Charyn Canyon, Kolsay and Kaindy Lakes

Lakes Kolsay 1,2,3 - are high-altitude lakes with the clearest azure water. They are called the Pearls of Tien-Shan because they are located close to each other, like beads in a necklace. Lake Kolsay 1 offers tourists to enjoy scenic views and walks along the coast, or rent a boat or catamaran and sail around the lake.

Lakes Kolsay 1,2,3 are located in Kolsay National Park, 350 km from Almaty, between Kungei Alatau and Zailiysky Alatau ridges. They are located in the Kolsai Gorge in the border area with Kyrgyzstan.
Lake Kolsay 1 is at an altitude of 1800m, to Kolsay 2 you have to climb another 8 km on foot or on horseback.

Lake Kayindy - the famous lake with the trunks of pine trees growing straight out of the water. this phenomenon is explained by the fact that the lake was formed as a consequence of an earthquake, flooding the gorge. Very cold water doesn't let the pines destroy, so they please the tourists with their unusual views.

Lake Kaiyndy is located in the neighboring gorge. The road to the lake is mountainous, so it is advisable to go there in 4 WD off-road vehicles. Famous for the centuries-old pines rising from the depths, which looks stunningly picturesque in both summer and winter.

Charyn Canyon will be a pleasant contrast after the green-blue colors of the mountains. called the younger brother of the Grand Canyon, Charyn delights with thousands of years of landscapes.

Charyn Canyon is on the way to the lakes, 170 km from the city.
The excursion to Kolsay and Kayindy lakes implies two days. During this time you can comfortably enjoy your rest.

You can choose from three options for spending the night: a guesthouse in the village of Saty with meals included, hotels on the shore of Lake Kolsay 1 with a view of the lake or tents in the warm season.
The order of visiting the lakes and the canyon can be changed, usually we visit Kolsay 1 lake on one day and Kayindy and Charyn on the second.
You are supposed to walk around the lake Kolsay 1, to Kayindy lake and along the Charyn canyon, so we advise to wear comfortable shoes.
The trip is possible at any time of the year - autumn colors of the contrast of spruce and deciduous trees, fresh summer greenery and coolness, or winter fairy-tale charm.