Charyn Canyon, Kazakhstan

The only known and officially established hiking trail at the Charyn Canyon is the Valley of Castles. It is one of the most popular sections of the canyon which requires an approximately 2-hour hike, covering around 5 km. There are several other unofficial hiking trails at the canyon, however, the routes are not laid out for these. You can explore these trails as well as climb on top of a rock formation to witness panoramic views.

If you are visiting the Charyn Canyon between April to June then a must-try activity for you is river rafting. You can make your trip even more adventurous and exciting by exploring the pristine Charyn River by rafting across its streams. There are a few operators who provide easy to moderate and difficult level rafting experiences. They will also provide you with all the required equipment such as life jackets, helmets, static ropes and oars. It is a truly spine-chilling experience that will surely enhance the overall experience of your trip. 

The Charyn Canyon is an ideal spot for all wildlife and plant enthusiasts as it is home to a wide variety of flora and fauna. There are more than 1500 species of plants, out of which 17 plants are listed in the Red Book of rare and endangered plant species. Some of the endemic plants include small-fruited whitlow grass, jurinea, pastinacоpsis glacialis and glamorous oxytrope. Additionally, the Charyn Canyon is home to over 103 species of birds, 62 species of mammals and 25 species of reptiles. Some of the birds that you can spot in the canyon are eagle, horned lark, sykes’s warbler, Central Asian lesser whitethroat and Asian desert warbler. Some other animals that you may get to see during your trip include lizards, frogs, gerbils, foxes, hares, snakes and beavers, bats and ringtails. 

Camping amidst giant rock formations at the Charyn Canyon is a truly phenomenal experience. Since there is a lot to see and do at the canyon, it becomes almost impossible to cover all of it. This is why it is best to set up your camp so that you can explore the rest of the sites the next day. One of the most ideal locations for camping is near the river where you can hear the chirping of the birds and the gushing sound of the river. You can also spend the night preparing your own BBQ dinner with your loved ones. Additionally, light up a bonfire and share some memorable stories as you relish in your self-cooked meal. For a more soothing experience, you can enjoy stargazing and soak in the peaceful and serene ambience.