What time does the tour start and how long does it take?
Departure from Almaty is at 05:00. The trip takes approximately 14–16 hours, including driving, walks and lunch. The planning estimate for the return is 19:00–21:00, but traffic and weather may change it.
In what order are the sights visited?
Charyn Canyon comes first, followed by Lower Kolsai Lake with lunch, then Kaindy and the return to Almaty. The journey between Charyn and the lakes passes through Saty.
Where can we have breakfast, and where is lunch?
There is a morning fuel-station stop where you can buy sandwiches, coffee and snacks. Lunch is planned at Kolsai after the lakeside walk and before the drive to Kaindy.
How much walking is there at Charyn?
The complete canyon route to the river and back is around 7 km, while the upper-viewpoint option is about 3–4 km. Your guide chooses the route according to the group’s ability and the time needed for both lakes.
How far do we walk to the lakes?
Lower Kolsai is roughly 200 m from the parking area. At Kaindy, a local UAZ reaches the nearer parking area, leaving about 300 m on foot. Upper viewpoints and other extra stops involve more walking and time.
Can we hire a boat or go horse riding?
These are paid optional activities and depend on having enough time. The one-day itinerary is busy, so discuss any interest in these activities with your guide in advance.
What is the price per person?
The price is $120 with four guests, $150 with three, $200 with two and $380 for a solo traveller. Provide your dates and group size when booking.
Can I book a flight on the return evening?
Agree the flight time with us in advance. Traffic, weather and roads affect the return, so the estimated 19:00–21:00 arrival should not be treated as guaranteed.
How do I book?
Send your dates and group size. A manager agrees the route, preferred stops, accommodation and dietary needs with you. After you confirm the itinerary and total price, pay a 20% deposit: we secure your guide and then reserve the agreed accommodation. The remaining 80% is due on day one; payment in US dollars is available. For direct Silk Travel bookings, cancellation 14 calendar days or more before the start receives a refund of 100% of the amount paid; with less notice, the 20% deposit is non-refundable. Third-party bookings follow their platform terms.
Are the tours private?
Yes. Every tour is for your own party, including solo travellers. We do not run join-in groups or add you to another booking. Your English-speaking guide adapts walks, stops and time at locations to your interests and ability within the agreed itinerary. Extra days, accommodation upgrades and optional paid activities are quoted separately.
What vehicles do you use?
All our vehicles are comfortable, air-conditioned and undergo technical inspections. For groups of up to 4 guests, we use off-road-capable Toyota Land Cruiser or Toyota Land Cruiser Prado SUVs. For 5 guests, we use a Toyota Sequoia SUV. For groups of more than 5 guests, we use a Mercedes-Benz Sprinter.
What if prices differ by group size?
The price depends on group size. Send your dates and the number of people and a manager will confirm the exact offer.
Can you arrange halal meals, vegetarian food and food allergies?
Yes. Vegetarian and halal meals can be arranged in advance, with food adapted to guests’ preferences. Tell us about allergies before booking. A severe allergy requires individual discussion and confirmation of arrangements, including any needed controls against contact with the allergen. Check the chosen tour’s meal inclusions: meals are paid separately on some itineraries.
Do you provide child car seats?
Yes. We provide a child car seat on advance request. Tell us the child’s age and height when booking so we can prepare a suitable seat before the tour starts.
How can I stay connected during the trip?
On routes through Almaty, Bishkek or Karakol, you can buy a local SIM card along the way; tell us if you would like help. Mobile coverage depends on the operator and may be unavailable in remote mountain areas.
