A red-orange maze of cliffs and the famous Valley of Castles — one of Almaty Region’s signature landscapes.
The stone towers of the Valley of Castles
The Valley of Castles has rock walls that suggest towers, passages and fortress façades. These are natural landforms, not the ruins of a built city: the walk reveals different rock shapes and layers. The area belongs to Charyn National Park, established in 2004 to protect the region's natural landscapes.
For a first visit, choose one route and allow time to return to the upper parking area. The park prohibits private cars from descending into the canyon. Plan the walk down together with the climb back up: photo stops, heat or rain can substantially change your pace.
Travel from Hostel O2
≈ 3–4 hr each way · 9–11 hr total
Travel mode
Car or transfer
These are planning estimates, not a timetable. Allow extra time for traffic and queues.
How to get there
Travel by car, private transfer or organised tour along the Kuldja Highway to the Valley of Castles car park.
