Kazakhstan Route: Moon Canyon to Big Almaty Lake
This 2064 km route through Central Kazakhstan showcases the country's diverse landscapes, from Moon Canyon's dramatic terrain to pristine alpine lakes. The journey captures Kazakhstan's minimal infrastructure and nomadic heritage, featuring traditional Soviet-era transportation and authentic local experiences in remote villages near the Kyrgyzstan border.
- Mode
- Places
- Start
- Moon Canyon
- End
- Almaty Airport Departure
- Stops
- 4
- Video author
- travmap
- Updated
Stops on this route
- Moon Canyon — Dramatic canyon formation in central Kazakhstan resembling the Grand Canyon, with distinctive lunar-like terrain visible from above.
- Local Village and Lunch — Traditional Kazakh settlement offering authentic regional cuisine and insight into rural lifestyle surrounding Almaty.
- Big Almaty Lake at Night — High-altitude alpine lake displaying stunning nocturnal reflections of surrounding peaks and city lights below.
- Almaty Airport Departure — Gateway hub connecting Central Asia's largest city to international destinations across Kazakhstan and beyond.
Useful for your trip
- Food
- In villages with minimal infrastructure, eat at local houses rather than restaurants. Meals typically start with soup, followed by potato, vegetables, and beef or lamb. Breakfast includes porridge and eggs.
- Food
- Local meal culture serves tea and biscuits before the main course, unlike Western custom. Plan meals as social events where food preparation is part of the experience.
- Transport
- Use Soviet-style jeeps to access remote lakes and mountain areas. These vehicles are the primary transportation option for reaching high-altitude locations.
- Where to stay
- Stay in bungalows located within national parks near lakes. Accommodation is available at high altitude (approximately 2,000 meters) with fire pits for warmth.
- Tip
- Moon Canyon is called the Grand Canyon of Central Asia. From high points, visibility extends far due to short vegetation, showing distant snow-capped mountains.
- Tip
- Kaindy Lake contains petrified trees that have been preserved in turquoise water for 100 years after an earthquake created the lake. The water is extremely cold.
- Tip
- Pine forests near Kolsai Lakes contain a unique tree species found only in this location worldwide. The area is surrounded by mountains at high altitude.
- Tip
- Wooden walkways are built around lakes for morning walks. Boats are available for rent to explore lakes from the water.
- Timing
- Visit in seasons suitable for camping in national parks. High altitude areas can be cold; bring warm blankets and prepare for icy water temperatures.
Video on this route
What Kazakhstan is REALLY Like | Almaty Travel Vlog