This immersive 11-day journey takes you deep into the heart of the Kackar Mountains, a region defined by its dramatic topography, rushing glacial streams, and vibrant alpine meadows. Designed for trekking enthusiasts, this expedition offers a rare opportunity to explore remote high-altitude landscapes, including the Korahmet Valley, the serene Dilberduzu meadow, and the breathtaking Samistal Plateau. Beyond the rugged peaks, you will encounter the unique culture of local mountain villages and the varied wild flora of the high pastures.
The itinerary balances physical challenge with natural wonder, featuring a summit attempt on Mount Kackar (3937m) and scenic treks through the Caymakcur Pass. Participants will discover hidden glacial gems such as Derebasi Lake and Kara Deniz Lake, with opportunities to swim in crystal-clear waters. The trekking experience is fully supported by professional guides and logistical assistance, including mules for equipment transport, ensuring you can focus entirely on the majestic views of the Caucasus range and the legendary peaks that define this high-altitude wilderness.
Concluding the adventure, the tour transitions from the alpine heights to the cultural richness of the Black Sea region. You will visit the awe-inspiring Sumela Monastery, a marvel of medieval architecture carved directly into the sheer rock face of a canyon. The journey finishes in Trabzon, the historic harbor city, providing a perfect blend of high-altitude adventure and cultural exploration. From the thermal springs of Ayder to the ancient stone walls of the monastery, this tour offers a comprehensive exploration of the Kackar range's natural and historical treasures.
The route in brief: the tour starts with an arrival at Erzurum Airport and a transfer to Yusufeli. From Yaylalar village you warm up in the Korahmet Valley beneath the Bulut Mountains and walk the Modut Valley near Uzumlu, before climbing along a glacier-fed stream to the Dilberduzu campsite at 2900 m, the base for the Kackar summit day. The trek then continues to Dupeduz and over the Caymakcur Pass via Yukari Kavron to Ayder, where three nights allow walks to Derebasi Lake and the Samistal plateau. The final stage drives to Trabzon via Sumela Monastery. Accommodation combines hotels and camping nights, with mules carrying luggage and climbing equipment, and tents, sleeping mattresses, ropes and safety equipment provided.
| Tour type | Shared small group · multi-day tour |
|---|---|
| Duration | 11 Days 10 Nights |
| Price | From €1,461 per person |
| Departures | Every day |
| Guide | English-speaking licensed guide |
| Stops | 11 |
| Entrance fees | Included |
| Booking | Instant request online, confirmation within 24 hours · TÜRSAB-licensed operator (A-5751) |
Your full program, day by day — click a day to see every stop.
Upon your arrival at Erzurum Airport, you will be met and transferred to your accommodation in Yusufeli. After checking into your hotel, the remainder of the day is yours to relax or wander through the local surroundings of this scenic town. Dinner is provided as you prepare for the trekking days ahead.
We begin the morning with a transfer to the village of Yaylalar. In the afternoon, we embark on a warm-up trek through the Korahmet Valley, offering impressive views of the Bulut Mountains. This trek provides a wonderful chance to interact with local villagers. We return to Yaylalar for dinner and spend our first night camping under the stars.
Today features one of the most scenic treks in the Kackar range. We head toward Uzumlu to explore the Modut Valley. While the path is not overly strenuous, the surrounding mountain vistas are truly spectacular. We return to our base in Yaylalar for dinner and an overnight stay.
We ascend toward the high mountain pastures, following the path of a stream fed by glacial meltwater. Along the route, we may encounter local shepherds grazing their flocks in the summer meadows. Our destination is the Dilberduzu campsite, situated at 2900 meters on a flat meadow surrounded by steep, dramatic hills. We camp here for the night.
Today is the highlight of the expedition: the ascent to the summit of Mount Kackar (3937m). The climb involves navigating rock and scree with no technical difficulties. From the top, you can enjoy panoramic views of the entire range and potentially see Mount Ararat. Those opting out of the summit can enjoy local day hikes or swim in the nearby glacial lakes. We return to the Dilberduzu campsite for the night.
We continue our trekking journey toward Dupeduz. The trail winds through paths blanketed in wild mountain flora, offering constant, spectacular views of the Kackar range. We set up camp in the beautiful landscape of Dupeduz for the evening.
Our trek takes us toward the Yukari Kavron area and the Caymakcur Pass (3100m). We will pass several hidden lakes, with a chance to swim in the waters of Kara Deniz Lake if weather permits. Afterward, we descend to the village of Ayder, where we will stay in a local hotel.
Today’s walk leads us to Derebasi Lake, a stunning glacial body of water. This is an excellent opportunity to experience the pristine nature of the region and take a refreshing swim in the glacier-fed lake. We return to Ayder in the evening for dinner and another night in our hotel.
We embark on a trek to the Samistal plateau, known for its unique and colorful wildflowers. The view from the top provides a complete perspective of the Kackar range. After trekking down to Ayder, we will soothe our muscles in the village's famous thermal springs. Dinner and overnight stay in Ayder.
We depart for Trabzon, stopping en route to visit the Sumela Monastery. This architectural wonder is carved into the steep rock face of a canyon and is one of the most significant sites in the region. We continue to Trabzon for a city tour of this major Black Sea harbor, followed by dinner and an overnight hotel stay.
After breakfast, you will be picked up from your hotel for your transfer to Trabzon Airport. We hope you leave with unforgettable memories of the Kackar Mountains.
Yusufeli → Yaylalar → Uzumlu → Dilberduzu → Mount Kackar → Dupeduz → Ayder → Trabzon
Modern, comfortable and fully-equipped vehicles — the same fleet we use on your tour.
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Extra day tours you can add along your route — Yusufeli, Yaylalar, Uzumlu, Dilberduzu, Mount Kackar, Dupeduz, Ayder, Trabzon.
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