Imagine standing on top of the world, surrounded by breathtaking views and a sense of achievement that’s hard to match. That’s what awaits you on a hike to the summit of Mt. Ararat. This adventure offers not just the thrill of a challenging climb, but also the chance to explore a place rich in history and natural beauty.
Mt. Ararat, the highest peak in Turkey and the Armenian Highlands, is famous for more than just its height. It’s a place steeped in legend, said to be the resting place of Noah’s Ark. With its stunning landscapes and deep-rooted historical significance, Mt. Ararat promises an experience that’s both physically rewarding and culturally enriching.
Detailed Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival in Dogubayazit
When you arrive at the airport, your guide will be there to greet you and get everyone organized for the trip to Dogubayazit. As you drive, there will be several chances to stop and take photos of the beautiful scenery along the way, so keep your camera handy.
If you get to Dogubayazit early enough, you might have the opportunity to visit the Ishak Pasha Palace. This stunning historical site is just a short drive from town and is definitely worth seeing.
In the evening, you'll check into your hotel, enjoy a nice dinner, and get a good night's rest to prepare for the exciting days ahead.
Day 2: Trek to Mt. Ararat Base Camp
Start your day with a hearty breakfast before driving to Cevirme village, sitting at an elevation of 2200 meters. From here, your adventure truly begins.
You'll set off on the hike to Camp 1, which is at 3300 meters. The journey will take about 4-5 hours, and you'll have lunch packets and drinks to keep you energized along the way.
By evening, you'll arrive at Camp 1, where a warm dinner will be waiting for you. You'll spend the night in tents, resting up for the days ahead.
Day 3: Acclimatization Hike
In the morning, you'll start with a solid breakfast to fuel up for the day. After that, it’s time to prepare for the acclimatization hike.
You'll head up to Camp 2, which sits at 4200 meters. This trek is essential to help your body adjust to the higher altitude. After reaching Camp 2, you'll return to Camp 1.
By evening, you'll be back at Camp 1 for dinner and another night in your tent, ready for the main ascent in the coming days.
Day 4: Trek to Ararat High Camp
Your day starts with breakfast, followed by packing up your gear. The horses will carry your luggage to the higher camp, so you can focus on the hike.
You'll then begin your trek to Camp 2, which is at 4200 meters. Expect to arrive by early afternoon, giving you plenty of time to settle in.
The afternoon is yours to relax, snap some photos, and soak in the stunning views. In the evening, enjoy dinner and another night in the tents, preparing for the big summit push.
Day 5: Summit Day
The adventure kicks off early, with a wake-up call at 1-2 a.m. for breakfast and final prep. You'll check your gear and make sure everything's ready for the summit push.
The trek to the summit is slow and steady, aiming to reach the peak at sunrise. The views at the top are nothing short of spectacular, perfect for capturing some amazing photos.
After celebrating at the summit and taking a group picture, you'll head back down to the high camp. After a short rest and a hot meal, you'll continue your descent to Cevirme village.
In the evening, you'll drive back to Dogubayazit and spend the night at a comfortable hotel, resting up after a long and rewarding day.
Day 6: Cultural Tour in Dogubayazit
Start your day with a hearty breakfast at the hotel before heading out for some sightseeing.
Your first stop is the Ishak Pasha Palace, a stunning 17th-century palace full of history. Next, visit the Urartian Castle, where you can take in panoramic views of Dogubayazit and the Ishak Pasha Palace.
Afterward, enjoy a relaxing break for tea or coffee near the Tomb of Ahmedi Hani, a famous Kurdish writer and holy man. From there, head to Noah’s Ark National Park to see the site and museum dedicated to the legendary ark.
Don't miss the Meteor Hole, the second-largest in the world, located near the border with Iran.
In the evening, you can choose to visit Diyadin and unwind in the volcanic hot springs. After a day of exploring, enjoy dinner and an overnight stay at your hotel.
Day 7: Departure
Start your final day with a good breakfast at the hotel. After you've eaten, it's time to pack up and get ready for the trip home. You'll be transferred to the airport, bringing your adventure to a close as you head back with unforgettable memories and stories to tell.
This trip to Mt. Ararat offers an incredible blend of physical challenge, stunning natural beauty, and rich cultural experiences. From the thrill of summiting the highest peak in Turkey to exploring historical sites like Ishak Pasha Palace and Noah’s Ark National Park, every day brings something new and exciting.
If you're looking for an adventure that will push your limits and reward you with unforgettable memories, this Mt. Ararat hiking tour is the perfect choice. Don’t miss out on this amazing opportunity—book your spot now and get ready for the journey of a lifetime.