Charyn Canyon & Kolsay Lakes - 2 Days
About this tour
During this tour, you will visit the most amazing places in Kazakhstan.
The Charyn Canyon is located in the Charyn National Park about 215km east of Almaty. The Canyon has been described as the Grand Canyon’s little brother. This is not to detract from the sheer splendor of the canyon itself. The vista of dramatic erosion made by the river Charyn below and the elements have created a dramatic and impressive landscape.
And Kolsay Lakes are one of the most beautiful places in Kazakhstan. They are distinguished by the unique mountain watershed consisting of three natural zones and an amazing variety of rare plants and animals. Kolsay Lakes are considered a pearl of Northern Tien-Shan.
Day-by-day itinerary
Day 1: Almaty, Kazakhstan to Charyn Canyon National Park, Kazakhstan
Program of the day: 08:00 - Transfer to Charyn Canyon - Arrival to the canyon, trip - Excursion the Valley of Castles Charyn Canyon, carved by the Charyn River, flowing from the slopes of the Tien Shan, is one of the most magnificent canyons in the world: its length is 150 km, and the height of the walls reaches 200 meters. By the way, the Statue of Liberty is only 93 meters in height. Charyn Canyon is a visual aid for geography: here, as in the time machine, one can observe all the processes of formation of rocks and reliefs. The age of the canyon is 12 million years. The awareness of it is truly fascinating and as breathtaking as the contemplation of stone giants propping up the bright blue sky. Charyn Canyon a paradise for fans of hiking and lovers of wild nature. Here you can find a unique ash-tree grove that survived the Ice Age and now is officially acknowledged as a natural monument. 13:00 lunch - Transfer to Kolsay Lakes - Excursion to the lake Kolsay - Accommodation in guesthouse, rest Three Kolsay lakes are located at an altitude of 1800, 2250, and 2700 meters above sea level and form a unique natural region. The middle lake lies in the safe hands of the mountains like a precious bowl of turquoise crystal. The landscapes, framing the lake, look like the sceneries from the paintings of great artists and stand still in reverence to the greatness of nature. Here, in the shadow of age-old trees and spruces, you will learn the history of the region and its cultural background.
Day 2: Kolsay Lakes Village, Saty, Kazakhstan to Almaty, Kazakhstan
Program of the day: 09:00 - Breakfast 10:00 - Trip to the Lake Kaindy - return to v.Saty 14:00 - Lunch 15:30 - Departure to Almaty The word "Kaindy" can be translated from the Kazakh language as "rife with birches". It can be historically explained: a terrible earthquake that struck the valley in 1911 led to a rockfall that blocked the river. Later, a mudflow destroyed the rest of the lumps of rock and sank the forest, growing in the valley. The force of nature became a creator of the picturesque landscape: on the territory of 400 meters, graceful fir-trees are growing there, in turquoise glittering water. We will have a walk along the lake and make souvenir photos that will resemble the shoots from fantastic movies.
What's included
- Excursions according to the program - Transport service according to the program; - Accommodation in guesthouse v.Saty; - English speaking guide-driver;
- Medical insurance; - Additional excursions.
What to know
We are waiting for you!
Route & locations
Almaty, Kazakhstan to Charyn Canyon National Park, Kazakhstan