Artos - Süphan - Ararat Ski Tours
Artos, Süphan, and Ararat: An 8-day natural and adrenaline-filled adventure for high-altitude skiing enthusiasts.
On this unique ski tour to the most majestic peaks of Eastern Anatolia, we are ready to experience the full splendor of nature and the allure of high altitudes. Each of these mountains – Ararat, the highest peak in Turkey; Süphan, which rises near Lake Van; and Artos, overlooking the lake – has its own distinct character and offers unforgettable ski routes. This 8-day tour is specially designed for ski enthusiasts, nature lovers, and adventurers seeking new challenges.
This journey takes us into the rich history and untouched nature of Eastern Anatolia, opening the door to adventure. Throughout the tour, we will witness the beauties of nature and collect adrenaline-fueled skiing memories. Artos, Süphan, and Ararat offer not only skiing opportunities but also the chance to explore Turkey’s natural wonders and the history and culture of this region.
In Nature: Winter Landscapes of the Artos Mountains
Our journey begins at Lake Van with the Artos Mountains. Artos, rising along the shores of the shimmering blue lake, offers breathtaking landscapes and serene slopes that will capture the heart of every skier. Here, we ski with a view of the lake’s blue waters, experiencing the harmony of snowy white and sky blue. As we acclimate to the altitude, we enjoy the views and the peaceful atmosphere of nature.
Adrenaline and Adventure on Mount Süphan
After Artos, we head towards Süphan. The third-highest peak in Turkey, it offers one of the region’s largest skiing areas with slopes for skiers of all levels. On its snow-covered slopes, we ski in the silence of nature and feel the adrenaline in our veins. These days on Mount Süphan allow us to fully appreciate the high altitude in a safe setting – an experience that truly connects us with nature.
The Highlight of the Tour: Journey to Mount Ararat
The last leg of our tour leads us to Turkey’s highest peak, Mount Ararat. This thrilling summit offers a route that will make every skier's heart race. With an elevation of over 5,000 meters, Ararat’s broad, white slopes present both a physical and mental challenge, along with unforgettable views. The summit journey is a unique experience for everyone, offering the chance not only to ski but also to witness the majestic splendor of this sacred mountain.
DIFFICULTY:
Level 3: Moderate
The ski tour trip to Mount Ararat requires independent and experienced ski tourers with experience. You are sure-footed, free from giddiness and independent even in steeper terrain. In terms of skiing technique, you master safe ascents, even with crampons in partly icy terrain, and can descend slopes of up to 35° safely and smoothly. On the Ararat itself you are able to cope with the up to 35° steep ascents and have experience in using crampons. For the ascent, you are in very good condition for walking times of up to 8 hours and 1,800 meters of ascent and 2,800 meters of descent with luggage.
SHORT INFORMATION:
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Price: 920 EUR
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Group size: 4-12 people
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Travel time: 8 days
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Overnight stay in tents: 3 nights
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Hotel accommodation: 4 nights
Your travel specialist:
FIRAT
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Further dates on request, we will carry out your tour at your request at any time
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Our tours take place from 4 people
INCLUDED SERVICES:
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All overnight stays and meals according to the program
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All transfers in Turkey according to the program
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Approval for the ascent of Ararat
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Entrance fees per person to the Ararat National Park
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Licensed mountain guide in German or English
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Full board on the mountain
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Kurdish cook
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Luggage transport on the mountain by horses to the camp
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Two-person tent & sleeping mats 5cm (single tent for a surcharge)
NOT INCLUDED IN THE SERVICES:
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all flights on request
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meals not mentioned
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alcoholic beverages
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individual excursions and visits outside the program Personal expenses
Tour Programm
Day 1: Flight via Istanbul to Van in Anatolia
Fly directly to Van, our destination in Eastern Anatolia. During the drive to our hotel, we’ll already be able to capture some impressions of this unique landscape and culture. The sight of snow-capped mountain ranges nearby will immediately set the skier's heart racing. We end the evening at the hotel with a relaxing dinner. (x-x-D)
Day 2: Cultural Program Around Lake Van
Today, we take time to immerse ourselves in the diverse culture and landscape. We drive to Gevaş, a small town on Lake Van. Our goal, Akdamar Island, is just a short boat ride away. From afar, we see the impressive medieval Armenian church on the island. The view of the surrounding snowy mountains, lake, and landscape is breathtaking and postcard-worthy. Back in Van, we visit Van Castle, which offers stunning views of the lake and a rich cultural history dating back 3,000 years. We end the evening at the hotel, preparing for our first ski day. (B-L-D)
Day 3: Introductory Ski Tour on Mt. Artos (3,537 m)
Our first ski tour in Eastern Anatolia takes us to Mount Artos near Lake Van. We drive back to Gevaş and start our ascent from about 1,800 meters, a climb that takes around 4-5 hours. At the top, we’re rewarded with stunning views of Eastern Anatolia’s high mountains and the expansive Lake Van. After a memorable ski descent, we reach Adilcevaz for the night and enjoy a delicious dinner. (B-L-D)
Day 4: Skiing on Mt. Süphan (4,058 m)
We start early for Mount Süphan, Turkey’s fourth-highest mountain. Starting from Kısık village, we ascend via the mountain's eastern flank. After several hours, we reach the summit shoulder at 3,750 meters, where we rest before the final 300-meter climb. The panorama from the top is magnificent, offering unparalleled views. We enjoy a thrilling 10 km descent to Aydınlar village before heading to Doğubayazıt for the night. (B-L-D)
Day 5: Ascent to Base Camp
A 45-minute drive takes us to Eli village at 2,200 meters, our starting point for the Ararat ascent. A 4-5 hour trek brings us to base camp, located between 3,300 and 3,600 meters depending on conditions. We set up tents, cook, and enjoy the peaceful surroundings, turning in early for tomorrow’s summit day. (B-L-D)
Day 6: To the Crown of Ararat (5,165 m)
We rise at 2 a.m., eager to start. After a six-hour climb, we reach the summit of Turkey’s highest peak, where, in good weather, the view stretches across Anatolia to the Caucasus. After a memorable descent back to base camp, we return to the valley for a night in Doğubayazıt. (B-L-D)
Day 7: Reserve Day for Ararat Summit or Cultural Program
If we didn’t need the reserve day, we can explore the site where Noah’s Ark is said to have landed or visit the İshak Paşa Palace. (B-x-D)
Day 8: Return Flight
After breakfast, we drive back to Van for our flight home via Istanbul, carrying unforgettable memories of Anatolia. (B-x-x)
Program changes: Despite careful preparation, program changes due to unforeseeable events can be expected on this trip. These can arise due to weather conditions or due to short-term changes as a result of legal regulations, political decisions or health problems of participants, etc. In any case, we will try to carry out the travel program within reasonable limits or, if not possible, to organize an equivalent replacement program.