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Where it's at
Charyn Canyon is an interesting natural phenomenon located
in southern Kazakhstan. Its likeness to the famous Colorado
landmark means it has been dubbed 'the Grand Canyon's
little brother.' Nearly 50-miles long and extending 300 to
1,000 feet high, locals often refer to this unusual giant
rock sculpture as Dolina Zamkov ('Valley of the Castles').
Charyn Canyon's strange geology
The canyon's fantastic rocky remains have been shaped through
centuries of wind, sun, and water rushing past the carved
rock. At the bottom of the dry gorges, the fast-moving river
attracts weary travellers looking to cool down in the paradise
of its green oases. Enjoy spotting the weird and wonderful
shapes and figures adorning the steep canyon sides.
The different colours of the rocks in the canyon show the
build up of different origins over time. The dark rocks at
the bottom are volcanic lava and are the oldest in
the area. The layers above this darker rock are much younger
and consist of reddish gravel that has been deposited when
the river raged through the higher levels of the canyon. Grey
gravel covers the plains around the canyon, deposited
by the rivers that once flowed through and dust blown in by
ancient winds.
Activities in Charyn River and Canyon
Charyn River, which runs deep within the gorge, is
one of the largest rivers of the Northern Tien Shan Mountains.
Its multi-coloured gorges are perfect for rafting, however
it can be very difficult and dangerous (up to category six),
and should only be attempted with professional equipment and
assistance. Trekking and hiking is superb and fairly easy
directly around the canyon, however if you are attempting
other routes it is best to seek professional guidance.
Visiting Charyn Canyon
It is possible to visit Charyn Canyon in a day trip from Almaty,
however, two days are recommended to take in a few different
sights and activities. Due to its popularity with local and
foreign tourists, camping at the bottom of Dolina Zamkov has
become a crowded affair which is best avoided. Visit Charyn
Canyon as part of an organised tour as the area is difficult
to reach, with the final ten miles over stony desert.
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