Located about 200 kilometres east of Almaty, Charyn Canyon is one of Kazakhstan's most spectacular natural wonders. Often referred to as the “Grand Canyon of Central Asia,” recognised for its unique geological features, Charyn Canyon is a UNESCO World Heritage site, highlighting its global significance and natural beauty.
Situated 100 kilometres southwest of the Charyn Canyons amid the breathtaking scenery of Tien Shan mountains, are a natural wonder renowned for their pristine beauty and atmosphere. Consisting of three stunning alpine lakes, each with its own unique charm, the Kolsay Lakes are a paradise for all travellers.
Lake Kaindy derives its name from the birch grove that tourists pass through on their way to the lake. Formed by a powerful earthquake in 1911, a portion of the mountain slid into the gorge, obstructing the flow of the Kaindy River. This caused the river to flood the gorge, and the cold waters preserved the submerged Tian Shan spruces, creating a unique underwater forest.
On the return journey, guests can enjoy the stunning panoramic views of the Chilik River valley.
Itinerary:
Day 1
07:00 - Pick up guests from their addresses and depart for the Charyn Canyons (200 km)
10:00 - Visit the Valley of Castles Canyon, the most popular canyon of the Charyn River. Descend and trek with photo stops inside the canyon (2.5 km)
11:00 - Rest on the bank of the Charyn River
12:00 - Ascend from the canyon back to the car park (2.5 km). During high season, a cab service from the national park is available if needed
13:30 - Lunch break
14:00 - Depart for Moon Canyon (25 km)
14:30 - Stop at the panoramic view of Moon Canyon
15:30 - Depart for the next location, the Stone Shelf panoramic view (15 km)
16:00 - Arrive at the Stone Shelf for a photo stop
16:30 - Depart for the “Napoleon” panoramic site (2.5 km)
17:00 - Visit the “Napoleon” site for a photo stop
17:30 - Depart for the “Austrian View” panoramic site (2 km)
18:00 - Visit the “Austrian View” and then depart for Saty village (120 km)
19:00 - Visit the Black Canyon, part of the main canyon of the Charyn River
20:00 - Check in at the guest house and have dinner
21:30 - Enjoy time around the campfire
22:30 - Overnight stay at the guest house
Day 2
08:30 - Breakfast at the hotel
09:00 - Depart for Kaindy Lake (15 km, unpaved road)
09:30 - Arrive at the parking area and trek to the lake (2 km). Horse rentals are available during the high season (not included in the tour price).
10:30 - Visit three locations at the lake: the shore, the panoramic viewpoint, and the inflow of the Kaindy River into the lake
12:00 - Return to the parking area (2 km)
13:00 - Depart for the guest house, stopping at a panoramic site with views of the Chilik River valley
13:30 - Lunch at the guest house
14:30 - Depart for Kolsay lower lake (15 km)
15:00 - Take a short walk along the shore of Kolsay lake
16:30 - Depart from the lake parking area and head back to Almaty (300 km)
20:30 - Arrive in Almaty
