Umai Travel

3 CANYONS OF CHARYN

Charyn canyon- is located in the Charyn National Park about 215km east of Almaty and approximately a 3hour drive via the A 351 and A 352. The Canyon has been described as the
Grand Canyon’s little brother. The vista of dramatic erosion made by theriver Charyn below and the elements has created a dramatic and impressive
landscape. The Canyon itself is approximately 150 km long, and, in places up to300 meters deep. One area of particular interest, is an area of 2km called the
Valley of Castles, due to the pillars and rock formations forming imposing,almost man made structures.

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SeasonAll year around

Tour languageEnglish

TransportCar/Minibus/Suv

Distance200km from Almaty

Tour activitiesWalking/Hiking

Tour duration1 full day

Start time9 am Almaty time

🏜️ Canyon Wonders Tour

📍 Explore:

🏰 Charyn Canyon – Often called the "Grand Canyon of Central Asia", with towering red cliffs and the famous Valley of Castles.
🖤 Black Canyon – A dramatic, lesser-known canyon with dark volcanic rock and striking contrasts, perfect for photography.
🌕 Moon (Yellow) Canyon – A surreal landscape with golden hues and unique rock formations that resemble a lunar surface.

🚐 Tour Includes:

Comfortable transport from Almaty
Professional English-speaking guide
Plenty of time for walking, photography, and enjoying the views

What is important to know

Charyn Canyon is one of the most impressive natural wonders of Kazakhstan, often referred to as the "younger brother of the Grand Canyon." Its majestic cliffs, which are millions of years old, leave an unforgettable impression. Here's what you need to know before traveling: Location: the canyon is located about 200 km from Almaty. The journey takes about 3-4 hours. The best time to visit is spring (April–May) and autumn (September–October), when there is no intense heat and it is especially beautiful. What to bring: a hat, sunglasses and cream, comfortable hiking shoes, water and a snack. Communication and amenities: mobile communication is sometimes lost, toilets and cafes are only at the entrance. Everything is wild in the canyon — get ready in advance. What to do: Take a walk through the Valley of Castles, the most famous part of the canyon with fantastic rock formations. Enjoy the views from the viewing points. Take beautiful photos, especially at sunset. Respect nature: don't paint on rocks, don't leave trash, be careful near cliffs. Charyn is a place where you can feel the power of time and nature. A great option for a day trip from Almaty!