Charyn, Kolsay&Kaiyndy Lakes 2days tour with Mount View Stay

Our review of this two-day adventure through Kazakhstan’s breathtaking landscapes is based on numerous traveler experiences and the detailed itinerary provided. Whether you’re an avid outdoor enthusiast or simply craving a scenic escape from Almaty, this tour offers a well-rounded glimpse into some of the country’s most iconic natural sites.

What we love about this experience is the diversity of sights — from the dramatic cliffs of Charyn Canyon to the tranquil waters of Kolsay Lakes and the eerie submerged forest of Kaindy Lake. Plus, the guides seem to excel at making these remote locations accessible and engaging, combining informative commentary with a friendly approach.

A potential consideration is the travel time on day one—about four hours from Almaty to Moon Canyon—which means you’ll need to prepare for a fair bit of driving. The comfort of the air-conditioned vehicle and the well-paced schedule help make the journey manageable.

This tour is ideal for travelers who want to maximize their time exploring Kazakhstan’s natural beauty without the hassle of planning every detail themselves. It’s especially suited for those with a moderate level of physical fitness, as some walking and short hikes are involved, but it remains accessible for most.

Key Points

• Stunning Landscapes: From colorful Moon Canyon to towering Charyn cliffs and peaceful lakes.
• Expert Guides: Well-rated guides like Aika and Fariza bring the sites to life with interesting facts.
• Good Value: For $135, you get park entrance fees, transport, accommodations, and meals.
• Comfortable Transport: Modern, air-conditioned vehicles and a Soviet van make travel smooth.
• Authentic Experience: Spend quality time at each site, with opportunities for photos and relaxation.
• Balanced Itinerary: A mix of sightseeing, light hiking, and leisure time, with options for photos and quiet reflection.

An In-Depth Look at the Tour

Starting Point and First Day Highlights

The tour kicks off early at 8:00 am from your hotel in Almaty. Within about four hours, you’ll arrive at Uzunbulak (Moon) Canyon, a landscape that looks like it belongs on another planet. The colorful rock formations here are a major draw, and the short 30-minute walk allows plenty of time for photos or simply soaking in the surreal scenery. As one traveler noted, “We loved the way the landscape changes color and texture as the sun moves across the sky.” This site sets the tone for the natural beauty ahead.

Next, you’ll stop at Charyn Canyon, often called the “Grand Canyon of Central Asia.” With about 15-20 minutes at the Black Canyon, you get a brief but impressive look at the sheer cliffs and layered rock formations. The panoramic views from above are often praised for their grandeur, and many reviews highlight how spectacular the scenery is—“the views are simply stunning,” as one visitor put it.

Afterward, the focus shifts to Kolsai Lake, a serene spot perfect for relaxing, taking photos, or just enjoying a peaceful moment in nature. You’ll have about 1.5 hours here, which is enough to wander around, snap pictures, or even dip your toes in the cold waters. The tranquility and clarity of the lake are frequently mentioned in reviews as a highlight—an oasis after the canyon’s dramatic cliffs.

The day concludes in Saty village, where you’ll spend the night in a hotel with superb mountain views. Travelers consistently praise the comfort and local hospitality, making this a perfect base for the next day’s adventures.

Second Day – The Eerie Submerged Forest and More

The second day begins with breakfast and a short ride in a Soviet van to Kaindy Lake. This site is famous for its sunken forest—standing trees submerged beneath emerald waters, creating an otherworldly scene. The lake’s unique setting makes it a photographer’s paradise, and many find the contrast between the lush forest and still water mesmerizing. Visitors appreciate the opportunity to explore scenic trails and capture this surreal landscape.

After enjoying Kaindy Lake, you’ll return to Saty village for lunch, giving travelers a chance to savor authentic local cuisine and discuss the sights they’ve seen so far.

Later in the afternoon, around 4:00 pm, you’ll head back to Charyn Canyon, where you’ll get a quick walk at the canyon bottom and a short hike to view the impressive cliffs from above. The reviews note that this portion is not rushed, allowing ample time to absorb the dramatic scenery. It’s perfect for photos and appreciating the scale of this natural wonder.

What’s Included and What’s Not

The tour covers most essentials — entrance fees, hotel stay, meals, bottled water, and comfortable transport. The guides provide a photo recap, which is a thoughtful touch, allowing you to relive the experience without taking endless notes.

Meals include breakfast, dinner, and two lunches, with options for vegetarians, as noted by one reviewer who appreciated the thoughtful food choices. The small group size (limited to 15 travelers) means more personal attention and less crowding at each site.

However, travelers should note that additional meals outside the scheduled ones or extra transfers are not included. If you’re seeking a flexible dining plan or plan to explore more independently, you might want to budget accordingly.

Transport and Logistics

The day one journey involves about four hours of driving from Almaty, with stops at significant sites along the way. The comfort of the air-conditioned vehicle makes long stretches more bearable. The second day’s use of a Soviet van to reach Kaindy Lake adds a touch of local flavor and adventure, and many travelers enjoyed the experience of riding in these classic vehicles.

Group size tends to be small, which fosters a more intimate atmosphere and allows guides to cater to individual interests. The tour starts promptly at 8:00 am from your hotel and ends back there, making logistical planning straightforward.

The Experience and What Travelers Say

With a perfect 5.0 rating from 24 reviews, this tour consistently impresses participants. Guests rave about the knowledgeable guides—Aika and Fariza—who are credited with making the trip memorable through their friendly demeanor and interesting facts.

One traveler remarked, “Aika shared fascinating details about each location, making the experience feel personal and engaging.” Many reviews mention the stunning views and the quality of the time spent at each site, emphasizing that the itinerary isn’t rushed, allowing visitors to really enjoy each spot.

Food and hospitality also receive high praise. Several travelers appreciated the local snacks and authentic meals, with one noting that the guesthouse host in Saty village was “very sweet” and the food “delicious.”

Weather and Cancellation Policies

The tour is weather-dependent, and poor conditions can lead to cancellations, but the provider offers alternatives or full refunds if this happens. You’ll want to be flexible with your plans, especially in Kazakhstan’s unpredictable climate.

Cancellation is free if you notify at least 24 hours in advance, giving peace of mind if your plans change unexpectedly.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This two-day adventure is best suited for travelers who want a rundown of Kazakhstan’s scenic highlights without the stress of independent planning. It’s suitable for those with moderate physical fitness, as some walking and brief hikes are involved, but it’s not overly strenuous.

Nature lovers and photographers will find plenty to love, especially with the chance to capture unique landscapes like the sunken forest of Kaindy Lake and the layered cliffs of Charyn Canyon. The small group setting, knowledgeable guides, and good value make it a worthwhile choice for those eager to see the country’s spectacular outdoors.

It’s also an excellent option if you want a comfortable, organized experience that balances sightseeing with relaxation — especially if you enjoy having your meals and accommodations arranged ahead of time.

The Sum Up

This two-day tour from Almaty to Charyn Canyon, Kolsay Lakes, and Kaindy Lake offers an authentic taste of Kazakhstan’s natural beauty. It pairs well-paced sightseeing with comfortable transport and friendly guides, making it an excellent choice for travelers who want to see some of the country’s most photogenic sites without the hassle of planning every detail themselves.

The inclusion of local hospitality, delicious meals, and opportunities for quiet reflection or lively photography make it a well-rounded experience. The sights are breathtaking, and the guides seem genuinely invested in creating memorable moments.

While the long drive on day one might be a consideration, the comfort of the vehicle and the spectacular scenery make it worthwhile. If you’re after an adventure that combines awe-inspiring landscapes with relaxed pacing and authentic local flavor, this tour delivers on all fronts.

Ideal for outdoor enthusiasts, small groups, and travelers seeking a genuine Kazakh experience — this tour is a solid investment in your journey through Central Asia.

Frequently Asked Questions

How far in advance should I book?
Most travelers book about 21 days ahead, as the tour is popular and fills quickly.

What is the total duration of the tour?
The tour lasts approximately two days, starting early in the morning and returning to Almaty in the evening of the second day.

Are meals included?
Yes, breakfast, dinner, and two lunches are included, with vegetarian options available. Extra meals outside the scheduled are not.

Is transportation comfortable?
Yes, the tour uses an air-conditioned vehicle for the longer stretches and a Soviet van for specific site visits, both widely praised for comfort.

What is the group size?
The maximum is 15 travelers, ensuring a more personalized experience.

What should I bring?
Comfortable walking shoes, weather-appropriate clothing, a camera, and some cash for souvenirs or extra snacks.

Is the tour suitable for children?
It’s not recommended for kids under 4 years old, and travelers with knee or visual impairments should consider their suitability.

What if the weather is bad?
The tour is weather-dependent. In case of cancellation, you’ll be offered another date or a full refund.

How physically demanding is the tour?
It requires a moderate level of physical fitness; some walking and short hikes are involved, but no strenuous activity.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, cancellations are free up to 24 hours before the start, giving flexibility if needed.

This two-day Kazakhstan tour is a fantastic way to see some of the most photogenic and awe-inspiring landscapes with ease and comfort. Whether it’s your first visit or a repeat exploration, the scenery and guide expertise promise a memorable experience worth every penny.