Is one of the most unique nature tourist spot. Under the influence of thousand-year processes of weathering of sedimentary rocks, the original form of the relief had taken the shape of isolated rocks, columns and towers. Charyn canyon is a natural monument, built of sedimentary rocks whose age is about 12 million years. The walls often consist of large deposits of clay, which at sunset turn red and shimmer with amazing shadows. If you look at the canyon closely, you may “see” an ancient town, which seems to be real under the rays of the setting sun. Here time and natural factors have created countless grottoes, caves, huge cracks, as if some painter had worked on the entire canyon.
The most interesting place for tourists is the so-called Valley of castles. In the bosom of the canyon has preserved a grove of relict ash-tree, a survivor of the epoch of glaciation. Another similar grove is only in North America. The landscape variety of Charyn canyon causes diversity of flora and fauna. Charyn canyon resembles the Grand canyon in North America, although inferior to him in size, but the beauty of the “Valley of castles” is unique.
The magnificent Bartogai Reservoir, like a precious gem, is geographically located in the canyon of the same name, where the Chilik River spreads its widest. This artificial lake was specially enclosed and reinforced with a gravel dam, stretching approximately 330 meters in length.
Tour Program: Valley of Castles and Lake Bartogay
1. Departure from Almaty
In the morning, the driver will pick you up from your designated address, and you will head to **Charyn Canyon (Valley of Castles)** (220 km, approximately 3 hours). On the way, there will be a stop at the market in the village of **Baisheit**, where you can purchase snacks and drinks.
2. Arrival at Valley of Castles
Upon arrival, the walking tour will begin at the parking lot (approximately 3 hours, with trekking from 3 to 8 km) through the canyon floor. The Valley of Castles gorge leads to the Charyn River, where you can relax on benches and enjoy the shade of the trees.
On the return journey, if you prefer not to walk back, you can take an eco-taxi service.
3. Departure to Lake Bartogay
After the Valley of Castles excursion, you will head to Lake Bartogay (60 km, approximately 1 hour).
At the lake, you will enjoy a short walk (approximately 30 minutes).
4. Return to Almaty
After your visit to Lake Bartogai, you will head back to the city (180 km, approximately 2.5 hours).
Upon arrival, the driver will drop you off at any location in Almaty.
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Total distance and travel time: 460 km, approximately 6 hours
Total tour time: 10 hours
The tour itinerary can be modified or extended upon your request.
Tour price: Castle Valley & Bartogay lake
From 90,000 KZT or 185 USD
The proposed tour price is based on a group of up to 6 pax in one vehicle
Please check the details of the pricing with our manager.
Several SUVs, buses or minivans could be proposed for the big groups
Meals are optional (not included in the tour price)
Included in the tour price: Individual transfer on a comfortable SUV up to 6 pax , guided tour program in english, water on road, entrance fees to the national parks.
Tour reservations must be made in advance.
