Kolsay Lakes National Park, National park in Almaty Region, Kazakhstan
Kolsay Lakes National Park contains three mountain lakes within the Tian Shan range, surrounded by dense spruce forests and positioned between 1800 and 2850 meters in elevation. The landscape is shaped by steep, snow-covered peaks and forested valleys that spread between the water bodies.
The park was established in 2007 to protect a large natural area on the northern slopes of the Tian Shan range. This creation was part of Kazakhstan's effort to safeguard its most valuable mountain ecosystems under legal protection.
Local Kazakh communities maintain a deep connection to the mountain landscape, reflected in how they use the land and move seasonally through the region. They set up yurt camps during warmer months and share their knowledge of the terrain and wildlife with visitors.
Visit the park through organized tours from Almaty city, as the terrain is mountainous and local knowledge helps navigate the area. A range of accommodation options exists, from basic camping sites to more comfortable eco-lodges located near the lakes.
The park is home to rare animal species like snow leopards and Tian Shan bears that inhabit the highest mountain regions and are seldom seen by visitors. These creatures are adapted to life at extreme altitudes and cold, fundamentally shaping the park's ecosystem.
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