Main Info
Ski Touring in the Taurus Mountains
The violent eruptions of the Erciyes and Hasan volcanoes millions of years ago blanketed the surrounding plateau with tuff. Over time, wind and rain have eroded this brittle rock, shaping the surreal landscape of Cappadocia—an otherworldly world of rock cones, spire-like pinnacles, and deep ravines in colors that range from warm reds and golds to cool greens and grays. Cappadocia is one of those rare regions where the works of man blend seamlessly into the landscape. The region’s rock-hewn dwellings date back as far as 400 B.C., when Xenophon mentioned them in his Anabasis. During Byzantine times, chapels and monasteries were carved into the rocks, and their ochre-toned frescoes harmonize naturally with the surrounding terrain.
Ski Touring in the Taurus Mountains is a thrilling adventure where you will have the chance to explore the volcanic mountains of central Anatolia and ski across the Taurus range from south to east. The highlight of the journey will be the climb to Mt. Embler, standing at 3,723 meters in the Aladağ region. Along the way, you’ll stay in traditional villages, living in close-knit communities where you’ll experience the warmth and hospitality of the locals. Evenings will be spent exchanging stories and enjoying the company of the villagers. Recent participants have described Ski Touring in the Taurus Mountains as both exhilarating and deeply rewarding, offering a rare opportunity to connect with nature and culture in such a remote part of the world.
If you’re looking for an unforgettable challenge, Ski Touring in the Taurus Mountains promises to deliver stunning scenery, rich history, and an unforgettable cultural experience.
How Technical Is It? How Fit Should I Be?
Skill Level:
The terrain features some short, steep sections, so you should be comfortable with ski touring techniques and skiing on various types of snow. We’ll also encounter some glacier terrain, so familiarity with skiing in more challenging conditions is essential. You should be proficient in performing uphill kick turns without hesitation.
Stamina Level:
A good level of physical fitness is required. Some uphill sections may need to be completed on foot, and ascents and descents can range from 800 to 1,000 meters per day. Depending on the itinerary, there may be two outings per day, offering flexibility for those who wish to push further or rest if needed.
Important to Note:
While the snow will be inviting, remember that you’re venturing into remote regions, far from the comforts of home. Rescue services may be slower to respond in these areas, so it’s important to stay calm, take your time, and enjoy the journey. This is not a ski park—respect the terrain and always be mindful of your surroundings. And please, avoid attempting risky maneuvers, like backflips, without knowing what’s on the other side.
Comfort Tip:
For ease and comfort, a pair of Crocs is a great investment. They’re perfect for relaxing in hotel rooms, hopping on and off the minibus, or simply lounging after a long day on the slopes.
Good to Know:
If your skill level doesn’t meet the requirements for the trip, the guide may ask you to leave in the interest of the group’s safety and enjoyment. If you have any doubts or questions about your readiness, don’t hesitate to reach out—we’re happy to provide guidance!
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Itinerary
Download BrochureMeet at the airport and transfer to Hotel. Overnight at hotel.
In the morning we ‘ll leave the capital and drive to Aksaray. En route we will stop to visit the Salt lake ( Tuz gölü ) its square is 1700 km2 there is 329 gr. salt in 1 litre water. We will have lunch in the restaurant on the road. then we ‘ll arrive to Gözlükuyu village is located foot of Mt. Hasan at 1600 m. After we accommodate in a village house, we will sight seeing in village to contact with villagers and to conversate with them. Dinner and overnight in village house.
In the early morning we will have our breakfast. A tractor will transfer us until beginning of snow. Then we ascent Mount Hasan summit about 5,6 hours walking. Climbing gradually up is more and more abundant. Erciyes and Cappadocia are visible from the summit. Then we descent and drive to Martı village at the foot of Taurus Mountain. Dinner and overnight in a village house.
After breakfast in the early morning , our vehicle will transfer us to the Emli valley . Wearing our ski we cross the fragrant pine forest and walk up to Alaca plateaux at 3330 m. Here there is an optional ascent till 3588m, you can choose to take the opportunity to ascent till 3588m. Then descent from Avcıbeli pass. We ski from Akşampınarı valley through the forest to Sıyırmalık valley (2200m).We will ski more and arrive to Emli valley we start to ski. Then our vehicle will transfer us to village house. Dinner and overnight in the village house.
In the early morning our vehicle will transfer us to Tülü valley. Wearing our ski and ascent to Yalakderesi valley. After we pass Çelikbuyduran pass , we ascent to Embler summit.(3723m.) Here, we can see the Bolkar Mountains, Mt Hasan (3268m) and the highest summit of Mt. Demirkazık (3756m). We will descent to ski to the village. Dinner and overnight in village house.
Our bus transfers us to the Mt Erciyes. (Argée) at 2215m. Overnight in hotel with all meals.
This volcano is one of the most fascinating noes in the world. We will ascent the Mount Erciyes to reach its top from which the panoramic view is worth to see. Then a fascinating skiing descent throug the several valleys of the majestic volcano.
We will meet with our vehicle and drive to Kayseri. Transfer to hotel . Overnight at hotel.
Transfer to the airport and fly to home.
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