The Kolsai Lakes, often hailed as the “Pearls of the Tien Shan,” are a breathtaking natural wonder located 300 kilometers from Almaty, Kazakhstan. Nestled amidst the stunning Kungei-Alatau Mountains, these three alpine lakes offer a captivating blend of natural beauty and tranquility. Each lake, with its unique characteristics and stunning surroundings, creates a truly unforgettable experience for visitors. From the serene Lower Kolsai Lake to the picturesque Middle and Upper Kolsai Lakes, this natural cascade offers a diverse range of landscapes and opportunities for outdoor activities.
Key Takeaways
Kolsai Lakes Location
Lower Kolsai Lake
The largest and most accessible of the three, Lower Kolsai Lake offers stunning views and various recreational activities.
Middle Kolsai Lake
Reaching the Middle Kolsai Lake requires a challenging hike, but the reward is breathtaking.
Upper Kolsai Lake
The highest of the three, Upper Kolsai Lake is a pristine alpine lake nestled amidst snow-capped mountains.
The Lower Kolsai Lake is located at an altitude of 1800 meters, the Middle Kolsai Lake at 2250 meters, and the Upper Kolsai Lake at 2800 meters above sea level.
How to reach Kolsai Lakes from Almaty
- Drive to Kolsai Lakes: The journey from Almaty to the Kolsai Lakes is approximately 300 kilometers, taking around 5-6 hours by car.
- Hike to Higher Lakes: While the Lower Kolsai Lake is accessible by car, reaching the Middle and Upper Lakes requires a challenging hike.
Places to visit near Kolsai Lakes
Lower Kolsai Lake - Entry Fee & Timings
- Entry Fee: There’s an entry fee of around 1000 tenge (approximately $2 USD) for foreign tourists to visit Lower Kolsai Lake.
- Additional Fees: Additional fees may apply for activities like Boating or Horse Rides.
Opening Hours: The Kolsai Lakes National Park is open 24/7, but the ideal time to visit and engage in activities like hiking and sightseeing is during daylight hours, typically from 8:00 AM to sunset. It’s advisable to check for any seasonal variations or park regulations that might affect visiting hours.
Best Time to Visit Kolsai Lake near Almaty in Kazakhstan
- Summer (June-August): Ideal for hiking, camping, and enjoying the stunning scenery.
- Autumn (September-October): Offers breathtaking fall foliage and cooler temperatures, perfect for leisurely walks.
- Winter (December-February): A quieter time with fewer crowds, ideal for those seeking solitude and peaceful winter experiences.
Hotels in Almaty Kazkhstan
Kolsai Lake Tour
Recommended Tour Plan for Kolsai Lake from Almaty
Option A
Charyon Canyon + Kolsai Lake and Kaindy Lake
The Tour willl take approx 17-18 Hours
Option B
Charyon Canyon + Kolsai Lake
The Tour willl take approx 14-15 Hours
Option C
Charyon Canyon + Kolsai Lake and Kaindy Lake – 2 Days Trip
Stay in Kolsai or Saty Village
Chayon Canyon to Lower Kolsai Lake Distance – 100 Km
Lower Kolsai Lake to Kaindy Lake Distance – 28 Km
Saty Village to Lower Kolsai Lake Distance – 14 Km
Lower Kolsai Lake to Second Kolsai Lake – 8 Km Hiking
Second Kolsai Lake to Third Kolsai Lake – 5 Km Hiking
The three lakes are connected by a well-maintained hiking trail that winds through meadows, dense forests, and steep slopes.
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Kolsai Lakes - Alpine Lakes of Kazakhstan
- Alpine Paradise: The Kolsai Lakes, often called the “Kazakh Switzerland,” are three stunning alpine lakes nestled in the Kungei-Alatau Mountains, approximately 300 kilometers from Almaty.
- Cascading Beauty: The lakes are situated at different altitudes, forming a picturesque cascade, with the Lower Kolsai Lake at 1800 meters, the Middle Kolsai Lake at 2250 meters, and the Upper Kolsai Lake at 2800 meters.
- Diverse Landscapes: Each lake offers unique beauty, from the serene Lower Kolsai to the dramatic Upper Kolsai, surrounded by towering peaks.
- Vibrant Ecosystem: The surrounding areas boast a diverse flora, including edelweiss and other alpine flowers, creating a vibrant and colorful landscape.
- Outdoor Adventure: The Kolsai Lakes are a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, offering opportunities for hiking, camping, fishing, and photography.
Kazakhstan Tour Packages
Kolsai Lakes Kazakhstan - All You Need to know Before you go
The Kolsai Lakes are a stunning trio of alpine lakes nestled in the Kungei Alatau Mountains of southeastern Kazakhstan, approximately 300 kilometers from Almaty.
The ideal time to visit the Kolsai Lakes is during the summer months (June-August) when the weather is pleasant, and the trails are accessible. However, autumn (September-October) offers stunning fall foliage, making it another popular time to visit.
While the Kolsai Lakes are visually stunning, swimming is generally not recommended due to the cold water temperatures and potential risks.
To reach the Kolsai Lakes, you can either drive yourself or join a guided tour from Almaty. The drive is approximately 300 kilometers, and the road conditions can vary, so it's recommended to have a suitable vehicle or hire a local driver.
Prepare for diverse weather conditions when visiting Lake Kaindy. The high altitude results in cool temperatures, with summer highs averaging around 20°C (68°F) and winter lows reaching -10°C (14°F). Be sure to pack accordingly for your chosen season.
Kazakhstan-Tourism.com
The Best Kazakhstan Travel Guide | Places to see | Things to Do | Hotels and Resorts | Travel Guides & Tips | Tours
Nomi Trips
The Official Travel Partner of Kazakhstan-tourism.com | Plan your Kazakhstan trip using the Travel Planner