PRIVATE TOUR Charyn canyon, Kolsai and Kaindy lakes

PRIVATE TOUR Charyn canyon, Kolsai and Kaindy lakes

Name: PRIVATE TOUR Charyn canyon, Kolsai and Kaindy lakes
Address: Kazakhstan

Multi-day trips Activities Outdoor activities Outdoor sports Nature & Adventure Tours Small group activities National parks UNESCO sites Private tours Photography tours Water sports Hiking Jeep & 4WD tours

An exhilarating 2-day tour of Almaty’s top sights: explore Charyn’s canyons, Kolsay’s serene alpine lake, and Kaindy’s unique underwater forest with breathtaking views at every stop.

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Highlights

Panoramic views of the Charyn from multiple viewpoints exclusive to our guides
Unique underwater forest of submerged Tian Shan spruces of the Kaindy Lakes
Enjoy comfortable accommodations and local hospitality
Scenic drives through picturesque landscapes suitable for all travelers

Description

Located about 200 kilometers east of Almaty, Charyn Canyon is one of Kazakhstan's most spectacular natural wonders. Often referred to as the 'Grand Canyon of Central Asia,' recognized for its unique geological features, Charyn Canyon is a UNESCO World Heritage site, highlighting its global significance and natural beauty. Situated 100 kilometers 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 travelers. 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

Includes

Comfortable SUV transportation Services of an English/Chinese/Russian-speaking guide Eco-fees for the National Parks Accommodation in private rooms at a Guest House Three meals a day, excluding breakfast on the first day, dinner on the second day 1.5 liters of drinking water per guest per day

Important Information

Children: Infants under 2 years old travel free of charge. Child seats can be provided upon prior arrangement. Route Difficulty: Standard and suitable for individuals with average physical fitness. Please note that when trekking along Kolsay and Kaindy lakes, there are ascents and descents, which may not always be comfortable for guests. Kolsay Lake is at an altitude of 1,800 meters above sea level, and Kaindy Lake is at 1,750 meters. Precautions: It is mandatory to bring a sun hat, sunglasses, and insect repellent (especially during the spring period). When visiting the Kolsay lakes you should have your identity documents (border zone).