You will see:
- Assy Plateau
- Turgen Gorge
- Issyk Lake
- Observatory of Assy
Prices from:$50per person*Price varies by group size
View TourKaindy, Kolsai, Issyk Lakes & Charyn Canyon & Assy Plateau
Discover the Valley of Castles, the Sunken Forest of Kaindy, and Kolsai Lake at your own pace without group tour rush.
Your safe and certified gateway to Kazakhstan
Fully Licensed Tour OperatorOfficially licensed and fully compliant with Kazakhstan's tourism regulations, ensuring a safe and reliable travel experience.
Meet Our TeamTravel with experienced English-speaking local guides who know the region, its culture, and its hidden gems.
Transparent Legal AgreementsClear contracts, secure payment invoices, and no hidden fees—complete peace of mind from booking to departure.
Mass group tours vs. our private experience
Difference:
Our Private ExperiencePersonalized journeys with total comfort, privacy, and freedom.
Mass Group ToursFixed routes, shared transport, and limited flexibility.
Schedule & Flexibility
Travel at your own pace with a flexible itinerary and extra time where it matters most.
Strict timetable with fixed departure and stop durations.
Comfort & Transportation
Premium private SUV with climate control, spacious seating, and a smooth, comfortable ride.
Crowded buses, limited space, and long mountain drives with large groups.
Privacy
Only you, your family, or your friends—complete privacy from start to finish.
Travel alongside dozens of strangers throughout the day.
Photo Opportunities
Stop whenever inspiration strikes and enjoy unlimited photo opportunities.
Quick stops with limited time for photos.
Travel Experience
Personalized recommendations, hidden viewpoints, and authentic local experiences.
Standard route with little personalization.
Guide & Service
A dedicated English-speaking guide focused entirely on your interests.
General commentary for the entire group.
Your day at Kaindy, Kolsai, Issyk Lakes & Charyn Canyon & Assy Plateau: step-by-step itinerary
08:50 AM
Hotel Pick-Up in Almaty & Meet Your GuideMeet your private English-speaking guide and driver at your hotel in Almaty. Board your comfortable 4x4 vehicle and set off towards the eastern landscapes of the region.
09:00 AM
Scenic Drive to Charyn CanyonDepart the city and travel through open Kazakh steppes and mountain passes towards the famous Charyn National Park.
12:00 PM
Charyn Canyon & Valley of Castles ExplorationArrive at Charyn Canyon. Walk down through the majestic Valley of Castles to the Charyn River, taking photos of the ancient red sandstone formations.
03:30 PM
Traditional Lunch at CharynEnjoy a satisfying lunch near the canyon, sampling freshly prepared regional dishes before continuing your journey into the Tian Shan mountains.
05:00 PM
Scenic Drive to Saty VillageHead deeper into the countryside toward the mountain village of Saty, passing rural landscapes, rolling hills, and views of the snow-capped Kungey Alatau range.
07:00 PM
Arrival in Saty VillageArrive at the peaceful mountain village of Saty, the gateway to Kolsai and Kaindy lakes, and soak in the authentic rural atmosphere.
07:10 PM
Authentic Home-Style DinnerSavor a warm, home-cooked dinner prepared by local hosts, featuring fresh local ingredients (Halal and vegetarian options available).
08:30 PM
Check-in & Overnight at Guest HouseCheck into your cozy local guest house, relax, and enjoy a quiet evening in the mountains to recharge for day two.
00:00 AM
Day 2: Sunken Forest of Kaindy & Alpine Kolsai Lakes
08:50 AM
Morning Meet & Off-Road PrepMeet your guide after breakfast and prepare for a day dedicated to exploring Almaty’s most famous alpine mountain lakes.
09:00 AM
Off-Road Journey & Kaindy Lake TourDrive up the mountain trail to Lake Kaindy. Walk or ride horseback through the pine forest to view the surreal submerged birch trees rising from the turquoise waters.
01:00 PM
Traditional Local LunchHead back to Saty village or a local scenic spot for a hearty, freshly cooked lunch and local tea.
02:30 PM
Drive to Kolsai Lakes National ParkTake a short, picturesque drive up to the pristine Kolsai Lakes, often called the "Pearl of the Northern Tian Shan."
03:00 PM
Kolsai Lake Exploration & Shoreline WalkExplore the shores of Kolsai Lake. Enjoy optional activities like boating on the crystal-clear waters, walking along scenic lake trails, or taking panorama photos.
07:00 PM
Traditional Dinner in SatyReturn to the guest house for another delicious home-style dinner with your hosts, accompanied by fresh mountain tea.
08:30 PM
Relaxation & Second Night in SatySpend a restful evening relaxing at the guest house, enjoying stargazing under clear mountain skies.
00:00 AM
Day 3: High-Altitude Assy Plateau & Lake Issyk
07:50 AM
Morning Meet & Check-OutMeet your guide, pack up your luggage, check out of the guest house, and set off for a high-altitude mountain crossing.
08:00 AM
Mountain Drive to Assy PlateauBegin an exciting 4x4 overland drive toward the remote Assy Plateau, traveling across rugged terrain and high mountain passes.
01:00 PM
Assy Plateau & Observatory TourExplore the endless green alpine meadows of Assy Plateau (2,750m). Observe nomadic yurts, grazing herds, and the famous high-altitude astronomical observatory.
03:00 PM
Outdoor Picnic / Lunch in NatureStop for lunch surrounded by vast, panoramic mountain views and fresh alpine air in the heart of the plateau.
04:30 PM
Issyk Lake TourDescend towards Lake Issyk (1,760m). Walk along the tranquil shore of this vibrant turquoise lake and learn about its dramatic history and surrounding peaks.
06:00 PM
Return Journey to AlmatyBegin the comfortable return drive to Almaty, reflecting on three days of incredible natural sights.
07:30 PM
Hotel Drop-Off in AlmatyArrive back at your hotel or preferred drop-off location in Almaty, concluding your 3-day adventure.
What's Included in Your Kaindy, Kolsai, Issyk Lakes & Charyn Canyon & Assy Plateau Private Trip
Hotel Pick-Up & Drop-OffComfortable door-to-door transportation from your accommodation.
English-Speaking Local GuideA knowledgeable private guide dedicated exclusively to your group.
Private Premium SUVModern, air-conditioned vehicle with spacious seating for maximum comfort.
All National Park Entry FeesIncluding all eco-fees and local taxes—no surprise payments on arrival.
Traditional LunchVeg & Halal options available. Fresh local cuisine with dietary options available upon request.
Unlimited Photo StopsStop whenever you'd like to capture Kazakhstan's breathtaking landscapes.
Complimentary Bottled WaterStay refreshed throughout your journey.
Licensed & Fully Insured TourTravel with an officially licensed operator following local safety standards.
What's Not Included
Personal travel insuranceFlights to and from KazakhstanPersonal expenses & souvenirsAdditional snacks and beveragesOptional activities not listed in the itineraryTips for your guide (optional)
Loved by travelers worldwide on Google
Absolutely incredible experience! The landscapes were beyond anything we imagined, and having a private guide made the trip feel relaxed and personal. Every stop was perfectly timed, and we never felt rushed.
We booked the Charyn Canyon and Kolsai Lakes tour, and it was the highlight of our Kazakhstan trip. The SUV was very comfortable, our guide spoke excellent English, and we had plenty of time for photos. Highly recommended for families and couples!
From the very first message, everything was organized professionally. The itinerary was customized to our interests, the guide shared fascinating stories about the region, and every location exceeded our expectations. Staying overnight in a traditional yurt while surrounded by the mountains was an unforgettable experience.
Frequently Asked Questions
Visa requirements depend on your nationality. Many travelers can enter Kazakhstan visa-free for a limited period. Contact us, and we'll help you check the latest requirements for your country.
You can comfortably explore the Tien Shan mountains and Trans-Ili Alatau region from late spring to early autumn, when the weather is mostly sunny and pleasant.
Yes — we cater to all specific dietary requirements easily. You can order vegetarian or halal meals during your trip, and our guides know the best places to try authentic Kazakh dishes safely.
Yes, we collect you from your hotel and return you there at the end of every private tour.
Our private tours are flexible and can accommodate solo travelers, couples, families, and small groups — let us know your group size when booking.
You'll travel in a modern, air-conditioned premium SUV with spacious seating, ideal for mountain roads.
Didn't find the answer to your question? Contact us directly.