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We design and operate authentic adventure travel experiences across Central Asia.

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Destinations

Almaty
Charyn Canyon
Kolsai lake
Kaindy lake
Singing dunes

Enjoy the Adventure

Discover the breathtaking landscapes of southeastern Kazakhstan on this 8-day journey starting in Almaty. After arrival, enjoy a welcome dinner and a short walk through the vibrant city. Travel to the stunning Big Almaty Lake surrounded by dramatic Tian Shan mountains, and experience traditional horse riding in the countryside. Explore the unique Singing Dunes and colorful landscapes of Altyn Emel National Park. Continue to the surreal Kaindy Lake, famous for its submerged forest, and hike through the spectacular formations of Charyn Canyon, often called the “Grand Canyon of Central Asia.” This tour combines nature, soft adventure, and authentic local experiences, offering a perfect introduction to Kazakhstan’s wild beauty.

Tour Highlights

Visit the stunning Big Almaty Lake surrounded by the Tian Shan Mountains
Explore the mysterious Singing Dunes in Altyn Emel National Park
Discover the surreal Kaindy Lake with its famous submerged forest
Walk through the dramatic rock formations of Charyn Canyon
Experience traditional horse riding and authentic Kazakh nature landscapes

Itinerary

We have carefully planned out each day to give you the best possible experience. From exploring historic landmarks to tasting delicious local cuisine, each day is packed with adventure and excitement. Join us as we take you on a journey through some of the most fascinating destinations in the world.

Description

Guests arrive at Almaty International Airport anytime between 07:00 and 23:00, where they will be welcomed by the tour representative and transferred to the hotel. After check-in at Holiday Inn Almaty and some time to rest after the flight, the program begins with a short walking tour through the heart of the city.

The walk starts at Panfilov Park, one of the greenest and most historic places in Almaty. Here visitors will see the famous Zenkov Cathedral, one of the tallest wooden cathedrals in the world built without nails. The tour continues along Arbat Walking Street, a lively pedestrian area full of street artists, small cafes, and souvenir shops where travelers can get their first taste of Kazakh urban life.

In the evening, the group gathers for dinner at a local restaurant featuring traditional and international cuisine.

What to Expect

Panfilov Park

• Zenkov Cathedral

• Arbat pedestrian street

• First introduction to Almaty culture

Meals Included

Dinner

Transportation

Driving

Driving

30 km

Day Gallery

Arrival in Almaty & Short City Walk - Day Gallery image 1

Accommodation Manager

Holiday Inn Almaty

★★★★☆4 StarsHotel

Address

Timiryazev St 2д, Almaty 050000, Kazakhstan

View On Map

Check-in Time

12:00

Check-out Time

11:00

Rooms

Double (2 person)

Accommodation Photos

Holiday Inn Almaty - Accommodation Photos image 1
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Holiday Inn Almaty - Accommodation Photos image 2
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Holiday Inn Almaty - Accommodation Photos image 3
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Description

After breakfast at the hotel, depart toward Medeo Gorge located in the foothills of the Tien Shan mountains. Medeo is home to the world-famous high-altitude ice skating rink and offers beautiful mountain scenery and fresh alpine air. Guests will have time to walk around the area and enjoy the impressive landscape.

Later continue toward Koktobe Hill, one of the best viewpoints overlooking the city of Almaty. Visitors will take the famous cable car to the top where they can enjoy panoramic views of the city and surrounding mountains. The area also features a small amusement park, cafes, and walking areas ideal for photography.

Lunch will be enjoyed at Koktobe with spectacular views over the city. In the afternoon the group returns to the hotel. Dinner will be arranged at a local restaurant.

What to Expect

Medeo high-altitude skating rink

• Tien Shan mountain scenery

• Koktobe cable car ride

• Panoramic views of Almaty

Meals Included

Lunch

Transportation

Driving

Driving

Transportation- 80 km | Cable car - round trip - 5km

Day Gallery

Medeo Gorge & Koktobe Hill - Day Gallery image 1
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Medeo Gorge & Koktobe Hill - Day Gallery image 2
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Medeo Gorge & Koktobe Hill - Day Gallery image 3
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Accommodation Manager

Holiday inn

★★★★☆4 StarsHotel

Address

Timiryazev St 2д, Almaty 050000, Kazakhstan

View On Map

Check-in Time

12:00

Check-out Time

11:00

Rooms

Twin room (2 person)

Accommodation Photos

Holiday inn - Accommodation Photos image 1
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Holiday inn - Accommodation Photos image 2
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Holiday inn - Accommodation Photos image 3
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Description

After breakfast, depart for Big Almaty Lake located in the Ile-Alatau National Park. The scenic drive takes travelers through mountain roads surrounded by forests and dramatic peaks.

Upon arrival, visitors will see the stunning turquoise waters of Big Almaty Lake, one of the most picturesque natural attractions in the region. The lake sits high in the mountains and offers breathtaking views of the surrounding Tian Shan landscape.

Guests will then enjoy a horseback riding activity in the nearby mountain area, offering a unique way to experience the alpine environment. A picnic lunch will be served with beautiful mountain views.

After some free time for photography and walking, the group returns to Almaty in the afternoon for dinner and overnight at the hotel.

What to Expect

• Big Almaty Lake turquoise waters

• Tien Shan mountain landscapes

• Horse riding experience

• Scenic picnic lunch in nature

Meals Included

Lunch

Transportation

Horse Riding

Horse Riding

2 hours horse riding | Elevation gain - 713m | Distance - 7km

Driving

Driving

4 hours, 116km - Round trip

Day Gallery

Big Almaty Lake & Horse Riding - Day Gallery image 1
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Big Almaty Lake & Horse Riding - Day Gallery image 2

Accommodation Manager

Holiday inn

★★★★☆4 StarsHotel

Address

Timiryazev St 2д, Almaty 050000, Kazakhstan

View On Map

Check-in Time

12:00

Check-out Time

11:00

Rooms

Twin room (2 person)

Accommodation Photos

Holiday inn - Accommodation Photos image 1
+2
Holiday inn - Accommodation Photos image 2
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Holiday inn - Accommodation Photos image 3

Description

After an early breakfast, depart from Almaty and travel north toward Altyn Emel National Park, one of the largest and most spectacular protected areas in Kazakhstan. The road leads through vast steppe landscapes before reaching Basshi village, which serves as the main gateway to the national park.

Upon arrival in Basshi, check in at a local guesthouse before continuing toward the famous Singing Dune located about 40 km inside the park. This enormous sand ridge rises about 150 meters high and stretches over 3 kilometers. In dry weather conditions, the dune produces a deep humming sound, similar to the sound of an organ, which has inspired many local legends.

Enjoy a picnic lunch while surrounded by the impressive desert scenery. Guests will have time to explore the dune, walk along the sand ridge, and take photographs of the dramatic landscape.

In the late afternoon, return to Basshi village for dinner and overnight at a local guesthouse.

What to Expect

• Altyn Emel National Park

• The mysterious Singing Dunes

• Central Asian desert landscapes

• Scenic picnic lunch in nature

Meals Included

LunchBreakfastDinner

Transportation

Driving

Driving

300km, 4 hours

Day Gallery

Almaty to Altyn Emel National Park & Singing Dunes - Day Gallery image 1
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Almaty to Altyn Emel National Park & Singing Dunes - Day Gallery image 2
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Almaty to Altyn Emel National Park & Singing Dunes - Day Gallery image 3
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Accommodation Manager

Bashsi village yurts

StarsGuesthouse

Address

Асембек 48А, Kalinino 041103, Kazakhstan

View On Map

Check-in Time

12:00

Check-out Time

11:00

Rooms

Twin room (2 person)Common room (7 person)Yurts (2 person)

Accommodation Photos

Bashsi village yurts - Accommodation Photos image 1
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Bashsi village yurts - Accommodation Photos image 2
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Bashsi village yurts - Accommodation Photos image 3
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Description

After breakfast at the guesthouse, depart toward Charyn Canyon, often called the “Grand Canyon of Central Asia.” On the way, stop at the impressive Dragon Mountains for panoramic photographs of the colorful rock formations.

Upon arrival at Charyn Canyon, explore the spectacular Valley of Castles, where centuries of erosion have created towering sandstone formations. Guests will have time to walk along the canyon rim and enjoy breathtaking views over the dramatic landscape.

Lunch will be served during the visit while enjoying one of the best viewpoints of the canyon.

In the afternoon continue toward Saty Village, located in the Kolsai Lakes region. After arrival, check in to a guesthouse with twin rooms. Dinner will be served at the guesthouse before resting for the night.

What to Expect

• Dragon Mountains viewpoint

• Charyn Canyon – Valley of Castles

• Scenic canyon photography

• Mountain village atmosphere

Meals Included

LunchBreakfastDinner

Transportation

Driving

Driving

360 km, 5 hours

Day Gallery

Charyn Canyon & Saty Village - Day Gallery image 1
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Charyn Canyon & Saty Village - Day Gallery image 2

Accommodation Manager

Saty

StarsGuesthouse

Address

3C97+Q54, Saty, Kazakhstan

View On Map

Check-in Time

14:00

Check-out Time

11:00

Rooms

Twin (2 person)

Accommodation Photos

Saty - Accommodation Photos image 1
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Saty - Accommodation Photos image 2
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Saty - Accommodation Photos image 3
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Description

After breakfast, depart from Saty Village toward Kaindy Lake. The journey continues by off-road vehicles through forest trails until reaching the lake. Kaindy Lake was formed after a powerful earthquake in 1911 triggered a landslide that created a natural dam. The lake is famous for its hauntingly beautiful submerged spruce forest, where tree trunks still rise from the clear turquoise water.

Guests will have time to walk around the lake and take photographs of this unique natural phenomenon.

Later return to a local guesthouse for lunch before continuing to Kolsai Lake, one of the most beautiful alpine lakes in Kazakhstan. Here guests can enjoy horseback riding along the lakeshore, kayaking on the calm waters, or simply walking around the scenic surroundings.

In the evening return to the guesthouse in Saty Village for a traditional family-style dinner. During warm seasons, guests may optionally stay in a traditional Kazakh yurt. The evening ends with a campfire gathering where travelers can relax and share their impressions of the journey.

What to Expect

• Kaindy Lake sunken forest

• Kolsai Lake alpine scenery

• Horse riding activity

• Kayaking on mountain lake

• Traditional campfire evening

Meals Included

BreakfastLunchDinner

Transportation

Driving

Driving

150km, 3 hours

Day Gallery

Kaindy Lake & Kolsai Lake Adventure - Day Gallery image 1
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Kaindy Lake & Kolsai Lake Adventure - Day Gallery image 2
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Kaindy Lake & Kolsai Lake Adventure - Day Gallery image 3
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Accommodation Manager

Saty

StarsGuesthouse

Address

3C97+Q54, Saty, Kazakhstan

View On Map

Check-in Time

12:00

Check-out Time

11:00

Rooms

Twin (2 person)Common (5 person)

Accommodation Photos

Saty - Accommodation Photos image 1
+3
Saty - Accommodation Photos image 2
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Saty - Accommodation Photos image 3
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Description

After breakfast at the guesthouse, depart from Saty Village and begin the scenic drive back to Almaty. The journey takes travelers through beautiful mountain landscapes and steppe scenery of southeastern Kazakhstan.

Upon arrival in Almaty around midday, enjoy lunch in the city. The afternoon is free for rest after the expedition days or for exploring Almaty independently. Guests may visit local shopping centers, walk along Arbat street, or relax in a café.

In the evening, the group gathers for dinner at a local restaurant before returning to the hotel for the final overnight stay in Kazakhstan.

What to Expect

• Scenic return journey through mountain landscapes

• Free time in Almaty for shopping or relaxation

• Farewell dinner in Kazakhstan

Meals Included

BreakfastLunchDinner

Transportation

Driving

Driving

250km, 3 hours

Day Gallery

Return to Almaty - Day Gallery image 1

Accommodation Manager

Holiday inn

★★★★☆4 StarsHotel

Address

Timiryazev St 2д, Almaty 050000, Kazakhstan

View On Map

Check-in Time

12:00

Check-out Time

11:00

Rooms

Double (2 person)

Accommodation Photos

Holiday inn - Accommodation Photos image 1
+3
Holiday inn - Accommodation Photos image 2
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Holiday inn - Accommodation Photos image 3
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Description

This is the last day of the trip, we will organize group transfer for Almaty international airport till the noon.

What to Expect

Nice breakfast

Meals Included

Breakfast

Transportation

Driving

Driving

30 km

Day Gallery

Departure day - Day Gallery image 1

What's included in the price?

To help you plan your trip, we have put together a list of what's included and what's not included in your tour package. This will give you a clear understanding of what to expect and help you make any necessary arrangements before your journey begins.

  • Accommodation in 4★ hotel in Almaty (Holiday Inn Almaty or similar)
  • Accommodation in local guesthouses in Basshi and Saty villages
  • Daily breakfast at hotels and guesthouses
  • All transfers and transportation according to the itinerary (4x4 vehicles for national park routes)
  • Professional English-speaking guide throughout the tour
  • Airport transfers in Almaty
  • Entrance fees to all sites mentioned in the itinerary
  • Activities included in the program: Horse riding at Big Almaty Lake Horse riding at Kolsai Lake Kayaking activity at Kolsai Lake (30 minutes)
  • Picnic lunches during nature excursions where indicated
  • Local family-style dinners in guesthouses during expedition days
  • Bottled drinking water during long transfers
  • International airfare to/from Kazakhstan
  • Domestic or international flights (unless specifically mentioned in the program)
  • Travel insurance (strongly recommended)
  • Visa fees if applicable
  • Lunches and dinners not mentioned in the itinerary
  • Personal expenses (laundry, minibar, phone calls, souvenirs, etc.)
  • Optional activities not included in the program
  • Tips for guide and drivers (recommended but optional)
  • Early check-in or late check-out at hotels
  • Additional meals, drinks, or services not specified in the itinerary

Tour Map

This comprehensive map is designed to guide you through an exciting journey filled with remarkable destinations and captivating experiences.

FAQs

The best time to take this tour is from May to June and September to mid-October, when the weather is pleasant and ideal for exploring mountains, lakes, and national parks.

This tour has a moderate fitness level (2.5–3 out of 5). It includes light walking in national parks, short hikes in Charyn Canyon, and optional activities such as horseback riding and kayaking.

In Almaty, guests stay in a 4★ hotel (Holiday Inn Almaty or similar). In remote areas such as Basshi and Saty villages, accommodation is provided in comfortable local guesthouses with private or shared facilities.

Group tours operate with a minimum of 4 and a maximum of 15 participants, ensuring a comfortable and personalized travel experience.

The tour uses comfortable private vehicles in the city and 4x4 expedition vehicles for national parks and mountain regions.

Yes, the tour includes horse riding at Big Almaty Lake and Kolsai Lake, as well as a 30-minute kayaking activity at Kolsai Lake.

Recommended items include: Comfortable walking shoes Warm jacket (mountain areas can be cool) Sunscreen and sunglasses Small backpack for day trips Camera for landscapes

Travel insurance is strongly recommended to cover unexpected events such as medical emergencies, trip delays, or cancellations.

Visa requirements depend on your nationality. Many countries have visa-free access to Kazakhstan for short stays, but we recommend checking the latest requirements before traveling.

Yes, this itinerary can also be arranged as a private tour with flexible travel dates, a private guide, and a dedicated vehicle.

Clothing Comfortable walking or hiking shoes Lightweight outdoor clothing for daytime activities Warm jacket or fleece (mountain temperatures can be cooler) Waterproof jacket or windbreaker Hat or cap for sun protection Sunglasses Personal Essentials Sunscreen Personal medications Reusable water bottle Small backpack for day trips Travel Documents Passport Travel insurance documents Copies of important documents Optional Items Camera or smartphone for photography Power bank or portable charger Swimwear (for kayaking or lakeside activities in warm weather) Binoculars for nature observation

Choose your style

Group tour

Group
From $2977

Private tour

Private
From $4270
Cancel in the first 48h for free
Reserve today, pay over time

Destinations

Almaty
Charyn Canyon
Kolsai lake
Kaindy lake
Singing dunes

Enjoy the Adventure

Discover the breathtaking landscapes of southeastern Kazakhstan on this 8-day journey starting in Almaty. After arrival, enjoy a welcome dinner and a short walk through the vibrant city. Travel to the stunning Big Almaty Lake surrounded by dramatic Tian Shan mountains, and experience traditional horse riding in the countryside. Explore the unique Singing Dunes and colorful landscapes of Altyn Emel National Park. Continue to the surreal Kaindy Lake, famous for its submerged forest, and hike through the spectacular formations of Charyn Canyon, often called the “Grand Canyon of Central Asia.” This tour combines nature, soft adventure, and authentic local experiences, offering a perfect introduction to Kazakhstan’s wild beauty.

Tour Highlights

Visit the stunning Big Almaty Lake surrounded by the Tian Shan Mountains
Explore the mysterious Singing Dunes in Altyn Emel National Park
Discover the surreal Kaindy Lake with its famous submerged forest
Walk through the dramatic rock formations of Charyn Canyon
Experience traditional horse riding and authentic Kazakh nature landscapes

Itinerary

We have carefully planned out each day to give you the best possible experience. From exploring historic landmarks to tasting delicious local cuisine, each day is packed with adventure and excitement. Join us as we take you on a journey through some of the most fascinating destinations in the world.

Description

Guests arrive at Almaty International Airport anytime between 07:00 and 23:00, where they will be welcomed by the tour representative and transferred to the hotel. After check-in at Holiday Inn Almaty and some time to rest after the flight, the program begins with a short walking tour through the heart of the city.

The walk starts at Panfilov Park, one of the greenest and most historic places in Almaty. Here visitors will see the famous Zenkov Cathedral, one of the tallest wooden cathedrals in the world built without nails. The tour continues along Arbat Walking Street, a lively pedestrian area full of street artists, small cafes, and souvenir shops where travelers can get their first taste of Kazakh urban life.

In the evening, the group gathers for dinner at a local restaurant featuring traditional and international cuisine.

What to Expect

Panfilov Park

• Zenkov Cathedral

• Arbat pedestrian street

• First introduction to Almaty culture

Meals Included

Dinner

Transportation

Driving

Driving

30 km

Day Gallery

Arrival in Almaty & Short City Walk - Day Gallery image 1

Accommodation Manager

Holiday Inn Almaty

★★★★☆4 StarsHotel

Address

Timiryazev St 2д, Almaty 050000, Kazakhstan

View On Map

Check-in Time

12:00

Check-out Time

11:00

Rooms

Double (2 person)

Accommodation Photos

Holiday Inn Almaty - Accommodation Photos image 1
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Holiday Inn Almaty - Accommodation Photos image 2
+2
Holiday Inn Almaty - Accommodation Photos image 3
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Description

After breakfast at the hotel, depart toward Medeo Gorge located in the foothills of the Tien Shan mountains. Medeo is home to the world-famous high-altitude ice skating rink and offers beautiful mountain scenery and fresh alpine air. Guests will have time to walk around the area and enjoy the impressive landscape.

Later continue toward Koktobe Hill, one of the best viewpoints overlooking the city of Almaty. Visitors will take the famous cable car to the top where they can enjoy panoramic views of the city and surrounding mountains. The area also features a small amusement park, cafes, and walking areas ideal for photography.

Lunch will be enjoyed at Koktobe with spectacular views over the city. In the afternoon the group returns to the hotel. Dinner will be arranged at a local restaurant.

What to Expect

Medeo high-altitude skating rink

• Tien Shan mountain scenery

• Koktobe cable car ride

• Panoramic views of Almaty

Meals Included

Lunch

Transportation

Driving

Driving

Transportation- 80 km | Cable car - round trip - 5km

Day Gallery

Medeo Gorge & Koktobe Hill - Day Gallery image 1
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Medeo Gorge & Koktobe Hill - Day Gallery image 2
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Medeo Gorge & Koktobe Hill - Day Gallery image 3
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Accommodation Manager

Holiday inn

★★★★☆4 StarsHotel

Address

Timiryazev St 2д, Almaty 050000, Kazakhstan

View On Map

Check-in Time

12:00

Check-out Time

11:00

Rooms

Twin room (2 person)

Accommodation Photos

Holiday inn - Accommodation Photos image 1
+3
Holiday inn - Accommodation Photos image 2
+2
Holiday inn - Accommodation Photos image 3
+1

Description

After breakfast, depart for Big Almaty Lake located in the Ile-Alatau National Park. The scenic drive takes travelers through mountain roads surrounded by forests and dramatic peaks.

Upon arrival, visitors will see the stunning turquoise waters of Big Almaty Lake, one of the most picturesque natural attractions in the region. The lake sits high in the mountains and offers breathtaking views of the surrounding Tian Shan landscape.

Guests will then enjoy a horseback riding activity in the nearby mountain area, offering a unique way to experience the alpine environment. A picnic lunch will be served with beautiful mountain views.

After some free time for photography and walking, the group returns to Almaty in the afternoon for dinner and overnight at the hotel.

What to Expect

• Big Almaty Lake turquoise waters

• Tien Shan mountain landscapes

• Horse riding experience

• Scenic picnic lunch in nature

Meals Included

Lunch

Transportation

Horse Riding

Horse Riding

2 hours horse riding | Elevation gain - 713m | Distance - 7km

Driving

Driving

4 hours, 116km - Round trip

Day Gallery

Big Almaty Lake & Horse Riding - Day Gallery image 1
+1
Big Almaty Lake & Horse Riding - Day Gallery image 2

Accommodation Manager

Holiday inn

★★★★☆4 StarsHotel

Address

Timiryazev St 2д, Almaty 050000, Kazakhstan

View On Map

Check-in Time

12:00

Check-out Time

11:00

Rooms

Twin room (2 person)

Accommodation Photos

Holiday inn - Accommodation Photos image 1
+2
Holiday inn - Accommodation Photos image 2
+1
Holiday inn - Accommodation Photos image 3

Description

After an early breakfast, depart from Almaty and travel north toward Altyn Emel National Park, one of the largest and most spectacular protected areas in Kazakhstan. The road leads through vast steppe landscapes before reaching Basshi village, which serves as the main gateway to the national park.

Upon arrival in Basshi, check in at a local guesthouse before continuing toward the famous Singing Dune located about 40 km inside the park. This enormous sand ridge rises about 150 meters high and stretches over 3 kilometers. In dry weather conditions, the dune produces a deep humming sound, similar to the sound of an organ, which has inspired many local legends.

Enjoy a picnic lunch while surrounded by the impressive desert scenery. Guests will have time to explore the dune, walk along the sand ridge, and take photographs of the dramatic landscape.

In the late afternoon, return to Basshi village for dinner and overnight at a local guesthouse.

What to Expect

• Altyn Emel National Park

• The mysterious Singing Dunes

• Central Asian desert landscapes

• Scenic picnic lunch in nature

Meals Included

LunchBreakfastDinner

Transportation

Driving

Driving

300km, 4 hours

Day Gallery

Almaty to Altyn Emel National Park & Singing Dunes - Day Gallery image 1
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Almaty to Altyn Emel National Park & Singing Dunes - Day Gallery image 2
+2
Almaty to Altyn Emel National Park & Singing Dunes - Day Gallery image 3
+1

Accommodation Manager

Bashsi village yurts

StarsGuesthouse

Address

Асембек 48А, Kalinino 041103, Kazakhstan

View On Map

Check-in Time

12:00

Check-out Time

11:00

Rooms

Twin room (2 person)Common room (7 person)Yurts (2 person)

Accommodation Photos

Bashsi village yurts - Accommodation Photos image 1
+5
Bashsi village yurts - Accommodation Photos image 2
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Bashsi village yurts - Accommodation Photos image 3
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Description

After breakfast at the guesthouse, depart toward Charyn Canyon, often called the “Grand Canyon of Central Asia.” On the way, stop at the impressive Dragon Mountains for panoramic photographs of the colorful rock formations.

Upon arrival at Charyn Canyon, explore the spectacular Valley of Castles, where centuries of erosion have created towering sandstone formations. Guests will have time to walk along the canyon rim and enjoy breathtaking views over the dramatic landscape.

Lunch will be served during the visit while enjoying one of the best viewpoints of the canyon.

In the afternoon continue toward Saty Village, located in the Kolsai Lakes region. After arrival, check in to a guesthouse with twin rooms. Dinner will be served at the guesthouse before resting for the night.

What to Expect

• Dragon Mountains viewpoint

• Charyn Canyon – Valley of Castles

• Scenic canyon photography

• Mountain village atmosphere

Meals Included

LunchBreakfastDinner

Transportation

Driving

Driving

360 km, 5 hours

Day Gallery

Charyn Canyon & Saty Village - Day Gallery image 1
+1
Charyn Canyon & Saty Village - Day Gallery image 2

Accommodation Manager

Saty

StarsGuesthouse

Address

3C97+Q54, Saty, Kazakhstan

View On Map

Check-in Time

14:00

Check-out Time

11:00

Rooms

Twin (2 person)

Accommodation Photos

Saty - Accommodation Photos image 1
+3
Saty - Accommodation Photos image 2
+2
Saty - Accommodation Photos image 3
+1

Description

After breakfast, depart from Saty Village toward Kaindy Lake. The journey continues by off-road vehicles through forest trails until reaching the lake. Kaindy Lake was formed after a powerful earthquake in 1911 triggered a landslide that created a natural dam. The lake is famous for its hauntingly beautiful submerged spruce forest, where tree trunks still rise from the clear turquoise water.

Guests will have time to walk around the lake and take photographs of this unique natural phenomenon.

Later return to a local guesthouse for lunch before continuing to Kolsai Lake, one of the most beautiful alpine lakes in Kazakhstan. Here guests can enjoy horseback riding along the lakeshore, kayaking on the calm waters, or simply walking around the scenic surroundings.

In the evening return to the guesthouse in Saty Village for a traditional family-style dinner. During warm seasons, guests may optionally stay in a traditional Kazakh yurt. The evening ends with a campfire gathering where travelers can relax and share their impressions of the journey.

What to Expect

• Kaindy Lake sunken forest

• Kolsai Lake alpine scenery

• Horse riding activity

• Kayaking on mountain lake

• Traditional campfire evening

Meals Included

BreakfastLunchDinner

Transportation

Driving

Driving

150km, 3 hours

Day Gallery

Kaindy Lake & Kolsai Lake Adventure - Day Gallery image 1
+4
Kaindy Lake & Kolsai Lake Adventure - Day Gallery image 2
+3
Kaindy Lake & Kolsai Lake Adventure - Day Gallery image 3
+2

Accommodation Manager

Saty

StarsGuesthouse

Address

3C97+Q54, Saty, Kazakhstan

View On Map

Check-in Time

12:00

Check-out Time

11:00

Rooms

Twin (2 person)Common (5 person)

Accommodation Photos

Saty - Accommodation Photos image 1
+3
Saty - Accommodation Photos image 2
+2
Saty - Accommodation Photos image 3
+1

Description

After breakfast at the guesthouse, depart from Saty Village and begin the scenic drive back to Almaty. The journey takes travelers through beautiful mountain landscapes and steppe scenery of southeastern Kazakhstan.

Upon arrival in Almaty around midday, enjoy lunch in the city. The afternoon is free for rest after the expedition days or for exploring Almaty independently. Guests may visit local shopping centers, walk along Arbat street, or relax in a café.

In the evening, the group gathers for dinner at a local restaurant before returning to the hotel for the final overnight stay in Kazakhstan.

What to Expect

• Scenic return journey through mountain landscapes

• Free time in Almaty for shopping or relaxation

• Farewell dinner in Kazakhstan

Meals Included

BreakfastLunchDinner

Transportation

Driving

Driving

250km, 3 hours

Day Gallery

Return to Almaty - Day Gallery image 1

Accommodation Manager

Holiday inn

★★★★☆4 StarsHotel

Address

Timiryazev St 2д, Almaty 050000, Kazakhstan

View On Map

Check-in Time

12:00

Check-out Time

11:00

Rooms

Double (2 person)

Accommodation Photos

Holiday inn - Accommodation Photos image 1
+3
Holiday inn - Accommodation Photos image 2
+2
Holiday inn - Accommodation Photos image 3
+1

Description

This is the last day of the trip, we will organize group transfer for Almaty international airport till the noon.

What to Expect

Nice breakfast

Meals Included

Breakfast

Transportation

Driving

Driving

30 km

Day Gallery

Departure day - Day Gallery image 1

What's included in the price?

To help you plan your trip, we have put together a list of what's included and what's not included in your tour package. This will give you a clear understanding of what to expect and help you make any necessary arrangements before your journey begins.

  • Accommodation in 4★ hotel in Almaty (Holiday Inn Almaty or similar)
  • Accommodation in local guesthouses in Basshi and Saty villages
  • Daily breakfast at hotels and guesthouses
  • All transfers and transportation according to the itinerary (4x4 vehicles for national park routes)
  • Professional English-speaking guide throughout the tour
  • Airport transfers in Almaty
  • Entrance fees to all sites mentioned in the itinerary
  • Activities included in the program: Horse riding at Big Almaty Lake Horse riding at Kolsai Lake Kayaking activity at Kolsai Lake (30 minutes)
  • Picnic lunches during nature excursions where indicated
  • Local family-style dinners in guesthouses during expedition days
  • Bottled drinking water during long transfers
  • International airfare to/from Kazakhstan
  • Domestic or international flights (unless specifically mentioned in the program)
  • Travel insurance (strongly recommended)
  • Visa fees if applicable
  • Lunches and dinners not mentioned in the itinerary
  • Personal expenses (laundry, minibar, phone calls, souvenirs, etc.)
  • Optional activities not included in the program
  • Tips for guide and drivers (recommended but optional)
  • Early check-in or late check-out at hotels
  • Additional meals, drinks, or services not specified in the itinerary

Tour Map

This comprehensive map is designed to guide you through an exciting journey filled with remarkable destinations and captivating experiences.

FAQs

The best time to take this tour is from May to June and September to mid-October, when the weather is pleasant and ideal for exploring mountains, lakes, and national parks.

This tour has a moderate fitness level (2.5–3 out of 5). It includes light walking in national parks, short hikes in Charyn Canyon, and optional activities such as horseback riding and kayaking.

In Almaty, guests stay in a 4★ hotel (Holiday Inn Almaty or similar). In remote areas such as Basshi and Saty villages, accommodation is provided in comfortable local guesthouses with private or shared facilities.

Group tours operate with a minimum of 4 and a maximum of 15 participants, ensuring a comfortable and personalized travel experience.

The tour uses comfortable private vehicles in the city and 4x4 expedition vehicles for national parks and mountain regions.

Yes, the tour includes horse riding at Big Almaty Lake and Kolsai Lake, as well as a 30-minute kayaking activity at Kolsai Lake.

Recommended items include: Comfortable walking shoes Warm jacket (mountain areas can be cool) Sunscreen and sunglasses Small backpack for day trips Camera for landscapes

Travel insurance is strongly recommended to cover unexpected events such as medical emergencies, trip delays, or cancellations.

Visa requirements depend on your nationality. Many countries have visa-free access to Kazakhstan for short stays, but we recommend checking the latest requirements before traveling.

Yes, this itinerary can also be arranged as a private tour with flexible travel dates, a private guide, and a dedicated vehicle.

Clothing Comfortable walking or hiking shoes Lightweight outdoor clothing for daytime activities Warm jacket or fleece (mountain temperatures can be cooler) Waterproof jacket or windbreaker Hat or cap for sun protection Sunglasses Personal Essentials Sunscreen Personal medications Reusable water bottle Small backpack for day trips Travel Documents Passport Travel insurance documents Copies of important documents Optional Items Camera or smartphone for photography Power bank or portable charger Swimwear (for kayaking or lakeside activities in warm weather) Binoculars for nature observation

Choose your style

Group tour

Group
From $2977

Private tour

Private
From $4270
Cancel in the first 48h for free
Reserve today, pay over time
Starting from$2977

What Travelers say about Centralia

Traveler Stories

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Yoel – Israel

We had a great day with Numon our guide and the driver. The lakes are magnificent. Everything went as planed and on time. Numon was very friendly and welcoming. He made the long day very enjoyable and insightful sharing with us his vast knowledge about the sites and Tajikistan.

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GetYourGuide traveler – Uzbekistan

GetYourGuide traveler – Uzbekistan

The Bukhara walking tour was truly unforgettable. The guide was friendly, professional, and passionate about the city’s heritage. I learned so much about the ancient trade routes, madrasas, mosques, and unique architecture that makes Bukhara so magical.

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Ummi Haslinda Mohd – Malaysia

The trip was superb! The views and lakes here are stunning, I just can't get over it! Our guide, Vohidjon was great all the way. He was very informative, helpful and tentative. Expect the roads to be bumpy, but take it as nature's massage.

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A

Arvind – Belgium

Hamza was a great guide! It was so amazing walking around Bukhara with him. He is very knowledgable, explained the history in a very interesting and passionate way. I had a great afternoon and can highly recommend.

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P

Patric – Canada

The trip was amazing. The driver and guide were perfect. Thank you for all! If you like nature this is must go location!

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GetYourGuide traveler – Uzbekistan

GetYourGuide traveler – Uzbekistan

Absolutely amazing trip from Samarkand. My tour guide was Asror and he was very helpful, polite and knowledgeable. We walked on the glass bridge and experienced with cable car. It was great day. Thank you for my guide and company. I really recommend this company.

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