Experience an unforgettable 8-day ski adventure in the spectacular Van Lake region, where pristine snow-covered mountains meet rich cultural history. This unique tour is designed for passionate skiers who are eager to explore some of Turkey’s most majestic peaks, including Mount Artos, Mount Suphan, Mount Nemrut Caldera, and more.
Each day presents a new challenge, from thrilling ascents to breathtaking summits offering panoramic views of the picturesque Van Lake and its surrounding landscapes. Our professional guides will lead you through a series of exhilarating ski tours, ranging from 5 to 9 hours, with elevations reaching over 4000 meters.
The tour also features cultural highlights, such as a visit to the historic Akdamar Church on Akdamar Island and Van Castle, immersing you in the region's rich heritage.
The journey is designed to balance adventure with comfort. Each night, you'll return to the hotel to relax and enjoy delicious local cuisine.
Join us for a perfect blend of adventure, culture, and natural beauty on this one-of-a-kind ski tour in Turkey’s Van Lake area!
Day 1: Arrival in Van
Upon arrival at Van Ferit Melen Airport, you will be welcomed by our guide and transferred to your hotel in Van. After some rest, we will check the ski equipment to ensure everything is ready for the upcoming tour. In the evening, we will enjoy a delicious dinner at a local restaurant, showcasing traditional Turkish cuisine.
You will stay overnight at the hotel in Van.
Day 2: Ski Tour at Mount Artos
After breakfast, we will transfer to Mount Artos, which is approximately a 1-hour drive from Van. The ski tour will begin at an elevation of 2000 m, with the ascent taking us to the summit at 3500 m. At the top, you will be rewarded with stunning panoramic views of Lake Van and the surrounding mountains. After completing the approximately 8-hour round trip ascent and descent, we will return to Van for dinner.
You will spend the night at the hotel in Van.
Day 3: Ski Tour at Mount Başet
Following breakfast, we will head to Mount Başet, a 1-hour drive from Van. The ski ascent will start at 2200 m and lead us up to 3650 m. This tour will take approximately 7 hours for the ascent and descent. Afterward, we will return to Van for dinner and an overnight stay at the hotel.
Day 4: Ski Tour at Mount Görentaş & Cultural Tour in Van area
After breakfast, we will drive to Mount Görentaş, located about 1 hour from Van. We will begin our ski tour from an elevation of 2200 m and ascend to 3100 m. The total round trip will take around 5 hours. Once the ski tour is complete, we will enjoy a cultural excursion, starting with a boat trip to Akdamar Island to visit the historic Akdamar Church. We will then explore Van Castle, an iconic landmark that offers panoramic views over Lake Van. Dinner will be at a local restaurant, and you will stay overnight at the hotel in Van.
Day 5: Ski Tour at Mount Nemrut
After breakfast, we will transfer to Mount Nemrut, which is approximately a 1.5-hour drive from Van. We will begin our ski ascent at 2300 m and ascend to the summit at 3008 m. The total duration of the round trip will be approximately 5 hours.
In the evening, we will transfer to the historic town of Ahlat, where we will have dinner and stay overnight at the hotel.
Day 6: Ski Tour at Mount Süphan
After breakfast, we will transfer to Mount Süphan, located about 1 hour from Ahlat. The ski ascent will begin at 2400 m, and we will climb to the summit at 4058 m. This is the longest and most challenging ski ascent of the tour, with an approximate 9-hour round trip. After descending, we will return to Van for dinner and rest.
You will stay overnight at the hotel in Van.
Day 7: Ski Tour at Mount Vavira
After breakfast, we will drive for about 1 hour to Mount Vavira. The ski ascent will begin at 2200 m and take us to the summit at 3400 m. The round trip will take approximately 6 hours.
After completing the final ski tour of the program, we will return to Van for dinner and an overnight stay at the hotel.
Day 8: Departure from Van
After breakfast, you will be transferred to Van Airport for your departure, concluding the ski tour program.
Important Note
To participate in our ski tours, you must have a strong off-piste skiing level and be familiar with avalanche safety procedures (how to use a DVA, Arva, Bips, etc.).
If you are unfamiliar with avalanche safety, don’t worry — our expert guides will provide comprehensive instruction on the first day.
Your safety is our top priority. Please follow all instructions carefully and trust in your guides, who are highly experienced professionals in avalanche safety and mountain terrain.
We are here to ensure you have both an exciting and safe adventure.
Included in full service option
- All group transfers from Van airport till end of the tour
- Mountain guide/s
- Hotel accommodation with breakfast (twin or double rooms)
- Lunch packets for mountains
Not included
- Meals in the cities (lunches, dinners)
- Alcoholic drinks
- Hamam (Turkish bath) and massage
- Entrance fees for Akdamar Island and Van Castle
- Boat ticket to Akdamar Island
Equipment You Need to Bring
- Touring skis and ski crampons
- Avalanche safety equipment: DVA (Arva, Bips, or similar), snow shovel, and probe
- Walking boots suitable for snowy conditions
- Warm and waterproof clothing, including multiple layers to adjust to varying temperatures
- Rucksack (30 to 50 liters) for carrying your gear
- Headlamp for early starts or late descents
- Gloves (warm and waterproof)
- Sunglasses to protect your eyes from snow glare
- Balaclava or other face protection
- Thermos for keeping drinks warm during the tour
- First aid kit (personal essentials)
If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact us.