Charyn Canyon
Charyn Canyon, located in eastern Kazakhstan, is a natural landmark that is sure to take your breath away. The canyon stretches for 154 km (96 mi) and reaches depths of up to 300 meters (984 ft), making it one of the longest and deepest canyons in the world. The Charyn River, which runs through the canyon, has carved out a unique landscape of towering cliffs and colorful rock formations.
The Valley of Castles
The canyon’s most picturesque part is the so-called Valley of Castles. When people talk about the Charyn Canyon, they often mean this beautiful gorge. It features rocks that resemble the ruins of ancient castles, hence the name. The «castles» are cliffs formed from a combination of erosion and the uplifting of the land. The valley is about 2 km (1.2 mi) long so you can explore it in a couple of hours.
Few people know that in addition to the Valley of Castles, the Charyn Canyon has several branches: Temirlik, Uzunbulak, and Bestamak Canyons. They are less popular, but definitely worth your attention too.
Wildlife in an inhospitable environment
Charyn Canyon is home to a wide variety of trees, shrubs, and other plants that have adapted to the harsh desert-like conditions of the area. There grows Sogdian ash tree, one of the most amazing trees on Earth. They grow up to 10 meters (33 ft) high, and their trunks can reach several meters in girth. Some of these trees can live up to 700 years or more.
Another fascinating tree is Turanga or Asian poplar. These rare relic trees are able to survive in the harsh conditions of the canyon by developing deep roots (up to 50 meters!) that can reach underground water sources.
In addition to the trees and shrubs, Charyn Canyon is a habitat for many different types of animals. The most famous is the bearded vulture, also known as the lammergeier, which is a large bird of prey that is native to the canyon. Other birds that can be found there include the golden eagle, the peregrine falcon, and the saker falcon.
Charyn Canyon is also a haven for a number of different types of mammals, including the goitered gazelle, the mountain goat, the manul, the marten, the weasel and others. Reptiles include the Central Asian cobra, the desert monitor, and the long-tailed lizard.
Geological wonders
If you are interested in geology and paleontology, the Charyn Canyon is a must-visit place for you. The rock formations eroded by the river can tell the history of the canyon. Here you can see several varieties of granites, volcanic rocks of the Permian and Carboniferous periods, as well as clastic rocks of the Neogene period. If you’re being observant, you will probably find fossilized remains of ancient animals – rhinos, elephants, and mastodons.
Activities
For tourists, the canyon offers a variety of activities to enjoy. One popular option is to take a guided tour of the canyon, which will take you to some of the most spectacular viewpoints and give you the opportunity to learn more about the canyon's history and geology. Another option is to go hiking or camping in the canyon, which will allow you to explore its many trails and enjoy the natural beauty of the area. If you’re an equestrian, you can book a horseback riding tour. You can also go rafting on the Charyn River. This turbulent river is not safe for swimming, but it’s perfect for white-water rafting and canoeing.
It's also worth noting that the best time to visit the Charyn Canyon is during the summer months of June to September, when the weather is warm and dry. The canyon can also be visited in the spring and fall, but the weather may be more unpredictable.
Overall, Charyn Canyon is a must-see destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers. The canyon's unique landscape and wide range of activities make it the perfect place to explore and create unforgettable memories.
How to get there?
The canyon is located 195 km (121 mi) from Almaty, the largest city in Kazakhstan. The best way to get to the canyon is by car. From Almaty, you need to take the Kuljinsky Tract and drive east. Turn right after you pass the village of Shelek. Approximately 7 km (4 mi) after you pass the village of Baiseit, turn left near the gas station. Then you will see the village of Kokpek, drive 25 km (15.5 mi) and there will be a sharp turn to the left. Drive another 12 km (7.5 mi) and you are there!
It is worth remembering that the canyon is a part of the Charyn National Park, which means you must pay a fee at the entrance. Also, the canyon is a fragile ecosystem, so it's important to visit responsibly, following the rules and regulations set by the park authorities.
Other tourist attractions near the Charyn Canyon:
- Boguty Mountains
- Bestobe Reservoir
- Derevyannoye Lake
- Altyn-Emel National Park
- Chunja Hot Springs
- Ili River
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Recommended tours:
View all offers_420x650_4ab.jpg "Charyn Canyon One-Day Private Tour")
Embark on a journey to one of Kazakhstan's unique natural wonders – Charyn Canyon! Prepare for an unforgettable experience that will leave a lasting impression.
Embark on a captivating journey to see the natural jewels of the Almaty region – Kolsay Lakes, Lake Kaindy, and Charyn Canyon. Kolsay Lakes are a cascade of three mountain lakes situated at altitudes of 1000, 2250, and 2700 meters above sea level. Meanwhile, Charyn Canyon stands as the most breathtaking canyon in the region.
_420x650_4ab.jpg "Golden Ring of Jetysu 5-Day Tour")
Embark on a distinctive travel itinerary in the Almaty Region, featuring highlights such as Altyn-Emel National Park, Charyn Canyon, Kolsay Lakes, Lake Kaindy, Tamgaly Tas Petroglyph Site, and numerous other captivating attractions.
_420x650_4ab.jpg "Altyn Emel National Park and Charyn Canyon Off-Road Tour")
On request
If you like spending time in nature and delight in discovering the new and unusual – come join us on this off-road tour in Altyn Emel Natural Park and Charyn Canyon!
-sergejt_420x650_4ab.jpg "Canyons of Zhetisu Off-Road Tour")
On request
This off-road tour will enable you to see the most beautiful canyons of the south-eastern part of Zhetysu: Kyzylzhar, Temirlik, Bestamak and Valley of Castles of Charyn Canyon.
On request
Four days cycling tour, which route goes through the unknown, but very beautiful places and famous nature objects of Almaty region. You will see the Martian mountains, unknown canyons, confluences of strong rivers and many other interesting places!
On request
Combined tour with elements of easy off-road and fairly simple horseback riding, the charm of which is that all the horseback walkings are radial. Staying for overnight at the guest house, you will have the opportunity to see the most beautiful scenery.
On request
Excellent tour for the real adventure lovers! Horseback trek around forgotten roads, mountaineering on the top of rocky peaks from which view to Khan-Tengri peak is opened. Unknown canyons and mountain trails…
On request
Ideal option for experienced tourists. Nice horseback route which combines in itself simplicity, interest of unexplored places and staying in mountain hut with breathtaking view to the snowy peaks of Kungey-Alatau.