Lake Kaindy
The “sunken forest”: spruce trunks rising straight out of turquoise water.
Kaindy formed after the 1911 earthquake, when a landslide dammed the gorge and flooded a spruce forest. The last stretch is 4×4 only, so the trip is run with a local partner.
When to go
| Winter | Spring | Summer | Autumn |
|---|---|---|---|
Routes
Nearby
Frequently asked questions
How do I get to Lake Kaindy?
The lake is about 290 km from Almaty near the village of Saty. The last stretch is passable only by 4x4, so we arrange the trip with a local partner.
Why are there trees in Lake Kaindy?
The lake formed after the 1911 earthquake, when a landslide dammed the gorge and flooded a spruce forest. The trunks still stand in the water.
Can I combine Kaindy with Kolsai and Charyn?
Yes, that is the classic 2-day tour: Charyn Canyon, the Kolsai Lakes and Kaindy with a night in Saty.
Updated 7 Nov 2026
Want to go?
Send us your dates and group size – we put together a programme and get the exact price from a licensed local partner. The enquiry is free and non-binding.