Kolsay Lakes National ParkKolsay Lakes National Park at a Glance
About Kolsay Lakes National Park
Kolsay Lakes National Park protects a chain of alpine lakes set in the northern Tian Shan mountains of Almaty Region, Kazakhstan. The park is known for its forested slopes, mountain scenery and a circuit of trails linking the lakes.
Three main lakes form the park’s core, each set at different elevations and connected by marked trails. The area is used for day hikes and multi-day treks, horseback excursions and fishing; the setting combines coniferous forest, mountain pastures and clear mountain streams. Visitor facilities and basic campsites are located near the lower lake, while the upper lake requires a longer hike.
The lakes and surrounding valleys are natural features of the Tian Shan and have been used seasonally for grazing and recreation; the national park designation provides protection for the landscapes, habitats and recreational use.
The park occupies mountain terrain in Almaty Region, accessible by road from regional towns and used as a destination for visitors travelling from Almaty and neighbouring areas.
- Lakes and Activities: Comprises a series of three alpine lakes connected by streams and trails and set in the northern Tian Shan mountains; popular activities include multi-day hiking, horseback riding and seasonal fishing.
What to See#
- Lower Lake: Lower Kolsay Lake - the most easily reached lake and usual trailhead for hikes into the upper lakes and alpine scenery.
- Middle Lake: Middle Kolsay Lake - a forested lakeshore area connected by trail to the lower and upper lakes, popular for day hikes and camping.
- Upper Lake: Upper Kolsay Lake - the highest and most remote of the three, set in an alpine basin and often reached on longer hikes or horseback trips.
Nearby Attractions to Kolsay Lakes National Park
Best Time to Visit Kolsay Lakes National Park
Summer months provide the most reliable access for hiking and lake visits; shoulder seasons reduce crowding but bring cooler weather.
Weather & Climate near Kolsay Lakes National Park
Kolsay Lakes National Park's climate is classified as Tundra - Tundra climate with cold summers (peaking in July) and freezing winters (coldest in January). Temperatures range from -27°C to 10°C. Moderate rainfall (531 mm/year).
| Month | Comfort | Temp | Feels | Rain | Sky | Humidity | Wind | UV | Daylight |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| January | Poor | -26° - -14° | -27° | 13 mm | overcast | 75% | 2.7 m/s | 0.2 low | 9.3h |
| February | Poor | -27° - -13° | -27° | 14 mm | overcast | 82% | 3.0 m/s | 0.4 low | 10.4h |
| March | Poor | -23° - -9° | -23° | 26 mm | overcast | 80% | 3.0 m/s | 0.8 moderate | 11.8h |
| April | Poor | -15° - -3° | -14° | 42 mm | partly cloudy | 72% | 3.1 m/s | 1.3 high | 13.2h |
| May | Poor | -8° - 2° | -7° | 72 mm | partly cloudy | 66% | 3.4 m/s | 1.8 very high | 14.4h |
| June | Poor | -5° - 6° | -3° | 84 mm | partly cloudy | 63% | 3.0 m/s | 2.0 extreme | 15.1h |
| July | Acceptable | -2° - 10° | 1° | 91 mm | partly cloudy | 60% | 2.7 m/s | 2.1 extreme | 14.8h |
| August | Good | -3° - 10° | 1° | 73 mm | partly cloudy | 57% | 2.9 m/s | 1.8 very high | 13.7h |
| September | Acceptable | -7° - 6° | -4° | 47 mm | partly cloudy | 58% | 3.1 m/s | 1.3 high | 12.3h |
| October | Poor | -12° - -1° | -12° | 32 mm | partly cloudy | 66% | 3.3 m/s | 0.7 moderate | 10.9h |
| November | Poor | -20° - -7° | -20° | 20 mm | partly cloudy | 76% | 2.9 m/s | 0.3 low | 9.6h |
| December | Poor | -24° - -12° | -24° | 17 mm | overcast | 75% | 2.5 m/s | 0.2 low | 9.0h |
How to Get to Kolsay Lakes National Park
Kolsay Lakes are approximately 350 km east of Almaty; drive via the A352 and local roads toward Saty village, the usual trailhead. Local minibuses (marshrutkas) and organized tours from Almaty make the journey; the final approach includes gravel roads and parking at the trailhead.
Tips for Visiting Kolsay Lakes National Park
- Start at Kolsay Lake 1 and hike or take a horse to the higher lakes-guides and horses are available at trailheads.
- Bring waterproof layers and warm clothing for higher elevations; weather can change rapidly.
- Hire a local ranger guide for overnight camping-permits may be required and guides know the safest routes.