ABELYA TOUR CLIMBING MOUNT ARARAT
In the footsteps of Noah…The Mount Ararat is a non-active vulcano rising out of the East-Anatolian plateau. Its fertile mountain sides are visited during summer by nomads that graze their flock. Their hospitality is proverbial as they invite tourists into their black tents to share a meal and a glass of ayran (a yogurt drink) with them. Our trek starts in Doğubeyazıt, a famous smuggler’s nest, where Ishak Pasha built his palace on a lonely pass. For the ascent we use the southern route which offers the easiest climb and the best facilities. In spite of repeated searches the biblical Noah’s Ark, that according to the Old Testament came to rest on the side of the mountain, has not been found as yet. Maybe we’ll have more luck?!
Day 1: Arrival
Flight from Istanbul or Ankara to the Ararat Mountain area. Transfer by bus to Doğubeyazıt where we will stay in a hotel. The guide wil explain the itinerary in detail
Day 2:
Transfer to Eliköy (2250 m). Trekking to base camp at 2,950 meters
Day 3:
Trekking to 4,200 m and stay in second camp
Day 4:
Small walks in the immediate surroundings to acclimatize
Day 5: The summit!
We get up at 2.30 am in the morning and start the ascent at 3.30 am. Weather permitting there is a one hour stay at the top, then return to camp 2 and overnight.
ATTENTION: The submit can only be reached when the weather is clear!
Day 6:
Return to Eliköy and from there to Doğubeyazıt with local transport.
Day 7: Journey home.
Further more…A good general physical condition and experience with trekking in mountainous area is necessary - the last 500 meter to the top are covered with glacier ice and crampons are used - this last stretch is relatively flat and requires no ice climbing, mules will carry the backpacks up to the second camp at 4200 m, climbers carry daypacks only.
A climbing permit must be obtained from the Turkish authorities. Therefore the name and passport numbers of participants have to be sent to Abelya Tour one month before departure. At the moment, no climbing fee is required by the local authorities. Any changes will be notified by Abelya Tour.
Walking dates in 2006
Arrival - Departure
18 June - 25 June
16 July - 23 July
20 August - 27 August
03 September - 10 September
Walking dates in 2007
Arrival - Departure
17 June - 24 June
15 July - 22 July
19 August - 26 August
02 September - 09 September
Minimum number 6 pax, maximum 10 pax.
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These scripts and photographs are registered under © Copyright 2006, Abelya Tour / Şişli - Istanbul - Turkey. All Rights Reserved.
