Almaty Tour: Five Famous Lakes & Charyn Canyon
About this tour
This is a great opportunity to combine visits to all popular places in one convenient trip.
This will allow you to save time and effort, enjoying every moment. This comprehensive offer is ideal for those who value their time and want to get the most out of their experiences.
Discover the breathtaking landscapes of southeastern Kazakhstan on a 4-day journey from Almaty. Visit five alpine lakes, explore Big Almaty Lake, Issyk lake, Kaindy lake, Kolsay lake 1-2, Charyn Canyon, and enjoy a city tour of Almaty.
Activities included
Day-by-day itinerary
Day 1: Almaty, Kazakhstan to Big Almaty Lake BAL, Almaty, Kazakhstan
Begin your adventure with a scenic drive into the mountains of the Ile Alatau National Park. Visit the famous Big Almaty Lake, located at an altitude of 2,511 meters. Surrounded by dramatic peaks of the Tien Shan mountains, the lake is known for its vibrant turquoise water that changes color depending on the season and weather. Enjoy a short walk along the viewpoint and take photos of one of the most iconic landscapes in Kazakhstan. After returning to the city, explore the cultural highlights of Almaty. Visit the historic Park of 28 Panfilov Guardsmen and see the famous wooden Ascension Cathedral, the oldest and most iconic Orthodox cathedral in Almaty — one of the tallest wooden churches in the world. Continue to the vibrant Old Green Bazaar where you can sample local products, dried fruits and traditional snacks. Finish the day with panoramic views from Kok-Tobe Hill park.
Day 2: Issyk, Kazakhstan to Charyn Canyon Visitor Center, Чарын, Kazakhstan
Depart from Almaty in the morning toward the scenic mountain valley of the Issyk lake. Located inside Ile Alatau National Park, this alpine lake lies at an altitude of 1,760 meters and is surrounded by forested mountains. Enjoy a relaxing walk along the lakeshore and admire the peaceful scenery. Continue to the spectacular Charyn Canyon, often compared to the Grand Canyon. Explore the famous Castle Valley where towering sandstone formations resemble ancient fortresses. Enjoy a short hiking route through the canyon and take photos of the dramatic desert landscape. Overnight in a guesthouse in Saty village.
Day 3: Lower Kolsai Lake, Kazakhstan to Kolsai Lake, Kazakhstan
After breakfast, travel to the stunning Kolsai lakes, often called the “Pearls of the Northern Tien Shan”. Begin at Lower Kolsai Lake, the largest and most accessible of the three lakes. Surrounded by pine forests and mountain peaks, it offers beautiful walking trails and peaceful views. For active travelers, hike to Middle Kolsai Lake. The scenic trail leads through alpine meadows, rivers and dense forest. The second lake sits higher in the mountains and is known for its untouched natural beauty. Return to Saty village for overnight.
Day 4: Kaindy Lake Campsite, Saty, Kazakhstan to Almaty, Kazakhstan
In the morning, travel to the unique alpine lake Kainyd lake. Kaindy Lake is famous for its submerged forest — tall spruce trees rising from the turquoise water after an earthquake created the lake more than 100 years ago. Walk along the lakeshore and enjoy one of the most surreal landscapes in Central Asia. After the excursion, return to Almaty in the afternoon.
What's included
Accommodation only in the village of Saty. Accommodation in a guest house for 2 nights with meals (lunch, dinner and breakfast)
- Accommodation in City (optional - on request) - Meals - Personal expenses - Travel insurance - Additional activities (horseback riding, boating, archery etc)
What to know
This tour can be customized. Please get in touch with me.
Route & locations
Almaty, Kazakhstan to Big Almaty Lake BAL, Almaty, Kazakhstan