Kolsay Lakes Tour from Almaty
The Kolsay Lakes are a cascade of three lakes hidden in a dense conifer forest on the northern edge of the Tian Shan. They are well known and always busy in summer. The drive from Almaty is long: you should expect about 4 to 5 hours each way, depending on traffic and how often you stop.
I rode this route last August when the heat in the city was unbearable. Up there, the air is crisp, and the water is so cold it makes your teeth ache just looking at it. But the real challenge isn't the temperature. It's getting beyond the crowded first lake.
The Standard Options
A group bus tour is cheap, but you're tied to a rigid schedule and a group of forty or fifty people. A jeep tour is more comfortable and more expensive, but it still drops you at the First Lake on the paved road. Going yourself works if you have a proper 4x4 and the patience for a long drive.
All three options end at the First Lake. After that, it's on foot. You share the trail with hundreds of others, stepping aside for horses and dodging selfie sticks.
The Enduro Expedition
We run Kolsay differently - as a two-day enduro expedition. The Second Lake, which sits higher and deeper in the mountains, is a long hard hike on foot; on an electric bike you get there yourself. The national park prohibits engine noise. Our bikes are silent and emission-free, so we're not breaking any rules, and we can get far off the main paths without disturbing the wildlife.
Honestly: this is difficult. The route is rated 9-10 out of 10. It's not a relaxed sightseeing trip. Day one is the approach, a briefing if needed, the climb on dirt trails, then a night in camp or a guesthouse in Saty village. Day two is the push to the Second Lake. You'll deal with loose rocks, exposed tree roots, and steep stream fords. And you'll see views that don't show up in the typical Instagram grids.
When you crest that final ridge and the Second Lake opens up below you, completely empty and still, the bruised forearms and sweat are suddenly worth it.
When to Go
The season for Kolsay on a bike runs from late May to early October. Before May, the trails are often covered in deep mud or snow from the winter melt. After October, the temperatures drop sharply, and ice makes the steep ascents dangerous.
If you want the best balance of weather and trail conditions, September is ideal. The summer crowds thin out, the autumn colors start showing in the forest, and the dirt packs down perfectly for traction.
What to Bring
Since this is a two-day expedition, packing light but smart is essential. We provide the bike and the protective gear, but you need to bring:
- A small, well-fitting backpack (no larger than 20L).
- Thermal underwear for the evening. It gets cold at altitude, even in July.
- A waterproof windbreaker. Mountain weather changes in minutes.
- Sturdy boots with ankle support. You will be putting your feet down in mud and rocks.
- A change of dry socks.
- Basic toiletries and any personal medication.
- A power bank. There are no outlets on the trail to the Second Lake.
FAQ
Can I ride this if I've only ridden street motorcycles? Street experience helps with balance and controls, but dirt is different. You need to be comfortable standing up, shifting your weight, and dealing with a front tire that washes out. If you're unsure, we recommend taking our training course in Almaty first.
Where do we sleep? We usually stay in a guesthouse in Saty village. It's basic but clean, and you get a hot meal and a real bed. We can arrange camping if the whole group agrees, but a good night's sleep is crucial for day two.
Is food included? Yes. Breakfasts, dinners at the guesthouse, and trail lunches (sandwiches, energy bars, water) are provided. If you have specific dietary needs, let us know beforehand.
How long are we actually riding each day? Expect about 4-5 hours of active riding time per day. The rest of the time is spent resting, taking photos, and dealing with the occasional stuck bike. It sounds short, but off-road hours hit your body much harder than highway miles.
If you're tired of standard excursions, look through our tour catalog or book a trip. Gear, guide, and bikes are on us.
