Trekking in Cilo Mountains (Hakkari Region)

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Explore with us Cilo Mountains, located in the heart of Hakkari Province. This rugged and majestic range, renowned for its breathtaking landscapes and challenging terrains, offers an unforgettable adventure for trekking enthusiasts.

One of the highlights of our program is the climb to Mount Resko (Uludoruk), the second highest mountain in Turkey. This iconic peak promises an exhilarating ascent and unparalleled panoramic views.

Our program is designed to provide an immersive experience in one of Turkey's most remote and scenic regions, where you will traverse pristine valleys, climb steep peaks, and explore the rich cultural heritage of the local Kurdish communities. Whether you are an experienced trekker or a passionate nature lover, join us for an exhilarating journey through the wild beauty of the Cilo Mountains.

Day 1: Arrival to Yüksekova
Meeting with the guide at the Yüksekova Airport and transfer to the hotel. (As an alternative, you can fly to Van Ferit Melen Airport and take a bus to Yüksekova).
In the afternoon, you will have free time to explore Yüksekova city. At the evening group will have the meeting with the guide to discuss the plan for the following days.
Overnight at a hotel in Yüksekova.  

Day 2: Trekking to the Sat Lakes
After breakfast at the hotel, we will drive to Dağlıca at around 8:00 am, and then continue to Sat Lakes. Accompanied by our guides, you will enjoy a nature walk suitable for all levels in the magnificent surroundings of Sat Lakes. We will return to Yüksekova in the late afternoon, after a 2-hour drive, excluding breaks for photos.  
Dinner will be in the city center, followed by an overnight stay at the hotel in Yüksekova.  

Day 3: Exploring Terazin Lakes Region
After breakfast at around 7:00-7:30 am, we will drive to Urshe-Orshe Valley. We will hike for approximately 4 hours to reach Terazin Lake, passing through the ruins of the abandoned Orşe village. We will continue hiking to Momin and Garvan Lakes, with time for lunch and rest during the hike. In the afternoon, we will hike back for around 3 hours to the point where we left our vehicles and then transfer back to Yüksekova for an overnight stay at the hotel.  

Day 4: Serpel Plateau and Horgedim Camping Area
After breakfast, we will drive to Serpel Plateau, which takes approximately 1.5 hour. From Serpel Plateau, we will take an easy walk of about 2.5 to 3 hours to reach Horgedim Plateau at an altitude of 2838 m. We will set up our camp, prepare food, and rest in preparation for the ascent to the Resko summit the following day. Overnight in tents on Horgedim Plateau.  

Day 5: Uludoruk/Resko Summit Climb (4136 m)
Depending on weather conditions, we will leave the camp around 3:00 am, to begin our ascent to the summit of Uludoruk/Resko, Turkey’s second-highest mountain. The climb typically takes around 6 hours in good weather. After celebrating and taking photos at the summit, we will descend back to Horgedim Plateau, which takes about 4 hours. We will then pack up our tents and equipment and continue descending to Serpel Plateau, where our vehicles will be waiting. We will transfer back to Yüksekova for an overnight stay at the hotel.  

Day 6: Heaven and Hell Valley (Cennet Cehennem Vadisi)
After breakfast, we will drive to Mergan Plateau, which takes around 2 hours. From there, we will take a 2-hour walk to reach the famous Heaven-Hell Valley and Cilo Glaciers. We will have time to take photos, videos, and enjoy the breathtaking views, as well as have lunch. On our way back, we will drive to Hakkari Seyir Hill to enjoy panoramic view of Sümbül Mountain, Zap River, and Hakkari. We will also stop to take photos of Gündoğdu Cave and Genclik Bridge. We will return to Yüksekova for an overnight stay at the hotel.  

Day 7: Departure
After breakfast at the hotel, our driver will drop you off at the bus station or the airport, depending on your departure time. 

 

Included in full service option

  • All group transfers to the mentioned sites
  • Hotel accommodations in twin rooms (5 nights)
  • Camping equipment for the overnight at the Horgedim Plateau (tents, sleeping pads)
  • Breakfasts
  • Local guide

Not included

  • International and domestic flights
  • Travel insurance
  • Additional transports and transfers not mentioned in the itinerary
  • Lunches and dinners
  • Soft and alcoholic drinks

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