Kazakhstan
December 22, 2025

The village of Saty in Kazakhstan: the gateway to discovering the Almaty region

Kristin My
I organise custom trips and expeditions in Central Asia
Saty in Kazakhstan

Saty is a peaceful village ideally located at the gateway to the Tien Shan mountains, making it the perfect starting point for exploring the region's natural treasures, from alpine lakes to wild valleys and unspoiled national parks.

The village of Saty

Located nearly 300 kilometers from Almaty, the village of Saty has changed significantly in recent years. Once consisting only of modest dwellings and a difficult-to-access road, it is now a popular destination, especially among eco-tourism enthusiasts.

Today, the village has dozens of guesthouses and is transforming itself to welcome tourists in increasingly comfortable conditions.

The best destinations from Saty

1. Charyn Canyon

On the way to Saty from Almaty, take advantage of being close to Charyn Canyon to visit it! This exceptional site is well worth the detour and is on every visitor's list in Kazakhstan.

It stands out from the country's steppes and mountains with its orange valleys and is every bit as impressive as the canyons of the American continent.

Charyn Canyon

→ From Saty : about 60 km.

2. Lake Kaindy and Kolsay Lakes

The village of Saty lies at the foot of the famous Kaindy Lake and its sunken forest, and the three Kolsay Lakes.

Lake Kaindy and Kolsay
On the left is Lake Kaindy, on the right is the intermediate lake Kolsay

Steeped in legend, these alpine lakes are among the region's must-see attractions and exude a mystical atmosphere that can be enjoyed during long hikes or a simple picnic.

→ From Saty: the lakes are located about 15 km south of the village and can be reached on foot or by car, but be sure to use an off-road vehicle as the road quickly becomes impassable.

3. The Chilik River Valley

The Chilik River Valley stretches southeast of Saty. It is an ideal place for hiking, horseback riding, and picnics in the great outdoors. The valley is also renowned for rafting, as the river is particularly fast-flowing and turbulent.

And along the way, you may even have the chance to meet some horse breeders!

→ Distance from Saty: approximately 50 km (about 1 hour by car)

💡 While you're there, visit the Shilikty kurgans, ruins dating from the 8th to 6th centuries BC, where a vast quantity of gold jewelry and the remains of a “golden man” similar to the one found in Issyk were discovered!

4. Chunja hot springs

Some areas around the village of Saty have natural hot springs. These hot springs are renowned for their health benefits and are a great way to relax after a long day of hiking in the Tien Shan mountains!

Visit the Chunja (or Chunzha) springs, which are home to villages dedicated to wellness and relaxation. Rent a room, dine in the restaurants, and pamper yourself in these waters with their many virtues!

→ Distance from Saty: about 60 km (or 25 km from Charyn Canyon)

đź’¬ Here we have mentioned the most famous places around the village of Saty, but there are many others that are worth visiting! Whether you want to extend your stay in the region or discover more niche and less frequented places, contact us on Instagram, WhatsApp, email (easternpathsdata@gmail.com) or book a call !

📚 You may be interested in these readings:

Travelling to Kazakhstan as a single woman

Do you need a visa to go to Kazakhstan?

Is Kazakhstan dangerous?

Visit Charyn Canyon in Kazakhstan

Budget to go to Kazakhstan

Want to travel to Kazakhstan?

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