Kolsai Lakes: Multi-day Trips and Tours from Almaty

As Kazahktsan’s largest and most developed city, Almaty offers all the amenities you need for a comfortable stay. But with the snow-capped Trans-Ili Alatau mountains framing the metropolis, the region’s dramatic landscapes call for you to venture out of the city, even if it’s just for a day.

Embarking on a Kolsai Lakes day trip from Almaty allows you to see some of Kazakhstan’s most incredible natural attractions. The lakes themselves look like something you’d see on a postcard and the scenery along the way makes the visit well worth it!

Here's all you need to know about Kolsai Lakes, one of the most exciting day trips from Almaty.

How to get to the Kolsai Lakes from Almaty?

The Kolsai Lakes, a network of three large lakes, are located in southeastern Kazakhstan roughly 300 kilometers from Almaty.

From Almaty to the Kolsai by car

Renting a car and driving to the Kolsai Lakes is the preferred option for most visitors. The roads are not in great condition, so it is important to remain vigilant when driving. You can expect the drive to take between 5 and 6 hours.

From Almaty to the Kolsai Lakes by public transport

The first thing you’ll need to do is take a shared taxi from Almaty to the village of Saty. From here you can hike the 15-kilometer trail to the first of the Kolslai Lakes, or get a local to take you in a 4x4. Once you have made it to the first lake, you can hike to the second one.

Guided tour to the Kolsai Lakes from Almaty

Guided tours provide the easiest and most convenient way to visit the lakes from Almaty. These full-day excursions are led by a professional local guide who takes care of all your travel arrangements so that you can relax and simply enjoy the experience.

How much does the entrance ticket to the Kolsai Lakes National Park cost?

As the Kolsai Lakes are located within a national park, you’ll need to pay an entrance fee upon arrival. The cost is KZT 750 (US$1.5) per person and an additional KZT 1000 (US$2) per car if you’re entering the park in a private vehicle.

What is the typical itinerary?

The typical Kolsai Lakes day trip begins with an early-morning pickup from your hotel in Almaty. Your driver/guide will then head out of the city and in the direction of the Koslai Lakes, stopping at other natural attractions along the way.

Most tour operators take the time to visit the nearby attractions of Charyn Canyon and Kaindy Lake to provide you with a broader overview of the region. After lunch in the village of Saty, you’ll spend the afternoon hiking and exploring the Kolsai Lakes.

After a fun-filled day exploring some of the district's most beautiful natural attractions, you’ll be driven back to your hotel in Almaty.

What kinds of tours are available to go to the Kolsai Lakes?

When searching for the perfect Kolsai Lakes day trip from Almaty, you have many exciting options to choose from, including private tours, guided excursions and multi-day trips.

Guided tours to the Kolsai Lakes from Almaty

Guided group tours provide an affordable way to visit the lakes with an expert guide and other travelers. Take the opportunity to meet new people as you explore the Koslai Lakes and other natural attractions in the region.

Private tour to the Kolsai Lakes from Almaty

If you’d prefer a more personal experience then a private tour may be the better option for you. You and your travel companions will be the only tour participants, allowing you to customize your itinerary.

2-Day tour to the Kolsai Lakes from Almaty

Spend the night in a local guesthouse and enjoy traditional meals when you opt for a 2-day tour of the Kolsai Lakes. You’ll get to spend more time at the region’s various natural attractions and experience their natural beauty in full.

3-Day tour to the Kolsai Lakes from Almaty

3-day tours are perfect for outdoor enthusiasts looking to make the most of their stay in Kazakhstan. These excursions often include exciting outdoor activities, like horseback riding and hiking, allowing you to immerse yourself in nature.

Day tour to the Kolsai Lakes plus Charyn Canyon and Kaindy Lake from Almaty

No matter what type of tour you have chosen, almost all Kolsai Lakes day trips from Almaty visit the nearby natural attractions of Charyn Canyon and Kaindy Lake on the way to the Kolsai Lakes— allowing you to make the most of your time in Kazakhstan.

How much does a day trip to the Kolsai Lakes from Almaty cost?

Basic Kolsai Lakes day trips from Almaty typically cost around US$115 per person for a shared group experience and around US$300 per person for a private excursion, including entry fees and transport.

2-day tours generally cost around US$260 per person for a shared group tour that spends the night in a guesthouse and is inclusive of food and accommodation.

When it comes to 3-day days, you can choose between a shared group experience costing around US$850 per person or a fully comprehensive private excursion costing US$1600 for the two nights and three days.

What will you see and do?

Kolsai Lakes day trips from Almaty visit two or three of the Kolsai Lakes as well as Kaindy Lake and Charyn Canyon. Some of the activities you may enjoy, depending on which tour you book, include hiking and horseback riding.

Kolsai Lakes

Made up of a network of three glacial lakes, the Kolsai Lakes are the main attraction of the Kolsai Lakes National Park. The lakes are a beautiful aquamarine color and are surrounded by lush green forests, which make for incredible photographs.

Kaindy Lake

Located around 11 kilometers from the Kolsai Lakes, Kaindy Lake is known for its sunken forest of spruce trees. The clear, crystalline waters make the lake a great place for swimming during the warmer months of the year.

Charyn Canyon

With its red sedimentary rock, Charyn Canyon bears many similarities to the Grand Canyon. Charyn Canyon is around 50 kilometers in length and is truly a sight to behold. It is easy to see why this magnificent canyon is one of Kazakhstan’s top natural attractions.

When is the best time to visit the Kolsai Lakes?

The best time to visit the Kolsai Lakes in Kazakhstan is during the summer months from June to August when the weather is mild and suitable for outdoor activities.

Travel tips

• Book your day trip in advance with a reputable tour operator to secure your spot.
• Wear comfortable, layered clothing suitable for changing weather conditions and sturdy hiking shoes.
• Carry essentials for outdoors like sunscreen, a hat, insect repellent, a water bottle, and some snacks for the journey.
• Drink plenty of water during the trip, especially at high altitudes, to avoid dehydration.
• Follow your guide's instructions and adhere to Leave No Trace principles to preserve the natural beauty of the Kolsai Lakes.