Charyn Canyon, Kazasthan 😍
by NIZ Backpacker
Feb 23, 2025
Just back from Charyn Canyon, this red secret spot known as the "Little Colorado of Central Asia" is absolutely heart-stirring💓! Sharing a firsthand guide to help you explore this 12-million-year-old geological wonder✨
📍Location: 90 km northeast of Kegen town, Almaty Region, Kazakhstan
🌄【Best Travel Time】
• Recommended periods: April-June / September-October
✔️April brings fresh greenery | September offers golden-red sunset filters | Hiking temperatures 15-25℃ super comfortable
🚫July-August surface temperatures exceed 40℃, hot enough to cook eggs | Winter winds and sandstorms so fierce even your mom won’t recognize you
🚗【Transportation Options Guide】
1️⃣ Charter car - the king choice: perfect for 3-4 people
• Price: 15,000-25,000 KZT (about $30-50)
• Advantages: Take photos anytime, no rush from anyone
• Tip: Book 1-2 months in advance to lock in a good driver
2️⃣ Group tours - beginner friendly
• Price: 10,000-15,000 KZT
• Suitable for: first-timers/solo travelers
• Downside: Don’t expect to pose beautifully, the guide will rush you like crazy😅
3️⃣ Public transport - budget travel option
• Real review: Time-consuming, exhausting, and dangerous⚠️
• Friendly reminder: Miss the last bus and you’ll be sleeping on the street
🌋【Must-Visit Spots】
🏰 Castle Valley (the canyon’s main attraction)
• Hiking: 3 km / 1 hour
• Photo tips: Best lighting before 10 am or after 5 pm
• Absolutely remember: Wear professional hiking shoes! Sneakers will slip and make you question life
💧 Charyn River (hidden gem of the canyon)
• Surprise bonus: Encounter Kazakh musicians playing the dombra
• Danger warning: Don’t imitate influencers taking cliff photos, life is more important
🌕 Moon Valley (photo paradise)
• Extremely off-the-beaten-path | Stunning light and shadow changes
• Friendly tip: Easy to get lost without a guide, disappearing is not fun
⛺️ Stargazing camping (a must on your life list)
• Cabin booking: Charyn Canyon Camp
• Must-bring gear: Warm sleeping bag + camera tripod
• Breathtaking view: Milky Way visible to the naked eye✨
⚠️【Pitfall Avoidance Guide】
• Gear checklist: Sunscreen trio + windbreaker + 2L water
• Cash essential: Toilets charge fees (100 KZT per use)
• New rules: From 2025, drones and picnics are prohibited
💡Tips
1. Download Maps.me offline maps
2. Exchange KZT cash in advance
3. Book accommodation early! At least 1 month ahead
This mysterious red canyon in Central Asia is a once-in-a-lifetime must-visit! But if you don’t save these tips, you might regret it for three days and nights after coming😂
Grab this guide now, and rely on it for your next trip~
Post by ScienceGeekExtra | Oct 26, 2025






















