Trekkers on the summit of Mt Ararat
Trekkers on the summit of Mt Ararat
Enjoying the lower slopes of Mount Ararat
Trekkers ascend the slopes of Mount Ararat, navigating towards the summit
Flock of sheep enjoy the pastures below Mt Ararat
Lunch spot on an ascent Mt Ararat
Ascending the snow-covered slopes of Mount Ararat
The summit of Mt Ararat viewed from second camp
The ancient Ishak Pasha Palace near Dogubayazit
Views across to Mount Ararat

Mount Ararat Expedition

Summit Mount Ararat and meet local nomadic groups

8 Days from

$1970 USD

Trip Code: ARE
View dates to BookEssential Information

Extra trip options & supplements

*Prices listed are per person

Single Supplement
$490 USD

Duration

  • 8 Days

Activities

  • 5 day trek

Accommodation

  • 3 nights hotel
  • 4 nights camping

Meals

  • 7 Dinners
  • 6 Lunches
  • 7 Breakfasts

Difficulty Grading  

6 / 10

Moderate to Challenging

Trip highlights

  • Summit Mount Ararat - the highest mountain in Turkey
  • Experience local culture and nomadic groups
  • Visits to magnificent examples of ancient Ottoman architecture and Armenian churches

Overview

Agri Dag, or Ararat as it is known in the west, reaches a height of 5137m. Tucked away near the borders of Iran and Armenia, Turkey's highest mountain is considered to be the place where Noah's Ark came to rest after the Great Flood. Proof of that is rather elusive but trekking to the summit is more realistic. This spectacular, permanently glacier-capped mountain is a great one week challenge for the seasoned walker. Our fully supported trek with experienced, licensed mountain guides will ensure your adventure will be memorable. Weather permitting there are fabulous views towards Armenia, Georgia and the high Caucasus Mountains, home to Mt Elbrus (5642m).

Itinerary

Expand all | Collapse all

Meet at Van Airport and transfer to Dogubayazit. Overnight hotel in Dogubayazit. Approx driving time: 3 hrs; 180km

Meals: D

This morning we will load the luggage and camping essentials on the truck and drive to Eli Village at 2000m. From here we will commence trekking up to our first campsite at 3200m. Our camping and trek luggage will be carried by mules or horses. Our trek support crew will establish the camp, and our cook will arrange the evening meal. Approx Walking time: 4 hrs; Ascent: ~1200m

Meals: B,L,D

Today is an acclimatisation day, with some easy walks up to 4200m. We will spend the night back at the same campsite at 3200m. We can also use this day as an extra climbing day in case of bad weather. Approx walking time: 5-6 hrs; Ascent/Descent: 1000m

Meals: B,L,D

This morning, we will ascend to the second campsite at height of 4200m. After reaching the campsite, we will set up our tents and have a little rest. In the afternoon, we can go for an acclimatisation walk. Approx walking time: 4 hrs; Ascent: 1000m

Meals: B,L,D

We will commence our summit attempt very early in the morning in order to reach the top in time for the sunrise. The ascent will be difficult because of the steep terrain. Depending on the season, we will have to walk with crampons for safety reasons. From the summit, depending on the weather conditions, you can see other mountains like Little Ararat, Mount Suphan and the Armenian lands. We will descend back to the first campsite (3200m) for overnight. Approx walking time: 9-10 hrs; Ascent: 937m; Descent: 1937m

Meals: B,L,D

In the morning, we will hike to the village of Eli. After lunch at a local restaurant, we will visit the Ishak Pacha palace built in the 18th Century, and located at the foot of Mount Ararat. Afterwards we will be transferred to Dogubayazit. Overnight hotel in Dogubayazit. Approx walking time: 3 hrs; Descent: ~1200m

Meals: B,L,D

Today we will drive to Van. Then we will proceed to Gevas town and take a boat to visit Akdamar Island (approx 15-20 mins one way), which is home to a 10th century Armenian Church, known as the Cathedral Church of the Holy Cross (915-921), and was the seat of Armenian Catholics from 1116 to 1895. In the afternoon, we will visit Van Castle, which was constructed in 9 BC at 80m height from the lake by the Urartian king Sardur the First. One of the most remarkable structures in the area is the rock tomb of Argisti the First, with a long inscription relating the events of his reign. Overnight hotel in Van. Approx driving time: ~3-4 hrs; ~270km

Meals: B,L,D

After breakfast, you will have a transfer to the airport for your onward flight. Your Mount Ararat adventure concludes at the airport.

Meals: B

Ready to start your adventure?

View dates to Book

What’s included?

Included

  • 7 breakfasts, 6 lunches and 7 dinners
  • arrival and departure transfers (days 1 and 8 only)
  • tourist class twin share hotel (3 nights)
  • group camping equipment for trek including two person tents & sleeping mat (sleeping bag, crampons, ice axe, harness not included)
  • all internal transport by private vehicle
  • porterage by mules and horses whilst trekking
  • English speaking guide and camp crew
  • licensed mountain guide for climb
  • emergency medical kit
  • Mt Ararat permit fees

Not included

  • International and domestic airfares to/from Van
  • arrival and departure transfers in Van if not arriving on Day 1 or departing on Day 8
  • Boat cruise to Akdamar Island (Day 7)
  • Sleeping bag
  • Crampons, ice axe, harness
  • Visa costs
  • Transport and transfers other than that stated in the itinerary
  • Airport and departure taxes
  • Meals, beverages or additional services not mentioned in the itinerary
  • Bottled water, aerated and alcoholic drinks
  • Entrance fees for natural and historical sites mentioned in the itinerary
  • Items of a personal nature such as phone calls, laundry, postage, etc
  • Travel Insurance
  • Tips

Responsible travel

Extra trip info

Guaranteeing A Great Türkiye/Turkey Trip

Pioneering World Firsts

Quality equipment

Quality accommodations

Innovative itineraries

Custom built, reliable transport

Our all inclusive approach

Multi Award Winning Adventures

Thoughtful Travel

Adventure Experts Since 1975