Traveling by rented car to Lake Kolsai: tips and considerations

• Research shows that it may be better to rent a SUV or jeep when traveling to Kolsai Lake, due to the uneven roads.
• The journey from Almaty to Kolsai takes approximately 300 kilometers and will take about 6 hours. Along the way, there are opportunities to refuel.
• It's recommended to pack appropriate clothing for the weather and hiking equipment, as well as any necessary documents for entering the national park.

Report: A detailed guide to a trip to Lake Kolsai by rental car from Rentacars.kz

Lake Kolsai, also known as the "Pearl of the Tien Shan", is located in Kolsai National Park, approximately 300 kilometers southeast of Almaty, the largest city in Kazakhstan. This stunning destination attracts tourists with its crystal-clear turquoise waters and magnificent mountains that surround it.

In this guide, we will provide a detailed explanation on how to reach Lake Kolsai by renting a car from Rentacars.kz. We will discuss the selection of the right vehicle, planning a route, and preparing for a trip to fully appreciate the beauty of this natural wonder.

Vehicle selection and rental

Prior to your journey, it is crucial to determine the type of vehicle you require. For a comfortable journey and convenient passenger space, we recommend selecting an all-wheel-drive vehicle. This will ensure you can enjoy the scenic views without compromising on speed or maneuverability. Rentacars.kz offers a wide variety of cars to suit every taste and budget. Whether you prefer a Volkswagen Polo, a Toyota Corolla, a Toyota Camry, or a Nissan Qashqai, we have something for you. Before you rent a car, it's important to check the terms and conditions of the rental agreement, as well as the cost of fuel, to ensure that your financial investment is well-informed.

Once you've selected a vehicle, the next step is to plan your route. We recommend creating a map based on your travel time and road conditions to ensure you take the most efficient route possible, avoiding traffic jams and delays.

Before you start your journey, make sure you have all the necessary items, such as a spare tire, first-aid kit, and sunscreen, depending on the season and weather conditions at Lake Kolsai, which can be unpredictable.
It is important to consider the type of vehicle you choose for your trip from Almaty to Saty. Although the main road between these two locations is paved and in good condition, there is a final stretch that is unpaved and may have bumps. Therefore, it would be wise to rent a vehicle with good off-road capabilities, such as an SUV or Jeep.

Rentacars.kz offers a variety of SUVs that could be suitable for this journey, such as the Chevrolet TrailBlazer, Toyota Land Cruiser Prado, and Lexus LX570 F-Sport. These models are known for their comfort and durability on long trips and rough terrain. The rental prices vary depending on the vehicle and duration of the rental. Smaller cars start at around 15,000 tenges per day, but SUVs may be more expensive, particularly if you need to cross borders or rent for a longer period. It's best to book ahead through Rentacars to get the best rate and avoid waiting in line, especially at the Almaty airport.

Car type	Example	Recommended for Kolsai	Approximate cost (day)
Economy class	Hyundai Accent	No, there is low passability on the gravel road	from 15,000 tenge
Middle class	Toyota Corolla	Possible, but risky	from 18,000 tenge
SUV / Jeep	Toyota Land Cruiser Prado	The optimal choice	from 43,000 tenge

Route planning

The journey from Almaty to Lake Kolsai covers a distance of approximately 300 kilometers and usually takes around 6 hours to complete, depending on road conditions and stopovers. The route takes you through picturesque landscapes, starting from the city streets of Almaty and leading up to the mountainous roads.

Most of the roads from Almaty to Saty are paved and in good condition, allowing for the use of regular vehicles. However, the stretch from Sata to the lake may be unpaved and bumpy, especially during rainy weather. It is advisable to have a vehicle with high clearance for this part of the journey in order to avoid any damage.

For navigation, it is recommended to use a GPS, as the road signs are in Kazakh or Russian and may be difficult for non-native speakers. Key landmarks to look out for include turning onto the Saty road from the main highway and entering the national park. Be sure to pay attention to road signs, especially in rural areas where traffic is less frequent.
There are gas stations along the route, especially on main routes, so we recommend refuelling in Almaty before leaving and, if needed, in Saty. Please note that some gas stations only take cash, so bring enough tenge with you.

Planning for the trip

Planning a trip involves collecting the necessary items and considering weather conditions. Lake Kolsai is in the mountains and weather can be unpredictable, especially at higher altitudes. In summer daytime temperatures can reach 25 degrees Celsius, but nights are cooler, so pack layered clothing including a waterproof jacket.

Do not forget hiking gear such as sturdy shoes, a backpack, water bottle, and snacks. It's also a good idea to bring a first aid kit, camera for photography, and perhaps an electronic charger as there may not be easy access to electricity in remote areas.

Check the weather forecast prior to your departure, especially if you're planning to travel during the off-season when rain or snow could be possible. To enter the national park, you'll need to pay an entrance fee at the gate. According to data from 2024, the fee is approximately 450-750 tenge per person and 750 tenge for each car.

Upon arriving at the park, there is a parking lot where you can start your walk to the lake. The distance is about 1-2 kilometers and the path is fairly easy, suitable for most visitors. If you want more adventurous activities, there are trails leading to the second and third lakes, which are longer and require more stamina.

At the lake, you can enjoy recreational activities such as boat rides, fishing, or horseback riding. These services are often provided by local businesses. You can also stay at guesthouses in the nearby village of Saty or camp in designated areas within the park, following the rules and regulations.

When driving, please be careful, especially on rough roads. Watch out for other vehicles, including slow-moving tractors and animals that may suddenly appear on the road. Be respectful of nature, do not leave garbage, and stay on designated paths. If you are staying at guesthouses, be respectful of local customs and traditions, as this will make your trip more enjoyable and memorable.