Spend two days exploring Charyn Canyon’s sculpted cliffs, the forested shores of Kolsai Lakes, and the eerie drowned trees of Kaindy Lake. This guided, private tour combines short hikes, cultural stops in Saty village, and long scenic drives from Almaty.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
You arrive before dawn on a mountain road that opens into wind-swept red rock and fir-shadowed water. The first day unwraps along Charyn’s Valley of Castles — a narrow gorge that scrapes the sky with eroded spires — then moves into the cool green of the Kolsai basin where tree-lined paths skirt crystal-clear alpine lakes.
Difficulty
moderate
Duration
2 days (approx. 48 hours)
Fitness Level
Light to moderate: able to walk uneven trails for 1–4 hours per day and tolerate multi-hour vehicle transfers.
Wildlife
History
The Kaindy drowned forest resulted from a 1911 earthquake that created a natural dam; the canyon’s formations reflect millions of years of erosion on Central Asia’s semi-arid plateau.
Conservation
These sites are in protected areas with growing visitation—stick to trails, pack out waste, and use local guides to minimize impact on fragile soils and alpine vegetation.
Reserve your spot on the 2 Day Charyn Kolsai and Kaindy Lakes Tour today and enjoy a trusted, highly rated experience designed to help you make the most of your adventure.
Start early for best light
Arrive at Charyn Canyon at first light to avoid heat and capture the canyon’s colors with fewer people on the trail.
Bring 2–3 liters of water
High plateau sun and hiking on uneven trails mean you’ll need more water than you expect—carry enough or use refill opportunities at guesthouses.
Wear sturdy, treaded shoes
Trails include loose scree, riverboard crossings and muddy sections near lakes—supportive footwear reduces ankle injuries.
Plan for long transfers
Each leg from Almaty is several hours; pack snacks, motion-sickness aids and entertainment for the road.
Sturdy hiking shoes
Good traction and ankle support for scree, muddy trail and shoreline rocks.
Layered clothing and waterproof shell
Temperature swings and occasional rain or wind make layers and a shell essential.
spring|fall|winter
Hydration system (2–3L)
Carry enough water for long walks and hot days; refill at guesthouses when available.
summer|null
Camera with polarizer
A polarizer reduces glare on lake surfaces and enhances canyon color for landscape photos.