Expedition
Turkey

Mount Ararat Climbing Expedition

A Week-Long Adventure Above 5000 Meters

A journey to the highest point in Türkiye — the ancient dormant volcano Mount Ararat (5137 m). Rolling steppe, solidified lava fields, nights in tents and mountain sunrises. This is a non-technical ascent, but the altitude and terrain call for steady rhythm, endurance, and self-awareness. Just seven days to shift perspective, find calm in your body, and quiet in the world around you.

New Format: Scapers Expedition

A true adventure — when we’re taking the route for the first time and exploring it together with our guests. Logistics, safety, and basic comfort are well-planned and handled by our trusted local partners. We’re there for the rest: building the community, preparing you before the journey, and guiding you with care every step of the way.

Trek’s features

One-Week Journey

One-Week Journey

The entire trip takes just 8 days — a short adventure you can join without much hassle. With no long-haul flights, getting to Turkey from Ukraine or Europe is easier than most other mountain destinations.

Beginner-Friendly

Beginner-Friendly

Ararat is a non-technical 5000+ meter peak, accessible to anyone seeking a personal victory — even those new to high-altitude trekking. The ascent is gradual, with tent overnights and a short, easy glacier section near the summit where crampons are used.

Moderate Altitude

Moderate Altitude

The maximum altitude of 5,137 meters above sea level is safe and achievable for any healthy person, without the need for mountaineering experience. At this elevation, you may feel changes in air pressure and thinner oxygen levels, but the acclimatization phases built into the trek greatly reduce the risk of altitude-related symptoms.

Untamed Route

Untamed Route

Ararat is located in the region of Turkish Kurdistan, near the borders of Armenia and Iran. The mountain is surrounded by valleys and small Kurdish villages. This area lies far from typical tourist routes, offering a glimpse into untouched nature and authentic local culture.

Camping and Porter Service

Camping and Porter Service

Most nights on this trek we will sleep in tents. However, you won’t need to carry your tent or extra gear — the trek team will handle camp setup and transportation. Bringing your own tent is not required.

What awaits us on this adventure

Climb the 5,000-meter peak Ararat

Ararat is the highest mountain in Turkey (5,137 m) and one of the most famous peaks in the world. According to legend, Noah’s Ark came to rest here. The climb is not very technically difficult, but the altitude and breathtaking views will leave you in awe. It’s a great route for those seeking a moderate challenge and an accessible summit experience.

The city of Van and Akdamar Island

The starting and ending point of the journey is the cultural and historical center of Eastern Turkey, located on the shore of Lake Van. Van was once the capital of the ancient Urartu kingdom. One of the main attractions of the lake is Akdamar Island, home to a 10th-century Armenian church.

Van Fortress

An ancient stone fortification offering panoramic views of the city and lake. It was built in the 8th century BCE during the reign of the Urartians.

Town of Doğubayazıt

On the return journey, we will visit the city of Doğubayazıt, home to the Ishak Pasha Palace — a magnificent example of 16th-century Ottoman architecture.

Culture of Eastern Turkey

We will find ourselves in the Anatolia region, predominantly inhabited by Kurds — a Muslim Sunni ethnic group with their own language and traditions. Kurdish hospitality is a cornerstone of their culture: guests are welcomed like friends with the phrase, “All that I have is yours.” The region’s history reflects the influence of many empires and peoples, creating a unique and warm cultural environment.

Pricing

Standard

€2,290


To reserve a spot, a €1,000 deposit is required.

Next, you'll have an online call with a top Scapers guide, where you'll learn about the preparation, route details, and high-altitude trekking experience, and get answers to all your questions.

After the call, you’ll have 3 days to confirm your participation or cancel: ⋆ If you cancel within this period, your deposit will be refunded minus a €50 administrative fee. ⋆ If you cancel after 3 days, the deposit is non-refundable, but you can apply it to another trip.

Just be and we will take care of the rest

Organization 360°

Our experienced team handles all organizational details, logistics, and contractor arrangements along the route. You won’t need to search for anything, make bookings, or make any decisions — just focus on being present.

Concierge service

We offer comprehensive support in preparation, including booking tickets and planning your route to Kathmandu, arranging accommodations upon arrival, selecting insurance, providing equipment recommendations, and offering complete informational support.

Meet our team

Yura - group leader, the founder of Scapers

Топ гід, спів-засновник Scapers

Traveling has always fascinated me. Over the past 10 years, I’ve traveled extensively solo, exploring about 40 countries.

With a background as a producer in the creative industry and managing a 3D design studio, I co-founded a community on a farm near Kyiv. There, along with friends, we sought a life closer to nature, working with our hands, learning crafts, and embracing ecological living. We restored traditional Ukrainian houses, cultivated produce, and explored village life as a contrast to the fast-paced modern world.

My favorite destinations are Nepal, Peru, and Iceland. I have a deep love for the mountains and look forward to sharing that passion with you.

Local team of mountain guides

Професійні провідники та організатори, занурені в локальний контекст. Досвічені у групових та приватних мандрівках.

Ararat Expedition, 6-13 Sept, 8 days / 7 nights

Program of the journey

Climbing the highest peak in Turkey is a deep encounter with the culture of the Kurdish east, the silence of the mountains, and the raw power of a volcano wrapped in legend. This route takes us through shepherd villages, lava fields, and alpine meadows all the way to the summit of Ararat — 5,137 m. Sunset at base camp, panoramic views of Iran and Armenia from the top, the smoke of the campfire — this is an adventure that stays with you forever. ⋆˚✿˖° The itinerary may be adjusted based on weather conditions, local circumstances, or safety requirements. Any changes are made solely in the interest of participant safety and comfort.

FAQ