Kolsai Lakes
A cascade of three lakes in spruce forest. Best combined with Kaindy and Charyn.
Kolsai is a national park with three lakes at different altitudes. You can drive to the lower lake; hiking trails lead to the upper ones. Given the distance, usually planned as 2 days with a guesthouse night in Saty.
When to go
| Winter | Spring | Summer | Autumn |
|---|---|---|---|
Routes
Nearby
Frequently asked questions
How do I get from Almaty to the Kolsai Lakes?
About 300 km east via Shelek and Kegen to the village of Saty, usually a 4–6 hour drive. You can drive to the lower lake; the upper lakes are reached only on foot.
Can I visit Kolsai as a day trip?
Yes, but it makes a very long day. Most guests go for 2 days with a night in a guest house in Saty, combined with Lake Kaindy and Charyn Canyon.
Is there an entrance fee at Kolsai?
Yes, the lakes are in the Kolsai Lakes National Park and entry is paid. We check the current fee and road conditions before every trip.
When is the best time to visit Kolsai?
Spring and summer. In winter and late autumn the road and trails can be snowed in, so we confirm the trip depending on the weather.
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.