Kazakhstan Guide: Almaty, Mountain Lakes and Charyn Canyon

For most visitors, Kazakhstan means Almaty and its mountains. Allow five to seven nights: two in the city and its nearby peaks, and two or three more for the lakes and canyons further out. It is a good first Central Asia trip because the distances are workable, the scenery is dramatic and the city is easy to enjoy.

Why base yourself in Almaty

Almaty sits at the foot of the snowy Trans-Ili Alatau range, which means mountains are visible from many streets. Most of the big sights are within a few hours' drive, so you can unpack once and head out on day trips.

Check entry and visa rules for Indian passport holders before booking, as these can change. We are happy to confirm the current position with you.

Almaty city: a slow first day

Start with Kok Tobe, a hill reached by cable car, with views over the city and its lights in the evening. It is a casual place with cafes, a small amusement area and a quirky statue park.

Then visit the Green Bazaar, a large covered market with dried fruit, nuts, honey, fresh produce, meat and Korean-style salads. It is a good place to see local life and pick up snacks.

If you like museums, the Central State Museum and the Panfilov Park area with its colourful Ascension Cathedral are easy additions.

The mountains and lakes

Medeu and Shymbulak: the mountain day

A short drive from the centre, Medeu is a high-altitude outdoor ice-skating rink in a mountain valley. Beyond it, a cable car climbs to Shymbulak, a ski resort that is popular in summer for views and walks too.

Winter brings snow and skiing; in summer the slopes are green and good for light hiking and viewpoints. The upper stations are cold and windy, so carry layers even in warm months.

Big Almaty Lake

Big Almaty Lake is a turquoise reservoir high above the city, surrounded by steep mountain slopes. Access arrangements and timings change, and weather can alter the colour and visibility completely, so ask your driver or guide before you go. It is usually done as a half-day trip. The colour is often best on a clear day in summer.

Charyn Canyon

Charyn Canyon is often compared with the Grand Canyon on a smaller scale, with red rock formations carved over long periods. The most visited section is called the Valley of Castles.

It is roughly a three- to four-hour drive each way from Almaty, so go early, or break the journey with a night near the canyon. A short walk descends to the river floor if you want to stand among the formations.

Kolsai and Kaindy lakes

For more adventurous travellers, an overnight trip leads to the Kolsai Lakes, a series of alpine lakes surrounded by spruce forest, and Kaindy Lake, famous for the bare tree trunks standing in its water. Roads can be rough and the lakes are best from late spring through early autumn.

Plan a night in the region so you are not driving the entire way back in the same day. Facilities are simple, so a guesthouse stay is typical.

A simple plan

1. Day 1: Arrive, Kok Tobe and Green Bazaar.
2. Day 2: Medeu, Shymbulak and Big Almaty Lake.
3. Day 3: Charyn Canyon.
4. Days 4 and 5: Kolsai and Kaindy lakes, with one night nearby.
5. Day 6: Return, shopping and rest.

If you have fewer days, combine Charyn with Kolsai and Kaindy on a long loop only if everyone enjoys long drives. Otherwise pick one.

When to go

Late spring to early autumn is best for lakes, canyons and hiking. Summer days can be warm in the city but cooler up high. Winter is cold, with snow, and is the season for skiing at Shymbulak. Autumn colours in the mountains are lovely in September and early October.

Food and practical notes

Kazakh food leans toward meat, noodles and dairy. Beshbarmak is boiled meat over flat noodles, and baursak are small fried breads served with tea. Vegetarians will do better with salads, soups, dumplings with vegetable fillings, pasta and Korean or Uyghur-style restaurants in Almaty.

Carry a warm layer, a rain jacket and sturdy shoes. Mobile data may be patchy in mountain areas, so download maps in advance.

Hire a driver for the lakes and canyons. Distances are long and conditions vary, and a good local driver also becomes your guide.

Almaty combines well with a southern Central Asia route, such as our Uzbekistan Silk Road guide. Browse our Kazakhstan trips, or ask us to plan something with custom trips.