KOSLAY & KAINDY LAKES
Kazakhstan is a breathtaking and largely undiscovered gem in Central Asia, offering expansive, untouched landscapes. Travellers who are willing to venture to this incredible country will be rewarded. You can check out our "FULL Travel Guide" here.
WHERE ARE KOLSAY & KAINDY LAKES LOCATED?
Lake Kaindy and Kolsay Lakes are located in the southeastern part of Kazakhstan, around a 5 drive from Almaty. To reach these stunning natural wonders, you will more than likely have to spend a night in the nearby town of Saty, as a day trip to the lakes would not be recommended. To reach Kolsay & Kaindy Lakes from the nearby town of Saty, the journey is relatively straightforward and can be done by car, local transport or even hitchhiking . Saty being the closest village serves as the gateway for visitors heading to the lakes . Both destinations offer a serene escape into nature, with lush forests, rugged mountains, and crystal-clear waters, making them ideal spots for hiking, photography, and outdoor adventures.
WHEN SHOULD I VISIT KOLSAY & KAINDY LAKES?
The best time to visit Kolsay & Kaindy Lakes would be during the late spring to early autumn months, from May to September. This is when the weather is most favourable, with mild temperatures ranging from 15°C to 25°C (59°F to 77°F), making it ideal for hiking, camping, and exploring the lakes. The summer months, June through August, are particularly popular for outdoor activities, as the trails are clear of snow and the surrounding forests are lush and green. For those who enjoy cooler temperatures and fewer crowds, early fall in September offers vibrant autumn colours and a tranquil atmosphere, though the weather can start to cool down. Winter, from November to March, is much colder, with snow and ice making access more challenging.
WHY VISIT KOLSAY & KAINDY LAKES?
The Kolsay Lakes and Lake Kaindy, nestled in the picturesque Tien Shan Mountains, are two of Central Asia’s most awe-inspiring natural wonders and are must-visit destinations in Kazakhstan. Kolsay Lakes, a series of three stunning turquoise alpine lakes, offer a serene escape with crystal-clear waters surrounded by dense forests and towering peaks. Whether you're hiking, camping, or simply soaking in the beauty, the tranquility here is unparalleled. Just a short distance away from Kolsay Lakes, Lake Kaindy captivates with its eerie yet mesmerising beauty—its submerged forest of tall, skeletal trees rising from the water creates a hauntingly beautiful scene. Both lakes are relatively untouched by mass tourism, making them perfect for those seeking an off-the-beaten-path experience in a pristine, otherworldly landscapes. With its natural beauty, rich biodiversity, and the chance to disconnect from the bustle of everyday life, a visit to Kolsay and Kaindy is an unforgettable adventure in Kazakhstan’s wilderness.
HOW DO I GET TO KOLSAY LAKES?
To get to Kolsay Lakes from Almaty is around a 5/6 hour drive one way. We would recommend staying in Saty Village overnight when visiting the lakes. You can check out how to get to Saty in our 'Kazakhstan Travel Guide'. To get to Kolsay Lakes from Saty village, it’s a short but scenic journey. From Saty, you can take a 12-15 km drive along a paved road heading north toward the entrance of Kolsay Lake National Park (upon your entrance to Saty village you fill encounter plenty of signs directing you to Kolsay Lakes National Parks). The road is well-maintained and can be navigated by most vehicles, though it can be a bit bumpy in places. Once you reach the park entrance, you'll need to pay the entrance fee (approximately 500 - 700 Tenge) and you can either continue by car to the first lake, Kolsay Lake 1, where you will find a large car parking area with public toilets and several shops. From here, you can park your car and make your way down the short path towards Kolsay Lake 1. There is a lovely restaurant here where you can have lunch that offers picture perfect views of the lake. There are a few other ways to reach the lakes, however we would definitely recommend the first option.​
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1. Rent a Car
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Time required: 30/45 minutes from Saty
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Renting a car is one of the most flexible ways to visit Kolsay Lakes. It gives you the freedom to go at your own pace, stop for photos, and explore the area at your leisure.
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Rental options: You can rent a car through various international and local agencies in Almaty. Prices typically start around £30-£50 GBP (depending on the season and vehicle type).
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We would recommend using Vladeks, they have a good level of English and offer many different types of vehicles.
2. Take a Guided Tour
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Time required: A full day/overnight stay in Saty
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Cost: Group tours can start from approximately £80 upwards and can range to £300+ depending on the itinerary. Most of these will be overnight, however, some do offer day trips from Almaty, which we definitely would not recommend.
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Advantages: A guided tour of Kolsay Lake is a great option if you want to explore the area with minimal hassle. This is probably the easiest way to see some of the main attractions in Kazakhstan. Many tour companies in Almaty offer trips to all three destinations; Kolsay Lake, Lake Kaindy and also Charyn Canyon.
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Disadvantages: While the tours are a convenient option, driving yourself gives you more flexibility to explore at your own pace. Due to time constraints of a day trip it means you won’t be able to explore each place in depth.
3. Hitchhiking
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You can definitely try your luck with hitchhiking in this area. This way won't cost you as much and will be another adventure of it's own.​​​​
HOW DO I GET TO LAKE KAINDY FROM SATY VILLAGE?
To get to Lake Kaindy from Saty village, the journey involves a scenic drive of about 30-35 kilometers, taking you deeper into the heart of the Tien Shan Mountains, followed by either a hike or horse ride to the lake. The journey to Lake Kaindy is sightly trickier than the route to Kolsay Lakes. There are two parts to getting to Lake Kaindy. The first part is from the main road in Saty to the drop off point near the lake. The second part is from the drop off point to the actual lake.
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From Saty, you’ll follow the road toward the town of Baiseit, then turn onto a gravel road that leads to the lake. When you arrive in Saty, you will find several signs pointing towards the route to Lake Kaindy, so do not worry. You will also encounter several locals waiting to taxi you to the lake in their old soviet vans. From our research prior to visiting, we believed the road to Kaindy would be accessible by car, however a 4x4 would be needed. However, this is not the case. The road from Saty village to Lake Kaindy is far too rugged, even with a 4x4, including several sections where you need to drive through rivers, and extremely uneven gravel/dirt roads.The drive takes approximately 45 minutes.
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The best/most fun option here is to use one of the friendly locals and hitch a ride in one of their old soviet vans. Not only is this a very cool and unique experience, it also means you do not have to worry about damaging your rental car. You will find plenty of these vans waiting by the side of the road, just be sure to agree a price prior to taking the drive to the lake. The level of english is fairly limited here so translation apps or hand signals may be needed. You can also take a guided tour to Lake Kaindy, see the information above.
PART ONE:
PART TWO:
Once you have arrived at the drop off point and where the trail to the lake begins, you will need to decide whether or not you would like to hike to the lake or ride a horse. The hike to the lake is mainly uphill and would take well over an hour to complete, so we would definitely recommend horse riding. Not only this, the journey takes you through dense forests, across alpine rivers and along rugged mountain trails, providing panoramic views of the Tien Shan mountains. Once you have completed this section you will finally have arrived at Lake Kaindy, and trust us - it is worth the trip.​
HIKE TO KOLSAY LAKE 2 & 3
The most popular activity at Kolsay Lakes is hiking, and the trails here offer some of the most scenic views in Kazakhstan. Start with the first lake, Kolsay Lake 1, which is easily accessible by foot or car. From there, take the well-marked trail to Kolsay Lake 2. The hike takes about 2-3 hours, and along the way, you’ll be treated to breathtaking views of the surrounding alpine landscape, dense forests, and the sparkling turquoise waters below. You’ll find a sense of tranquility here, away from the crowds, with the opportunity for photography, peaceful reflection, and maybe even a swim (if you’re feeling brave).
For the most dedicated hikers, Kolsay Lake 3 is the ultimate destination. It sits at a much higher elevation (about 2,600 meters above sea level) and requires a full-day hike as well as an overnight hike from Kolsay Lake 2. The trek is challenging and often steep, but the rewards are immense. Once you reach Kolsay Lake 3, you’re surrounded by an untouched natural landscape that feels like a secret world. The lake itself is smaller and more remote, making it the perfect spot for solitude and awe-inspiring views. Be sure to bring enough food and water, as well as warm clothes, since temperatures can drop unexpectedly at this high altitude.
RENT A BOAT
Renting a boat at Kolsay Lake is an unforgettable way to immerse yourself in the stunning beauty of this alpine paradise. Whether you choose to paddle a canoe, kayak, or rowboat, gliding across the lake allows you to take in the breathtaking scenery from a completely different perspective. As you float on the calm surface, you’ll be surrounded by the serene sounds of nature, soaking in the unparalleled views. The cool mountain air and the gentle ripples of the water make for an incredibly peaceful experience, allowing you to connect with the natural beauty of the region in a way that hiking or sightseeing simply can’t offer. It's also the perfect opportunity to take some memorable pictures on the lake.
WILD CAMPING
For those who want to immerse themselves completely in nature, camping around Kolsay Lakes is a popular activity. There are several designated camping areas around Kolsay Lake 1, where you can pitch a tent and spend the night under the stars. Whether you’re an experienced camper or a first-timer, this is an unforgettable way to connect with the wilderness. The peace and serenity of camping near Kolsay Lakes, combined with the stunning natural surroundings, make it a truly magical experience. As mentioned above, For the most dedicated hikers, Kolsay Lake 3 is the ultimate destination and true off the beaten path adventure. Once you reach Kolsay Lake 3, you’re surrounded by an untouched natural landscape and you are free to pitch a tent and camp anywhere. Just be sure to go prepared, there are no shops or restaurants once you leave Kolsay Lake 1.
VISIT SOME LOCAL VILLAGES
The region surrounding Kolsay Lakes is home to small Kazakh villages, where you can experience authentic rural life and learn about local traditions. Many of these villages are traditional Kazakh settlements where herding and farming remain the backbone of life. In addition to exploring the natural beauty, take some time to visit the nearby villages, sample local food such as beshbarmak (a traditional Kazakh dish of boiled meat and noodles), and get to know the warm and welcoming people of the area. On the way to the lakes, you'll pass several villages featuring traditional yurts, set against breathtaking backdrops that provide the perfect photo opportunities to capture the essence of Kazakhstan's stunning landscapes.
PHOTOGRAPHY
Arriving at the Kolsay Lakes is like a photographers paradise. Visiting Kolsay Lakes is often compared to experiencing the natural beauty of destinations like Canada or Switzerland, just without the tourists! Kolsay Lakes offers photographers and nature enthusiasts an abundance of opportunities to capture stunning landscapes. From the lush green forests, crystal-clear lakes, and snow-capped peaks to the vibrant wildflowers and grazing livestock, every turn offers a new perspective on this incredible natural haven.
DISCOVER THE WONDERS OF THE SUBMERGED FORREST
The image of Lake Kaindy was one of the first ever pictures we had ever seen of Kazakhstan. Ever since, it has always been on our bucket list! Lake Kaindy is one of Kazakhstan’s most unique and mesmerizing natural wonders, captivating visitors with its surreal beauty and unforgettable landscape. What makes this lake truly special is the submerged forest beneath its crystal-clear waters—a hauntingly beautiful sight that is unlike anything else in the world. The lake was formed over a century ago when an earthquake triggered the collapse of a limestone mountain, which led to the flooding of a valley that contained a dense forest of spruce trees. As the waters rose, the trees were preserved underwater, and today, their towering trunks still stand tall, reaching above the surface of the lake, creating an eerie and awe-inspiring landscape.
HIKE THE TRAILS SURROUNDING THE LAKE FOR A BETTER VIEWPOINT
The Kaindy Valley and its forests offer a variety of trails that lead you through lush meadows, dense pine forests, and along the rocky shores of the lake. These hikes provide a chance to experience the natural beauty of the region while taking in stunning views of the surrounding peaks and valleys. A popular hiking route is the Kaindy Canyon trail, which takes you through the picturesque gorge and up to a viewpoint that overlooks the lake. The trail is not challenging and rewards you with breathtaking views and a closer look at the unique terrain of the Tien Shan mountains. Just FYI; You can't swim or enter the lake when you are visiting.
HORSE RIDE THROUGH THE TIEN SHAN MOUNTAIN RANGE
Horse riding in this region of Kazakhstan is something you definitely cannot miss. It was without a doubt one of our favourite memories of our time in Kazakhstan. The horse trek takes you across alpine rivers and along rugged mountain trails, providing panoramic views of the Tien Shan mountains. As you ride, you'll experience the vastness and tranquility of the region, with the final destination—the eerily beautiful, submerged forest of Lake Kaindy. You don't have to be a seasoned rider for this either, the guided horseback ride offer a perfect blend of adventure, nature, and cultural immersion. We were very surprised at the lack of tourists visiting the lake. On our horse ride to the lake we were the only people on the trail which made it even more special. On our return, the guide didn't even come with us, he simply pointed in the right direction and left us to it. The experience offers an incredible way to explore the region's breathtaking landscapes, with towering mountains and lush valleys.
HOW MUCH DOES IT COST TO VISIT KOLSAY & KAINDY LAKES?
You will need to pay an entrance fee before you can reach the Kolsay Lakes. There is a small white hit with a barrier blocking the road where you will need to get out and present your passport and car registration. The cost to enter the Kolsay Lake National park is approximately 1000 Tenge per person (£1.50 each), it seems to differ depending on the season. Parking is free.
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Reaching Lake Kaindy will cost you slightly more. You will need to pay for a driver to take you from Saty village to the entrace to the lake. This cost can vary anywhere between 5,000- 10,000 Tenge per person (£7 - £15 each) depending on your haggling skills. This will be for a return trip, your driver will wait at the entrance for you to return for your horse ride. Similarly to the Kolsay Lakes, you will also need to pay a small fee of around 750 tenge per person (£1.20 each) to enter Lake Kaindy. Your driver will stop by a small hut on route to the lake where you will be expected to get out and pay this fee and show your passport. Once you arrive at the entrance of the lake, if you choose to hike to the lake then this will cost you nothing, however, if you would like to horse ride (which hopefully we have convinced you is definitely worth it!), this will cost you 8000 Tenge per person (£12 each).
WHAT TO TAKE TO KOLSAY & KAINDY LAKES
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Cash: There are no ATM's within the National Parks.
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Passport: You will be asked to provide your passport when entering the National Parks, so do not forget this, it's a long way back if you do.
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Water and snacks: There is one restaurant/shop at the main carpark of Kolsay Lake 1 where you can get a snack and have a drink.
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Sturdy shoes: Hiking boots or trainers with good grip are recommended, there a sections of the trails that are quite slippery so flip flops or sandals are not recommended.
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Camera: The views are incredibly photogenic, so bring a camera to capture the beauty of the surroundings.
Visiting Kolsay Lakes and Lake Kaindy in Kazakhstan offers an unforgettable and off the beaten path adventure. This experience truly blends breathtaking natural beauty with a sense of serenity and wonder. Kolsay Lakes, often referred to as the "Pearls of the Northern Tien Shan," captivate you with its clear, emerald waters surrounded by towering peaks and lush forests. Whilst Lake Kaindy presents one of the most unique landscapes in the world. The surreal, submerged forest that lies beneath the lake's crystal-clear waters creates a hauntingly beautiful scene that seems almost otherworldly. The combination of Kolsay’s expansive lakes and Kaindy’s mystical forest creates a truly memorable experience that’s hard to match, making this journey a must-do for anyone seeking to explore Kazakhstan’s hidden gems. From the moment you arrive, you'll be swept away by the stunning landscapes, the sense of discovery, and the pure, unspoiled beauty of this extraordinary region.
