Charyn Canyon day trip from Almaty

Charyn Canyon is one of Kazakhstan’s best-known natural sights. It is often compared with the Grand Canyon: red walls 150–300 metres high, strange rock towers and a river at the bottom. You can visit it from Almaty in a day.

Getting there

The canyon is about 200 kilometres from Almaty — roughly three to four hours each way by car. Public transport doesn’t go to the canyon itself, so a driver or a guided trip is the easiest option.

The Valley of Castles

The part most travellers see is the Valley of Castles. From the viewpoint a trail of about three kilometres leads down — an easy walk, mostly downhill. At the bottom is the Charyn river with shade and a spot for a picnic.

When to go

• April–June and September–October — the best time, warm but not hot
• July–August — the canyon floor gets very hot, leave early
• Winter — quiet and beautiful, but trails can be icy

What to bring

• Comfortable shoes with good grip
• Water — at least 1.5 litres per person
• A hat and sunscreen
• Snacks — food options on site are limited

Make it longer

With two or three days, Charyn pairs well with Kolsai and Kaindy lakes, further into the mountains in the same direction from Almaty.

At sunset the canyon walls turn almost fiery — it is worth staying for those ten minutes.

On a day trip the transfer, driver and route are planned for you, and an early start helps you beat both the heat and the crowds.