Climb Mount Ararat

Climb Mount Ararat

8 Days
From

$1197

Climb Mount Ararat

8 Days Starting and ending in Van, Turkey

Visiting: Van, Lake Van, Mount Ararat, Dogubayazit

Tour operator:

The Natural Adventure

Tour code:

632

Specialist Group:

Singles Solo

Guide Type:

Fully Guided

Group size:

1 - 12

From: $1197

NB: Prices correct on 27-Sep-2024 but subject to change.

This tour is no longer available, please see similar tours below or send an enquiry

Tour Overview

Embark on an exhilarating adventure with our "Climb Mount Ararat" tour in Turkey. Begin your journey in Van, where you'll acclimate and explore the stunning views from Mt. Artos. Discover the historical treasures of Akdamar Island and the Ishak Pasa Palace before setting off on your ascent of Mount Ararat. Experience the thrill of reaching the summit at 5137 meters, with breathtaking vistas extending to Iran, Armenia, and the Caucasus. This tour offers a blend of cultural exploration and challenging climbs, perfect for singles seeking an unforgettable experience. Enjoy comfortable accommodations in Van and Dogubayazit, and camp under the stars as you conquer Turkey's highest peak.

Highlights

  • Arrive in Van and explore the city

  • Climb Mt. Artos for a fantastic view over Lake Van

  • Boat tour to Akdamar Island and visit the medieval Armenian church

  • Visit the Ishak Pasa Palace from the Ottoman era

  • Hike to Ararat Base Camp at 3200 meters

  • Climb to the High Camp at 4200 meters

  • Summit Mount Ararat, the highest peak in Turkey, with views extending to Iran, Armenia, and the Caucasus

Itinerary

Expand All

Day 1 : Arrive In Van

Location: Van

Accommodation Name: Overnight in Van

Arrival in Van, transfer to the hotel in the city centre, where you will overnight. Overnight in Van

Day 2 : Mt. Artos 3537 M

Location: Van

Accommodation Name: Overnight in Van

Meals Included: Breakfast

In the morning, we drive to Gevas (~1 hour). From here we start climbing Mt. Artos from the north - it’s a steep, but not a technical mountain. The summit offers a fantastic view over Lake Van. If the weather conditions are fine, Mt. Süphan and even the Ararat can be seen from here. We stay overnight at the hotel in Van. Walking for the day: 7 hours, ↑1200 m ↓1800 m Overnight in Van

Day 3 : Lake Van I 1640 M

Location: Lake Van

Accommodation Name: Overnight in Dogubayazit

Meals Included: Breakfast

After breakfast, we drive first to Gevas, from here we take a boat tour to Akdamar Island and visit the medieval Armenian church. Then we drive around the lake to Dogubayazit. In the afternoon visit of the Ishak Pasa Palace from the Ottomans time. Driving: ~ 5 hours Overnight in Dogubayazit

Day 4 : Ararat Base Camp 3200 M

Location: Mount Ararat

Accommodation Name: camp (tents)

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

After breakfast, we drive to the village of Cevirme, the starting point of our Ararat tour. After the luggage has been loaded on the horses, we hike comfortably in about 5 hours to the base camp at an altitude of 3200 m. Overnight stay in tents. Walking for the day: 4-5 hours, ↑1100 m

Day 5 : Base Camp - High Camp 4200 M

Location: Mount Ararat

Accommodation Name: camp (tents)

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

After a good night, we climb to the high camp. Those who are not very tired by the 4-hour ascent can walk a little further towards the summit. Early dinner, because the ascent to the summit starts in the night. Walking for the day: 4 hours, ↑1000 m

Day 6 : High Camp - Mt. Ararat - Base Camp 5137 M

Location: Mount Ararat

Accommodation Name: camp (tents)

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

At around 2-3 o'clock, it is time to get up and have our breakfast. A steep climb of around 5-6 hours takes us to the summit. The glacier begins at an altitude of approx. 4900 m, from now on we continue with crampons. After 5 to 6 hours of climbing, we are standing on the highest peak in Turkey, the mountain of Noah´s. In good weather and visibility, the view extends to Iran, Armenia and the Caucasus, Eastern Anatolia is at our feet! Then the descent begins, first to the high camp (3 hours). After a rest and a snack, we break off our camp and descend to the base camp. The walking time from the summit to the base camp is around 6 hours. Overnight in the base camp. Walking for the day: High Camp - Mt. Ararat: 5-6 hours, ↑1050 m Mt. Ararat - Base Camp: 6 hours, ↓2050 m

Day 7 : Base Camp - Dogubayazit 1625 M

Location: Dogubayazit

Accommodation Name: Dogubayazit

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch

There is still a 3-hour descent ahead of us, then we continue by vehicle to Dogubayazit (~1 hour). The afternoon is free to explore this small town, populated mainly by Kurds. This day can also be used as a reserve day for climbing Mt. Ararat in bad weather. In this case, after we climb the summit, we will descent all the way down to Cevirme and then drive to Dogubayazit for an overnight. Walking for the day: 3-4 hours, ↓1100 m

Day 8 : Departure

Location: Van

In the early morning, we drive to Van airport and departure. We recommend if you have not visited Istanbul that you spend a couple of days in this wonderful city as well.

What's Included

  • Accommodation

    Overnight stays in hotels in Van and Dogubayazit, and in tents at base and high camps.

  • Meals

    Breakfast is included daily. Lunch and dinner are included on days 4, 5, and 6.

  • Transportation

    Transfers from Van to various locations including Gevas, Dogubayazit, and Cevirme.

  • Guided Tours

    Guided climb of Mt. Artos and Mt. Ararat, including a boat tour to Akdamar Island and a visit to Ishak Pasa Palace.

  • Equipment

    Luggage transportation by horses during the climb.

What's Not Included

  • International Flights

    Flights to and from Turkey are not included.

  • Travel Insurance

    Travel insurance is not included and must be purchased separately.

  • Personal Expenses

    Personal expenses such as souvenirs, additional meals, and drinks are not included.

  • Tips

    Tips for guides, drivers, and hotel staff are not included.

  • Optional Activities

    Optional activities in Istanbul or other locations are not included.

Mode of Transport

Travel includes drives to various locations such as Gevas, Dogubayazit, and Cevirme, with a boat tour to Akdamar Island and horse-assisted luggage transport during the hike.

Accommodation

Enjoy comfortable hotel stays in Van and Dogubayazit, with overnight camping in tents at the base and high camps of Mount Ararat.

Check out our Q&As

  • What kind of physical condition should I be in to participate in this tour?

    Participants should be in good physical condition as the tour involves several days of hiking, including steep climbs and long walking hours. The ascent to Mt. Ararat includes a steep climb and the use of crampons on the glacier.

  • What kind of accommodation is provided during the tour?

    Accommodation includes hotel stays in Van and Dogubayazit, and camping in tents at the base camp and high camp on Mt. Ararat.

  • Are meals included in the tour package?

    Yes, meals are included during the tour. Breakfast is provided daily, and lunch and dinner are included on days when camping at the base camp and high camp.

  • What is the highest altitude we will reach during the tour?

    The highest altitude reached during the tour is 5137 meters at the summit of Mt. Ararat.

  • What kind of equipment will I need for the climb?

    Participants will need equipment suitable for high-altitude climbing, including crampons for the glacier section of Mt. Ararat.

  • Is there a reserve day in case of bad weather?

    Yes, Day 7 can be used as a reserve day for climbing Mt. Ararat in case of bad weather.

  • What kind of transportation is provided during the tour?

    Transportation includes vehicle transfers between locations such as Van, Gevas, Dogubayazit, and the village of Cevirme. A boat tour to Akdamar Island is also included.

  • What cultural sites will we visit during the tour?

    Cultural sites include the medieval Armenian church on Akdamar Island and the Ishak Pasa Palace from the Ottoman era.

  • What is the starting point of the Ararat climb?

    The starting point of the Ararat climb is the village of Cevirme.

  • What is the recommended activity if I have extra time after the tour?

    If you have extra time after the tour, it is recommended to spend a couple of days in Istanbul to explore the city.

  • What Ethical Travel credentials does the tour company have?

    The Natural Adventure was founded by people who love hiking and cycling in wild and wonderful places. Places that we want to keep that way. Responsible tourism has, therefore, been at the heart of what we do since the get go.

  • Am I contributing to any charity by booking the tour?

    In April 2020 as a response to the COVID-19 crisis, we launched the Support Local Communities Initiative. We have enabled an option when booking a tour for customers to make a donation to support our local partners. 100% of the donations go directly to our local suppliers.

  • Who will be my travelling companions on the tour?

    Whether you’re travelling on your own, as a couple, a group of friends, or a family, our self-guided holidays allow you the freedom to choose your own holiday companions.

  • What documents will I receive before I travel?

    Our self guided walking and cycling holidays typically include: Accommodation, Breakfasts, Luggage transfers, Detailed holiday information pack including GPS-checked and regularly updated route descriptions, road notes and maps, 24/7 phone assistance by our local representative and/or our central office

  • What policies are in place for Covid-19?

    We are part of the 'Safe Travels' initiative.

  • Can I join the tour once it has departed?

    Yes, as long as you can reach the next location.

  • Do you operate a “single share” option and how does it work?

    Accommodations in double or twin rooms (solo travellers are usually accommodated in single rooms at an extra cost; we never mix and match)

  • What happens if I need to change my holiday date once I’ve booked?

    If possible, and entirely at the discretion of the Tour Operator, a change of the dates may be possible without charging an amendment fee, provided that it is requested at least 30 days before the departure date. In some cases, we will still have to pass to you any non-refundable charges imposed by our suppliers. In all other cases, change of dates will normally be treated as a cancellation.

  • Will the accommodation included meet local health and safety regulations?

    All places have been carefully checked by us and their quality is regularly monitored. We have selected accommodations that offer friendly service, clean and comfortable rooms and local flavour.

  • How long has the tour company been trading?

    The Natural Adventure was founded in the UK in 2009, by Peter Duncan, former UK Chief Scout and BBC Blue Peter presenter, and Alex Pazderski, an avid hiker and acclaimed expedition kayaker. Both natural adventurers and keen explorers of wild places and trails, remote communities and responsible tourism partners, Peter and Alex founded our company inspired by the responsible travel values t

Reviews of this operator

Kicki Neely  

Walking Fishermens trail in western…

19-Sep-2022

Walking Fishermens trail in western Portugal will be a memory for life. We loved every minute of our week. All arrangements worked perfectly, from accommodation to luggage transport to questions we had before setting off. Our local agent met with us before we started the walk and we felt very reassured by his local knowledge and support. All accommodation was different, local, clean, friendly and easy to find. Very good value for money. I can really recommend Natural Adventure company and we will be back for more adventures. Many thanks Kicki Neely and friends

Marian Wilkins (Google Reviewer)  

A friend and I did...

25-Jan-2024

A friend and I did the Alps to the Riviera walk in France at the end of 2021 and it was the best holiday experience either of us has ever had. It’s an amazing way of immersing oneself in the countryside and getting the full flavour of the country away from the tourist attractions. The Natural Adventure Company made perfect arrangements for us, gave us clear directions and was just a call away, to sort out any issues. The walk gave us incredible memories that will enrich us for a lifetime. I am in the process of booking my next wonderful adventure and I can’t wait to get started!

Cathy O'Connor (Google Reviewer)  

I recently hiked, with a...

26-Jul-2024

I recently hiked, with a friend in the Italian Alps (the Val D'Aosta) and can highly recommend the region, and the Natural Adventure company. We were very pleased with the accommodation and the food was excellent most of the time- generous portions of excellent local dishes. The resources we were sent were excellent and very thorough. It was very easy to follow the routes as we were given so much detail- which we printed out and took each day's instructions with us, and the App helped to keep us on track. Sadly, we couldn't stay at the last location because there was a storm one night and the village we were due to stay in was flooded and cut off. The Natural Adventure did all they could to support us immediately, and help us find an alternative and we ended up staying where we were, as we were so pleased with that hotel and knew we could continue our hikes from there. We were very pleased with the holiday, the walks, the info and all our dealings with them. I would highly recommend them

Amanda Daly (Google Reviewer)  

We booked our self-guided Kumano...

15-Jul-2024

We booked our self-guided Kumano Kodo pilgrimage trip in Japan with The Natural Adventure (known locally as Oku Japan). The experience was top notch from beginning to end. The information packet was thorough and helpful, and details regarding trains and local buses (timetables, pricing, etc) were consistently accurate. Each and every accommodation was unique, charming, and welcoming. When there was an issue checking into our final hotel, the local office was quick to respond and the problem was solved within the hour (it was also a Sunday, so extra points). We weren’t expecting this to be a gourmet food tour of the region, but it was that as well! On top of it all, we found the price very reasonable for everything that is included. We had a wonderful experience thanks to The Natural Adventure, and would certainly travel with them again.

Cynthia Shinn (Google Reviewer)  

I have been working with...

26-Feb-2024

I have been working with The Natural Adventure for a few years now and it's been a flawless experience. I have now booked 4 different trips (4th to happen in April 2023). Accomodations have been great and local operators (bikes, hiking guides and boats) have all been great. The rates are very fair and trip selections are great. Hoping to see some boat bike options in Greece and Turkey!

Ellen Taylor-Powell  

Great communications, customized trip

20-Aug-2022

This is our first time using Natural Adventure to plan a hiking trip in Europe. I wanted an 8-day hike to start on a certain date to explore a northern region of Portugal. They were so accommodating - customized our trip to meet our needs with responsive communications and full itinerary; everything has been taken care of. We look forward to the trip!!

Linda Giovine (Google Reviewer)  

We hiked the Kerry Way...

02-Jun-2022

We hiked the Kerry Way with Natural Adventure and it was terrific. Outstanding views and good Irish weather. Some days were longer than expected due to placement of Bed and Breakfasts. Hosts were warm and helpful even dried our gear and shared local secrets. Irish hospitality in high gear.

Tim Fuhs (Google Reviewer)  

My wife and I booked...

14-Sep-2023

My wife and I booked the Lechweg short break hike with the natural adventure company this Fall and we’re very happy with our experience. I noticed one of the reviews questioning what they (natural adventure co) provide. That’s a fair question and from my perspective as a USA citizen, they provided a very important liaison/conduit role into the EU that would be prohibitive or downright impossible for a non EU citizen hiking/biking in Europe. In addition, I have found that in dealing directly with a few European companies directly, information does not always flow as smoothly as we like. The natural adventure company’s communication style fit our liking perfectly in that we receive a fast and thorough response with every question. They are prompt and helpful. They did subcontract with another company for boots on the ground support but the hotel reservations and itinerary were in house. We would definitely use the natural adventure company again no question.

Beverley Young  

Highly Recommended

03-Aug-2022

All the way through from booking, correspondence afterwards and now a wonderful holiday. The Natural Adventure have been helpful and have provided a brilliant holiday. The hikes each day are cracking, maps & routes are detailed and easy to follow. The hotels are great too. Completely love our holiday! Would definitely use The Natural Adventure again and recommend.

Jeanna Janssen (Google Reviewer)  

Really poor experience with my...

30-Jul-2024

Really poor experience with my recent Tour Du Mont Blanc trip. Our company contact Pierre was so unprofessional and did not care about the safety of travelers. On the second day he left to do a hike and we didn’t hear back until multiple days later. I experienced multiple travel delays which meant the loss of the prepaid travel arrangements and their solution was a 250 euro taxi to the hotel. Do not recommend.

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Book with Confidence

  • Low Deposit

    The Natural Adventure requires a minimum deposit of 20% or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 42 days before departure.

  • Cancellation Policy

    We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of the natural adventure charges.

    Up to 42 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.

    At 30 days before tour starts: Forfeit 50% of booking price.

    At 14 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.