Charyn Canyon National Park is one of Kazakhstan's most beautiful natural wonders, located southeast of Almaty, where the sprawling steppes meet the majestic Tien Shan mountains.
The journey through the open steppes, adorned with shades of green, does little to prepare visitors for the dramatic landscapes that await within the park.
Why Visit Charyn Canyon National Park
Although smaller than the Grand Canyon in the United States, Charyn Canyon offers equally breathtaking views. Stretching along the Charyn River for about 50 kilometers, the canyon features walls that rise up to 300 meters high, showcasing a vibrant palette of reds, browns, yellows, and blacks.
Most visitors take day trips from Almaty to experience the canyon’s beauty. However, a day trip only scratches the surface of this expansive area. Spending a night within the park—whether camping, staying in a wooden cabin, or experiencing the local yurts—is highly recommended. Witnessing the serene sunset and a sky filled with stars is an unforgettable experience.
What to Expect on a Charyn Canyon Tour
Standard tours often include stops at the Valley of Castles and are typically part of trips to nearby attractions such as the Kolsai Lakes. The drive takes about four hours through the vast steppes before reaching the park’s entrance.
Previously unpaved roads have been improved, making the journey more accessible. Tours usually provide enough time for a 3-kilometer hike through the Valley of Castles and back. While brief, the visit leaves a lasting impression. For those with more time, exploring the park beyond the standard route is highly rewarding.
Places to Visit in Charyn Canyon National Park
Valley of Castles
The Valley of Castles is the park’s most iconic attraction. Accessible by a paved road leading to a viewpoint and ticket office, this canyon’s towering rock formations resemble ancient castles, creating a surreal atmosphere.
Other Canyons
Beyond the Valley of Castles, the park is home to three additional canyons:
Temirlik Canyon (Iron Canyon): Known for its rugged beauty.
Uzunbulak Canyon (Yellow or Moon Canyon): Offers unique landscapes.
Bestamak Canyon (Red Canyon): Features striking red rock formations.
Exploring these areas requires a four-wheel-drive vehicle and thorough preparation, as no facilities or marked trails are available.
Viewpoints
The park features several stunning viewpoints along the roads, including those outside the Valley of Castles. These lesser-known spots are free to access and perfect for a quick stop during a road trip.
Activities in Charyn Canyon National Park
Hiking
The 2-3 kilometer hike through the Valley of Castles is the only established trail in the park. Adventurous visitors can explore unofficial trails, but preparation is essential as facilities are scarce.
Rafting
Rafting tours along the Charyn River offer a unique perspective of the canyon. Several companies provide these tours, giving visitors an exciting way to experience the park.
Wildlife Spotting
The park is home to over 100 bird species and 32 mammal species, including eagles, mountain goats, foxes, and hares. Spotting these animals adds another layer of wonder to the visit.
How to Travel to Charyn Canyon
Public Transport
Visitors can take a shared taxi to Kegen or Saty (around $5) and request a drop-off at the Charyn Canyon turn-off. From there, a 12-kilometer hike through the grasslands leads to the Valley of Castles’ entrance. Hitchhiking back is possible, but travelers should be prepared to contribute to fuel costs.
Budget-Friendly Day Tours
Affordable tours, starting at $25, are available on weekends. These typically include transportation and enough time for the 3-kilometer hike through the Valley of Castles.
Travel Tips for Charyn Canyon National Park
Accommodation
Eco Park: Offers yurts (40,000 tenge for 8 people) and wooden cabins (14,000 tenge for 2 people) at the end of the Valley of Castles. An Eco Park taxi service is available for those who prefer not to walk the scenic 3 kilometers.
Camping: Designated camping areas are available near the river for an additional 350 tenge per tent. Nights can be cold outside summer months, so warm clothing is essential.
Food
The Eco Park restaurant serves limited dishes such as shashlik, plov, and laghman, with prices higher than those in Almaty. Bringing food and water from Almaty is advisable.
Best Time to Visit
The ideal months to visit are April to June and September to October, avoiding the extreme summer heat and winter cold. Weekdays are less crowded than weekends.
Safety
Charyn Canyon is generally safe, but visitors should be mindful of its remote location. Packing water, snacks, a first-aid kit, sunscreen, and appropriate clothing is crucial. A hat and sunglasses provide protection from the sun, while sturdy footwear is necessary for navigating rocky trails.
Packing List
Sturdy Shoes: Comfortable for hiking on rocky terrain.
Sun Protection: Hat, sunscreen, and sunglasses are essential.
Snacks and Water: Facilities are limited, so carry sufficient supplies.
Money: No ATMs are available within the park.
Water Purification System: Refill bottles with filtered river water to minimize plastic waste.
Charyn Canyon National Park is a geological and ecological gem that promises unforgettable experiences for nature enthusiasts. Whether visiting for a day or staying overnight, its dramatic landscapes and diverse wildlife make it a must-see destination in Kazakhstan.
Charyn Canyon National Park | CHARYN CANYON | Kazakhstan Attractions
Video by jecris channel
