Kolsai / Kaindy Lake / Charyn Canyon one-day tour (choose 2 of the 3 sights)
Active
13h - 15h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
This tour option allows you to visit the most attractive natural sights of Almaty region in one day trip. Kolsai and Kaindy Lakes area is famous for its natural diversity. There are high mountains, rough rivers, evergreen forests and pristine lakes. Charyn Canyon is another spectacular must-see place which is located on the way to the lakes.
For this one-day tour you can choose two of the three sights (Kolsai Lake, Kaindy Lake, Charyn Canyon). It might be Kolsai + Kaindy, Kolsai + Charyn or Kaindy + Charyn. You will have enough time to comfortably enjoy both locations and come back to the city.
To visit all three sights please check our 2-day tour with overnight stay.
Available options
Kolsai Lake + Charyn Canyon
Pickup included
Kaindy Lake + Charyn or Kolsai
Duration: 1 hour: Kaindy Lake requires an extra 1 hour off-road drive<br/>A bit more of walking/hiking<br/>Pickup included
What's included
Private transportation
Professional guide service
All Fees and Taxes
Air-conditioned vehicle
Detailed itinerary
1
Big pristine mountain lake, which is located in 300 km from Almaty. Kolsai Lake area and cinematic serpentine road to it allows you to observe impressive panoramic views of Alatau Mountains. Kazakh yurts, horses, snowy peaks and mountain rivers - that is what you will see on the way.
There are nice walking trails with evergreen trees around the lake. You can take a boat ride and enjoy the lake from the water surface. Or you can also take a ride on a horse and explore few interesting spots nearby.
2
This Lake is a unique natural phenomenon. The second name for the lake is actually 'The Sunken Forest'. The reason for that are few dozens of spruce trees which emerge from the water surface of the lake.
Those are the witnesses of the earthquake which took place in this area back in the days. It formed a hollow with fir-tree forest in it. Soon the local mountain river started to fill it up until the lake was formed.
There is a great walking trail around the lake with few different view spots. The whole area of the Kaindy Lake is just a piece of pristine nature.
3
Charyn Canyon is a natural formation of 2.5 million years old. The whole canyon is stretched for 154 kilometers from the foothills of Alatau Mountains to Ili River.
We will visit the most spectacular part of the Canyon - 'The Valley of Castles'. The 'Castles' are the different shape beautiful rock formations. You will have an opportunity to take a walk by the bottom of the canyon up to Charyn River. And observe few panoramic views from the top as well.
4
Another part of Charyn Canyon called Black Canyon. We will make a short stop to enjoy the panoramic view of the Canyon on the way to the Lakes.
What's not included
There are few cafe / restaurant options during the tour
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
Reviews breakdown
Viator
5.0
2 reviews
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Tripadvisor
5.0
3 reviews
5★
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Important information
Specialized infant seats are available
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
About Almaty
Almaty, the largest city in Kazakhstan, is a vibrant blend of modern urban life and stunning natural beauty. Known for its apple orchards, scenic mountain backdrop, and rich cultural heritage, it offers a unique travel experience with its bustling markets, Soviet-era architecture, and nearby outdoor adventures.
Top Attractions
Kok Tobe Hill
Kok Tobe Hill offers panoramic views of Almaty and the surrounding mountains. It's a popular spot for tourists and locals alike, featuring a TV tower, a small amusement park, and a restaurant.
Nature/Scenic Viewpoint
1-2 hours
Free to enter, fees for attractions
Zenkov Cathedral
Zenkov Cathedral, also known as the Ascension Cathedral, is a wooden Russian Orthodox church located in Panfilov Park. It's one of the largest wooden buildings in the world and a notable example of Russian architecture.
Historical/Religious
30-60 minutes
Free
Green Bazaar
Green Bazaar is a bustling market where you can find fresh produce, spices, dried fruits, and local crafts. It's a great place to experience the local culture and sample traditional Kazakh cuisine.
Market
1-2 hours
Free to enter, prices vary for purchases
Medeu Skating Rink
Medeu Skating Rink is a popular destination for ice skating and ice hockey. Located in the mountains, it offers stunning views and a unique sporting experience.
Sports/Adventure
2-3 hours
Entrance and rental fees vary
Big Almaty Lake
Big Almaty Lake is a stunning high-altitude lake located in the Ile Alatau National Park. It's a popular spot for hiking, picnicking, and enjoying the breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains.
Nature/Scenic Viewpoint
Half-day to full-day trip
Free to enter, fees for parking and guided tours
Must-Try Local Dishes
Beshbarmak
A traditional Kazakh dish made with boiled meat (usually horse or lamb) and noodles, served with a broth.
Main course
Contains meat, not suitable for vegetarians or vegans.
Lagman
A hearty noodle soup with chunks of meat, vegetables, and a rich broth.
Main course
Can be made vegetarian or vegan with vegetable broth and no meat.
Shashlik
Grilled skewers of marinated meat, usually lamb, chicken, or beef.
Main course
Contains meat, not suitable for vegetarians or vegans.
Baursaks
Deep-fried dough balls, often served as a snack or breakfast item.
Snack
Vegetarian, can be vegan if made with vegetable oil.
Popular Activities
Hiking
Mountain biking
Skiing
Snowboarding
Ice skating
Spa treatments
Tea house visits
Park picnics
Best Time to Visit
June to September
This is the best time to visit Almaty for outdoor activities and sightseeing. The weather is warm and pleasant, perfect for exploring the city and its surroundings.
20°C to 30°C (68°F to 86°F)
68°F to 86°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: Kazakh, Russian
- Widely spoken: Russian, English
- English: Moderately spoken in tourist areas, limited elsewhere
Currency
Kazakhstani Tenge (KZT)
Time Zone
ALMT (Almaty Time, GMT+6)
Electricity
220VV, 50HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe, but exercise caution in certain areas and situations
Almaty is generally safe for tourists, but petty crime such as pickpocketing and scams can occur, especially in crowded areas and on public transport. Violent crime is rare, but travelers should exercise caution at night and in poorly lit areas. Political protests and demonstrations can occur, so it's best to avoid large gatherings.
Important Precautions:
- • Keep valuables secure and out of sight
- • Use reputable taxi services or ride-hailing apps
- • Be cautious when using ATMs, especially at night
Getting there
By air
- Almaty International Airport • 15 km (9 miles) from city center
By train
Almaty-2 Railway Station
By bus
Sayarnaya Bus Station, Sairam Bus Station
Getting around
Public transport
Buses are the most common form of public transport in Almaty. They are affordable but can be crowded during peak hours.
Taxis
Available • Apps: Yandex.Taxi
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
Old Town
Kok Tobe
Saryarka
Zhetysu
Day trips
Charyn Canyon
200 km (124 miles) • Full-day trip
Charyn Canyon is a stunning natural wonder located about 200 km east of Almaty. Known as the 'Grand Canyon of Kazakhstan,' it offers breathtaking views, hiking trails, and a unique desert landscape.
Kolsai Lakes
300 km (186 miles) • Overnight trip
The Kolsai Lakes are a series of three stunning alpine lakes located in the Kolsai Lakes National Park. They offer breathtaking views, hiking trails, and a serene mountain setting.
Issyk Glacier
60 km (37 miles) • Half-day to full-day trip
Issyk Glacier is a unique glacier located about 60 km east of Almaty. It's one of the few glaciers in the world that can be reached by car, making it a popular destination for day trips.
Festivals
Almaty Apple Festival • September
Almaty International Film Festival • September
Almaty Jazz Fest • June
Pro tips
- Learn a few basic phrases in Kazakh or Russian to enhance your experience and show respect for the local culture
- Visit the Green Bazaar for an authentic taste of local life and to sample traditional Kazakh cuisine
- Take the cable car up to Kok Tobe Hill for stunning views of the city and surrounding mountains
- Explore the nearby mountains and lakes for a unique blend of outdoor adventure and cultural experiences
- Try traditional Kazakh dishes like beshbarmak, lagman, and shashlik at local restaurants and markets
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation
