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Climbing Mount Ararat in 2027: A Practical Guide to Türkiye's Highest Summit
Few mountains carry as much story as Mount Ararat. At 5,137 m, the dormant volcano known in Turkish as Ağrı Dağı is the highest peak in Türkiye: a lone, snow-capped giant rising above the plains near the Armenian and Iranian borders. For centuries it has been linked to the story of Noah's Ark, and for Armenians watching it from Yerevan it remains a national symbol.
The best part? You don't need to be a mountaineer to stand on top. Ararat is one of the few 5,000-metre summits that fit, motivated hikers can reach without any technical climbing experience. If a 5,000 m summit is on your list for 2027, here is everything you need to know: how hard the climb really is, how the route works, the permits, the best months and how our 7-day expedition takes you from Doğubayazıt to the summit and back.
Why climb Mount Ararat?
A true 5,000er for hikers. The standard southern route is a long, steady ascent on trails, volcanic scree and, near the top, snow. No ropes or rock-climbing skills are needed.
Legend and history. Ararat is traditionally associated with the resting place of Noah's Ark. The first recorded ascent was made in October 1829 by Friedrich Parrot and Khachatur Abovian.
Views you won't forget. From the summit you look across the Ararat Plain, into Armenia and over the volcanic highlands of Eastern Anatolia, with Little Ararat (3,896 m) far below.
A once-in-a-lifetime achievement. Standing on the roof of Türkiye is a story you'll tell for years, and for many of our guests it is their first summit above 5,000 m.
How difficult is it, and can I do it?
Ararat is non-technical but physically demanding. The real challenge is altitude: you start at around 2,200 m and gain almost 3,000 m over several days, and summit day alone means more than 900 m of ascent above high camp, followed by a long descent.
If you hike regularly, can walk for 6–8 hours a day and feel comfortable on steep, rocky paths, Ararat is within reach. Our program includes a full acclimatization day, so your body has time to adapt, and an experienced local guide sets a steady pace for the whole group.
How to prepare: start training two to three months before your trip with long hikes, stair climbing, running or cycling. If you can, do a few weekend hikes above 2,500–3,000 m. Near the summit you will cross snow, so crampons are part of the standard kit, and your guide will show you how to use them.
The route: from Eli village to the summit
Our expedition follows the standard southern route, with a dedicated acclimatization day built in to give you the best chance of a safe summit:
Day 1 – Arrival. Arrival at Van or Iğdır airport and transfer to Doğubayazıt. Route briefing and equipment check with your guide.
Day 2 – To Camp 1 (3,200 m). Drive to Eli village (2,200 m) and hike through volcanic landscapes to Camp 1.
Day 3 – Acclimatization. Climb towards Camp 2 (4,200 m) and return to Camp 1 to sleep lower: climb high, sleep low.
Day 4 – To Camp 2 (4,200 m). Move up to high camp, rest and prepare your gear for the night start.
Day 5 – Summit day. Start around 2:00 AM, reach the summit at 5,137 m, then descend via Camp 2 to Camp 1.
Day 6 – Descent. Walk down to Eli village and transfer to a hotel in Doğubayazıt.
Day 7 – Culture and departure. İshak Paşa Palace, the Durupınar "Noah's Ark" site and the Diyadin hot springs, then transfer to the airport.
Permits: why you cannot climb Ararat on your own
Mount Ararat lies in a military-restricted border zone. Every climber needs an official climbing permit issued by the Turkish authorities, and the climb must be organised through a licensed Turkish agency with an authorised guide. Independent climbing is not allowed.
The application is based on your passport details and takes time, so book at least a month before departure, ideally much earlier. When you climb with ORIENTO, we handle the whole permit process for you.
When is the best time to climb?
The climbing season runs from May to October. For first-time high-altitude hikers, July and August are the best choice: the weather is most stable and there is the least snow on the route. June and September are quieter and a little cooler, a great option if you prefer smaller crowds. Outside the season, Ararat is in full winter, so all our climbs take place between May and October.
Summer dates fill up quickly, and permits must be arranged in advance. The winter months are the ideal time to plan: choose your dates, start training and book early.
What to pack
Your kit has to cover everything from warm summer days at the bottom to cold, windy conditions on the summit:
Sturdy, waterproof mountaineering boots compatible with crampons
Crampons and trekking poles
Warm layers: thermal base layers, fleece, an insulated down jacket and a waterproof shell
Warm gloves, hat, buff and glacier sunglasses
A warm sleeping bag: nights at high camp are below freezing even in summer
Headlamp, high-SPF sunscreen, water bottles and a personal first-aid kit
Your guide checks everyone's equipment on Day 1, before the climb begins.
More than a mountain: Doğubayazıt and around
The expedition is also a journey into one of Türkiye's least-visited regions. Above Doğubayazıt stands İshak Paşa Palace, an 18th-century masterpiece blending Ottoman, Persian, Seljuk, Armenian and Kurdish influences. Nearby, the boat-shaped Durupınar formation is traditionally linked to Noah's Ark, and the thermal waters of Diyadin are the perfect reward for tired legs. With extra time, you can continue to Van for Akdamar Island and the shores of Lake Van.
Climb Ararat with ORIENTO
Our 7-day expedition is led by Cuma, a mountain guide born at the foot of Ararat who has reached the summit more than 700 times. The program covers the climbing permit, guiding, camps, full board on the mountain and all logistics, with prices from €589 per person.
Planning your 2027 climb? Permits take time - book early to secure your dates.
See the full program: Mount Ararat Climb: 7-Day Expedition. Tour operators can request net rates for groups through our B2B page.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I climb Ararat without mountaineering experience?
Yes. No technical experience is needed, but you should be a fit hiker, comfortable with long days on foot. Previous experience above 3,000 m is helpful but not required.
Where does the climb start?
Although Ararat dominates the view from Yerevan, the mountain lies entirely in Türkiye. Climbs start from Doğubayazıt on the Turkish side, reached via Van or Iğdır airport.
How long is summit day?
Expect a long day: typically 5–9 hours from Camp 2 to the summit, followed by the descent to Camp 1, which takes several hours more.
When should I book for summer 2027?
As early as possible. The climbing permit has to be arranged in advance, and July and August are the most popular months. Booking in winter or early spring gives you the widest choice of dates and plenty of time to train.
Do I need a visa for Türkiye?
Many nationalities, including EU, UK, US and Canadian citizens, can enter Türkiye visa-free or with an e-Visa. Check the current rules for your passport before booking.
Oriento Travel – Exploring the World Together.
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