Kolsai And Kaindy Lakes
About this tour
We invite you to visit an unusual cascade of three Kulsai lakes, which are located in Kungei Alatau, in the northern part of the Tien Shan (about 310 kilometers from Almaty). The lakes proudly spread out over the territory of the Rayymbek district, 7 km from the Kyrgyz border. The road to them is not easy, but it is very interesting and exciting. First you need to drive through the city of Chilik, then you cross the tiny village of Nura, and then overcome the Kokpek gorge being 13 kilometers long. About 30 years ago, the road was completely destroyed by a catastrophic mudflow. But the specialists managed to repair and completely restore the path to the lakes.
Then you pass the Toraigyr mountains and turn right, taking the path towards Zhalansh (a small village). The next point is Saty village. Here you drive three kilometers, and then you will see a decent asphalt road turning left. It will lead to the first of three lakes.
The local alpine lakes are unique, they are simply called: Kulsai one, Kulsai two and Kulsai Three. The first reservoir is located at an altitude of about 1,818 meters above sea level, the second – at 2260 meters above, and the third – at an altitude of 2,850 meters. All lakes have decent depth. Each of the reservoirs is formed by the collapse of severe landslides. Because of them, the fast, stormy river stopped. It is curious that in all flowing lakes the water is quite dark; they are connected by the homonymous river.
Here are more details about the three lakes.
Activities included
Day-by-day itinerary
Day 1: Алматы, Казахстан to озеро Каинды, Каинды, Казахстан
Kaindy lake is located in one of the gorges of Kungei Alatau, at 1,867 meters above sea level. The water temperature is low here, although diving enthusiasts love this place. The reservoir received the prefix “dead”, but you can notice how the fish splashes in it. If we talk about the geological age, then Kaindy is a young lake formed just over a century ago. It owes its appearance to a natural cataclysm – an earthquake. Due to the tremors, the powerful slopes of the mountains collapsed and blocked the path of the wild river, which contributed to the formation of the dam. The bowl was swiftly filled with clear water. So there was lake Kaindy. The lake in its longest part reaches 430 meters. The maximum depth is 21 meters. Thanks to clean water, you can easily see the bottom and, of course, the main feature of the reservoir – centuries-old spruce trees, which are flooded here. This unusual appearance provides the lake with a certain mystery. You look at the tops, and the feeling that the time around has stopped, has stopped, does not leave. It was the underwater forest, coupled with clear water, that predetermined the interest of divers in Lake Kaindy. However, you should dive only in insulated suits, since the water temperature does not exceed 5 degrees.
Day 2: Кольсайские озёра, Казахстан to Алматы, Казахстан
Kolsai one stretches for one and a half kilometers long, pressed in a narrow gorge. Around it you can see the beautiful Tien Shan spruce. In general, the local nature surprises and delights. You can enjoy the beautiful clean mountain air. In the water of the lake you can see a large number of rainbow trout. It is not surprising that many fishermen make a real pilgrimage here to enjoy their favorite process. In addition, Kolsai One lake is accessible to all tourists, because it can be reached by car, including inexperienced drivers.
What's included
Costs for guest houses differ.
Costs for guest houses differ.
What to know
Warm seasons (may-october) are the most comfortable time to visit this place. In this period, there are plenty of opportunities for tourists – mushrooming, fishing, walking and hiking. However, many daredevils visit the lakes in winter to enjoy skiing and walking in the frost. While traveling there in hot seasons, it can be sensible to equip yourself with a sunscreen, a hat and a protection against mites. In any season, the region of the lakes might experience cool weather, which requires appropriate clothes.
Route & locations
Алматы, Казахстан to озеро Каинды, Каинды, Казахстан