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Charyn Canyon, located 200 km from Almaty, is one of the most breathtaking destinations in Kazakhstan. Known as the Grand Canyon of Kazakhstan, it is famous for its stunning red sandstone formations, particularly in the Valley of Castles.

The canyon stretches 154 km and reaches depths of 300 meters, creating spectacular landscapes. This destination is perfect for hikers, photographers, and adventurers looking to explore unique rock formations, hidden trails, and panoramic viewpoints.

Сharyn Сanyon

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Сharyn Сanyon

The canyons of Almaty are not the only attraction that the Charyn National Park can boast of

It is also worth noting here the Ash Grove in the Sarytogay tract - a UNESCO monument, which in antiquity competed only with the forests of the United States. But the Charyn Canyon Valley of Castles is of most interest to travelers. There is an unusual part of the reserve that looks like a fortress of towers that resemble stone blocks. As you stand between their mighty walls, you'll feel like Gulliver in the land of giants and the power of the rocks will take your breath away!

It is impossible to leave this place unnoticed, and therefore every route through the reserve includes a stop here.

The canyon attracts travelers from different countries with its unique topography and scale. This is a work of art created by nature. For millions of years, water and wind have shaped this area.

Getting to know the canyon begins with "WOW", and "WOW" sounds here all the time. Seeing this miracle of nature, it is difficult to remain indifferent. The road to the Charyn canyon passes through the canyon "Valley of Castles". While walking down the canyon, you will plunge deeper and deeper into the realm of sheer cliffs with a million-year history. It's nearly impossible to stop every minute to take a new picture. Even a person without imagination will see many bizarre figures. Canyon "Valley of Castles" will end with the turbulent Charyn River, which continues to give new forms to the Charyn Canyon with remarkable speed.

Tourist Information

Travel Time: The journey from Almaty to Charyn Canyon takes about 2.5 hours by car or SUV.
Recommended Route
  1. Start early in the morning to make the most of your day.
  2. Stop in Baiseit village (130 km from Almaty) for a short break. Here, you can:
  • Eat delicious Kazakh-style shashlik (BBQ) and lagman (noodle soup).
  • Buy essentials like raincoats, firewood, fresh fruits, vegetables, and meat.
  1. Continue to Charyn Canyon, following the well-paved road until reaching Charyn National Park entrance.
Transport Options
Self-drive (SUV recommended) – Best for flexibility.
Guided SUV Tours – Comfortable option with a driver and guide.
Public Bus – Available but not recommended due to limited schedules.
Private Taxi – Costs around $100 round-trip, but you’ll need to arrange a return ride.

Explore the canyon for 3 km one way

Camp near the Charyn River or in the Bestomak Canyon

Enjoy the spectacular views of the Canyon

Attractions available on Сharyn Сanyon

Our Сharyn Сanyon Tours

Сharyn Сanyon national park tips for visitors

When planning to visit the park, pay attention to:

  • The most pleasant weather here is in spring and autumn. Chary Canyon in winter is characterized by temperatures from 0 to -6, and in summer the heat is up to +35
  • We take photos against the backdrop of bizarre rocks at sunset when the ancient stone plays with all shades of yellow, orange, brown, and red as the sun sets.
If you arrived in Kazakhstan, then the question of how to get to the reserve from Almaty is not worth it: you can use a regular bus, book an individual tour or rent a car. We highly recommend finding a local guide. Then your trip to the canyon will sparkle with mystical colors from immersion in the legends of this region.

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