So, as I understand it, there are three Kolsai Lakes plus Kaindy Lake, all located in Kolsai Lakes National Park.
I was there recentrly! The drive from Almaty takes about 4–5 hours. The best route is to head to Saty village, which is 10 km from Kolsai Lakes along a narrow mountain road.
For overnight stays, Saty is a good option. Many homes offer rooms for rent, including homemade meals.
To visit Kaindy Lake:
Does anyone know if there are now buses from Almaty to Saty village? If yes, which station and what time? If not, what’s the most budget-friendly way to get there? We’re a group of two currently in Almaty and plan to head to the park with a tent in two days.
Not sure about buses, but taxis are no problem (plus, you’ll hear some interesting stories from the driver).
For accommodations:
Road tips:
Pro tip: Stock up in Almaty on cheap cigarettes and vodka. These will make negotiating horse rentals with the local herders much easier.
Posted by: @smalljackrenting a yurt for an authentic experience
What about offseason? We’re planning a trip in January with a group of 10–12 people. The plan is:
With short daylight hours in January, returning to Almaty each night isn’t an option. I can’t find accommodations online for these areas. I’m worried we won’t find enough space for everyone. Any advice?
You can visit Kolsai and Kaindy Lakes in winter. For accommodations:
Regarding Charyn Canyon:
For Altyn Emel:
Winter there is stunning, though the icy winds can be brutal. If you can, get local contacts in advance and arrange accommodations. In the off-season, any income is a blessing for locals.
In winter, you likely won’t get past the first lake. The snow in the mountains is at least a meter deep
Can we find accommodation in Saty without prior booking? We’re traveling with kids, so it’s a bit concerning that no one has replied to our inquiries yet.
Also, is it easy to find transportation locally to the lakes, the canyon, and Bartogai Lake?
FYI:
For comfort, stay in one of the lakeside cottages instead of Saty. They’re more expensive but convenient.
I’m heading to the lakes in spring and want to see Kaindy, Kolsai, and the Charyn Canyon in two days. Staying overnight in a yurt sounds amazing, but I’m unsure where they’re located.
Can I see two lakes in one day if I start early? Any tips on affordable transport between the lakes?
If you’re not driving, overnight in Saty—locals rent rooms cheaply.
Seeing two lakes in one day is possible but rushed. Remember, Kolsai has three lakes. To explore all three, you’ll need at least two days.
From Saty to Charyn: hire a local driver. Hitchhiking is unlikely, and the canyon is 10 km off the main road.
Thanks! That’s exactly the info I needed. I’ll focus on Kaindy if transport isn’t available—its submerged trees are unique.
Good choice! Kaindy is one-of-a-kind with its sunken forest.
Enjoy your trip!