Kolsay Lakes and Charyn Canyon tour
🏞️ KOLSAY LAKES AND CHARYN CANYON TOUR
This 2-day tour to Kolsay Lakes and Charyn Canyon promises a blend of mountainous landscapes, serene lakes, and the breathtaking grandeur of Charyn Canyon. Customize the itinerary based on your preferences and enjoy an unforgettable adventure in the heart of Kazakhstan's natural beauty.
📋 QUICK FACTS
| ⏳ Duration | 2 Days / 1 Night |
|---|---|
| 📍 Destination | Almaty Region (Kolsay Lakes, Charyn Canyon) |
| 👥 Group Size | 1 to 16+ travelers |
| 📅 Availability | Year-round |
| 💲 Price per Person | $550 (1 pax) → $350 (16+ pax) |
| 🛏️ Accommodation | Guesthouse / Eco-lodge near Kolsay Lake |
| 🍽️ Meals Included | 2 lunches, 1 dinner, 1 breakfast |
| 🚗 Transport | Included with guide & driver |
🌟 HIGHLIGHTS
🏔️ Trek to Kolsay-1 Lake – Serene mountain lake surrounded by alpine forest
🧺 Picnic by the Lake – Peaceful lunch surrounded by pristine nature
📸 Photography & Nature Walks – Breathtaking views at every turn
🏜️ Charyn Canyon Exploration – Discover Kazakhstan’s version of the Grand Canyon
🥾 Canyon Rim Walk – Incredible rock formations and panoramic vistas
🌄 Charyn River Valley – Unique ecosystem in an arid landscape
⏱️ TOUR PACE
🚶♀️ Moderate Activity
Includes light to moderate trekking around Kolsay-1 Lake and walking along the rim of Charyn Canyon. Suitable for those with average fitness.
❓ FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Do I need to be a hiker to join this tour?
No. The tour includes easy-to-moderate treks that most travelers can handle.
Is overnight accommodation included?
Yes, comfortable guesthouse or eco-lodge near Kolsay Lake is included.
What kind of food is provided?
Local meals are served, including picnic lunch and dinner with Kazakh cuisine.
Are entrance fees and transportation included?
Yes. All fees, permits, transportation, and guide services are included.
Can this tour run in winter?
Yes, it’s available year-round, though routes may vary based on weather.
🎒 WHAT TO BRING
Sturdy walking shoes or hiking boots
Warm clothing (it can get chilly near the lake)
Hat, sunglasses, sunscreen
Small backpack for personal items
Reusable water bottle
Camera or smartphone for photos
Snacks for personal energy boost
KOLSAY LAKES AND CHARYN CANYON TOUR PACKAGE PRICE
| Group size | 1 pax | 2-3 pax | 4-6 pax | 7-9 pax | 10-12 pax | 13-15 pax | More than 16 pax |
| Price/Per person | 550$ | 400$ | 390$ | 380$ | 370$ | 360$ | 350$ |
| No | Include service | Exclude service | Include service of Meals |
| 1 | Vehicle with a driver. | Items of personal nature | Lunch, Dinner |
| 2 | English speaking guide | Beverages, alcoholic drinks, bar bills, laundry | Per day 3 bottle water for per person /1,5 liter/ |
| 3 | Airport shuttle | Travel and insurance | One time Kazakh traditional food /Bes barmaq/ |
| 4 | Lunch, Dinner | International transportation | |
| 5 | Museum tickets. | Taxi | |
| 6 | Accommodation/Tourist camps and Hotel/ | Optional activities | |
| 7 | Single supplement /For Hotel or Tourist camp/ | ||
| 8 | Gratuity for the tour team |
KOLSAY LAKES AND CHARYN CANYON TOUR ITINERARY
Day 1: Kolsay Lakes Adventure
Morning:
Departure from Almaty: Start your journey from Almaty to Kolsay Lakes. The drive will take you through scenic landscapes and rural areas.
Arrival at Kolsay Lakes National Park: Reach the Kolsay Lakes National Park and check into your accommodation.
Afternoon:
Trek to Kolsay-1 Lake: Begin your exploration with a trek to Kolsay-1 Lake. Enjoy the pristine beauty of the first lake and take in the surrounding mountains.
Picnic Lunch: Have a picnic lunch by the lakeside, surrounded by the tranquility of nature.
Evening:
Leisure Time: Spend the evening at leisure. You can explore the area around the lake, take photographs, or simply relax.
Dinner: Enjoy a delicious dinner, perhaps with local Kazakh specialties, at your accommodation.
Day 2: Charyn Canyon Exploration
Morning:
Departure to Charyn Canyon: After breakfast, head to Charyn Canyon. The drive itself offers picturesque views of the Kazakh countryside.
Arrival at Charyn Canyon: Reach Charyn Canyon and start your exploration of this natural wonder.
Afternoon:
Charyn Canyon Rim Walk: Take a walk along the rim of Charyn Canyon, marveling at the unique rock formations and the vastness of the canyon.
Lunch: Enjoy a packed lunch at a scenic spot within the canyon, taking in the breathtaking views.
Evening:
Charyn River Valley: Explore the Charyn River Valley, appreciating the diverse flora and fauna that thrive in this arid landscape.
Return to Almaty: Head back to Almaty in the evening, reminiscing about the natural wonders you've encountered.
OTHER TOURS
Experience Kazakh culture in a full-day tour at Hun Ethno Village—enjoy traditions, local cuisine, authentic performances, and traditional crafts.
Make the most of your Almaty layover with a guided tour of key sights like Kok-Tobe, Medeo, markets, and city landmarks in just 6–8 hours.
Enjoy a full-day adventure to Medeo skating rink, Shymbulak ski resort, and Kok-Tobe Hill, perfect for nature lovers and thrill seekers.