landscapes. With a high recommendation rate from past travelers, this tour provides a balanced itinerary featuring tranquil lakes, dramatic canyons, and optional horseback riding. Comfortable transportation, select meals, and cozy guesthouses ensure a hassle-free journey. Whether you’re seeking breathtaking scenery, outdoor adventure, or simply a chance to disconnect, this tour might just be the perfect fit. But to truly uncover the allure of this remarkable destination, one must embark on the journey themselves.

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

Key Points

• Two-day adventure exploring Kolsai and Kaindy Lakes, as well as Charyn Canyons, with a 95% recommendation rate from 20 reviews.
• Tour priced from $180, including transport, select meals, and site admissions, with optional activities like horseback riding.
• Opportunity to explore the unique geological formations and vibrant colors of Charyn Canyon National Park, followed by a stop at Black Canyon.
• Visit to serene Lower Kolsai Lake, with the option for horseback riding, and the unique Kaindy Lake, featuring submerged tree trunks.
• Tour includes comfortable transport, overnight stays in guesthouses, and a visit to the stunning Yellow Canyon before returning to Almaty.

Tour Overview

Offering a captivating two-day adventure, the Kolsai, Kaindy Lakes, and Charyn Canyons tour takes travelers on an immersive exploration of Kazakhstan’s stunning natural landscapes.

The highly-rated tour, with a 95% recommendation rate from 20 reviews, whisks participants away to iconic destinations like the dramatic Charyn Canyon and the serene Kolsai and Kaindy lakes.

Priced from $180, the small group excursion includes comfortable transport, select meals, and admission to the key sites.

While not wheelchair accessible, the tour offers optional activities like horseback riding.

Flexibility is key, with a generous 24-hour cancellation policy and the possibility of rescheduling due to inclement weather.

Charyn Canyon National Park

The tour begins with a visit to the breathtaking Charyn Canyon National Park.

Guests will arrive at the canyon around 11 AM after a coffee stop. They’ll have the opportunity to walk around and take in the stunning landscape, with its unique geological formations and vibrant colors.

The canyon is a free-to-enter destination, allowing visitors to explore at their own pace. After an hour or so, the group will depart the canyon and head to the nearby Black Canyon for a brief stop to admire the views.

This scenic drive sets the stage for the rest of the adventure-packed two-day itinerary.

Black Canyon

After exploring the grandeur of Charyn Canyon, the tour makes a short stop at the Black Canyon.

This dramatic geological formation, carved by the powerful Charyn River, offers a striking contrast to the surrounding landscape. Visitors can admire the deep, shadowy gorge and take in the rich hues of the rock formations.

While the stop is brief, it allows for quick photographs and a chance to appreciate the raw beauty of this natural wonder.

From here, the tour continues its journey, heading towards the serene Kolsai Lakes.

Lower Kolsai Lake

Upon reaching the Lower Kolsai Lake, the tour provides visitors with the opportunity to enjoy the serene beauty of this alpine gem.

Guests can enjoy walking along the lakeshore, taking in the stunning views of the surrounding snow-capped peaks. For those seeking a more adventurous experience, the tour offers an optional horseback riding activity, allowing travelers to explore the area’s natural wonders from a unique perspective.

The schedule allocates ample time for visitors to savor the tranquility of the Lower Kolsai Lake before departing for the next destination, ensuring a fulfilling and memorable experience.

Kaindy Lake

Departing from the Lower Kolsai Lake, the tour progresses to the enchanting Kaindy Lake.

At 8:30 AM, the group sets off for the 3-hour drive to this glacial lake nestled in the Tian Shan mountains.

Upon arrival at around 11:30 AM, travelers can explore the unique landscape on foot, marveling at the submerged tree trunks that emerge from the turquoise waters.

The tour then returns to the nearby Saty village for lunch before heading to the Yellow Canyon for further sightseeing.

With its captivating natural beauty, Kaindy Lake is a highlight of the 2-day adventure, offering a serene and visually stunning experience.

Yellow Canyon

From Kaindy Lake, the tour heads to the Yellow Canyon. Here, travelers will depart around noon and arrive at the picturesque Yellow Canyon about 90 minutes later.

They’ll have the chance to walk around and admire the stunning geological formations and vibrant colors of the canyon. After spending an hour or so exploring, the group will then head back, stopping for a late lunch on the return to Almaty.

The entire Yellow Canyon experience is included in the tour, providing an opportunity to witness another breathtaking natural wonder before the 6:00 PM drop-off in Almaty.

Inclusions and Transport

The tour includes several meals, with dinner provided on the first day and breakfast served on the second day.

Transport is comfortable, with a spacious Soviet van UAZ-452 used throughout the journey.

Boating and horseback riding are available as optional activities, each costing an additional $13.

Guests will stay in cozy guesthouses during their overnight stay.

While the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, it should be suitable for most travelers, unless they’ve back problems or other disabilities.

The tour organizers will provide detailed pickup information the day before the tour.

Additional Information

One key consideration for this tour is its accessibility. The tour isn’t wheelchair accessible and may not be suitable for travelers with back problems or disabilities.

The hikes and terrain can be challenging, so it’s important for participants to be reasonably fit and able-bodied. Plus, the tour’s schedule is subject to change due to weather conditions.

If poor weather forces the cancellation of the tour, travelers will have the option to reschedule or receive a full refund. The pickup details for the tour will be provided the day before, allowing participants to coordinate their transportation to the designated meeting point.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the Group Size for This Tour?

This tour is organized as a small group tour, though the exact group size is not specified. Small group tours typically range from 2 to 15 participants, allowing for a more personalized and intimate experience.

Are There Any Age Restrictions for Participants?

The tour does not have any age restrictions. Travelers of all ages are welcome to participate, though it’s important to note that the activities may not be suitable for those with mobility issues or health concerns. Proper planning and communication with the tour operator is recommended.

Is There an Option to Extend the Tour to 3 Days?

The tour operator doesn’t offer a 3-day option for this particular tour. The standard tour is a 2-day experience that covers the key highlights. Extending the tour may require booking a private or custom itinerary.

Can We Bring Our Own Snacks and Drinks for the Trip?

Yes, guests are welcome to bring their own snacks and drinks for the trip. This allows them to customize their experience and have additional sustenance on hand throughout the day’s activities.

Is There a Discount for Booking the Tour as a Family?

There are no discounts specifically for booking the tour as a family. However, the tour operator may offer promotions or group discounts from time to time, so it’s best to inquire about any available deals when booking.

Recap

This captivating two-day small group tour offers a perfect blend of natural beauty and tranquility, exploring the stunning Kolsai and Kaindy Lakes, as well as the breathtaking Charyn Canyons. With comfortable transport, select meals, and an overnight stay in cozy guesthouses, it promises a memorable experience amidst Kazakhstan’s spectacular landscapes. The tour’s 95% recommendation rate and flexible cancellation policies make it an excellent choice for immersive exploration.