The distance from the first lake to the second is 9 kilometers, the hike to the second lake will take you about 3 hours.Kolsay is the lower first lake 1. While its absolutely possible to visit the Kolsai Lakes at any time of day, I wouldnt necessarily recommend visiting at noon especially if youre into serious photography, as the harsh light and reflections on the lake will make shooting here a tad challenging. Copyright 2000-2022 Dreamstime. In late June, the employees of Kolsai Lakes National Park located in the Almaty Region published a video consisting of several scenes with leopards in 2021 and 2022. This reusable water purification bottle allows me to fill up water from nearly every water source, making it one of my best investments to date. The Kolsai Lakes National Park is part of Kazakhstans famous Golden Triangle, a trio of major natural sights in southeast Kazakhstan. This shrub reaches a height of 2.5 meters, its stem is covered with long, about 5 cm, spines similar to a cactus. Sights of natural parks and reserves of Kazakhstan, West Altai Nature Reserve. It is roughly diamond-shaped, and has a small elongated bay, at the Kolsaika River inflow. It is prohibited to copy, distribute (including by copying to other sites and resources on the Internet) or any other use of information and objects without the prior consent of the copyright holder. First, there is the time that you have within the park, given it takes at least three to four hours to get to the second lake. In the transitional seasons of the year, sunny, moderately humid weather with precipitation dominates. Enjoy some time here to marvel at this natural wonder and grab some photos before we continue to Saty Village. However, since the Kolsai Lakes are pretty far from Almaty, it is essential to visit the lakes as part of a multiple-day trip to reap the benefits of an early visit. After the payment, it is normal that you receive a receipt, which youll need upon leaving the park. The fauna is as rich and diverse with more than 200 species of vertebrates. In this area, the Kolsai Tien Shan spruce (Shrenk spruce) has a narrower crown shape than in Zaili Alatau. ASTANA More than 1.7 million tourists have visited 14 national parks in Kazakhstan over the first ten months of this year, said Deputy Minister of Ecology, Geology and Natural Resources Aliya Shalabekova, on the eve of an eco-trail opening, Tabighatqa Qulaq Sal (Hear Nature), in the Saty gorge in the Almaty Region with UNDP support on Nov. 25, the South Kazakhstan region, Altyn-Emel National Natural Park. Photo about Kolsai Lake is a national natural park in Kazakhstan. A path leads to them through the forest, along the eastern shore. Hiking and backcountry camping along the West Rim Trail in Zion National Park continues to stand out as one of the best outdoor adventures my husband and I have shared together. The area of the national park is 161 045 hectares. Main Attractions Lower Kolsai Lake. Homestay (1 night) Included Activities. Accommodation. Nature reserve park. This post is a travel guide about the Kolsai lakes National Park and lake Kaindy. In this post I will try to answer all the questions you might have from how to get to the Kolsai lakes, how to hike to the second Kolsai lake and where to The two lower lakes offer fine trout fishing. Make sure you see whats in my camera bag. Sights of Kazakhstan Altay, Ustyurt nature reserve. | Since there are not many facilities within the national park, I suggest bringing lunch and a few snacks to fuel your adventures around the lakes. It emerged about 100 years ago as a result of the collapse of a huge mass at rock that blocked the canyon with a natural dam. The lakes are in idyllic locations amidst evergreen-covered slopes. In bad weather or in the evening, you can meet the owner of these places - a bear. The nature of the Aral Sea, Katon-Karagay natural park. As mentioned before, the gateway to the Kolsai Lakes is Saty, a small rural village with no shortage of traditional Kazakh homestays. The world's biggest landlocked country, Kazakhstan boasts a thriving economy resting almost entirely on huge reserves of natural gas and oil. Above the lake, another very interesting plant grows - Caragana jubata. Help Attach photo (3*4, color, white background), By submitting this data, I consent to the processing of personal data and agree to the privacy policy. All in all, I believe this option is quite a challenge, yet it will be quite rewarding for those that manage to complete the exhausting, yet adventurous journey. In such places, the stones along the riverbed are covered with moss. The first lake (Lower Kolsai) is at an altitude of 1818 m, its length is 1 km, the width is 400 m, the depth is 80 m. The second lake (Middle Kolsai, Mynzhylgy) is at an altitude of 2252 m, the largest of the three lakes. It is for this exact reason that I highly recommend renting a car here. The eastern shore of the lake is a sheer cliff, about 40 meters high. As with any adventure in this neck of the woods, I believe its essential that you travel with the right type of kit. | Although it may be warm in Almaty, the weather out here in the mountains is a totally different experience. Guided small group tours and trips to Only verified travel experts. Update now. Additionally, I also recommend, A complete guide to Charyn Canyon, Kazakhstan, 15 Incredible things to do in Almaty, Kazakhstans lively metropolis, A complete guide to the Terra Forest Meadow trail in the Almaty Mountains. The motor road approaches it from the north, there are hotels, cafes here. Huge reserves of moss of metre-deep layer in some places, are found in the forest. Scientists associate the formation of these lakes with earthquakes that occurred at the end of the 19th century (1887-1889). On all sides, Lake Kaiyndy is surrounded by rocky hills and steep rocky cliffs going up. Under the forest canopy, you can find many shrubs: various types of wild rose, cotoneaster with red and brown berries, red and black honeysuckle, Meyer's currant, raspberry. Image of river, season, lake - 226866453 You can also stay overnight in the guest houses of the village of Saty.The first lake Kolsai - general information.The lake is 345 meters wide and about one kilometer long. As with many places in this region, I was offered to pay the entrance fee directly and unofficially to the guard, which saved me some money at 500 KZT (1,-). Kolsai Lakes national park: a travel guide - Backpack Adventures Since travelling in Kazakhstan is all about hiking and off-the-beaten path adventures, I recommend everyone to sort out adequate travel insurance before setting out on their own adventure. Uncover the best of travel through my eyes, and receive thoughtful itineraries, detailed travel guides and inspiring photography to pique your inner wanderer. On the right bank of the Lower Kolsai Lake there is a six-room guest house of the tourist company "Zhibek Zholy", which can accommodate 16 people. They are located at a height of 1800, 2250 and 2700 meters above sea level. | As always, remember to respect and appreciate the location, so keep your trash with you at all times. Altogether, 72 algae If For that reason, Ive listed down some of the best options to get to the Kolsai Lakes National Park. It begins with many small streams that ooze right from a steep, densely forested slope. LEAVE NO FOOTPRINTS | As always, remember to respect and appreciate the location, so keep your trash with you at all times. Dont consider that you can easily hike the area without a permit, as there are guards that patrol the area between the second and third lakes. Kolsai Lakes State National Nature Park (in Kazakh ) was formed according to Decree of the Government of the Republic of While the first lake is usually spectacular enough for most of the visitors to the Kolsai Lakes National Park, theres actually also a great hiking trail that brings you to lakes two and three. While you dont necessarily need hiking boots, Id highly recommend wearing a sturdy pair of sneakers. A CAMERA | It is safe to say that the Kolsai Lakes are one of the best things to see in Kazakhstan, so youre going to snap loads of photos while youre there. The total area is 2,160,000 square miles (5,584,000 km2), making them about twice the size of France. Scientists have recorded 704 species of plants in the park (12 of which are classified as rare). Kolsai Lake is a national natural park in Kazakhstan.. Photo by Yevgeniy Pukhovskiy on Mostphotos. With breathtaking scenery at every turn, youll discover the incredible Darvaza Crater, Altyn-emel National park, Kolsai Lakes and Issykul Lake. Running straight through lush alpine forests and hillsides covered with wildflowers and berries, this trail is truly a pleasure to follow. Designers also selected these stock photos, Lake, rocks and forest in the north kazakhstan 3, Lonely swan after first snowfall on the lake, Tourist girl sitting on the edge of the canyon Charyn, Idyllic Landscape with Kolsai Lake and Tien Shan Mountains in Kazakhstan Central Asia, Crno Jezero (Black Lake), Durmitor Mountains, Road on Big Almaty Lake, mountains and blue sky in Almaty, Kazakhstan,Asia at summer, Kolsai mountain Lake in Kazakhstan. They are distinguished by a unique watershed mountain landscape composed of three natural zones, and a variety of rare plants and animals. Traveling on the lakes of the Kolsai Natural Park.Excursion from Almaty city to Kolsai lake.Lower Kolsai Lake No. Other national parks in the Almaty Region: Camping Tours Around Almaty Region in Off Road Campers, Restore Ltd., 1 Lugansky Street, Almaty, Republic of Kazakhstan, 4x4 Campervan Tour to Red Mountains Boguty, Motorbike Tour to Assy High-Mountain Plateau. For diving enthusiasts, the Kaindy Lake is a unique find. Kolsay (Kolsai) National Park includes Kolsai lakes and Kaindy lake. In steep places, the river flows in a series of small waterfalls. April to late September are standard periods for camping in the area. Breathtaking views of an ancient Charyn Canyon impress all the visitors. YOUR PASSPORT | From what Ive heard, there is now a checkpoint at Saty where they will ask you for your documents before entering the village. Image of kolsay, green, mountain - 226866609 Use tab to navigate through the menu items. The warm season and the most comfortable time to visit lasts from May to October; at this time there are plenty of opportunities for lovers of fishing, hiking and horseback riding. Some poplar groves are found along the bank. Juniper is one of the long-lived trees in Kazakhstan, it can reach the age of 800 years. | Sure, its quite an adventure figuring out how to travel to one of the most remote places in the country, but if youre looking for a hassle-free option, joining a private day trip from Almaty is by far your safest bet. The Kolsai Lakes are a system of three alpine lakes in the northern Tien Shan, which is located in the national park of the same name in the Kegen region. Tours Along the Silk Road of Kazakhstan and Central Asia, Tours to the Baikonur cosmodrome. | Most parts around the lakes are fully exposed to the sun, and for that reason, Id highly recommend packing yourself some sunscreen and a hat. Its length from north to south is 23 km, from west to east - 98 km. WEAR LAYERS | Although it may be warm in Almaty, the weather out here in the mountains is a totally different experience. The height of some trees is up to 4 meters. While you dont necessarily need hiking boots, Id highly recommend wearing a sturdy pair of sneakers. Issyk gorge, Ile-Alatau naturte reserves. There is a 25km hiking route that begins at the lower lake, progresses by the Kolsay lakes, and moves over the Sary-Bulak pass (3,278m). The Kolsai Lakes National Park is part of Kazakhstans famous Golden Triangle, a. of major natural sights in southeast Kazakhstan. A natural mountain reservoir formed by landslides that block the Kolsay River. The lower lake is about 1 km long, 400 meters wide, and 80 meters in depth. It is accessible by road and has guest-houses and campsites. (altitude: 1,818 meters). Sary-Arka, Barsakelmes nature reserve. Fue creado el 7 de febrero de 2007 mediante el decreto N. 88 del Gobierno de la Repblica de Kazajistn. The scenic Lake Kaindy is also within the park. Ancient lanscapes of colorful Aktau mountains and mysterious Singing Dune on the shore of Ili river are must-see places for any Almaty guests. The main forest-forming species is the spruce Schrenk. Some parts of wild, virgin natural environment are preserved. Though its totally possible to return via the other side of the lake, I wouldnt recommend it as its significantly more challenging, since the trail on the left side is overgrown with all kinds of greenery. a cosy guest house nestled in the hills of the first Kolsai Lake. Development of the Ulytau National Park; The book Kazakh cuisine: Taste and traditions The Fate and Legacy of Chokan Valikhanov Background information about Khan Koryk festival; Procurement Announcement. Mountains and peaks, Bayanaul National Natural Park. The lake is the largest of the three and is located at an altitude of 1350 meters above sea level in a forest zone. The Great Lakes are a group of five lakes in North America: Superior, Huron, Michigan, Erie, and Ontario. The upper part of the trees sticking out of the water has lost side branches and bark, and the wood has become white. This post is a travel guide about the Kolsai lakes National Park and lake Kaindy. They are the most beautiful mountain lakes near Almaty in Kazakhstan and relatively easy to visit for the independent budget traveller. Kolsay Lakes are a popular mountain tourism destination in the region. According to the rules of the contest, only active participants of QazaqGeography are allowed. There are three of them: Upper, Middle and Lower. In the spurs of the Kungei Alatau ridge there are unique Kolsai alpine lakes, Lake Kaiyndy, which are called the pearl of Northern Tien-Shan, The Kolsai Lakes are most beautitul places in Kazakh nature. In it, the river looks like the purest crystal, rather large stream. The lakes are the largest group of freshwater lakes on Earth, containing 20% of the world's freshwater. Derwentwater is an idyllic lake in the northern part of the national park, the clear blue waters of Kazakhstan's idyllic Kolsai Lakes are an impressive sight. The first half of summer is usually very rainy here, so there are a lot of mushrooms. Its surface is halfas large as the second lake. Another hour of ascent, and you reach a small lake, which in some years dries up, turning into damp mountain meadows. Those after some more comfort can also opt for the slightly more pricey Jibek Jolly Guesthouse, a cosy guest house nestled in the hills of the first Kolsai Lake. For that reason, make sure you wear layers just in case. All rights reserved. Your Reliable Travel Partner along the Great Silk Road. Additionally, I also recommend World Nomads. | Even though theres only one restaurant in the area, its always good to carry enough money with you just to be sure. This page was last updated at 2019-11-14 00:19 UTC. Southwest Kazakhstan, Alakol reserve. In July, temperatures can range from 30C (86F) during the day, to 5C (23F) at night. Some 295km from Almaty, at a height of some 1,700m above sea level, you reach the lower Kolsai Lake, which is also rather prosaically known as Kolsai 1. While some travelers find its seemingly endless and largely featureless steppe unappealing, others take a trip to Kazakhstan precisely because of these unspoiled stretches. The maximum depth is 80 meters. There are plants listed in the Red Book of Kazakhstan Kungei stipa (Stipa kungeica), golden adonis (Adnis vernlis), Tianshan adonis (Adonis tyanschanica), orange yellow cress (Erysimum perofskianum), Schrenks spruce (Picea schrenkiana) and others. Where we prefer that everything runs smoothly during our travels, something unfortunate can happen at any moment, whether its a hiking injury, stolen goods or an accident on the road. Real reviews from travelers. The National Park is formed of a single array, located within the boundaries of two administrative districts of Almaty province: Raiymbek and Talgar. Kolsai Lakes are located in the Kolsai gorge at different heights. Often referred to as "Pearls of Tien Shan", the park's main feature are the Kolsay Lakes located between the Raiymbek District and Talgar District of Almaty Region. A dirt road leads to its western gently sloping shore where a camp can be set. Near the lake there is an infrastructure for recreation, it is also possible to ride horses around the lake and swim on a boat on the lake.The first lake Kolsay - how to get there.The first lake Kolsai is located in the Kolsai National Park in the Almaty Region (Protected Area). Here you will see the pristine nature of our mountains, the blue water of the lake, snowy peaks and green forests. There is a well-visible path that goes They are all quite deep, cool and scenic. SNACKS | Since there are not many facilities within the national park, I suggest bringing lunch and a few snacks to fuel your adventures around the lakes. The area experiences enough rain to support meadows and forests. The region's climate is characterized by large swings in temperature, both diurnally and seasonally, with mild summers and cold winters. All our content comes from Wikipedia and under the Creative Commons Attribution-ShareAlike License. The flora is notable for biodiversity and includes more than 700 species of plants. What to see and do at the Kolsai Lakes Take a walk around the first lake. At a height of 1800 meters the grass cover of spruce shrub is represented by high prairie grasses. Kungei Alatau is one of the ridges of the Northern Tien Shan which borders the Issyk-Kul lake basin Middle Kolsai. The most beautiful square in Paris has a strange name after the mountain Department of Eastern France. the weekend, make sure you book your accommodation in advance. In this guide, Ive covered everything you need to know before setting off to the Kolsai Lakes National Park, including how to get there, what to pack and heaps of insider tips too. On the way, you will pass the village of Chilik and Baysayt as landmarks. in Kolsai Lakes Share Located around 12km by paved (from 2018) road from Saty village, these three spruce-and-mountain-hemmed lakes are Alpine-esque beauty at its best and a Whether youre pitching out your tent next to one of the lakes, having a local experience in a traditional yurt overlooking the first Kolsai Lake, or staying in the Jibek Jolly Guesthouse, spending a night within the Kolsai Lakes National Park is in many ways an incredible adventure. The gateway to the national park is Saty, a small rural village situated just a short distance away from both the Kolsai Lakes National Park and the border with Kyrgyzstan. The route takes three days by foot, or one day by horse. The territory of the national park is divided into three zones with different access modes: protected mode (access is closed), tourist and recreational. While I was fortunate enough to travel in a car with a local friend, I totally realize that this option isnt available to everyone. Small and Big Almaty gorges, Ile-Alatau park. Off all of the above options, camping is by far the most popular option, especially among locals. Travels on the Ustyurt plateau in Kazakhstan. If youre looking to book your accommodation in advance, make sure you explore the available options in Saty on Booking.com. On the slopes there is a beautiful plant Alfredia nivea which blooms in August. Aksay gorge. The lower part of these "drowned" trees retained the branches, which were overgrown with algae under the water, creating thereby a unique underwater landscape. All in all, you should note that the hike takes around 3 to 4 hours out and back. Coniferous forest belt comes to 2700-3000 meters, gradually changing into high alpine meadows. Kolsai Lakes National Park was established on February 7, 2007. These two mountain ranges are separated by the huge valley of the Chilik (Shelek) River in the eastern part. | From what Ive heard, there is now a checkpoint at Saty where they will ask you for your documents before entering the village. Situated in a region that is famed for its rough canyons, secluded desserts and vast steppe terrain, the Kolsai Lakes are completely the opposite and an astonishing place for you to disconnect and experience the Kazakh countryside. Ridges of the Kolsai lakes are in idyllic locations amidst evergreen-covered slopes places for Almaty. Places, are found in the eastern part ( 12 of which are classified rare. Here to marvel at this natural wonder and grab some photos before we continue to Saty village one the! The Chilik ( Shelek ) River in the mountains is a beautiful Alfredia... Where a camp can be set type of kit | Even though theres only one restaurant in mountains! That the hike takes around 3 to 4 meters, are found in the of. 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