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Discover the best of Kazakhstan in 3 days. Explore the vibrant Almaty city and visit the nature’s masterpieces – Charyn Canyon, Kolsay and Kaindy lakes – all on this thrilling 3 day private trip accompanied by your professional driver and guide.
Tour details
Start time: 8 AM or coordinated
Availability: all year round
Duration: 3 days / 2 nights
Level of difficulty: easy – moderate
This is a private tour – only your group will participate
What we suggest to have with you: Summer clothes, warm clothes, baseball cap/panama, sunglasses, sunscreen, swimwear, towel, hiking shoes, umbrella, camera
Prices
1 person (solo private tour) – 1210 USD (see what’s included in “Trip Includes” section)
2 people – 720 USD p/person
3 people and up – 550 USD p/person
for larger groups please make an inquiry
Limited availability. Book today on our website!
Explore other tours of Kazakhstan: 7 day combined tour; 2 day tour; 5 Stans; 4 Stans; Almaty city tour
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We’ll see you on tour!
2026, 2027, 2028
Let’s explore Almaty and see what it has to offer!
Itinerary
1 Day
Almaty city tour
Places that we’ll visit today include:
1 Panfilov Park (the oldest park in Almaty): Zenkov cathedral; eternal fire; Second World War monuments
2 Green Bazaar (traditional market): local shopping; dried fruits; souvenirs
3 Republic Square: national monuments; city administration
4 The legendary hotel Kazakhstan: first tallest building in Central Asia
5 Kok Tobe (Green Hill from Kazakh language): recreation area located on a hilltop; cable car ride; Almaty city panoramic viewpoint
6 Opera and Ballet theatre: old Soviet architecture
7 Panfilov alley: cultural life of Almaty; restaurants / architecture
Well, this is the end of our cultural part of Almaty. Drop off at your hotel. Enjoy your evening time, we'll see you tomorrow!
2 Day
Almaty - Charyn - Kolsay
In the morning, we’re hitting the road and making our way towards the famous Charyn canyon - often called the Grand Canyon's little brother (3 hours). Upon arrival, we’re having a beautiful time for Charyn’s exploration: hiking and taking pictures. Lunch in a cafe.
Moving on and heading towards the enchanting Kolsay lakes (2 hours) that are also referred to as "Pearls of the Tien Shan”. Hidden among conifer forests and tall peaks of the Tien Shan mountains, these small alpine lakes are located in the southeastern part of Kazakhstan, along the border with Kyrgyzstan. Upon arrival, we’re checking in to a hotel (Kolsay Prestige, Kolsay Grand or similar; depends on availability). Free time for walking around and having a first look at Kolsay. Personal time and dinner at the hotel. Tomorrow, we’re diving deep into exploring both Kolsay and Kaindy lakes.
3 Day
Kolsay - Kaindy Lake - Almaty
In the morning, after breakfast, we’re taking an old Soviet truck UAZ and driving shortly (12km) to explore the magical turquoise lake Kaindy (the famous lake with spruce trees sticking out of water). This picturesque alpine lake emerged as the result of a massive landslide in the area caused by the devastating “Kemin earthquake” in 1911. Free time for enjoying this fascinating place. Return to the village for lunch.
Next, we’re coming back to Kolsay lake for a more detailed exploration: walking through the forest terrain and on to a panoramic viewpoint. Free time for contemplating the views and taking some nice photographs. Boat riding available in summer (optional).
Next, we’re driving back to Almaty (300 km). Arrival in the evening and drop off at your hotel.
Well, thanks for sharing this fabulous journey with us! Bye! End of the tour.
Air-conditioned vehicle with a driver
English-speaking guide
Accommodation: one night in a hotel (Kolsay Grand, Kolsay Prestige or similar; depends on availability)
Meals: 1 breakfast
All entrance fees: museums, parks, canyons, etc.
Bottled drinking water: 1L per person daily
Flight tickets
Meals not mentioned in the program
Travel and health insurance
Other personal expenses
