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Best tours in Kazakhstan with guide with 12 years of experience
One of the two canyons on
the whole planet
You will see the Bartogai reservoir with its turquoise waters, the Lower Kolsai Lake and the canyons with their bizarre landscapes: Black and Moonlight. And also visit the Kurtogai tract-a kingdom of wild nature with Martian landscapes.
about tour
14 hours
Jeep-tour with the guide
Start in Almaty in 6AM / 06:00
unique animals
and nature
Near the lake you can see brisk and agile weasels and stoats. These small predators are well adapted to their environment and are skilled hunters. Their graceful body, graceful movements and fluffy tail give them a special charm.
Tour programm
Day One
Almaty - Charyn canyon (Castle valley) – Kaindy - Saty village.
Early in the morning at 9 am we pick you up by suv car from the place you accommodate in Almaty and leave the city to the direction of Charyn canyon.
On our way we make stop in one of the local villages to taste barbeque or vegetarian food and make some shopping on bazar (fresh Kazakh bread, fruits by season - apples, melon, watermelon).
After 4 hours of drive including lunch we arrive to National park of Charyn, prepare for 30 minutes of easy walk getting deeper and exploring canyon's descent so called Castle valley, resting in the shade of the trees by the cool river and around 40 minutes returning back to the car.
One more stop at the top of the canyon to enjoy a bird's eye view. Another 2 hours drive and we arrive to Saty village from where it takes 1 hour of real off road with couple of exciting but not dangerous river crossings to get to the parking place then only 20 minutes horse riding and 10 minutes walk down to Sunken forest to reach Kaindy lake.
We are plenty of time to take pictures from different foreshortening and walking around the lake. Drive back to Saty village where we have dinner (traditional Kazakh meal) prepared with love by locals and homestay in Kazakh family.
Total driving distance 340 km = 7 hours consists from Almaty – Charyn 220 km = 3 hours, Charyn – Saty 92 km = 2 hours, Saty – Kaindy - Saty 28 km = 2 hours (off-road)
Total hiking distance 10 km 2,5 hour, including Charyn 4 km 1,5 hour + Kaindy 3 km 1 hour
Total timing of the day including stops, lunch and rest 12 hours
The second day
First Kulsai lake - Almaty.
After breakfast and half an hour drive to the first Kulsai lake we take 2 hours easy hike around biggest Kulsai lake and little bit deeper through the forest with skyscraper firtrees, flowering meadows. The brave ones can take a swim in the lake, temperature of the water is around 6-8 degrees of Celsius. After nice walk on a fresh air and swim hot local food will be awaiting for us at homestay for lunch.
Total driving distance 320 km = 5h 40 minutes consists of Saty – Kulsai - Saty 30 km = 40 minutes, Saty – Almaty 290 km = 5 hours
Total hiking distance 4 km = 3 hours
Total timing of the day including stops, lunch and rest 10 hours
an individual all inclusive 2 days tour to Charyn canyon, Kulsai and Kaindy lakes for 2 people with specially prepared suv (4x4) car, fuel, English speaking driver – guide - translator, food - day 1 lunch and dinner, day 2 - breakfast and lunch, water, tea and coffee during the day, entrance fee to all national parks and 1 night (depending on accommodation you chose) costs
You have see something is not in program?
The route can be changed or supplemented at your request; if you dream of seeing an attraction not listed in this program, contact the tour organizers - we will definitely try to resolve this issue and tell you about all possible options.
Examples of options: On the 1st day, you can see other canyons in addition to or instead of the valley of castles, such as Lunny, Bestamak, Temerlik. On the 2nd day, you can go to the second Kolsai lake by horse or on foot. Instead of a guest house, you can stay overnight in tents or a hotel near Lake Kolsai.
Guide all be around
If unforeseen circumstances arise, you have any ideas, you want to clarify something - immediately contact our guides. They are always ready to help you with a variety of issues :)
Best view best photo
A variety of scenic spots for photos, including picturesque landscapes, animals and unusual trees, will create bright moments for your creativity.
Apartments
Guest House
For person
584$
The price includes:
✅guide/driver
✅Comfortable SUV
✅accommodation in a guest house
✅meals (lunch, dinner, breakfast, lunch)
✅entrance tickets along the route
✅drinking water 2 liters per day
Hotel
For person
725$
The price includes:
✅guide/driver
✅Comfortable SUV
✅accommodation in a guest house
✅meals (lunch, dinner, breakfast, lunch)
✅entrance tickets along the route
✅drinking water 2 liters per day
Discover charyn
Reviews
Christa & Diego
Простой текст
Nisha and Prasanth
Rajni
Sandhya Sathish
Sharon
Thor&Pauline
Tina
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faq
main questions
Preparing for an adventure in the Kazakh mountains is about more than just throwing items into a bag; it is about anticipating the unique conditions of our terrain. Because our tours range from accessible nature walks to more rigorous treks, we always suggest that your physical preparation matches your chosen route. If you are ever in doubt about your stamina, starting with shorter trips is a strategy we highly recommend to ensure you don't burn out before reaching the main highlights.
When it comes to clothing, the golden rule of mountain travel is flexibility. While the city might be experiencing a scorching summer, the mountains often have their own microclimates. Even on sunny days, temperatures at locations like Kolsai or Kaindy can drop rapidly, which is why layering is essential. We advise choosing comfortable, breathable natural fabrics that don't restrict your movement, but always keep an extra warm layer within reach. Similarly, the sun at high altitudes is significantly more intense than what you are used to, making sunglasses, a high-SPF sunscreen, and a hat non-negotiable items for protecting your skin and eyes.
Beyond clothing, your personal comfort is tied to how you handle the road. Since mountain travel involves long drives on winding passes, if you are prone to motion sickness, packing your preferred medication is a must. While our team always carries a comprehensive first-aid kit, having your own small set of personal essentials—like specific allergy medications, painkillers, and antiseptics—gives you extra peace of mind.
To keep your energy levels consistent throughout the day, we suggest packing energy-dense, non-perishable snacks such as nuts, dried fruits, or energy bars, and bringing a thermos with tea or coffee to enjoy the views. Staying hydrated is equally important, so please ensure you always have a steady supply of drinking water. Because connectivity in the deep mountains can be spotty or non-existent, this is the perfect opportunity to embrace a "digital detox." Bring a physical book or offline entertainment to pass the time during the drives, and always make sure to let your loved ones know your itinerary and expected return time. Finally, remember to carry your original passport, as it is strictly required for national park checkpoints, and keep a mix of cash and cards for any spontaneous local stops. By coming prepared, you allow yourself to focus entirely on the beauty of the landscape rather than worrying about the logistics.
general tips
Tour Duration
Assess your strength and decide if you're ready for a long jeep trip.***Route Difficulty:**If you're a beginner, choose simpler routes.
Weather Conditions:
Be prepared for possible weather changes and bring warm clothes.
Safety: Follow safety rules and follow the guide's instructions.
Physical Activity:
Be prepared for physical activity and bring comfortable clothes and shoes.***Nutrition:**Don't forget about nutrition and bring foods that won't spoil
These are just general recommendations. Specific advice on preparing for a jeep tour you can get from the trip organizer.
What is exactly included in the tour price?
Our pricing is fully transparent—we believe you shouldn't have to reach for your wallet during the trip. Your tour price covers everything essential: professional guide services, all national park entrance fees (eco-fees), accommodation, bottled water, and all meals. Unlike mass-market agencies that charge extra for transfers to Kaindy Lake or specialized off-road access, we include these in our custom-built itineraries. We operate two formats: bespoke private tours for couples or solo travelers who value privacy, and small-group expeditions capped at 12 participants. Every route is tailored to your physical fitness and preferences, ensuring you aren't stuck on a generic program that doesn't fit your pace.
How much time will we actually spend at each location? Do you do "5-places-in-a-day" tours?
We don't believe in "photo-finish" tours where you get exactly 10 minutes to grab a shot and run back to the bus. That approach often leads to burnout and disappointment. When we design our itineraries, we prioritize meaningful exploration over quantity.
Once we arrive at a location, we take the time to immerse ourselves in it. We provide historical and cultural context, point out the best hidden spots for photography, and allow enough time for you to walk, stretch your legs, and truly observe the landscape. Our goal is not just to show you the location, but to help you understand what you are seeing. We guide you through the journey so that the time spent on the road and at the destination feels balanced and rewarding, rather than rushed.
What kind of vehicles do you use for your tours?
Your comfort and safety are our top priority, especially considering Kazakhstan's diverse and rugged terrain. We exclusively use reliable Japanese 4x4 off-road vehicles—such as the Toyota Land Cruiser and Mitsubishi Pajero. These vehicles are legendary for their durability, but we don't just rely on the brand; we maintain them meticulously to ensure the suspension handles mountain roads without turning your trip into an endurance test.
Most importantly, we avoid the "sardine-can" approach common in budget tours. We limit the number of passengers per vehicle to ensure everyone has enough legroom and personal space. Every vehicle is equipped with a high-performance air conditioning system to keep you refreshed, even during long drives through the steppe or hot summer days. With us, you arrive at your destination energized and ready to explore, not exhausted from a bumpy, cramped ride.
How large are your tour groups, and will I be stuck in a crowd?
We offer a range of experiences, from intimate private tours for couples to small-group expeditions capped at 12 participants. While we occasionally facilitate larger corporate or group outings of up to 30 people, we handle them differently: each group, regardless of size, is split into individual vehicles, each with its own air-conditioned comfort, plenty of space, and a dedicated personal guide.
We strongly believe that a tour shouldn't feel like a lecture in a crowded hall. Our goal is to ensure you don’t just leave with photos, but with lasting memories of both the breathtaking landscapes and the people you share the journey with. We focus on building a relaxed, friendly atmosphere where you can genuinely connect with your travel companions. The high volume of positive feedback we receive from our guests confirms that this human-centric approach is what makes our expeditions stand out from standard tours.
How challenging are the hiking sections? Do I need to be an athlete?
Transparency about physical activity is the foundation of a great trip. Every one of our itineraries comes with a clear difficulty rating, but we don't believe in "one-size-fits-all" trekking.
During our initial consultation, we take the time to discuss your physical fitness, lifestyle, and past hiking experience. If you are an active athlete looking for a challenge—such as the 8km hike to the second Kolsai Lake—we will build a route to match your pace. If you prefer a more relaxed approach or are traveling with family, we curate a "low-impact" itinerary that focuses on accessible paths, scenic viewpoints, and minimal physical strain. Our goal is to ensure you enjoy the beauty of the Kazakh mountains at a pace that feels comfortable for you, not one that leaves you exhausted.
What is the schedule? Can I plan flights or other transport for the evening of the return day?
We value your time and take scheduling seriously. While we are proud that our delays rarely exceed 30 minutes, we operate in mountain environments where factors like weather, road conditions, or unexpected traffic can influence the schedule. We maintain constant communication, checking in with our guests throughout the tour to manage energy levels and keep things running smoothly.
Important Note for Travelers: We have a strict policy regarding departures. If you have an international flight or an urgent connection scheduled for the evening of your return, we will have to decline your booking. We prioritize safety and a relaxed pace over rushing to meet a deadline, and we strongly advise our guests to avoid scheduling any critical departures on the day of their return. It is best to treat the evening of your return as a time to rest and enjoy the post-trip atmosphere without the stress of "beating the clock."
What about stops during the drive? Will we have time for rest, food, and restroom breaks?
A long drive shouldn't feel like a chore. We don't just drive you from point A to point B; we curate the journey to ensure your comfort throughout. Throughout the route, we make regular, strategic stops. These include breaks at clean, reliable restroom facilities, local shops for snacks and refreshments, and service stations where necessary.
Beyond basic necessities, we often use these moments to turn the "transfer" part of your trip into an exploration of its own. We’ll show you unique local points of interest that aren't on the standard maps, giving you the chance to stretch, breathe the fresh mountain air, and experience the local culture along the way. Your journey with us is about enjoying the road as much as the destination.
What should I pack? A local expert's checklist.
Physical Preparation: Your enjoyment depends on your stamina. If you are unsure of your endurance, we recommend starting with shorter, less demanding trips before moving on to longer, more challenging routes. We are always happy to help you choose the right path for your fitness level.
Clothing & Footwear: Choose comfortable, "sporty" clothing that doesn't restrict movement. Opt for natural materials that allow your skin to breathe. Crucial tip: Always bring an extra layer of warm clothing, even if it is hot in the city—mountain weather is notoriously unpredictable and can change in minutes.
Sun Protection: The sun at high altitudes is significantly more intense than in the city. Sunglasses, a hat, and sunscreen are non-negotiable to protect your skin and eyes from UV rays.
Personal First Aid Kit: While our guides carry basic medical supplies, please bring a small personal kit containing any medications specific to your needs, including painkillers, remedies for indigestion/allergies, antiseptics, and band-aids.
Food & Water: Pack energy-dense, non-perishable snacks like nuts, dried fruits, chocolate, or energy bars. A thermos with hot tea or coffee is a great companion for mountain views. Most importantly, keep a steady supply of drinking water with you at all times.
Tech & Entertainment: Don't forget your camera or phone to capture the landscapes. Since the drives can be long, bring a book, tablet, or favorite playlist to keep yourself entertained between locations.
Essentials (Documents & Money): Always carry your original passport—it is required for national park checkpoints. Keep a mix of cash and a bank card handy for potential additional expenses.
Hygiene & Communication: Carry a personal "mini-kit" with wet wipes and tissues. Lastly, always inform your loved ones about your itinerary and your expected return time, especially since mobile reception in the deep mountains can be spotty.