How to Plan Your Kolsay and Kaiyndy Lakes Charyn Canyon Tour with Overnight at the Locals from Almaty

Are you looking for a unique adventure during your stay in Almaty? Look no further than the Kolsay and Kaiyndy Lakes Charyn Canyon Tour with Overnight at the Locals. This two-day private tour offers excellent opportunities for hiking, sightseeing, and experiencing rural life in Kazakhstan. Here’s everything you need to know to plan the perfect trip.

Overview

The Kolsay and Kaiyndy Lakes Charyn Canyon Tour with Overnight at the Locals is a private, two-day excursion through the beautiful natural landscape of southeast Kazakhstan. You’ll visit three of the region’s most breathtaking sites: Charyn Canyon, Kolsay Lakes, and Kaindy Lake. You’ll also stay overnight in the small village of Saty, enjoying meals with local families and experiencing rural life in Kazakhstan firsthand.

What’s Included

This tour includes the following:

• Transportation to and from Almaty hotel/apartment/hostel
• Private car with air conditioning
• Professional guide (an English-speaking guide is available for an additional fee)
• Dinner, breakfast, and lunch with local families in Saty
• One night’s accommodation in Saty village
• Entrance fees to all three sites
• Infant car seats (available upon request)

Day 1

Stop 1: Charyn Canyon

On the first day of your tour, you’ll be picked up from your hotel in Almaty at 8:00 AM and driven to Charyn Canyon. This striking red canyon stretches over 80 kilometers and is about 12 million years old. You’ll stroll through the canyon and explore the “Valley of Castles,” admiring the rock formations that look like spires, arches, and towers.

Stop 2: Kolsai Lakes

After your visit to Charyn Canyon, you’ll drive to the Kolsay Lakes. There are three Kolsay Lakes, but the tour will take you to the second and third, which are located high in the mountains at an elevation of over 1,800 meters. You can walk around the banks of the lakes, take pictures, and enjoy the peaceful surroundings. If you are interested in boat riding, it is available at an additional cost, which can be arranged by the tour operator or your guide. You’ll spend the night in Saty village at a local family’s guesthouse. Here, you’ll enjoy homemade Kazakh food and hospitality and get a glimpse into what rural Kazakhstan life is like.

Day 2

Stop 1: Kaindy Lake

After breakfast in Saty village, you’ll drive to Kaindy Lake. This natural lake is quite different from any other. Due to an earthquake in 1911, part of a nearby forest partially got buried by a landslide, and the water of a nearby river found its way around the trunks of the trees, creating a unique landscape. You’ll take a short hike around the shores of the lake and admire the underwater forest.

Stop 2: Back to Almaty

After your visit to Kaindy Lake, you’ll drive back to Almaty, where your tour will conclude.

Additional Info

• This tour is not wheelchair accessible.
• Infant car seats are available upon request.
• Confirmation will be received at the time of booking.
• The tour operates rain or shine.
• If you cancel at least 24 hours in advance, you will receive a full refund.
• The tour is operated by NEOmad.

Book Your Tour Now

The Kolsay and Kaiyndy Lakes Charyn Canyon Tour with Overnight at the Locals is an excellent opportunity to explore some of Kazakhstan’s magnificent natural beauty and experience rural life in Saty village. With a knowledgeable guide and private transportation, you’ll have a stress-free and unforgettable two days. To book the tour, click here.

FAQ about Almaty

Almaty is the largest city in Kazakhstan and the cultural and financial center of the country. Below is a list of frequently asked questions about Almaty, along with helpful answers:

What is the best time to visit Almaty?

The best time to visit Almaty is from April to late September when the weather is mild and pleasant. During this time, you can explore the city’s attractions comfortably. The weather in Almaty is typically dry with little rainfall throughout the year, but winters can be quite cold and harsh.

What is the currency used in Almaty?

The currency used in Almaty is the Kazakhstani tenge (KZT), and most businesses in the city do not accept foreign currency. You can exchange your currency for tenge at banks and currency exchange offices in Almaty.

What language is spoken in Almaty?

The official language of Kazakhstan is Kazakh, but Russian is widely spoken in Almaty, especially among the older generation. English is not widely spoken, so it is advisable to learn some basic Russian before traveling to Almaty.

What are the popular tourist attractions in Almaty?

Almaty has numerous attractions that attract tourists from all over the world. Some of the popular tourist attractions in Almaty include:

1. Panfilov Park:

This park is named in honor of the Panfilov heroes who fought during World War II. It’s a beautiful park with a variety of attractions, including an impressive monument and an Orthodox church.

2. Medeo Skating Rink:

This is one of the highest skating rinks in the world and is an excellent place to visit if you’re traveling to Almaty during the winter months.

3. Kok Tobe Hill:

This is the highest point in Almaty and a beautiful place to admire the city’s skyline. There is also an amusement park, restaurants, and souvenir shops.

4. Central State Museum:

This museum showcases Kazakhstan’s rich history and culture and is an excellent place to learn more about the country.

5. Almaty Opera House:

This beautiful Opera House displays top-class performances by renowned Kazakh and international artists.

What is the best way to get around Almaty?

The best way to get around Almaty is by using public transportation such as buses, trams, and taxis. The city also has a modern metro system that is efficient and affordable. Taxis are also readily available, but it is important to negotiate the fare before embarking on your journey.

What are the traditional cuisines of Almaty?

Almaty boasts of several dishes that represent the unique flavors of Kazakhstan. Some of the traditional dishes in Almaty include:

1. Beshbarmak:

This is the national dish of Kazakhstan, which is a boiled meat dish served on a bed of noodles.

2. Kazy:

This is a type of sausage that is made from horse meat and is popular among the locals.

3. Lagman:

This noodle soup usually contains vegetables and meat, and it’s a popular dish in Kazakhstan.

4. Plov:

This is a rice dish that is made using lamb or beef, and it’s a staple food in Kazakhstan.

What are the shopping destinations in Almaty?

Almaty has several shopping destinations that cater to the needs of every kind of shopper. Some of the popular shopping destinations in Almaty include:

1. Green Bazaar:

This is a bustling market that sells a wide range of products such as fresh produce, spices, and souvenirs.

2. Mega Center:

This is a modern shopping mall that houses international and local brands. It also has several restaurants and entertainment options.

3. Silk Road Shopping Center:

This is a shopping center that sells high-end luxury brands and is popular among affluent shoppers.

4. Dostyk Plaza:

This is a shopping center that caters to mid-range shoppers and has a range of local and international brands.

What are the accommodation options in Almaty?

Almaty has several accommodation options that cater to the needs of every traveler. Some popular accommodation options in Almaty include:

1. Rixos Almaty Hotel:

This is a luxury five-star hotel that offers premium accommodation and world-class amenities.

2. The Ritz-Carlton Almaty:

This is another luxury five-star hotel that offers premium accommodation and amenities.

3. Mercure Almaty City Center Hotel:

This is a mid-range hotel that offers comfortable accommodation and is ideal for budget-conscious travelers.

4. Hostel Inn Perch:

This is a hostel that offers affordable accommodation and is popular among backpackers and solo travelers.

Book Your Tour Now:

Almaty is a beautiful city that has much to offer visitors. From its rich history and culture to its stunning natural landscapes, there is something for every traveler. Whether you’re looking for a luxury getaway or a budget-friendly vacation, Almaty has something to offer. We hope that this FAQ has provided you with helpful information about Almaty, and we encourage you to plan a trip to this amazing city.

How to Spend Your Time as a Tourist in Almaty

Almaty is the largest city in Kazakhstan and one of the most popular tourist destinations in Central Asia. The city has a rich history, beautiful architecture, and is surrounded by stunning natural landscapes. If you’re planning a trip to Almaty, here’s how to spend your time as a tourist:

1. Visit the Medeu Skating Rink

The Medeu Skating Rink is one of the most popular destinations in Almaty, and for good reason. Located at an elevation of 1,691 meters above sea level, it’s the highest outdoor skating rink in the world. The rink is open year-round and offers breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains. During the winter months, the rink is covered in ice and is used for competitive skating events. In the summer, it’s transformed into a roller-skating rink. There are also several restaurants and cafes in the area where you can grab a bite to eat.

2. Explore the Almaty Central Park

The Almaty Central Park is a peaceful oasis in the heart of the city. It’s one of the largest parks in Almaty and offers a variety of outdoor activities, including walking, jogging, and cycling. The park is also home to several attractions, including a ferris wheel, a botanical garden, and a musical fountain. If you’re visiting Almaty with children, the park is a great place to take them to play.

3. Visit the Ascension Cathedral

The Ascension Cathedral is one of the most beautiful architectural landmarks in Almaty. The cathedral was built in the early 20th century and is a fine example of Russian Orthodox architecture. The cathedral is located in Panfilov Park, which is another popular destination for tourists. The park is home to several other attractions, including the Monument of Glory and the Museum of Musical Instruments.

4. Take a Trip to the Charyn Canyon

The Charyn Canyon is one of the most stunning natural landscapes in Kazakhstan. It’s located about 200 kilometers east of Almaty and can be reached by car or bus. The canyon is over 150 meters deep and is known for its unique rock formations. There are also several hiking trails in the area, making it a great place for outdoor enthusiasts.

5. Visit the Almaty Zoo

The Almaty Zoo is a great place to visit if you’re traveling with children or if you’re a lover of animals. The zoo is home to over 6,000 animals from all over the world, including several rare and endangered species. Some of the highlights of the zoo include the snow leopard exhibit, the primate house, and the aquarium.

6. Shop at the Green Bazaar

The Green Bazaar is one of the largest markets in Almaty and is a great place to shop for souvenirs and local goods. The market is located in the heart of the city and offers a variety of products, including spices, fruits and vegetables, and Kazakh handicrafts. The market is also a great place to try some of the local cuisine, including traditional Kazakh dishes like beshbarmak and kazy.

7. Take a Cable Car Ride up to Kok Tobe

Kok Tobe is a mountain located on the outskirts of Almaty and offers stunning views of the city. The easiest way to get to the top of the mountain is by taking a cable car ride. Once you’re at the top, you can enjoy a variety of activities, including dining at a restaurant, visiting a mini-zoo, and shopping for souvenirs.

8. Visit the Auezov Theater

The Auezov Theater is one of the oldest theaters in Kazakhstan and is a great place to experience the country’s rich cultural heritage. The theater hosts a variety of performances, including plays, musicals, and dance shows. If you’re interested in theater and the arts, the Auezov Theater is definitely worth a visit.

Book Your Tour Now

Almaty is a vibrant and exciting city that offers a variety of activities and attractions for tourists. Whether you’re interested in history, culture, or the great outdoors, there’s something for everyone in Almaty. With this guide, you can make the most of your time in the city and experience all that it has to offer.