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…
Trip: Anatolia 2024
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Killi Tepe
We tackled another less-climbed ultra-prominent peak with an impressive 179 km of isolation. The rarity of climbs, based on Peakbagger reports, might suggest it’s not frequently visited—though locals could be the exception. Regardless, the hike is definitely worthwhile due to the stunning and diverse landscapes. The terrain offers a mix of different views and challenges….
Uludaz
I land in Gaziantep after 3 a.m. By 4 a.m., Rob and I are at the airport—our third reunion on this trip. At 9 a.m., it’s not just Rob and me, but our car stopping near the summit of Uludaz, another ultra-prominent mountain in Turkey. We park a little lower, at one of the switchbacks….
Engizek Dağı – Attempt
Early in the morning, we drove to the ultra-prominent Uludaz. After an easy drive, we turned our attention to Engizek Dağı. We detoured to Ahirdaği and Ahir Dağı—Peak 2345 along the way. By the time we reached the base of Engizek Dağı, it was already late afternoon. We hoped for a quick hike, but time…
Ahir Daği – Peak 2345
After taking in the views of Kahramanmaraş from Ahirdaği, we traveled a bit further east toward the more prominent Ahir Daği (p940). A paved road leads to the ski center, followed by a reasonably good unpaved road that approaches the summit. The road ends a few hundred meters from the top, so we parked at…
Ahirdaği
After a superb breakfast in Kahramanmaraş, we briefly explore the area and spot the enticing Ahirdaği peak. Checking the maps shows a P300 road leading straight to the summit. With some time on our hands, we head towards the communication masts at the top. Soon, we park near the high point and walk a couple…
Kesis Dağı
After climbing Akbaba Tepesi, we realized Sabri, one of our drivers, wasn’t just good company—he’s also an avid hiker. He joined us on the ascent, slower but determined, earning a well-deserved pat on the back. On the way down, I asked if he’d drive us to Kessi Dagi the next morning before our flight. He…
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…