Shared Almaty Day Tour to Kolsai Lake by Coach
Active
17h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
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Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
See three natural icons in one epic day from Almaty: the alien beauty of Charyn Canyon with the Valley of Castles and Black Canyon, the magical sunken forest of Kaindy Lake (by short UAZ off-road ride), and tranquil Kolsay Lake with emerald waters and mountain views. Travel in VIP transport for small group comfort, with expert guides who bring each stop to life. Early start, back the same evening.
We organize hotel/apartment pick-up in Almaty to the main meeting point (Baytursynova 104, near Renion Zyliha Hotel).
Included is a Kazakh national-style lunch at our private resort area with mountain views, hot bauyrsak, fresh dishes, salad, and tea. Every tour quietly includes chilled water, a Kazakh chocolate bar, warm blanket, raincoat, and on-board power banks at no extra cost.
Your guiding team holds the highest review count here expert, safe, and engaging from first pick-up to final drop-off.
Available options
Shared Almaty Day Tour to Kolsai Lake by Coach
What's included
traditional Kazakh cuisine
Comfortable air-conditioned vehicle
Power bank
Kazakhstan chocolate (1 per person)
Entrance fees to the National Park
Bottled water 0,5 L (1 per person)
UAZ transfer to Kaindy Lake
Detailed itinerary
1
Discover a land of dramatic red cliffs and ancient valleys. Walk through the famous Valley of Castles, capture stunning photos of surreal landscapes, and enjoy the fresh mountain air. Perfect for nature lovers and adventure seekers.
2
A mysterious gem hidden deep in the mountains, Kaindy Lake is famous for its submerged forest — tall spruce trees rising straight from turquoise waters. Formed after an earthquake over a century ago, the lake feels like a surreal fairytale setting. Travelers can reach it by UAZ off-road vehicles, enjoy the unique landscape, and take unforgettable photos of one of Kazakhstan’s most magical natural wonders.
3
The Kolsay Lakes are a chain of three crystal-clear mountain lakes surrounded by spruce forests and alpine meadows. Here travelers can enjoy peaceful walks, fresh mountain air, and breathtaking views reflected in mirror-like waters. Perfect for photography, relaxation, or light hikes along the lake shores. A true escape into untouched Kazakh nature.
What's not included
Boating
Horse riding
Personal expenses (souvenirs, extra drinks, tips, etc.)
Available languages
Guide guide
RU
EN
Written guide
RU
EN
Reviews breakdown
Tripadvisor
1.0
1 reviews
5★
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1★
1
Important information
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Public transportation options are available nearby
Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
Not recommended for pregnant travelers
Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Meeting point
Your bus will be waiting for you near by Renion Zyliha Hotel between 4.30 and 5.00 a.m
About Almaty
Almaty, the largest city in Kazakhstan, is a vibrant blend of modern urban life and stunning natural beauty. Known for its apple orchards, scenic mountain backdrop, and rich cultural heritage, it offers a unique travel experience with its bustling markets, Soviet-era architecture, and nearby outdoor adventures.
Top Attractions
Kok Tobe Hill
Kok Tobe Hill offers panoramic views of Almaty and the surrounding mountains. It's a popular spot for tourists and locals alike, featuring a TV tower, a small amusement park, and a restaurant.
Nature/Scenic Viewpoint
1-2 hours
Free to enter, fees for attractions
Zenkov Cathedral
Zenkov Cathedral, also known as the Ascension Cathedral, is a wooden Russian Orthodox church located in Panfilov Park. It's one of the largest wooden buildings in the world and a notable example of Russian architecture.
Historical/Religious
30-60 minutes
Free
Green Bazaar
Green Bazaar is a bustling market where you can find fresh produce, spices, dried fruits, and local crafts. It's a great place to experience the local culture and sample traditional Kazakh cuisine.
Market
1-2 hours
Free to enter, prices vary for purchases
Medeu Skating Rink
Medeu Skating Rink is a popular destination for ice skating and ice hockey. Located in the mountains, it offers stunning views and a unique sporting experience.
Sports/Adventure
2-3 hours
Entrance and rental fees vary
Big Almaty Lake
Big Almaty Lake is a stunning high-altitude lake located in the Ile Alatau National Park. It's a popular spot for hiking, picnicking, and enjoying the breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains.
Nature/Scenic Viewpoint
Half-day to full-day trip
Free to enter, fees for parking and guided tours
Must-Try Local Dishes
Beshbarmak
A traditional Kazakh dish made with boiled meat (usually horse or lamb) and noodles, served with a broth.
Main course
Contains meat, not suitable for vegetarians or vegans.
Lagman
A hearty noodle soup with chunks of meat, vegetables, and a rich broth.
Main course
Can be made vegetarian or vegan with vegetable broth and no meat.
Shashlik
Grilled skewers of marinated meat, usually lamb, chicken, or beef.
Main course
Contains meat, not suitable for vegetarians or vegans.
Baursaks
Deep-fried dough balls, often served as a snack or breakfast item.
Snack
Vegetarian, can be vegan if made with vegetable oil.
Popular Activities
Hiking
Mountain biking
Skiing
Snowboarding
Ice skating
Spa treatments
Tea house visits
Park picnics
Best Time to Visit
June to September
This is the best time to visit Almaty for outdoor activities and sightseeing. The weather is warm and pleasant, perfect for exploring the city and its surroundings.
20°C to 30°C (68°F to 86°F)
68°F to 86°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: Kazakh, Russian
- Widely spoken: Russian, English
- English: Moderately spoken in tourist areas, limited elsewhere
Currency
Kazakhstani Tenge (KZT)
Time Zone
ALMT (Almaty Time, GMT+6)
Electricity
220VV, 50HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe, but exercise caution in certain areas and situations
Almaty is generally safe for tourists, but petty crime such as pickpocketing and scams can occur, especially in crowded areas and on public transport. Violent crime is rare, but travelers should exercise caution at night and in poorly lit areas. Political protests and demonstrations can occur, so it's best to avoid large gatherings.
Important Precautions:
- • Keep valuables secure and out of sight
- • Use reputable taxi services or ride-hailing apps
- • Be cautious when using ATMs, especially at night
Getting there
By air
- Almaty International Airport • 15 km (9 miles) from city center
By train
Almaty-2 Railway Station
By bus
Sayarnaya Bus Station, Sairam Bus Station
Getting around
Public transport
Buses are the most common form of public transport in Almaty. They are affordable but can be crowded during peak hours.
Taxis
Available • Apps: Yandex.Taxi
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
Old Town
Kok Tobe
Saryarka
Zhetysu
Day trips
Charyn Canyon
200 km (124 miles) • Full-day trip
Charyn Canyon is a stunning natural wonder located about 200 km east of Almaty. Known as the 'Grand Canyon of Kazakhstan,' it offers breathtaking views, hiking trails, and a unique desert landscape.
Kolsai Lakes
300 km (186 miles) • Overnight trip
The Kolsai Lakes are a series of three stunning alpine lakes located in the Kolsai Lakes National Park. They offer breathtaking views, hiking trails, and a serene mountain setting.
Issyk Glacier
60 km (37 miles) • Half-day to full-day trip
Issyk Glacier is a unique glacier located about 60 km east of Almaty. It's one of the few glaciers in the world that can be reached by car, making it a popular destination for day trips.
Festivals
Almaty Apple Festival • September
Almaty International Film Festival • September
Almaty Jazz Fest • June
Pro tips
- Learn a few basic phrases in Kazakh or Russian to enhance your experience and show respect for the local culture
- Visit the Green Bazaar for an authentic taste of local life and to sample traditional Kazakh cuisine
- Take the cable car up to Kok Tobe Hill for stunning views of the city and surrounding mountains
- Explore the nearby mountains and lakes for a unique blend of outdoor adventure and cultural experiences
- Try traditional Kazakh dishes like beshbarmak, lagman, and shashlik at local restaurants and markets
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation
