Charyn Canyon

Charyn Canyon is Kazakhstan's most spectacular natural wonder, a 90-km canyon system on the Charyn River east of Almaty whose red sandstone walls rise 200-300 meters in formations resembling the American Southwest. The Valley of Castles section — 2 km of the most dramatic spires, pillars, and towers eroded from the red rock — is the most visited section, accessible on a 3-km loop trail from the canyon rim. The canyon's remote desert location, three hours from Almaty, makes it a significant expedition.

• Categorypark
• Opening HoursMonday: Open 24 hours; Tuesday: Open 24 hours; Wednesday: Open 24 hours; Thursday: Open 24 hours; Friday: Open 24 hours; Saturday: Open 24 hours; Sunday: Open 24 hours