Kolsai, Kaindy & Black Canyon
The classic eastern loop, in private: the emerald Kolsai Lake, the surreal sunken forest of Lake Kaindy and a stop at the Black Canyon viewpoint. A UAZ off-roader handles the rough final road up to Kaindy.
Go at your own pace with just your group — your guide adapts the timing and stops to you, and we match the vehicle to your party size.
Highlights
- Kolsai-1 — emerald alpine lake in the Tian Shan spruce forest
- Lake Kaindy and its iconic sunken forest
- Black Canyon viewpoint on the way
- Private vehicle, hotel pickup and a flexible schedule
Itinerary
- Pickup from your hotel in Almaty
- Black Canyon viewpoint
- Kolsai Lake — shoreline walk and free time
- 4x4 transfer up to Lake Kaindy, sunken forest walk
- Depart for Almaty
- Drop-off at your hotel
What's included
- Private vehicle, sized to your group (UAZ to Kaindy)
- Professional English-speaking driver-guide
- Hotel pickup and drop-off in Almaty
- Ecological / national park entrance fees
- Bottled water
Not included
- Meals
- Personal expenses
- Tips (optional)
Good to know
Is one day enough?
Yes, but it is a long day (~16 hours door to door). A private vehicle makes the drive far more comfortable and lets you rest on the way.
How cold is it at the lakes?
The lakes sit around 2,000 m, 8–12°C cooler than Almaty. Bring a warm layer even in summer.