Mount Ararat Ski Tour – 7 Days
- 7 Days
- 5,137m Ski Summit
- Winter Expedition
- Duration: 7 Days
- Difficulty Level: Full Acclimatization
- Season: Winter Expedition
The Mount Ararat Ski Tour is a unique winter expedition combining high-altitude ski mountaineering with cultural exploration in Eastern Turkey.
Designed for experienced backcountry skiers, this program offers the rare opportunity to ski from the summit of Mount Ararat down to lower snow lines under professional mountain guide supervision.
What’s Included
- All ground transportation in Van, Doğubayazıt, and on Mount Ararat
- Airport transfers (Van or Ağrı)
- All transfers related to the expedition program
- Hotel accommodation in Doğubayazıt (3-star hotel)
- Camping accommodation during the climb (tents shared by 2 participants)
- Sleeping mattresses provided at camps
- All meals during the climbing program
- Soft drinks during the expedition
- Cooking service at camps
- Crampons (if required due to snow conditions)
- Official Mount Ararat climbing permit
- Professional licensed local mountain guide service (from arrival to end of trek)
What’s Not Included
- International and domestic flight tickets
- Personal climbing equipment
- Tips for guides and support staff
- Alcoholic beverages
- Meals in town outside the climbing program
Personal Equipment Required
- Trekking boots with strong ankle support
- Good quality sleeping bag (suitable for high altitude)
- Warm layered clothing
- Insulated gloves and warm socks
- Trekking poles
- Headlamp
- Sunglasses (UV protection)
- Winter hat covering ears
- Mount Ararat Gallery
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Mount Ararat a technical climb?
Mount Ararat is considered a non-technical high-altitude climb during the normal climbing season. No advanced mountaineering techniques such as rope climbing or ice wall ascent are required under standard summer conditions.
However, it is a physically demanding expedition due to altitude (5,165 meters) and long ascent days. Basic use of trekking poles and crampons may be necessary depending on snow conditions near the summit.
Do I need previous climbing experience?
Previous high-altitude trekking experience is recommended but not mandatory.
If you are in good physical condition and comfortable hiking 5–7 hours per day on steep terrain, you can successfully complete the Mount Ararat climb with our professional guides.
We recommend regular cardio training and hiking preparation before the expedition.
When is the best time to climb Mount Ararat?
The best time to climb Mount Ararat is during the stable weather months of the climbing season, typically from late spring to early autumn.
During this period, snow conditions are more predictable, and summit success rates are significantly higher. Weather on Mount Ararat can still change rapidly, so flexibility is always important.
Is a climbing permit required?
Yes, a Mount Ararat climbing permit is mandatory for all foreign and domestic climbers.
The permit is issued by Turkish authorities and must be arranged in advance. Our team handles the entire permit application process on your behalf as part of the expedition organization.
Still have questions? Contact our team for detailed information.