Kolsai Lakes

The Kolsai Lakes are a spectacular system of three alpine lakes set within the forested gorges of the Kungey Alatau mountains. Each lake possesses its own unique charm and is situated at a different altitude, making them a premier destination for hikers and nature enthusiasts. The lower lake is easily accessible and gives boat rentals, while the upper lakes require several hours of trekking through pristine coniferous forests and alpine meadows. The region is renowned for its rich biodiversity, including maral deer and the elusive snow leopard. The sight of snow-capped peaks reflecting in the deep blue waters of the lakes is truly incomparable. In nearby villages like Saty, visitors can stay in cozy guesthouses and experience the authentic, warm hospitality of the rural Kazakh people. Culinary highlights include homemade Baursak (fried dough) and traditional tea with milk. The lakes are reached from Almaty in about 4-5 hours over roads that can be rough in sections. The best time to visit is from May to September, when the trails are clear of snow and the landscape is bustling green. Camping along the lakeshores is a favorite activity for adventure seekers.

Nearby cities

Almaty

Nestled at the foothills of the snow-capped Trans-Ili Alatau mountains, this green metropolis is the cultural heart of Kazakhstan.

Turgen Gorge

A spectacular gorge in the Trans-Ili Alatau, known for its seven waterfalls and lush alpine vegetation.

Lake Issyk

A picturesque alpine lake known for its turquoise waters and dramatic geological history.

Karakol

The administrative capital of the Issyk-Kul Region, situated at the eastern end of the lake of the same name.

Altyn-Arashan

A picturesque alpine valley famous for its natural hot sulfur springs and stunning views of the Palatka Peak.

Taldykorgan

In the fertile valley of the Karatal River, this city grows at the intersection of mountains and endless steppe.

History & landmarks

Karakol Historical Museum

A small but rich museum showcasing local history and the legacy of the Russian explorer Nikolai Przhevalsky.

Jeti-Ögüz Rocks

An impressive geological formation of red sandstone rocks, which according to legend resembles seven petrified bulls.

Nature

Kolsai Lakes

A system of three deep blue mountain lakes strung like pearls in a forested gorge.

Lake Kaindy

A surreal natural wonder created by an earthquake in 1911.

Ala-Kul Lake

At an altitude of nearly 3,600 meters, Ala-Kul enchants hikers with its spectacular mountain scenery.

More places

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Przewalski Memorial and Grave

The final resting place of the famous Russian explorer Nikolai Przewalski on the shores of Issyk-Kul.

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Sary-Chat-Ertash Nature Reserve

This high-altitude reserve in the eastern Tian Shan protects one of the most important refuges for the rare snow leopard.

Terskey Ala-Too

A mountain range of the Tian Shan framing the southern shore of Lake Issyk-Kul, known for its stunning valleys and hot springs.

Altyn-Emel National Park

Famous for the Singing Dunes, this park preserves rare ungulates like the onager and goitered gazelle.

Kumtor Gold Mine

One of the highest gold mines in the world, located in the Tian Shan mountains.

Ili Valley

The Ili Valley is a fertile region along the Ili River that played an historically important role on the Silk Road.

Syrt Plateau

A vast, desert-like plateau in the inner Tian Shan, extending at an elevation of over 3000 meters.

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Jyrgalan Valley

A pristine valley in eastern Kyrgyzstan that has developed into a hub for ecotourism and freeride skiing.