Kazakhstan, Charyn Canyon near Almaty

The End of the Road, Looking down into the Canyon ©Solange Hando

Named after the river, this spectacular canyon is located in a National Park close to the Chinese border, about a 3 hour drive east of Almaty.

There are five canyons altogether, stretching over 100 km, including the Valley of Castles which can be visited on a day trip from Almaty.

 Charyn Canyon, Desert and Snowy Tops ©Solange Hando

The Charyn is smaller than the Colorado but framed by the eternal snow of the Tien Shan mountains, it certainly claims a little extra.

A long flight of steps leads down to the bottom of the gorge where for the next 3 kms or so, the Valley of Castles meanders among high sculpted rocks, with patches of unexpected greenery scattered here and there.

The Valley of Castles in the Charyn Canyon ©Solange Hando

There is an adequate footpath down in the gorge but with due care, you can improvise as you wish, with no restrictions for the time being.

Most amazing in the canyon are the different colours, sandstone ranging from red to orange and pink, but also dark volcanic rock on some of the lower slopes.

Watch your Head ©Solange Hando

The path narrows in places, with big boulders almost barring the way or sharp precarious rocks barely hanging from the top, all created over millions of years by water and wind erosion.

You might just spot lizards, snakes or groundhogs but be prepared for extreme heat in summer.

The Sharyn River ©Solange Hando

Take your time then when you reach the bottom of the valley, you can relax by Sharyn's emerald water, paddle or even swim if the current is not too strong. 

The river comes down from the Tien Shan and white water rafting can be arranged.

Yurt in the Charyn Ecopark ©Solange Hando

Down by the river, the ecopark offers a few facilities, including food and drink, picnic spots and traditional yurts when you can rest at the heart the canyon among flowers and feathery trees.