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Almaty: Kolsai & Kaindy Lakes with Charyn Canyon Tour
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Features
- Mobile voucher
- Instant confirmation
Overview
- Marvel at the submerged spruce trees rising from Kaindy Lake
- Explore the geological wonders of Charyn Canyon and Black Canyon
- Enjoy a scenic drive through the Tien Shan Mountains
- Walk along the shoreline of Kolsai Lake, the "Pearl of the Northern Tien Shan"
- Learn about the region's nature, geology, and cultural heritage
Activity location
- Almaty City
- Almaty City, Almaty, Kazakhstan
Meeting/Redemption Point
- 6WQ9+X56, Almaty, Kazakhstan | The vehicle will be waiting from 04:30 AM to 05:00 AM. Please arrive within this time window.
- Almaty, Almaty, Kazakhstan
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What's included, what's not
Inclusions Entrance of Kolsai LakeInclusions Entrance of Kaindy LakeInclusions Entranceof Charyn Canyon (if option is selected)Inclusions Entrance of Black CanyonInclusions Transport in a modern minibusInclusions Transfer to Kaindy Lake parking by Soviet-style UAZ minibus (if option selected)Exclusions LunchExclusions Optional boat or catamaran rides at Kolsai LakeExclusions Optional horse ride to Kaindy Lake
Know before you book
- Not allowed: Littering, Pets
- Not suitable for: People with back problems, People with mobility impairments, Pregnant women, Wheelchair users
What you can expect
Begin your day early in the morning with a meeting point in central Almaty. Board a modern minibus equipped with USB and Type-C chargers at every seat, ensuring comfort throughout the long but scenic drive.
Travel first to Kolsai Lake, often referred to as the “Pearl of the Northern Tien Shan.” Surrounded by forested slopes and mountain air, you’ll have approximately two hours to walk along the shoreline, take photos, and learn about the region from your experienced local guide. Optional boat or catamaran rides are available at the lake (not included).
Afterwards, stop at a local café for lunch (not included), where you can enjoy traditional Kazakh and Central Asian dishes such as plov, lagman, manti, kebabs, and fresh salads.
The journey continues towards the enchanting Kaindy Lake, reached by a Soviet-era UAZ vehicle for an added sense of adventure. Famous for its submerged spruce trees rising from crystal-clear water, Kaindy offers a rare and surreal landscape. Optionally, ride horses from the nearby village to the lake for an additional fee.
In the afternoon, explore the geological wonders of the region’s canyons. Walk through Charyn Canyon, often compared to the Grand Canyon for its towering cliffs, deep gorges, and striking red rock formations carved by time. Continue to Black Canyon, known for its darker rock layers and cave-like formations. During the summer season, you will also visit Moon Canyon, a mysterious area shaped like a lunar surface.
Throughout the tour, be accompanied by knowledgeable, energetic guides who share insights into Kazakhstan’s nature, geology, and cultural heritage. Seasonal comfort extras are included: in summer, receive a complimentary cooling neck fan; in winter, warm touchscreen gloves are provided. The tour operates in all weather conditions, and guests may request to reschedule before the tour begins if needed.
As the day concludes, return to Almaty in the evening with unforgettable memories of lakes, canyons, and wide-open landscapes.
Location
Activity location
LOB_ACTIVITIES LOB_ACTIVITIES - Almaty City
- Almaty City, Almaty, Kazakhstan
Meeting/Redemption Point
PEOPLE PEOPLE - 6WQ9+X56, Almaty, Kazakhstan | The vehicle will be waiting from 04:30 AM to 05:00 AM. Please arrive within this time window.
- Almaty, Almaty, Kazakhstan