Almaty Shymbulak and Kolsai Lakes 5N is a five-night trip based in Almaty. It combines the mountain scenery of Medeu and Shymbulak and Big Almaty Lake. It adds a day visit to Kolsai Lakes, one of the lake areas listed among Kazakhstan's top attractions. It suits adventure seekers, couples and friends who want more time outdoors than the four-night winter package.
Kazakhstan's mountains, lakes and canyons are spread across large distances. Roads outside the main corridors can vary, and spring and autumn are the easiest seasons for overland travel. Our planners confirm the Kolsai Lakes timing after checking current road and weather conditions, and the rest of each day stays in the same area.
The trip is land-only, so flights to and from Almaty are booked separately. Visa assistance is included, and visa fees are separate. Before you choose dates, read the Kazakhstan travel guide, best time to visit Kazakhstan and how to reach Kazakhstan.
Your trip expert can stretch, shorten or swap any day.
Land at Almaty International Airport (ALA) and meet your driver for the transfer to your hotel. Check in and rest after the journey. In the evening, take a short walk to get your bearings in the city. Keep the first day light, because the lake and mountain days ahead need warm clothing and energy.
Spend the day in the mountains above Almaty, at Medeu and Shymbulak, for the alpine views. You can ski if you have booked that, or simply enjoy the scenery. Winter conditions change quickly, so check lift and road status on the day. Pack warm layers, gloves and a windproof jacket, and eat a good lunch before you go up.
Visit Big Almaty Lake and enjoy the mountain scenery that surrounds Almaty. Plan an unhurried morning, because mountain weather and road conditions can change at short notice. Return to the city in the afternoon for rest. Keep the evening simple after a full day outdoors, and keep water with you on the mountain roads.
Take a day visit to Kolsai Lakes, one of the lake areas listed among Kazakhstan's top attractions. Roads outside the main corridors can vary, and autumn and winter weather can change fast, so your planner confirms the timing with you before the day. Pack warm layers, water and snacks. Return to your Almaty hotel in the evening.
Use this day for Medeu and Shymbulak, Big Almaty Lake or a rest day in the city, depending on weather and your interests. Tell your planner your choice before the day, so we can arrange what is needed. Kaindy Lake can be added as an optional stop if road and weather conditions allow, and we confirm it before you travel.
Enjoy breakfast and check out. Your driver takes you to Almaty International Airport for your departure flight, leaving enough time for traffic and check-in. Flights are booked separately, so confirm your departure time with your planner. If your flight is late in the day, use the morning for a last walk or some shopping.
Flights are not included.
Five nights in one Almaty hotel, with Kolsai Lakes as a day visit.
Road and weather conditions outside the main corridors can vary, so the Kolsai Lakes day may move.
Spring and autumn are the easiest seasons for overland travel.
Winter snow and ice can affect transport and hiking, so pack warm, layered clothing.
Ski equipment, lift tickets and lessons are extra unless your itinerary lists them.
Breakfast is included daily; other meals are extra.
Flights are not included and are booked separately.
Visa assistance is included; visa fees and travel insurance are extra.
Keep valuables secure in crowded places, where theft is the main practical risk.
FAQs
What travellers ask about this trip. Your trip expert can answer anything else.
Yes, a Kolsai Lakes day visit is included as listed in your itinerary. Road and weather conditions outside the main corridors can vary, so your planner confirms the timing before the day. If conditions do not allow the visit, we offer a suitable alternative from the same itinerary.
Five nights gives time for Medeu and Shymbulak, Big Almaty Lake and a Kolsai Lakes day, plus a flexible day in case weather or roads change. If you want a slower pace or a snow-focused trip, the shorter [Almaty Winter Snow 4N](/packages/almaty-winter-snow-4n/) is another option.
Five nights in a comfort-category hotel on twin sharing, daily breakfast, airport transfers and sightseeing as listed in your itinerary, Medeu and Shymbulak, Big Almaty Lake, a Kolsai Lakes day visit and visa assistance. Flights, visa fees, travel insurance and meals not listed are not included.
No. Our packages are land-only, so flights are booked separately. Our planners can suggest arrival and departure timings from your city. Almaty International Airport (ALA) is one of the two main arrival points for Indian visitors. Confirm your flight times with our planner before you pay for the hotel.
May to mid-June and September suit most visitors, with open mountain trails and comfortable weather. Late April is good for the wild tulip bloom. December to March is best for skiing, but roads and weather can be harder to manage.
Yes. Tell us your dates, departure city and interests, and we can adjust the day plan, add Kaindy Lake or extend your stay. Each quote lists exactly what is included before you pay, so you know what to expect.
More ideas
Almaty 4N
*Approximate price per person, excl. GST. Contact us for exact pricing.
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