Trekking on Ararat - starting from the border with Georgia

This program is designed for adventurers traveling from Armenia or Georgia, eager to conquer the summit of Mount Ararat.

Our team will greet you at the Turkish-Georgian border and transfer you to Dogubayazit, where your Mount Ararat journey begins. You will ascend Ararat via its south face (the classic route), with an additional acclimatization day built into the itinerary. This ensures better adaptation to the high-altitude conditions and significantly improves your chances of a successful summit.

But this tour offers more than just a mountain climb. Along the way, you will explore some of the most remarkable sights in Eastern Turkey. Discover the ancient city of Ani, roam the historic streets of Kars, marvel at the iconic Van Fortress, and take in the beauty of Lake Van. Plus, a visit to the stunning Ishak Pasha Palace will round out your experience, blending history, culture, and breathtaking landscapes.

We aim to provide an unforgettable adventure that showcases the very best of our region, ensuring you leave with lasting memories of both Mount Ararat and Eastern Turkey’s hidden gems.

Day 1:Transfer from Georgian border to Dogubayazit
We will meet at the Aktas border crossing, where our journey to Dogubayazit begins. Along the way, we will make a stop at the stunning Çıldır Lake, a perfect opportunity to take photos of the breathtaking landscape and enjoy a leisurely lunch by the water.
Upon arrival in Doğubayazıt, we’ll check in at our hotel before setting off to visit the Ishak Pasha Palace, one of the most important architectural landmarks of the Ottoman Empire. Built in the 17th century, this palace reflects a blend of Ottoman, Persian, and Seljuk influences and offers incredible views of the surrounding valleys.
In the evening, we will gather for a dinner at a local restaurant.
Overnight at a hotel in Dogubayazit.

Day 2: From Dogubayazit to Ararat Camp 1
In the morning we will have a nutritious breakfast at the hotel. After meal we will pack all the equipment and drive by minibus from the hotel to Cevirme village at 2200 m. Then we will walk to Ararat Camp 1 located at an elevation 3200 m (our equipment will be transported by horses). When we will reach the camp (after 3-4 hours of walking) we will drink tea or coffee and eat some snacks. Later we will set up our tents and have a rest. At the evening we will have hot meal.
Overnight in tents at Camp 1.

Day 3: Acclimatization on Mount Ararat
After a hearty breakfast at Camp 1, we will prepare for an acclimatization hike to Camp 2, located at an elevation of 4200 m. Equipped with our lunch packs and light backpacks, we’ll begin our ascent. Upon reaching Camp 2, we’ll take a well-deserved rest, allowing time for our bodies to adapt to the higher altitude.
This acclimatization hike is crucial in reducing the risk of altitude sickness and enhancing our chances of a successful summit. After resting at Camp 2, we will descend back to Camp 1.
Dinner and overnight stay at Camp 1.

Day 4: Ascent to Ararat Camp 2 at 4200 m
After breakfast, we will begin our ascent to Camp 2 at 4200 m. The heavier equipment and supplies will be transported by pack horses, allowing us to focus on the climb. The trek is expected to take around 4-5 hours, depending on weather and conditions.
Upon reaching Camp 2, we will set up our tents and settle in for the evening. Dinner will be served at the campsite, and it’s recommended to get to bed early for much-needed rest, as the following day’s summit climb will be challenging.
Overnight in tents at Camp 2.

Day 5: Summit day
We will start climbing early in the morning (1 or 2 a.m.). Within 5-7 hours we should reach Mount Ararat summit at 5137 m (depending on weather condition and pace of the group members). Crampons may be needed for the last 200-300 m.
Afterwards we will return to Camp 2, where we will eat meal and have 1-2 hours rest. Then we will pack the equipment and walk down near Cevirme village, where driver will wait for us. We will back to Dogubayazit.
Overnight at the hotel in Dogubayazit.

Day 6: Van city tour
After breakfast at the hotel, we will depart for Van, one of the most historically rich cities in Eastern Turkey. On our way, we will make a brief stop at the scenic Muradiye Waterfall, where you can take photos and enjoy a refreshing tea break amidst the natural beauty.
Continuing our journey, we will pass through Van and head towards Gevaş, where we will embark on a boat trip to Akdamar Island. Here, we will visit the remarkable Church of the Holy Cross, a stunning example of Armenian architecture dating back to the 10th century.
Afterward, we will return to Van for a lunch, followed by a visit to the impressive Urartian Castle. This ancient fortress offers not only historical insight but also breathtaking panoramic views of Lake Van.
After completing our tour of the Van area, we will make our way back to Doğubayazıt for dinner and an overnight stay.

Day 7: Kars and Ani tour, transfer to Georgian border
We will start the day early with breakfast at the hotel before embarking on a scenic drive to Kars. Upon arrival, we will explore the city center, taking in the unique blend of Russian, Ottoman, and Armenian influences that define the architecture of this region.
Our first stop will be the Kars Castle, a 12th-century Seljuk fortress perched atop a hill, offering panoramic views of the city and surrounding landscape. Next, we’ll visit the Kümbet Camii, originally built as the Church of the Apostles in the 10th century, and later converted into a mosque, showcasing the religious and architectural transitions of the region.
Afterward, we’ll drive to the legendary ruins of Ani, the once-great capital of the Armenian Kingdom. Known as the "City of 1.001 Churches," Ani was a thriving medieval metropolis, and its impressive fortified walls still stand, encircling the haunting ruins of churches, mosques, and caravanserais. As we walk through the ancient site, you will have the opportunity to explore and admire the intricate architecture and historical significance of this remarkable city.
Then we will continue our journey to the border crossing between Turkey and Georgia.

If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact us.