Lake Kaindy
Is one of mysterious places of foothills at height of 2000 m above sea level among the pine trees, surrounded by mountain peaks. In translation from Kazakh language “Kaindy” means “abounding with birches”. Lake called Kaindy because of the large birch trees located in five kilometers from it.
It arose about 100 years ago as a result of the collapse of a huge mass of rock, blocking the gorge a natural dam. The lake is situated at 12 km East of the first Kolsai lake.
The lake length is about 400 m reaches a depth of almost 30m. The Kaindy lake is surrounded by sipname rocky slopes and steep cliffs rises. Above it is a rocky dead end, and only one side can be driven to the water by car. From the rocky crest offer stunning views of the Saty gorge, the valley of the Chilik river, valley Kaindy.Around rich mushroom forests, which in July-August you can collect strawberries, and in the last month of summer — mountain raspberries. Dry trunks of fir-trees rise above the water surface, like the masts of the flooded ships.Lake Kaindy is situated near the Kungei Alatau, near Kolsai lakes. To get to the shore of the lake and its water is not so easy. The lake is located in the thick forests, roads where there is little. Surprisingly, however, it is unique in its beauty the lake has wide popularity among fans of active rest, and just tourists. And yet, year after year to the “flooded” birch lake is coming more and Bolshaya.
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.
Tour itinerary: Lake Kaindy and Castle valley
1. Departure from Almaty
Early in the morning, around 6-7 AM, the driver will pick you up from your designated address, and you will head to Lake Kaindy (300 km, approximately 5 hours). On the way, there will be a stop at the market in the village of Baisheit, where you can buy snacks and drinks.
2. Arrival at Lake Kaindy
Upon arrival, the tour will begin at the parking lot (approximately 1.5-2 hours). You will embark on a 3 km trek to the lake, to the viewing platform, and to the river where it flows into the lake. Here you can swim if you wish – the water is very cold, about 6°C, so if you’re brave enough, feel free to bring your swimsuit.
3. Departure to the Village of Saty
Optionally, you can head to the village of Saty (14 km, about 30 minutes), where you can have lunch at a guesthouse.
4. Departure to Charyn Canyon
After lunch, you will travel to Castle Valley (100 km, about 1.5-2 hours). Upon arrival, the tour will begin at the parking lot (approximately 2 hours). You will enjoy a 3 km trek (one way) along the canyon floor. At the end of the valley, the Charyn River flows, where you can cool off on a hot day. If you don’t want to walk back, you can take an eco-taxi, which will drive you back to the staircase.
5. Return to Almaty
After the walk in Charyn Canyon, you will head back to Almaty (220 km, approximately 2.5 hours). Upon arrival, the driver will drop you off at any location in the city.
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Total distance and travel time: 635 km, approximately 9 hours
Total tour time: 13 hours
Season: Available year-round
The tour itinerary can be modified or extended upon your request.
Tour price: Lake Kaindy and Castle valley
- From 130,000 KZT or 265 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.
Please place your order online.
