Top Almaty Day Trips

Kolsai, Kaindy Lakes and Charyn Canyon Small Group Tour

15 hoursFree Cancellation

(944)

from $59

1 Day trip Charyn Canyon Kolsay and Kaindy lakes VIP car

Our advantages • The company has its own fleet of vehicles, where USB and TYPE-C chargers are installed on each vehicle and on each seat. • In the summer season, we provide each of our tourists with a neck fan with cold air for free, so that in hot weather they can cool down and feel comfortable throughout the tour. • In the winter season, we also provide our tourists with warm and touch gloves, a warm blanket for free, and for an additional fee you can buy very warm socks. • With us you will encounter only informative, experienced, energetic, cheerful guides who know the history of their country very well. • Only we have the most affordable prices for various types of tours and excursions in Kazakhstan. Enrich your spring with bright adventures! We invite you on a journey through the colorful natural locations of Kazakhstan. You will admire the grandiose cliffs of the Charyn Canyon and see the lunar landscape on Earth. Enjoy the crystal clear waters of the lakes and green meadows

(15)

from $48

Treasures of Almaty lakes Kaindy and Kolsai,Charyn Canyon

Treasures of Almaty lakes Kaindy and Kolsai,Charyn Canyon

Express Tour: Kolsai, Kaindy Lake Charyn , Black Canyon in 1 day

4.6

(230)

from $39

Discover the perfect mix of light adventure and breathtaking nature on this day tour from Almaty. Travel in comfort and enjoy a well-organized experience guided by a professional local expert. Start your day with a refreshing hike through the scenic Turgen Gorge. Walk along a picturesque mountain trail surrounded by lush forests and panoramic views as you head toward the beautiful Bear Waterfall. At the end of the trail, enjoy the cool freshness of glacial water and the peaceful atmosphere of this place. After the hike, continue to the stunning Issyk Lake, located at 1,756 meters above sea level in the Ili-Alatau mountains. The lake’s color changes from turquoise to deep blue depending on the season, creating a truly mesmerizing landscape. Take time to relax, walk along the shore, capture unforgettable photos, and enjoy the calm beauty of the mountains.

(2)

from $55

Lake Issyk with Turgen (Bear) Waterfall tour

Lake Issyk with Turgen (Bear) Waterfall tour

9 to 10 hoursFree Cancellation

(91)

from $35

This extended day tour takes you to two of Almaty’s most popular natural attractions—Kolsai and Kaindy Lakes and Charyn Canyon—so you don’t need to plan anything. Your guide takes care of the logistics, including finding the most scenic photo spots, and the tour includes a filling local lunch, entrance fees, hotel pickup, and air-conditioned minibus travel. Get personalized attention and have all your questions answered, too, on a small-group tour.

Kolsai Kaindy Lakes with Charyn Canyons Day Tour (lunch included)

Kolsai Kaindy Lakes with Charyn Canyons Day Tour (lunch included)

(322)

from $69

Private Charyn Canyon, Kolsai Lake with Optional Kaindy Lake tour

9 to 13 hoursFree Cancellation

(26)

from $180

Big trip in 1 day: Kolsai, Kaindy Lake, Black, Charyn, Canyon.

Explore Altyn Emel National Park — one of Kazakhstan's most surreal landscapes. Hike through the otherworldly Aktau Mountains, volcanic Katutau formations, and climb the legendary Singing Dunes that hum as you descend. 1-Day Tour: Aktau Mountains → Katutau → Singing Dunes. Pickup 5:30 AM, return ~10 PM. Lunch at a local guesthouse included. 2-Day Tour: Day 1 — Aktau Mountains, Katutau, 700-year-old Willow Tree, overnight in Basshi village with homemade dinner and campfire under the stars. Day 2 — Singing Dunes, return to Almaty. Breakfast and dinner included. Private Tour: Full itinerary for your group only. Flexible pace, personalized experience. All options include: English-speaking guide, transport, lunch, and all national park entrance fees.

(34)

from $58

1-2 Days Singing dunes & Aktau mountains grouptour to Altyn Emel

1-2 Days Singing dunes & Aktau mountains grouptour to Altyn Emel

(135)

from $200

Escape the crowds and discover the untouched beauty of Assy Plateau and Turgen Gorge on this scenic day tour from Almaty. Travel in comfortable 4x4 vehicles designed for mountain terrain, allowing you to reach remote locations with ease while enjoying a safe and smooth journey. With small group sizes, this experience feels more personal and relaxed, far from busy tourist routes. Assy Plateau is a true hidden gem, known for its wide open valleys, rolling hills, and breathtaking panoramic views. The fresh mountain air and peaceful atmosphere make it a perfect escape from the heat and noise of the city. You will also visit Bear Waterfall, where an easy 2 km hike leads you through forest trails. Even if you prefer not to hike, you can relax by the river and fully enjoy the natural surroundings.

Assy Plateau and Turgen Waterfall Day Tour from Almaty

Assy Plateau and Turgen Waterfall Day Tour from Almaty

11 hoursFree Cancellation

from $50

Likely to Sell Out

Kolsai and Kaindy Lakes with Charyn Canyons Day Trip

Unique Tour of Almaty: Kolsay Lakes, Kaindy Lake, and the Charyn Canyon Immerse yourself in the stunning natural beauty of Almaty! Our tour includes visits to three incredible locations: Kolsay Lake - picturesque waters surrounded by mountains, perfect for relaxation and photos. Kaindy Lake - a unique lake with poplars growing right in the water. Charyn Canyon - vibrant cliffs and breathtaking views that will leave you in awe. With us, you'll discover the best natural spots, enjoy comfort, and create unforgettable memories! As a nice bonus, every guest will receive a small gift during the tour -- a thoughtful touch to make your trip even more special.

Kolsai and Kaindy Lakes with Charyn Canyons Day Trip

Discover the dramatic canyon landscapes of Kazakhstan in one action-packed day from Almaty. Your journey takes you through three stunning canyons, each with its own distinct character. Charyn Canyon — towering red rock formations stretching 154 km, often called the Grand Canyon of Central Asia. Walk the lower trail through the legendary Valley of Castles, then climb to the upper rim for a panoramic view of the entire canyon. Continue to the mysterious Black Canyon, where dark volcanic walls create a striking contrast, and finish at the surreal Moon Canyon — pale, crumbling formations that look like a lunar landscape. A hot homemade lunch is included mid-tour at a local café. Private Tour: Same route, your group only — flexible pace and personalized attention. English-speaking guide. Hotel pickup from 7 AM. All national park entrance fees included. Maximum 10 people per group.

(100)

from $57

Grand Canyons of Kazakhstan: Charyn, Black and Moon Canyon

Grand Canyons of Kazakhstan: Charyn, Black and Moon Canyon

11 hoursFree Cancellation

(14)

from $49

We'll take you to an Ethno village "Hunns" which is located in a mountainous region with pristine scenery. The main customs, ceremonies, and enjoyable activities of our culture will be demonstrated to you by locals dressed in traditional dresses , in which you are welcome to participate. The tour includes the following activities:watching a performance that showcases traditional customs; attending a professional horse-riding tricks show; learning about yurts; watching a show with archers; participating in amateur horseback riding; learning how to make local crafts; cooking basic national dishes and drinking kumis (horse milk); and tasting a delicious authentic meal. Come and enjoy the renowned hospitality of Kazakhstan in a beautiful mountain setting.

Experience the Nomadic Lifestyle at 'The Huns' Ethno-village

Experience the Nomadic Lifestyle at 'The Huns' Ethno-village

6 hoursFree Cancellation

4.6

(31)

from $144

N️omad Travel VIP ️ Charyn Canyon – Explore the legendary Valley of Castles and admire breathtaking red rock formations. Moon Canyon – Discover a unique lunar-like landscape with incredible panoramic views. Black Canyon – Enjoy spectacular viewpoints overlooking the emerald Charyn River. ️ Saty Village – Taste a traditional homemade Kazakh lunch and experience local hospitality. Kolsai Lake – Relax by one of Kazakhstan’s most beautiful alpine lakes, surrounded by forests and mountains. Travel in a comfortable air-conditioned vehicle with an English-speaking guide. Hotel pickup, bottled water, national park entrance fees, lunch, and a small souvenir from Nomad Travel are included.

Special Offer

Explore the Majestic Kolsai Lake, Charyn Canyon & Black Canyon

Explore the Majestic Kolsai Lake, Charyn Canyon & Black Canyon

Experience the stunning landscapes of the Ile-Alatau National Park on a full-day trip from Almaty. Visit the magnificent Bear Waterfall in Turgen Gorge, where you can take a short hike and capture memorable photos. Continue to the Assy Plateau, known for its breathtaking panoramic views and refreshing breezes. Enjoy a friendly picnic surrounded by nature, complete with hot mountain tea and snacks, making this tour ideal for nature enthusiasts and photographers alike. - Full-day tour with a duration of approximately 12 hours - Small group experience in a comfortable SUV, accommodating up to 7 passengers - Guided visit to Bear Waterfall and Assy Plateau with light hiking - Includes entrance fees, bottled water

Likely to Sell Out

Turgen Waterfall and Assy Plateau Tour

12 hoursFree Cancellation

3.2

(5)

from $45

Likely to Sell Out

Discover the unique landscapes of Charyn Canyon and Kolsay Lake on a day trip from Almaty. The tour includes various activities such as hiking, horseback riding, and boating, allowing tourists to engage with the environment actively and enjoy different perspectives of the lakes. Kolsay Lake, often referred to as the "Pearls of the Northern Tien Shan," offers breathtaking views with its serene blue waters surrounded by lush green mountains. Interacting with the local Kazakh communities and experiencing their hospitality and traditions enriches the cultural aspect of the tour. Guests can enjoy local cuisine and learn about the lifestyle of people living in this remote area. Charyn Canyon, often compared to the Grand Canyon, features stunning geological formations that are millions of years old. Opportunities for adventure activities such as hiking through the Valley of Castles and exploring hidden caves make this tour appealing to thrill-seekers and outdoor enthusiasts.

Kolsai Lake and Charyn Canyon Day Trip

Issyk Lake - shining pearl of Almaty surroundings + Golden Man museum

4.6

(102)

from $43

6 hoursFree Cancellation

(7)

from $128

Issyk Lake & Bear waterfall in Turgen Gorge + Golden Man museum day tour

7 to 9 hoursFree Cancellation

(17)

from $127

Tamgaly-Tas is the site of Dzungar Lamaism, common in South-East Kazakhstan in the second half of the XVII-XVIII centuries. Tamgalytas is located 25 km north-west of Kapchagai, on the right bank of the Ili river. Tamgaly-Tas is a unique site of Buddhist culture, has a long history of study and has been known in science for more than a century and a half. Castle of nomads was built as a decoration for the film “Nomad”, which was released in 2005. But you will be surprised by how organically it fits into the surrounding landscape. Now this city is often called the “Nomad Fortress”, and thousands of tourists flock to this tourist site every year.

1 Day Tour: Castle of nomads & Buddha petroglyphs

1 Day Tour: Castle of nomads & Buddha petroglyphs

8 to 10 hoursFree Cancellation

(2)

from $225

Immerse in culture, traditional show, horsemanship, and lunch with national dishes & activities from gates of Ethno-Village Gunny (Huns)! The life show will be started by warriors and residents welcoming you with degustation of Kazakh bread and drink will continue with ceremonial show: Kyz Uzatu/ Nauryz/other. Then, there will be the show of horsemen-warriors — Jigitovka. Young riders will demonstrate their skill in performing acrobatic tricks on horses, as well as participating in national games that resemble festive celebrations of the people, at full gallop! After the show, there will be a lunch treat of national dishes such as Beshbarmak, Kaordak, Plov, and Manty, as well as traditional drinks — Kymyz or Shubat. After lunch, you can test yourself in horse riding and archering. Lastly you will head to the Troat farm, visiting Monument along the way, where you will be surrounded by picturesque natural landscapes and fishing activities that will provide unforgettable experiences!

Live show in Huns Gunny Ethno Village with lunch and Trout Farm

Live show in Huns Gunny Ethno Village with lunch and Trout Farm

9 hoursFree Cancellation

4.5

(2)

from $99

Almaty Highlights: Butakov Waterfall, Auyl, Shymbulak & Kok Tobe

Discover Almaty’s top mountain highlights on a full-day tour combining nature, culture, and stunning views. Meet your guide at 9:00 AM in front of the Abay Opera House and travel to Ile-Alatau National Park. Visit the Butakovka Visit Center before hiking through scenic pine forests to Butakovka Waterfall (about 1 hour each way). Guests who prefer not to hike can relax at the Visit Center and enjoy the mountain scenery. After the hike, enjoy free time for lunch at Auyl Restaurant (lunch is not included), a unique mountain restaurant with panoramic views of the Small Almaty Gorge. Continue to Medeu, one of the world's highest mountain skating rinks, then ride the cable car to Shymbulak Mountain Resort for free time to explore and take photos. Finish the day at Kok Tobe, Almaty’s most famous viewpoint, offering spectacular views of the city and surrounding mountains before returning to the city center.

Almaty Highlights: Butakov Waterfall, Auyl, Shymbulak & Kok Tobe

8 to 9 hoursFree Cancellation

08:00 – Departure from Almaty A comfortable 4x4 vehicle will pick you up from your hotel. The drive to the Assy Plateau takes approximately 2.5–3 hours, depending on road conditions. Assy Plateau Located at an altitude of 2,500–3,000 meters above sea level, the plateau is known for its endless alpine meadows, panoramic views, and nomadic pastures. During the visit: 1. stops at scenic viewpoints 2. a walk across the plateau 3. photo stops 4. visit to the Assy-Turgen Observatory (outside view) 5. picnic or free time in nature (pick up own food) After exploring the plateau, transfer to Issyk Lake (about 1–1.5 hours). Issyk Lake A beautiful mountain lake in the Ile-Alatau National Park, surrounded by pine forests and rocky cliffs. During the visit: 1. walk along the shoreline 2. free time 3. optional light trekking 4. photo stops Return to Almaty takes about 1.5–2 hours. Estimated arrival in the city: 6:00–7:00 PM.

(9)

from $89

Almaty Assy Plateau and Issyk Lake Private Jeep Tour

Almaty Assy Plateau and Issyk Lake Private Jeep Tour

10 hoursFree Cancellation

At 10:00 AM, hotel pick-up by comfortable jeep or SUV. Drive to Huns Ethno Village takes about 1 hour. From 11:00 AM to 2:30 PM: cultural program including the traditional “Shashu” ceremony, baursak-making masterclass with tea, introduction to nomadic life, “Besikke Salu” ceremony, equestrian show, and photos with horses (short queues possible). Buffet lunch with traditional Kazakh dishes, followed by an archery masterclass. Then transfer to Issyk Lake (about 1 hour). Walk along the shore and optional light trekking. Return to Almaty (about 2 hours). Arrival at the hotel around 7:00 PM. All entrance fees and activities included — no hidden costs. Feel free to ask your guide to take photos. Guides speak English, Russian, Chinese, and Spanish — please indicate your preferred language when booking. Customized tours across Kazakhstan available upon request.

from $400

Per group

an equestrian show featuring skilled riders

Almaty: Jeep Private Huns Ethno Village & Issyk Lake Day Tour

6 to 9 hoursFree Cancellation

(7)

from $190

Embark on a private adventure to Kazakhstan's stunning Charyn Canyon, Kaiyndy, and Kolsay Lakes. Enjoy a fully personalized experience with expert local guidance, flexible itineraries, and exclusive access to breathtaking natural wonders. This tour sets itself apart by offering unparalleled comfort, customized pacing, and the chance to explore off-the-beaten-path sites. Perfect for nature lovers and adventurers, you’ll discover Kazakhstan’s most iconic landscapes, all while enjoying a seamless, memorable journey tailored just for you. Book now for an unforgettable day of discovery!

1 Day Private Tour to Charyn Canyon, Kolsay and Kaiyndy

1 Day Private Tour to Charyn Canyon, Kolsay and Kaiyndy

15 to 18 hoursFree Cancellation

(24)

from $89

Kolsai, Kaindy Lakes and Charyn Canyon Small Group Tour

1 2 3 4

What are people saying about Almaty

HanGuan_L, Jul 2026

Had a great day!

My first tour with Viator and in Kazaksthan and its great! The communication was good, the guide is really good. Making sure we are comfortable and safe. Chatting with everyone of us along the way. Sharing alot of stories and history. Didnt know there was so much hiking but the information before the tour had me prepared for the walks, cold and rain. Visited really beautiful place that i wont be able to alone. The lunch was a good everyone was so hungry after a cold wet morning walk. It was raining but hiking in the rain is also a very fun experience. Really enjoyed the day.

Experience the Nomadic Lifestyle at 'The Huns' Ethno-village

Tatyana_M, Jun 2026

Very entertaining

Everything was very well planned: my transfer, the entertainment at the ethnovillage. I really enjoyed the horse riding and watching Kazakh. guys performing tricks. The lunch was very yummy. I highly recommend this tour if you want to know more about Kazakh’s traditions.

1 Day Private Tour to Charyn Canyon, Kolsay and Kaiyndy

Joshua_B, May 2026

Amazing Private tour. Must do if visiting Kazakhstan!

“Had an amazing all-day private tour in Kazakhstan thanks to my guides/driver, Konti and Ayan. Both were incredibly knowledgeable, friendly, and accommodating throughout the entire day. The car was brand new and clean, comfortable and they were on time. We visited Charyn Canyon, Kolsay and Kaiyndy Lakes and lastly Black Canyon on the return. The diverse landscapes and untouched nature were stunning!!! My guides answered every question I had and were very flexible in tailoring the experience to exactly what I wanted to see and at my pace. Their professionalism and hospitality made the tour smooth, enjoyable, and memorable. Konti was great at ensuring I was always comfortable, tons of knowledge regarding Kazak culture, and great conversations during the road trip as well his fire playlist!! He was also super kind and mature for his age. Ayan is incredibly versed is all things Kazak, gave wonderful history and stories regarding kazak music and the 4 sites visited. He is also a great photographer to help capture all the moments. Thank you guys!! Highly recommend touring with them and requesting Konti or Ayan!”

Explore the Majestic Kolsai Lake, Charyn Canyon & Black Canyon

Isabella_D, Apr 2026

Trip To Kolsai

I had a fantastic time on this tour. Everything was well organized from start to finish, and the guide was very friendly, professional, and knowledgeable. They shared interesting information about the places we visited and made sure everyone felt comfortable throughout the trip.

Big trip in 1 day: Kolsai, Kaindy Lake, Black, Charyn, Canyon.

Mark_K, Apr 2026

Absolutely unforgettable...

Absolutely unforgettable experience! Everything was perfectly organized from start to finish. We were picked up on time at 5:00 AM, and the whole day ran smoothly. We visited a beautiful flower field (with amazing drone videos!), the breathtaking Kolsai Lakes, and the Black Canyon. Horse riding was optional, but the team helped organize it easily. The final stop with traditional local products (kurt, honey, butter) was a very authentic and pleasant finish to the day. Transportation was fast and well-timed, and we had enough time at each location without feeling rushed. The driver and guide truly did their job 100% - professional, attentive, and very well-coordinated. The guide was also engaging, informative, and spoke two languages, making everyone feel included. Tip: bring cash with you, as in the mountains card payments are often not available. Highly recommend this tour to anyone visiting Almaty!

1-2 Days Singing dunes & Aktau mountains grouptour to Altyn Emel

lavanya_k, Apr 2026

We had an excellent...

We had an excellent experience on this 2-day tour. Everything was very well organized, and the guide, Sayazhan, was knowledgeable, highly responsible, full of energy, and very friendly. She shared fascinating insights throughout the journey, making the trip both enjoyable and informative. Kassym was not just a driver but also a guide—safe, professional, and very informative. He made even the bumpy off-road drives feel easy and comfortable, pointed out interesting spots along the way, and shared helpful local knowledge that enhanced the experience. On the first day, we explored the beautiful Aktau Mountains and stayed overnight in Basshi village, which offered a wonderful and authentic local experience. On the second day, we drove across the incredible Altyn-Emel National Park to visit the Singing Dunes, a truly unique and unforgettable highlight—the dunes really “sang.” The entire journey was safe and comfortable, allowing us to relax and enjoy the stunning landscapes. Overall, it was a smooth, memorable, and highly recommended tour.

Treasures of Almaty lakes Kaindy and Kolsai,Charyn Canyon

Giulio_G, Mar 2026

Meeting is at 04:30 but...

Meeting is at 04:30 but bus doesn’t really leave until 05:00+, then gas station stop, so 05:30 by the time you really get going. The bus isn’t that comfortable. Besides this, probably one of the better day trips I’ve done. Super busy, fun, I met a lot of people, cool spots, the horse riding was really good, too. The old bus ride up to the lake was cool, in general it’s quite a well thought out day trip, Luba was lovely and knowledgeable.

Kolsai Kaindy Lakes with Charyn Canyons Day Tour (lunch included)

Seetha_I, Nov 2025

Amazing

The tour was amazing — we covered all the main places, and our guide, Luba, was excellent and very informative. The only drawback was the car’s speed on the way there; even though the road was empty, the driver was going very slowly, and many cars and trucks were passing us. However, on the way back, he drove much better. Overall, this tour is highly recommended. One tip: if anyone has back or knee pain, I would advise skipping the horse ride at Kandy Lake

Ancient petroglyphs of Tanbaly - UNESCO World Heritage

Stephen_Y, Nov 2025

Day trip to see petroglyphs in Tanbaly

It was an amazing experience to see the petroglyphs in my own eyes in such an incredible setting, not to mention an important UNESCO site that deserves to carry that status. My guide Nursultan provided me with great touring guides and his knowledge on the site’s history demonstrated at a very high level.

Lake Issyk with Turgen (Bear) Waterfall tour

Yussof_S, Sep 2025

Sunny sky, turquoise lake!

It was a wonderful sunny day for us. The trek up to Bear Waterfall was reasonably easy, but one still needs to have some fitness I reckon. But the view at the waterfall was well worth the trek. I get to enjoy the morning with my son. The lunch at Annushka in the Issyk Town was delicious. We had the best waitress too :-) and of course Issyk Lake was a gem. It was sunny, the temperature was nice, the lake looked turquoise and the sky deep blue. Such an enjoyable time. We had the most wonderful guides too. Thank you Serz and Nez for taking good care of us. This is a trip for relaxing and healing :-)

ALmaty mountains hiking tour

Riley_C, Sep 2025

Amazing and challenging hike

The Almaty hiking tour was amazing, and Ote is an incredible guide. He does a great job catering the tour to your interest and ability level. The hike itself was challenging and very rewarding. Although we didn’t make it to the alpine lake, we enjoyed the views along the way. Weather in the Almaty mountains can be a bit unpredictable, so be prepared for rainstorms/hailstorms. Ote was incredibly supportive and ensured that we got down the mountain safely despite the inclement weather. This tour is a great way to see some of Almaty’s natural beauty, and I’d highly recommend it to anyone visiting the city.

Private Charyn Canyon, Kolsai Lake with Optional Kaindy Lake tour

DebbieD_L, Aug 2025

Loved it for a flexible, customized experience

Tour review This is a great option if you’re looking for a flexible and personalized tour/itinerary. My flight was delayed coming into Almaty and they were able to accommodate that by adjusting the start time of the tour. (I would never have made it if I’d done a group tour!) I most wanted to see Kaindy Lake and we were able to do that first, followed by a lunch break and Charyn Canyon. It was a bit of a long day but Erasyl made it fun with lots of facts about the destinations as well as Kazakh life and culture as we rode. I learned so much! Bonus - Erasyl was a great personal photographer. Overall, given my short time in Almaty, it was great to have this flexible option and have everything completely customized to your priorities. Highly recommend!