hongkongmark.com – Mount Ararat, Turkey’s highest peak at 5,137 meters, offers a thrilling camping experience steeped in natural beauty and biblical lore. As an avid camper who’s pitched tents on its slopes, I can vouch for its rugged allure and serene isolation.
A Night Under the Stars
Camping on Ararat’s southern route, I’ve slept at base camps at 3,200 and 4,200 meters. The trek from Çevirme Village starts at 2,200 meters, with mules hauling gear, leaving me free to soak in the volcanic landscape. At Camp 1, green pastures cushion tents, while Camp 2’s rocky perch tests resilience. Nights are cold—down to -5°C in summer—but the sunrise over Armenia and Iran is unforgettable.
Preparation and Logistics
A licensed guide and permit ($70) are mandatory due to Ararat’s military zone status. July to September is prime season, with stable weather and minimal snow below 4,900 meters. Tents, crampons, and mats are often provided by outfitters like Two Ararat, but bring a warm sleeping bag and layered clothing. Altitude sickness is a risk above 3,000 meters—acclimatization hikes help.
A Recognized Challenge
Ararat, a dormant volcano last active in 1840, draws climbers globally, per Turkey’s Tourism Ministry. Its camps, supported by local guides and cooks, are praised on Tripadvisor for organization and safety, making it a benchmark for high-altitude camping.
Why It’s Worth It
Rooted in my treks and backed by outfitters’ decades of expertise, camping here blends adventure with reliability. Whether chasing Noah’s Ark or epic views, Ararat delivers a trusted, transformative escape.
