Charyn Canyon

Charyn Canyon cuts through the steppe about three hours’ drive east of Almaty. Its best-known section, the Valley of Castles, is a broad gorge lined with red and ochre rock towers shaped by wind and water into turrets and walls, often compared to a smaller Grand Canyon.

A path leads down through the valley for two to three kilometres to the Charyn River, where there is a shaded spot to rest before walking back. Viewpoints along the rim are easy to reach for anyone who prefers not to walk far.

There is little shade in the canyon, so carry water, wear a hat and avoid the midday heat in summer. Charyn is usually combined with the Kolsai and Kaindy lakes on a two-day trip, with a night in Saty village.