How to crush 2 days exploring

How to crush 2 days exploring Kazakhstan’s hidden natural wonders around Almaty 🌄✨

Day 1 - Charyn Canyon National Park + Lake Kaindy 🚗
Start early from Almaty by car or hop on a group tour bus! First stop: Charyn Canyon National Park (Uygur, Enbekshikazakh and Raiymbek district, just 7km from Shonzhy village, open all day). This place is wild – think Grand Canyon vibes, minus the crowds. Trek down into the Valley of Castles for insane photo ops. Bring good shoes and cash for the entrance.

After the canyon, head next to Lake Kaindy (Almaty region, Raiymbek, Saty str. Ultarakova 38, open all day), famous for its submerged trees poking out of the crystal blue water. It’s surreal! Pack some snacks – options are limited in the area.

Day 2 - Altyn Emel National Park 🏜️
Reset and roll out to Kerbulak District for Altyn Emel National Park (Науаи көшесі 208/2, Алматы, open all day). This is where you’ll find the Singing Dunes and wild horse herds racing across endless steppe. Grab a local guide if you want to cover more ground and hear the dunes “sing”.

Travel hacks & tips:
– The whole loop is doable by car or bus tour — self-driving means more freedom, but buses are fuss-free for first-timers.
– Cell signal can be spotty, so pre-download maps & translations.
– Entry fees: carry some cash, not all parks take cards.
– Weather: pack for sun and wind, especially out in the canyon and dunes!

Food: Stock up in Almaty, but small villages along the way may offer basic eats (try local samsa for cheap on the go).

#kazakhstannature #almatyexplore #charyncanyon #lakekaindy #tripdotcom

Post by Alina555 | Sep 10, 2025