From Almaty: Charyn Canyon, Kolsai & Kaindy Lakes Day Trip

About this experience

Start your journey early from central Almaty, heading east towards the snow-capped peaks of the Northern Tian Shan range. Travel through open countryside as you leave the city behind and head straight into Kazakhstan's most dramatic landscapes. Your first stop is the famous Lake Kolsai, known as the jewel of the Northern Tian Shan. Enjoy roughly two hours to stroll peaceful lakeside footpaths, take in the reflections of pine forests on the water, or rent a boat to glide across the calm alpine basin. Afterwards, pause at a local village café to recharge with traditional regional dishes like hot lagman, manti or pilaf. Next, switch to an authentic Soviet-era UAZ 4x4 shuttle to tackle the rugged mountain trail up to Lake Kaindy. Famous for its eerie submerged forest, Kaindy features dried Asian spruce trunks rising straight out of turquoise glacial waters. Explore the area on foot or opt for a horse ride to the shoreline. Conclude the day exploring the region’s spectacular geological wonders. Walk between the colossal red rock towers of Charyn Canyon, marvel at the dark basalt cliffs of Black Canyon, and step onto the otherworldly landscape of Moon Canyon (summer season) before the return drive to Almaty.

Where you'll meet

Where you'll go

1. 1

   Charyn Canyon (upper part)

2. 2

   Valley of Castles (lower part)

3. 3

   Charyn Canyon National Park

4. 4

   Charyn River

5. 5

   Moon Canyon

6. 6

   Black Canyon

7. 7

   Kolsai Lake

8. 8

   Kaindy Lake

Meet your guide

Guide476B8Verified guide

4 years guiding

Speaks English, Armenian, Georgian, Russian, Uzbek, Kazakh, Kyrgyz, Hindi

Tranquil Holidays is a travel and tour operator offering unforgettable tours, holiday packages, guided experiences, hotel bookings, and transfers worldwide. We connect travellers with amazing destinations and authentic local experiences, making every journey seamless, memorable, and hassle-free.