Kolsay Lakes hit different on a horse. This private 3-day trip from Almaty threads you through the Kungey Alatau mountains with horseback riding and on-foot hiking to the three Kolsay lakes, while aiming to skip the most crowded routes. It’s built for real time outdoors—passes, mountain huts, and that nomad-style rhythm of moving with the day.

Two things I really like: the way the route mixes animal time and hiking time, so you get the best of both worlds instead of just sitting on a trail; and the guidance style from Darya and Alex, who focus on safety and comfort while still keeping the adventure feeling authentic. You also get a solid food plan and practical gear like trekking poles, which matters when you’re far from shops.

The main drawback to plan around is that some key gear isn’t included—especially a sleeping bag—so you’ll want to bring the right cold-weather layer for mountain nights.

Key highlights to know before you go

• Baiseit Uyghur village food stop: tandyr bread, samsa, chebureki, lagman, shashlyk, plus fresh fruit and vegetables
• Private, guided mountain travel: led by Powder Nomads guides including Darya and Alex, with safety as a real focus
• Horse + passes + lake days: horseback to the Middle area, then hiking through small passes toward Upper Kolsay Lake
• Easy-to-moderate hiking pace for a remote itinerary: moderate physical fitness is recommended, with snacks/tea breaks on the way
• Camping-style nights with real support: mountain hut accommodation plus a tent spot, with sleeping pad and meals included

Why this Kolsay trip feels different from a basic lake tour

Kolsay Lakes are popular for a reason. But most “quick” trips turn into a checklist: drive, arrive, take photos, move on. This one changes the tempo. You start with a long morning pick-up in Almaty and then spend the bulk of the days moving through the Kungey Alatau backcountry—first on horseback, then by foot, with quiet trails meant to avoid the densest tourist areas.

I also like that it’s not trying to be “just camping.” You’re not stuck in one mode. One day is about reaching the Upper lake area, with horseback travel setting the stage and hiking handling the steeper effort. Another day transitions back to the lower lake with a mix of walking and short breaks—snacks and tea on the way help you stay steady.

This is the kind of trip that works best when you’re okay with being off-schedule in a good way. The mountains set the pace. Your job is to show up with decent stamina and a flexible attitude.

Price and what you’re really buying for $1,900

At $1,900 per person, this isn’t a budget getaway. The value comes from what’s wrapped into the price: private transportation, horses rental, guide services, and a full meal plan (breakfasts, lunches, dinners). You also get accommodation in a mountain hut plus a tent place, with a sleeping pad, and trekking poles.

Here’s the honest way to think about it: you’re paying for the logistics that usually cost time and stress—getting out to the Kolsay region, arranging horses, and having guides who handle the route and safety. You’re also not paying extra at the last minute for the basics you’d otherwise be trying to rent or buy.

Two costs you do need to handle yourself are the sleeping bag and outdoor clothing/gear. That’s where travelers either feel prepared… or feel annoyed. If you already own decent cold-weather sleep gear and hiking layers, the price feels more reasonable. If not, budget time to fill the gaps.

Morning start in Almaty: transport and timing that set the tone

Your day begins early. Pickup is at Magnum Hyper улица Демьяна Бедного 3, Almaty 050018, with a start time of 6:00 am. That early departure is part of why the tour can reach the mountain areas and still keep the itinerary moving across multiple days.

On Day 1, you travel by SUV or minibus toward Kurmety village—about 285 km—with stops along the way. This matters because it keeps you from wasting the entire first day just getting there. You get to stretch your legs at Baiseit and then continue to the mountain area with the real outdoors portion ahead of you.

Also note the tour is private in the sense that you and your group participate together. If you’re traveling with friends, you may see group discounts, but you still shouldn’t expect it to feel like a big mixed group scene.

Day 1: Baiseit’s Uyghur food stop and the ride toward Kurmety

Day 1 balances culture and motion. The first stop is Baiseit, a lovely Uyghur village with hospitable locals and a food scene tied to local staples. You’re not just passing through—you’re set up to taste. Think tandyr and onion bread, samsa, chebureki, lagman, and shashlyk. Admission for this stop is free, and you also get a chance to explore a local food market.

This first taste of the region is more than a “nice add-on.” It gives you context for what you’re doing out in the mountains. Nomad history in Central Asia isn’t only about travel on horseback—it’s also about food culture, sharing, and simple meals made from local ingredients.

After that, the day continues toward Kurmety village by SUV or minibus. The plan includes an additional stop in Baiseit on the way to explore fresh bread, vegetables, and fruits—useful if you want to top up for the first day’s energy.

Day 2: horseback to the Middle area, then hikes through the passes to Upper Kolsay Lake

Day 2 is your “big mountain effort” day. After breakfast and preparations, you ride horses to the Middle Kolsay Lake area. From the hut, the trail continues toward Upper Kolsay Lake and includes two small passes.

This combination is what makes the day feel special. The horseback segment handles distance so your legs can save energy for the pass hikes—where the real work (and the big views) tend to happen when weather is clear. Then you transition to walking for the more technical parts of the terrain.

A practical note from the experience style: horses can start off a bit slow depending on how they’re feeling and how new the riders are. After a while, the pace usually settles into something more active once everyone gets comfortable. If you’re sensitive to jerky rides or you want a steadier pace early, it helps to ask your guide for a comfort-focused rhythm at the start.

The day also includes dinner (and other meals provided throughout the trip), so you’re not relying on finding roadside food after a long day outdoors.

Day 3: from Middle Kolsay to the Lower Kolsay Lake by foot

Day 3 starts with breakfast, then shifts fully to hiking. You head back from the Middle area and follow the path toward the Lower (First) Kolsay Lake. Along the way, there’s a stop near the Middle lake for snacks and tea, which is exactly the kind of break that keeps people from burning out.

This is a good day to watch your pace. The route is part hike, part recovery from Day 2. With trekking poles included, you’ll likely find your knees thank you on the downhill and uneven ground sections.

Also, you’re not just chasing a final photo. The “why” here is the journey between points—the walking time is when the mountains feel closest, and when the guides’ planning and safety awareness really matter. The guide team (Darya and Alex are named in feedback) is the reason this kind of remote day feels manageable instead of stressful.

Sleep setup: mountain hut + tent spot, with the gear you must bring

Overnights are handled with accommodation in a mountain hut plus a place in the tent. You’re also provided a sleeping pad. That’s helpful because it boosts comfort and warmth, especially in cooler mountain air.

But again: a sleeping bag is not included. This is the biggest “prep check” item. If you show up without one, you’ll be dealing with cold nights instead of enjoying the simple mountain lifestyle the trip is designed to deliver.

On top of that, outdoor gear and clothing aren’t included. The tour assumes you can dress for changing weather and handle a long day outdoors. If you don’t already have a trail-ready setup, you might find the “adventure mixed with comfort” promise turns into “adventure plus shopping.”

If you’re the type who travels light, bring smart layers rather than one heavy coat. Think warm base layer, insulating mid layer, and a shell you can handle if conditions turn.

Horses, safety, and realistic physical fitness

The tour recommends a moderate physical fitness level. That’s a good signal: you’re not expected to be a hardcore trekker, but you do need stamina for long days, riding plus hiking, and time on uneven ground.

Safety-wise, the guides matter a lot. Feedback highlights professional guidance through the mountains and a caring approach that checks that you’re comfortable. That’s the kind of reassurance you want when you’re far from help and moving through remote terrain.

For horseback riding specifically, the best attitude is calm and cooperative. Horses are animals, so movement can feel unpredictable at first. Once you settle in, the ride usually becomes more fluid. If you have concerns, say something early to the guide—guidance can adjust pace and positioning.

Finally, service animals are allowed, which may matter for specific travelers. If that applies to you, confirm details when you book.

Food and water: simple mountain meals done right

You’ll get breakfast and then full meal coverage across the days, including lunch and dinner. Nutrition is a big deal on trips like this, and the plan is structured so you’re not guessing at energy mid-hike.

One small tip I’d strongly consider: bring a water filter. In feedback, mountain water was described as fresh, but the recommendation was to filter it for peace of mind. Even when water seems clean, filtering is the easy extra step that reduces risk when you’re off the grid.

Also, pack for snack timing. While snacks and tea are included on Day 3 near the Middle lake, it’s still smart to carry small personal items (energy snacks, lip balm, whatever keeps you comfortable). Snacks are listed as not included, so don’t count on getting everything you want between planned stops.

Who this private Kolsay horse and hike tour is best for

This tour fits best if you want the Kolsay Lakes region without treating it like an airport layover. If you like the idea of moving through the mountains on horseback and then walking on your own legs to the lake viewpoints, you’ll probably love the format.

It also makes sense for:

• people who enjoy guides and want a steady plan and safety focus
• travelers who want remote-feeling trails without the chaos of crowded tours
• anyone okay with camping-style nights and simple mountain living

It may feel less ideal if:

• you dislike early mornings (6:00 am pickup is real)
• you need full comfort amenities like you’d find in a hotel
• you don’t have cold-weather sleep gear and hiking clothing ready

The reviews you’ll see tend to emphasize the guide team’s care (Darya and Alex) and the quality of the experience as a whole. That lines up with the structure: horses, route planning, and food support are what make this work.

Should you book this 3-day private Kolsay horseback and hiking tour?

I’d book it if your priority is authentic mountain time over quick sightseeing, and you’re happy to handle your own sleeping bag and outdoor clothing. The price isn’t casual, but it covers real logistical work: private transport, horse rental, guides, and the bulk of meals and basic camping comfort.

I wouldn’t book it if you’re looking for a soft, easy stroll with minimal exertion, or if you want to customize the route on the fly. This is a planned wilderness experience, built around horses, passes, and multi-day movement.

If you’re trying to decide fast: if you can show up prepared for cold nights and you want guided backcountry travel with a strong safety and comfort focus, this tour is the right kind of challenge. If you’re missing key gear (especially a sleeping bag), sort that first—or choose a trip that matches your current packing reality.

FAQ

How long is the 3-day private horseback riding and hiking tour in Kolsay?

It runs for about 3 days.

What does the tour price include?

The price includes private transportation, all fees and taxes, horse rental, horse breeder services, guide services, accommodation in a mountain hut, a tent place, sleeping pad, trekking poles, and meals (breakfasts, lunches, and dinners). It does not include a sleeping bag, outdoor gear and clothing, insurance, snacks, personal expenses, or alcoholic beverages.

What time does pickup happen, and where do we meet?

Pickup starts at 6:00 am. The meeting point is Magnum Hyper улица Демьяна Бедного 3, Almaty 050018, Kazakhstan, and the tour ends back at the same meeting point.

How physically demanding is the trip?

The tour is for travelers with a moderate physical fitness level. You’ll do long travel days that mix horseback riding and hiking.

Does the tour operate in all weather?

The experience requires good weather. If it’s canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

What’s the cancellation window?

You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. If you cancel less than 24 hours before the start time, the amount paid is not refunded.