Charyn Canyon

 Charyn Canyon is considered to be the younger brother of the Grand Canyon in the United States, and it is often compared to it. The natural scale of the canyon is impressive: a length of 200 km and a height ranging from 100 to over 300 meters. The best option when choosing an outdoor getaway near Almaty is an excursion to Charyn Canyon. Getting to this amazing place is simple: 200 km east of Almaty flows the Charyn River, where the canyon awaits its guests.

Charyn Canyon is an extraordinarily beautiful place. Its walls consist of large deposits of clay that turn vibrant red and shimmer with awesome shades at sunset. If you look closely at the clay formations of the canyon, you can spot the outlines of an ancient city that seems to come alive under the rays of the setting sun. Over time, wind and weather have carved countless grottos, caves, and massive towers into the canyon walls.

The area surrounding the canyon feels like an unexplored wilderness, where poplars, tamarisk, and reeds grow along the banks. Near the river, the wind and water bring cool mountain air to every visitor. Right next to the canyon, in the valley of the Charyn River, lies the famous ash tree grove, which covers an area of over 200 hectares. Countless eras have passed, ancient species of plants and animals have disappeared, yet this prehistoric ash grove has remained virtually unchanged for millions of years.

The Charyn River itself, which gives the canyon its name, originates in the foothills of the Ile-Alatau mountains and flows into the Ili River.

Charyn Canyon traces its origin back to the Paleogene period, making its geological age more than 30 million years. Another unique feature of the canyon lies in its rare landscape—similar landforms are found in only a few places around the world. (See Album "Charyn Canyon").

Program: You will drive deep into the canyon in an SUV, replacing the long walking route with a comfortable car ride, stopping to take amazing photos along the way. At the end of the trail, you will go down to the Charyn River and enjoy a picnic on the shore among the prehistoric ash trees. You can order a picnic, barbecue, or shashlik through our company by discussing the menu in advance with our staff, or you are welcome to bring everything you need with you.