1-Day Charyn Canyon Road Trip with Walk to the Charyn River

The journey

Trip highlights

• 01 Ride to the mesmerizing Charyn Canyon
• 02 Take photos with the fantastic views of the canyon
• 03 Explore and marvel at the canyon's red stone formations
• 04 Walk inside the canyon to the Charyn River

Witness the majestic Charyn Canyon, often called the "little brother" of the famous American Grand Canyon. Take in fascinating views of its rugged red stone landscape on an adventurous road trip that offers an ideal glimpse of the Kazakh countryside. This full-day experience combines scenic driving with time to walk inside the canyon and reach the Charyn River.

Witness the majestic Charyn Canyon, often called the "little brother" of the famous American Grand Canyon.

From the itinerary

At a glance

What this trip includes

Duration 1 Day

Tour type Shared

Activity level Moderate

Accommodation Not included

Transport Included

Wheelchair access Not applicable

Cities Almaty, Sharyn Canyon

Languages English, Russian

Day by day

The itinerary

1

Day 01

Road Trip to Charyn Canyon and Walk to the River

As this is a car tour, the starting point may be near your hotel or other accommodation. If you can make your way to the bus stop near Kazakhstan Hotel, that is even better, as this is the default starting point.

Then head straight to Charyn Canyon, where you will have at least 50-60 minutes to walk inside the canyon to the Charyn River. Optional eco-taxis are available there if you prefer to use one instead of walking. There are also plenty of great spots for taking pictures.

On the way back, you will most likely be hungry, so you can either eat at the fast-food restaurant there or stop at village cafes on the return journey to Almaty.

After that, return to your hotel or to Kazakhstan Hotel.

The route

Where you'll travel

The fine print

Trip details

What's Included

• The road trip itself
• Guiding services
• The ecological post (shlagbaum) near the Charyn Canyon's "Valley of the Castles"

What's Not Included

• Lunch (usually between $4 and $10 per person)
• You can also order any additional services you would like to do at the canyon, such as camping, rafting, eco-taxi, etc.

What to bring

• Water and snacks

Know before you go

• There will be two people: a driver and a guide.
• The mini-bus inside the canyon is optional because you can walk instead.

Logistics

Meeting & route

Meeting point

Kazakhstan Hotel, Dostyk Avenue, Almaty, Kazakhstan

Tour start

Dostyk Ave 52/2, Almaty 480051, Kazakhstan

Tour ends at the same location as the start point.