5 Days Kolsay Region Hiking Trip
About this tour
Discover the wild beauty of the Tian Shan Mountains on an unforgettable hiking adventure starting from Orta Merki.
This is more than just a hike — it is an opportunity to experience real, untouched mountain nature away from the crowds. As you travel deeper into the mountains, you will be surrounded by spectacular snow-capped peaks, alpine meadows, crystal-clear rivers, dense mountain forests, and beautiful alpine lakes.
Along the trail, you may cross mountain rivers, walk through peaceful forests, and climb higher into the alpine zone where breathtaking panoramic views open up around you. Every part of the journey offers something different — from the sound of flowing mountain water to the fresh air and dramatic landscapes of the Tian Shan.
The experience can also include traditional local cuisine, giving you the chance to taste authentic food and connect with the local culture after your time in the mountains.
Day-by-day itinerary
Day 1: Orta Merki, Кеген ауданы, Kazakhstan to Togyzbulak, Kazakhstan
Begin your adventure in Orta Merki, entering the beautiful Tian Shan mountain landscape. Today’s hike takes you deep into forests, mountain valleys, and untouched wilderness, far away from the crowds. Follow scenic mountain trails surrounded by spectacular peaks and fresh alpine air. Along the way, we will cross mountain rivers and streams, walk through forests, and enjoy the peaceful sounds of nature. A picnic lunch will be enjoyed in the mountains, giving you time to relax and take in the breathtaking scenery. Continue hiking towards Togyz Bulak Village, where we will set up our tents for an overnight camping experience in nature.
Day 2: Zhalagash, Kazakhstan
Wake up surrounded by the peaceful sounds of nature and enjoy breakfast at the campsite before continuing deeper into the mountains. Today’s adventure begins with an exciting section through a 200-meter-long rocky corridor, with a mountain stream running between the rocks. Along the way, we will have the opportunity to discover ancient petroglyphs, adding a cultural and historical dimension to the wilderness experience. Continue hiking towards the Jailau alpine pastures, passing through forests, mountain valleys, streams, and spectacular open landscapes. As we gain altitude, the scenery becomes increasingly dramatic, with panoramic views of the surrounding Tian Shan mountains. The Jailau area is remote and rich in wildlife. With some luck, we may encounter wild animals and mountain birds in their natural habitat. The quietness of this area makes it an ideal place to observe nature without disturbing it. We will spend the night camping in a remote mountain location where there are no other tourists. Enjoy the evening surrounded by wilderness, fresh mountain air, rivers, and spectacular mountain scenery.
Day 3: Zhalagash, Kazakhstan
Start the day surrounded by the untouched wilderness of Jailau and continue hiking higher into the mountains. Today’s trail takes us through a rugged landscape of rocky mountain slopes, flowing rivers, alpine valleys, and remote wildlife habitats. This is the natural home of ibex, deer, marmots, and many species of mountain birds. Keep your eyes open throughout the hike, as wildlife sightings are always possible in this remote area. The trail offers spectacular views of the surrounding mountains and a true sense of wilderness, with no crowds and very few signs of human activity. After exploring the high mountain landscapes, begin our descent back towards Togyz Bulak Village, enjoying the changing scenery as we move from the alpine zone into the forests and valleys. Arrive back at the village in the evening, completing an unforgettable three-day journey through the wild Tian Shan Mountains.
Day 4: Saty, Kazakhstan
Today we continue our adventure towards the spectacular Kolsai Lakes, taking a more remote and challenging route towards Kolsai Lake 2. The trail leads through dense mountain forests, steep mountain slopes, alpine meadows, and rugged valleys, with beautiful views of the surrounding Tian Shan mountains. This is a remote and physically demanding section of the journey, far from the main tourist trails. As we hike deeper into the mountains, the landscape becomes increasingly wild and peaceful. The route offers a genuine wilderness experience, with few tourists reaching these areas. Eventually, we arrive at Kolsai Lake 2, one of the most beautiful alpine lakes in the region. Surrounded by towering mountains and forests, the lake provides a spectacular reward after the challenging hike.
Day 5: Saty, Kazakhstan to Kaindy, Kazakhstan
Start early in the morning for a memorable hike to the spectacular Kaindy Lake, one of the most unique natural wonders of the Tian Shan Mountains. Hike through the beautiful mountain forest towards the famous submerged spruce forest, created when a powerful earthquake triggered a landslide that formed the lake. The tree trunks rising dramatically from the turquoise waters create an unforgettable landscape. Arriving early allows us to enjoy the lake in the peaceful morning atmosphere, before the area becomes busier with visitors. After exploring Kaindy Lake and taking time to enjoy the surrounding mountains and forest, we return to the village area before lunch. After lunch, begin the journey back to Almaty, bringing our multi-day wilderness adventure to an end.
What's included
Camping gears, Meals, accomidation,
What to know
Sunscreen, rain jackets
Route & locations
Orta Merki, Кеген ауданы, Kazakhstan to Togyzbulak, Kazakhstan