Plizio Visual Lab

Kolsai Lakes

Plizio editorial teamUpdated: Jun 2026Data Sources

Lake

Weather…

The Kolsai Lakes are a system of three striking alpine lakes in the northern Tian Shan mountains, often referred to as the 'Pearls of the Tian Shan'. They are located in a pretty gorge of the Kolsai River, surrounded by dense coniferous forests and blooming alpine meadows. Each of the three lakes has its own unique charm. The lowest lake, at about 1,800 meters, is the largest and most easily accessible. Its deep blue, calm water reflects the surrounding forests and peaks. A scenic hiking trail leads to the second lake at 2,250 meters, which is considered the most beautiful of the three. Its secluded location and crystal-clear water create an atmosphere of untouched tranquility. The third and highest lake, at 2,850 meters, is only accessible to experienced hikers and is located near the Kyrgyz border. The lakes are rich in rainbow trout, and the surrounding forests are home to a diverse wildlife, including ibex, bears, and wolves. The Kolsai Lakes are a paradise for hikers, horseback riders, and nature lovers.

Location: Kazakhstan
Nearby: Taldykorgan (46 km)

Best time to visit & climate

The most pleasant time to visit is Jun–Aug.

	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Avg °C	-7	-4	2	7	11	16	18	17	12	6	0	-5
Rain mm	14	18	26	47	50	50	38	35	27	28	28	17

📋 Practical info

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Getting there

The Kolsai Lakes are accessible by road from Almaty, typically a drive of several hours ending in the village of Saty, the main gateway. From the village, a partially paved road leads up to the first lake, while reaching the second and third lakes requires hiking or hiring horses.

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Best season

The optimal visiting window is during the summer months, from June to September, when the mountain passes are clear of snow and the alpine flora is blooming. Winter visits offer an impressive, frozen landscape, but extreme cold and heavy snow limit access to the upper lakes.

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Terrain & paths

The environment is a steep, forested mountain gorge, with trails ascending through dense spruce forests. The path from the first to the second lake is a moderate to strenuous uphill hike on rocky and sometimes muddy tracks, requiring good physical condition.

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What to bring

Sturdy, waterproof hiking boots with excellent ankle support are essential for the uneven forest trails. Due to the high altitude, the weather can change rapidly; carrying a waterproof jacket, warm thermal layers, and trekking poles is highly recommended.

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Parking

A designated, organized parking area is located near the first lake, requiring a national park entry fee. During peak summer weekends, this lot can fill up quickly, prompting some visitors to park further down the access road or in Saty village.

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Safety

Altitude sickness can affect sensitive individuals, and the steep, slippery trails pose a risk of falls, especially after rain. Bears and other wildlife inhabit the deeper forests, so hiking in groups, making noise, and staying on marked paths are important precautions.

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Time needed

A trip to the first lake can be done as a long day excursion from Almaty, but properly exploring the second lake takes a full day of hiking. Many visitors spend two to three days in the area, staying in Saty, to fully appreciate the pristine mountain environment.