Kolsai Lakes, Kaindy (Sunken Forest), and Charyn Canyon near Almaty

This exclusive private tour offers a unique opportunity to explore Almaty’s hidden gems—Kolsai Lake, Kaindy Lake, and the majestic Charyn Canyon. Experience Kazakhstan’s natural wonders like never before on a journey tailored just for you.

Detailed Itinerary

1. Stop at Charyn Canyon

• Depart from Almaty and enjoy a 2.5-hour drive in a private vehicle to Charyn Canyon, often described as the Grand Canyon’s little brother. Explore the “Valley of Castles” with its towering cliffs and unique rock formations.
• Optional Activity: Choose between a 2.5 km hike to the Charyn River or a scenic drive with an open-roof vehicle to admire the views.

2. Stop at Lake Kaindy

• After visiting Charyn Canyon, travel to Saty village for lunch at a local guesthouse or yurt. Following lunch, a short drive brings you to Kaindy Lake, known for its sunken forest.
• Highlights: Witness the surreal beauty of spruce tree trunks jutting out of the water—a haunting and mesmerizing sight.

The Kolsai Lakes are located in the Almaty region in Kolsai Lakes National Park, approximately 300 kilometers southeast of Almaty, near the border with Kyrgyzstan. The lakes are situated at an altitude of 1000 to 2700 meters above sea level and form a cascade of three reservoirs: Lower, Middle, and Upper Kolsai Lakes.

Lower Kolsai Lake: Located at an altitude of 1818 meters above sea level. This is the largest of the three lakes, with a length of about 1 kilometer and a depth of up to 80 meters.

Middle Kolsai Lake: Located at an altitude of 2252 meters and is the most picturesque of the three lakes. The water in this lake is particularly pure and transparent.

Upper Kolsai Lake: The highest lake, located at an altitude of 2850 meters. It is the least accessible lake, surrounded by alpine meadows and snow-capped peaks.

3. Stop at Kolsai Lake

• The tour continues to Kolsai Lake, one of the most beautiful places in Kazakhstan. Visit the first of three alpine lakes, located at an altitude of 1818 meters, surrounded by lush forests and towering mountains.

Key Highlights

• Kolsai Lakes: Known as the “Pearl of the Northern Tian Shan,” this series of alpine lakes offers crystal-clear waters reflecting the surrounding peaks, ideal for nature lovers and photographers.
• Kaindy Lake: Discover the eerie and mesmerizing beauty of the “Sunken Forest,” a lake formed by a landslide over a century ago.
• Charyn Canyon: Explore Kazakhstan’s Grand Canyon, with its vibrant, layered rock formations and the famous Valley of Castles.