Charyn Canyon National Park — Attraction in Almaty Region

Visiting Charyn Canyon National Park was one of the most unforgettable experiences of my travels in Kazakhstan. Often referred to as the "little brother of the Grand Canyon," this majestic natural wonder completely took my breath away!

The Valley of Castles was the highlight of the trip — the towering red rock formations carved by time and wind are absolutely surreal. Walking among them felt like stepping into a lost world. The silence of the canyon, broken only by the wind and the occasional bird call, created a peaceful, almost spiritual atmosphere.

What amazed me most was how well-preserved and untouched the area is. The park staff were friendly, and the facilities were basic but clean. There were signs guiding the main paths, which made exploring the canyon safe and easy even for first-timers.

Nature lovers will adore this place — we spotted eagles soaring above and even visited the nearby Sogdian Ash Grove, a rare and ancient forest that's over 5 million years old! For adventurers, there are opportunities for hiking, rafting, and camping — but even a simple day trip is enough to fall in love with this spectacular site.

Getting there from Almaty was straightforward. The 3.5-hour drive offered stunning views of the Kazakh steppe, and our local guide added great historical context along the way. I recommend going in spring or autumn when the weather is just perfect — warm but not too hot.

Tips: Bring plenty of water, wear good hiking shoes, and don’t forget your camera — the sunsets here are magical. Also, there are no restaurants inside the park, so pack some snacks or a picnic.

Overall, Charyn Canyon is a must-see destination for anyone visiting Kazakhstan. It's a raw, natural masterpiece that combines geological beauty, adventure, and tranquility in one stunning package. I can't...

The place is lovely a harsh beauty, rugged nature of the red gorge. It's either hot or cool or there's a strong wind. The place is really unique. I don't think the comparison with the Rio Grande canyon in Colorado is correct. I think this place is unique in its own way. Charyn river is very deep for our places. As far as I know, the river is very popular with rafting lovers. Charyn carries its fresh cool clean water through the hot steppe. The river has its own character, not soft. Visiting this place here everyone will find something of their own. Spring is especially interesting here. Very interesting flowering of local plants, at the tip of a long thorn, a beautiful bright red flower. We were here on may 12. In Almaty, all the trees have already faded. And here was just about to bloom. The place must be visited. Место прекрасное какой то суровой красотой, изрезанные природой красные ущелья. Здесь либо зной, либо прохлада, либо сильный ветер. Место действительно уникальное. Не считаю корректным сравнение с каньоном Рио-гранде в Колорадо. Считаю это место уникальным по своему. Река Чарын очень полноводна для наших мест. Насколько знаю, река очень популярна у любителей рафтинга. Чарын несет свои свежие прохладные чистые воды через жаркую степь. У реки есть свой характер свой нрав. Посетив это место здесь каждый найдет что то свое. Весной здесь особенно интересно. Очень интересно цветение местных растений, на кончике длинного шипа, красивый яркий красный цветок. Мы были здесь 12 мая. В городе Алматы уже отцвели все деревья. А здесь только...

Better then Arizona... Spectacular and wonder of the world in amazing Almaty Kazakhstan. Not near to the city but the journey there are very interesting. You will passed 12 villages before reach this beautiful landscape where each village have their own traditions and unique. Start from the visitor centre where located at the best overall view on the canyon. Spacious parking area for both private cars, van or tourist group coaches. The visitor centre located at the lower floor with informative person in charge, super clean washrooms, souvenirs shops and cafe, restaurant that can accommodate big group at one time. It's beautiful topographic that you may not imagine exists in this region. The land are orang to red color as for the mineral here I believe and it's layers of the formation are visible perfectly here compare with the one in Cappadocia. Was here on this Dec and it's super cold here... So wear suitable attire at any season you are traveling or having a tour here. End of the trail... We enjoy beautiful Charyn river at the end of the walk from the center and it's absolutely worth it. This is place that you may have some bbq or plan to arrange meals before tracking back to the center. The thing is.... Every corner in this place are so beautiful. And do plan best with suitable attire, season to visit and professional guide to make sure you enjoyed this...