The idea for our Anatolia trip started as a straightforward acclimatization hike before tackling higher peaks. Dave and I thought the 5,137m Mount Ararat (Ağrı Dağı) in Turkey would be the perfect warm-up before the 4,506m Gora Belukha in Kazakhstan. Simple, right? : ) But naturally, we decided to make things more interesting by adding…
Range: Southeast Anatolia
Anatolia – Southeast Anatolia
Akbaba Tepesi
Before climbing, we need acclimatization, so after a big climb, we need something opposite. We have three more days before our flight from Igdir. We mock up a plan, adding one more ultra-prominent peak to our itinerary. We drive to Erzincan, a city at the base of Akbaba Tepesi mountain. It’s a long drive, taking…
Mount Ararat
If you’re on this page, you probably know about Mount Ararat. If not, don’t worry; it won’t stay a secret for long.. Mount Ararat, also known as Masis, Çiyayê Agirî, and Ağrı Dağı, is a snow-capped, dormant compound volcano. This mountain is quite the celebrity due to its impressive altitude, striking prominence, easy accessibility, and…
Suphan Dağı
Suphan Dağı stands tall at over 4000 meters, with a prominence exceeding 2000 meters and an isolation of more than 150 kilometers. This mountain isn’t just interesting to climb; it’s practically irresistible. With its proximity to Mount Ararat, it’s the perfect candidate for an acclimatization climb. We’ve already had a taste of acclimatization on Kara…
Mor Dağı
A previously unreported ultra-prominent peak in Turkey? That’s a gem we definitely want to bag. Recep confirms we can climb it without permits—though some local knowledge wouldn’t hurt. After our drive two days ago, we felt a bit stressed about reaching our preferred starting point, but Erdem assured us over the phone that we could…
Kara Dağ
Two hours after takeoff from Istanbul, we touch down in Hakkâri-Yüksekova (YKO). A blast furnace greets us as we disembark; the desert heat radiating from the open aircraft doors. Despite the infernal conditions, the distant mountain range looks promising. Airport formalities are a breeze, and our guide for the trip, Recep, is waiting. Curiously, while…