Kolsai Lakes, Kazakhstan: how to get there, best time and tours
One of Almaty region’s best-known sights, in the Kungey Alatau mountains.
About Kolsai Lakes, Kazakhstan: how to get there, best time and tours
Kolsai is a chain of three lakes in the Kungey Alatau, surrounded by spruce forest and mountain meadows. Most visitors walk to the first and second lakes; the drive from Almaty takes around five to six hours.
Book ahead in peak season. Our one and two day tours include transport, a guide and park permits.
Tour with this place
Tours that include Kolsai Lake
More places nearby
Good to know
How many lakes are there?
Three lakes in the Kolsay River gorge. The first two are the most visited.
How to get to Kolsai Lake from Almaty
The easiest way to see Kolsai Lake is a private tour with a driver-guide starting in Almaty: you travel by 4x4 SUV, and the guide handles tickets, permits and the schedule. It is more comfortable than public transport or a shared minibus, especially if time is short or you travel with family.
Kolsai Lake fits well into a one-day or multi-day route. Travellers often combine it with Charyn Canyon, Kaindy Lake, Issyk Lake.
Best time to visit Kolsai Lake
A lake looks different in every season: the water is brightest in summer, the shores glow in autumn, and winter brings snow and silence where roads stay open. Mountain weather changes fast, so we check road and weather reports before your date.
What to bring to Kolsai Lake
A warm layer for windy shores, a rain jacket, comfortable shoes, water, sun protection and a camera. If you plan to hike along the water, take trekking shoes.
Photos
18 photos
Request a tour
Tell us the dates, group size and places you want to see. A manager replies within an hour with a route and a fixed price.
Prefer a chat? WhatsApp · +7 (701) 740-00-33 · info@silktravel.kz