Car rental for Charyn Canyon and Kolsai Lakes
Kazakhstan is one of the most underrated travel destinations, and the best way to see its true beauty is to go on a road trip from Almaty by car. From the impressive red rocks of Charyn Canyon to the crystal-clear mountain waters of the Kolsai Lakes, this is a journey worth making on your own.
In this guide we will tell you everything about car rental for Charyn Canyon, car rental for the Kolsai Lakes, how to choose the best car for traveling around Kazakhstan, and why renting an SUV (4x4) for the Kolsai Lakes is often the best solution.
Why choose a road trip from Almaty?
A trip from Almaty by car gives you complete freedom of movement and lets you explore natural attractions without being tied to excursions.
Advantages:
- A free travel schedule
- Stops at any scenic spot
- Access to remote locations
- Good value for companies and families
The Almaty — Charyn — Kolsai route is one of the most beautiful in Central Asia: steppes, mountains and national parks.
Car rental for Charyn Canyon
Car rental for Charyn Canyon is the easiest way to visit this unique place, often called the "little brother of the Grand Canyon".
Distance and road:
- ~200 km from Almaty
- 3–3.5 hours on the road
- Paved road
Which car is suitable?
For Charyn you do not have to take an SUV:
- Sedans and compact cars will do
- A crossover adds comfort
- Air conditioning is a must in summer
Tips:
- Leave early in the morning
- Take water and snacks
- Fill up in advance
Car rental for the Kolsai Lakes
If you plan to rent a car for the Kolsai Lakes, be prepared for a longer and more difficult road.
Distance and route:
- ~300 km from Almaty
- 5–6 hours on the road
- Partly asphalt, partly gravel
Why do you need a 4x4 rental for the Kolsai Lakes?
Renting an SUV for the Kolsai Lakes is recommended because:
- There are sections of uneven road
- The weather in the mountains can change sharply
- Lake Kaindy is easier to reach with four-wheel drive
Recommended cars:
- SUVs (Toyota Prado, Hyundai Santa Fe)
- Crossovers with high ground clearance
- Full 4x4s for difficult sections
The best car for traveling around Kazakhstan
Choosing the best car for traveling around Kazakhstan depends on the route and your needs.
Sedan
Suitable for:
- City trips
- A trip to Charyn
- Budget travel
Crossover
Suitable for:
- Mixed roads
- Comfortable long-distance trips
- Small groups
SUV / 4x4
Suitable for:
- The Kolsai Lakes and Kaindy
- Mountain routes
- A full road trip
👉 Tip: if you plan to visit both Charyn and Kolsai, choose our Jeep tours.
Route: Almaty → Charyn → Kolsai
Here is a popular route for a road trip from Almaty:
Day 1:
- Pick up the car in Almaty
- Drive to Charyn Canyon
- Walk through the Valley of Castles
- Transfer to the village of Saty
Day 2:
- Visit the first Kolsai lake
- Hiking or horse tours
- A trip to Lake Kaindy (better by 4x4)
Day 3:
- Return to Almaty
Tips for drivers in Kazakhstan
Before you start your journey:
- Always carry your documents (license and passport)
- Download offline maps
- Watch the fuel level
- Obey the traffic rules
Book a car for traveling around Kazakhstan
Planning a trip to Charyn or Kolsai?
- Comfortable cars
- Reliable SUVs and 4x4s
- Flexible rental terms
- Pick-up in Almaty
Book a car today and set off on a journey around the Kazakhstan of your dreams.
