Mount Ararat Ski Touring

Ararat, 5137 m

Mount Ararat Ski Mountaineering

Despite the academic consensus that the “mountains of Ararat” mentioned in the Book of Genesis do not specifically refer to this peak, Mount Ararat is nonetheless widely accepted within Christianity, Judaism, and Islam as the resting place of Noah’s Ark. The best season for ski touring on Mount Ararat—as well as on other mountains in the area—is from March to May. Mount Ararat ski touring.

Program

Day 1
Arrival at Agri or Igdir Airport and welcome to Dogubeyazit. Transfer to Dogubeyazıt, with a stop en route for tea. Dinner featuring local cuisine in Dogubeyazit. Overnight stay at the hotel.

Day 2
After breakfast at the hotel in Dogubeyazit, transfer to the village of Eli (2,200m). Hike to Base Camp (2,700m) with pack animals transporting the equipment. Overnight at Camp 1, the “Green Camp” (3-hour hike). The rest of the day is free for skiing on the slopes of Mount Ararat or resting. Approximately 5 hours of walking (5 km).

Day 3
Mount Ararat acclimatization; overnight at Camp 1. Ski ascent to 4,500m and return to Camp 1. Overnight stay. This ski tour serves for acclimatization (3-hour hike). The rest of the day is free for skiing or resting. 7 km.

Day 4
Mount Ararat Camp 2; after breakfast, ascend with ski gear to the 4,200m camp and ski back down to Base Camp 1. If the weather is good, we will ascend to 5,000m and ski back to Camp 1. Note regarding Camp 2: Depending on dates, weather conditions, or snow levels, Camp 2 may not be set up; in this case, the entire ascent will be structured to take place from Camp 1.

Day 5
Ski touring up to the summit of Mount Ararat (5,137 meters) and skiing back down to the camp (12 km); full day of skiing (12 km route).

Day 6
After breakfast, transfer to Dogubayazit and overnight stay at a 3-star hotel; after lunch, continue with a cultural tour of the city of Dogubayazit.

Day 7
Departure from Dogubayazit; breakfast at the hotel and transfer to the airport. Tour ends.

Mount Ararat trekking or ski permits: The Turkish government requires special permits to climb Mount Ararat. Please allow 35 days to obtain your permit. Please email us the following details for each person: *A scanned copy of the passport photo page (full name). Start date: To confirm your reservations and begin the permit application process, a 50% non-refundable deposit is required. Please contact us to start planning your trip. Group size: Minimum 2 people, maximum 10.

Price includes: All transfers in the city and on the mountain Guide speaking English, Spanish, Turkish, and Kurdish 2 nights in a Dogubayazit hotel All meals while in the ski area Horse support (20 kg per person) Overnight stays at camp; dinner and breakfast included Professional cook Tents (one per two people), insulating mats (camping-style mattresses) Mount Ararat climbing certificate Mount Ararat permit City tours Tents (one per 2 people)

Not included: Single room supplement: 30 Euros International flights Domestic flights (we can purchase these for you if desired)

General information about skiing

Popular ski resorts in Turkey:

Mount Ararat – Mount Ararat ski touring and ski tours; if you want to ski on Mount Ararat, contact us.

  1. Uludağ, Bursa: It is one of Turkey’s most famous ski resorts. It offers slopes of varying difficulty levels and features a wide range of accommodation options.
  2. Erciyes, Kayseri: Known for its modern facilities and long slopes. Also suitable for snowboarding and other winter sports.
  3. Palandöken, Erzurum: It stands out for its high altitude and long ski season. It has hosted international competitions.
  4. Kartalkaya, Bolu: It is popular for its proximity to Istanbul and Ankara. It offers slopes of varying difficulty levels.
  5. Sarıkamış, Kars: Famous for its crystal-clear snow. It’s ideal for those who want to ski in a more peaceful and natural setting.

Ski season, December – March: The best season for ski resorts in Turkey generally runs from December to March. Snow quality is best during this period.

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