Kackar Mountains Trek – 11 Days Adventure
Embark on an unforgettable 11-day expedition into the majestic Kaçkar Mountains in northeastern Turkey. This route takes you through wild mountain landscapes, colorful alpine meadows, sparkling mountain lakes, and remote villages. Along the way, you will enjoy breathtaking views, encounter unique flora and fauna, and meet local people – farmers, shepherds, and nomads who have shaped the region for centuries.
The highlight of the journey is the ascent to the summit of Kaçkar Dağı (3,937 m), where you will be rewarded with an unforgettable panoramic view of the surrounding peaks and valleys. Each stage of the trek is carefully planned to provide the perfect balance of challenge, nature immersion, and cultural discovery.
Daily hikes vary in length and difficulty, from gentle acclimatization walks across colorful mountain meadows to demanding summit climbs over glacial lakes and snowfields. The main equipment is carried by pack animals, allowing you to fully focus on the experience.
DIFFICULTY:
Group size: 6-14 people
Travel time: 11 days
Overnight stay in tents: 2 nights
Hotel accommodation: 8 nights
INCLUDED SERVICES:
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all admissions according to the program
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all overnight stays in middle-class hotels (according to the program) and during the mountain tours
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in simple local guest houses (shared rooms)
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Luggage transport during the mountain tour 15 kg of personal luggage (carrier animals)
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all meals according to the program.
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Accompanying team: when trekking with a cook,
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Provision of tents and cookware
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Luggage transport by mules
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English and German speaking mountain and trekking guide
NOT INCLUDED IN THE SERVICES:
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all flights on request
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alcoholic drinks
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personal expenses
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individual activities
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Single supplement
Your travel specialist:
FIRAT
Tour Programm
Day 1: Arrival in Erzurum – Transfer to Hotel
Highlight: Welcome to Turkey! Your adventure begins the moment you arrive in Erzurum. Enjoy your first glimpse of the majestic northeastern mountains and soak in the charm of the region. A relaxing evening prepares you for the upcoming trekking days.
Accommodation: Hotel
Meals: (-/-/D)
Day 2: Erzurum – Tortum – Yaylalar
Highlight: Enter the heart of the Kaçkar Mountains! The drive through the wild Çoruh Gorge and along the sparkling Tortum Lake introduces you to the untouched nature. Welcome to Yaylalar – your base for the mountain adventure.
Distance: approx. 2 hours drive
Accommodation: Tents or guesthouse
Meals: (-/-/D)
Day 3: Acclimatization in Yaylalar
Highlight: Today you hike through colorful flower meadows and over the Bodot Pass. Every step rewards you with spectacular views and fresh mountain air. A perfect opportunity to prepare your body for higher altitudes and to enjoy the beauty of alpine pastures.
Distance: approx. 15 km
Ascent: 700 m | Descent: 600 m
Hiking time: 7–8 hours
Accommodation: Tents
Meals: B/L/D
Day 4: Bulut Dagi – Dibe Valley
Highlight: A hike through one of the most beautiful valleys in the Kaçkars. Alpine landscapes, wildflowers, and peaceful villages provide a sense of true seclusion. Along the way, meet friendly locals – perhaps over a traditional tea break.
Distance: approx. 18 km
Ascent: 900 m | Descent: 950 m
Hiking time: 8–9 hours
Accommodation: Camp in Olgunlar
Meals: B/L/D
Day 5: Across Alpine Meadows to Camp Dilberdüzü
Highlight: Hike over vibrant alpine meadows past small nomadic villages to Camp Dilberdüzü. The quiet of the mountains and the vast landscapes offer moments of awe and relaxation.
Distance: approx. 14 km
Ascent: 600 m | Descent: 250 m
Hiking time: 6–7 hours
Accommodation: Camp
Meals: B/L/D
Day 6: Summit Day – Kaçkar Dağı (3,937 m)
Highlight: The pinnacle of your expedition! The ascent to Kaçkar Dağı is challenging, but every step is worth it. Enjoy breathtaking views over glacial lakes, snowfields, and surrounding peaks. An unforgettable feeling standing at 3,937 m above sea level!
Distance: approx. 12 km (round trip)
Ascent: 1,200 m | Descent: 1,200 m
Hiking time: approx. 8 hours
Accommodation: Camp
Meals: B/L/D
Day 7: Descent to Yaylalar
Highlight: Descend over blooming alpine meadows and reflect on the summit experience. Light walks or tea in a village round off the day – the beauty of the Kaçkars will remain unforgettable.
Distance: approx. 10 km
Ascent: 200 m | Descent: 1,200 m
Hiking time: 3–4 hours
Accommodation: Tents
Meals: B/L/D
Day 8: Naletleme Pass – Aydar Valley
Highlight: A day of contrasts: cross the impressive Naletleme Pass and walk through lush forests to reach the idyllic Aydar Valley. The landscape, dotted with rhododendrons, lakes, and colorful flowers, is a true natural paradise.
Distance: approx. 16 km
Ascent: 400 m | Descent: 2,000 m
Hiking time: 7–8 hours
Accommodation: Guesthouse
Meals: B/L/D
Day 9: Relaxation in Ayder – Transfer to Trabzon
Highlight: After days of intensive trekking, soak in the soothing hot springs of Ayder. In the afternoon, transfer to the Black Sea coast – a gentle transition from mountains to sea.
Accommodation: Hotel
Meals: B/-/D
Day 10: Culture in Trabzon
Highlight: A day full of history and culture. Visit the impressive Sumela Monastery, the Hagia Sophia Museum, and stroll through Trabzon’s lively bazaar for a rich cultural experience.
Accommodation: Hotel
Meals: B/L/D
Day 11: Departure from Trabzon
Highlight: Depart with unforgettable memories. The stunning Kaçkar Mountains, the summit experience, and encounters with nature and local people will stay in your heart for years to come.
Meals: B/-/-
Legend: B = Breakfast | L = Lunch | D = Dinner