11) Are you familiar with Damavand area and routes?
If you are climbing Damavand for the first time, it is best to climb with guides. Although there are footprints along the way, the presence of unstable stones and sudden changes in the weather may cause problems. According to the existence of facilities in Rineh and Plour, the southern route is the easiest way to climb Damavand.
12) Can you stay in a tent or shelter in Damavand?
In Bargah-e sevom, except the two existing shelters, there are also flat and suitable spaces for the construction of tents. There might be a lack of space on the weekend that’s why we recommend you to take a tour.
13) Are there any transportation options?
It’s better not to take extra, and cumbersome gear. You can use livestock to carry your packs so you can save energy for the summit day. Some people use the mule to move the equipment up from Goosfand Sara to Bargah-e Sevom. At the final stage of climbing, climb to the summit by taking necessary stuff with a smaller backpack.
14)Is drinking water available in Damavand?
The water at the higher altitudes of this area is freezing throughout the night. You should be able to use it during the day. Due to the small number of impurities and tasting water, you can use water tablets. Access to drinking water on the northern route is more difficult than other ways. You might need to melt snow to provide drinking water. But on the southern route, mineral water can be bought from the shelter.
15) Is there a problem of air temperature or height matching in Damavand?
Some people quickly adapt to altitude, while others have acute mountain eardrums and require a longer time to fit the height.
The most important symptoms that occur until they get matched with the altitude are headaches, nausea, and dizziness. To overcome these problems, climbers can climb to a height of 4500 meters and descend back to the shelter. In case of further issues and more severe symptoms, the person can go back to a lower altitude. Alibabatrek company has made this situation easy for the hikers with proficiency in Iran trekking tour. Also, in some cases, you can fix this by deploying more days in height.
16) How to navigate the route to Damavand peak?
One of the first points in climbing activity is to move slowly and steadily. The division of energy into the entire path is possible with slow and steady steps, especially on long distance with a higher slope. Also, the joy and fun of mountains and hiking are not just in reaching the peak. You must enjoy watching nature and the attractions of the routes.
Try to move slowly, breath correctly, drink sweet liquids, and have short rest can make climbing easier for you. It is better that at least one of the members of the group has already climbed to the summit of Damavand. It is better for those who are not ready to reach the peak to stand back from the last climb.
17) What diet plan is suitable for climbing Damavand?
The best foods for mountaineering are low-volume and energy-saving foods. Also, meals should be used to not corrupt, especially in warmer seasons. But in general, we suggest you solve this problem by taking a tour. So you can leave this responsibility to your guide.
18) Suggestions for a better ascent!
If you are into reading, we suggest you bring a small book so you can read it in your free time.
We suggest you bring a camera so you can capture the fancy landscapes and climbing moments.
You can enjoy your time by listening to music, so bring a music player.
If you write down your journal, you can bring a notepad with yourself so you can write down your memories.
19) Can I join another Damavand group or do I have to go solo?
We often have a group leaving for Damavand. You can join them if we have one on your requested day. If you want to go solo, it is also possible to take a private tour.
20) Can I have a cultural tour alongside my Damavand tour?
Since many hikers would like, to have an Iran cultural tour, our company has added some Iran tour packages to Damavand trip. Visit Iran’s Mountains & Monuments packages. You can also customize your own trip and mix Damavand climbing with any other activities you want.
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Mount Damavand the highest mountain in Iran and the tallest volcano in the Middle East. This mountain is in the central part of the Alborz mountain range (Central Alborz). In the south of the Caspian Sea and the Larijan district of Amol city.
Alibabatrek Damavand guides have observed All that we mentioned in the list. Hikers can experience a safe and enjoyable Damavand climbing tour along with a much Damavand climbing guidance.
Mt.Damavand (5671m)
1) Do we have access to mobile and electricity networks in Damavand?
Climbers can use telecommunication facilities and the Internet on the southern route, at shelters and even at Damavand Summit. Also, in Damavand Camp III (Bargah-e Sevom), with a height of 4200 meters, it is possible to recharge electronics. However, we recommend that climbers bring a power bank. Mountaineers and tourists can take advantage of their mobile modem equipment on their trips with Alibabatrek.
2) What types of cameras can we use during hiking up Mount Damavand?
Due to the possibility of transferring cargo to the third camp, you can easily use most of the cameras. Maybe it’s better to use small cameras on the climbing day to the peak to lower the weight. But with professional fitness and decreasing the peak level, you can use professional cameras as well.
3) Is there any possibility of bathing in Damavand camps?
Get ready to climb Damavand for 3-4 days. Although there is no problem in providing water for washing, due to cold weather and the environment, there is no place for bathing. But after returning from Mount Damavand, you can enjoy swimming in the Larijan spring.
4) Are there adequate sanitary facilities in Damavand area?
In Damavand camps, especially in the South, climbers can use adequate sanitary facilities.
5)What outfits are suitable for climbing Damavand and what equipment should we have?
In different seasons, climbing Damavand requires different clothes. But the apparel needed in the regular climb season is the following:
A large backpack or bag for carrying your stuff with a mule
A small backpack for climbing equipment
Cover
A sleeping bag with a Comfort -5 temperature
A whistle
A climbing baton
Cortex jacket and pants
Polar coat and pants
First and second layer shirts and trousers
Suitable climbing shoes for the season
Gait
Two pairs of Woolen socks
Anti-storm hats
Suitable gloves for the season
Sunglasses
Cap
Headlamp
Batteries
The necessary dishes (knives, glasses, spoons, flakes, forks)
A thermos or bottles of water
A camera
A mobile phone and a power bank a toothbrush and toothpaste
Tissue
Notepads and pens
Yarn and needles
personalized first aid
Sunscreen
authentic identification cards
personalized medicines.
6) What medicine should we take while we are climbing?
Having high-healing drugs can be a good help in emergencies. But their use is not recommended without consulting the expert and mountain guide. However, the elevation of the eclipse is one of the most common diseases in the mountains. Alibabatrek Damavand guides will guide you in emergency cases. They have a good experience and have passed mountain medical courses. If you are under specific treatment, take your medication with you and tell your guide and our agency about it.
7) How much preparation is required to climb Mount Damavand?
Sufficient physical fitness is the first requirement for climbing Mount Damavand. Hiking to the summit of Damavand from the southern route, it is not difficult for those who regularly go birding and have enough physical fitness. Of course, the sulfur gas near the summit may bring the end of the climb a little bit more effortlessly.
8) What months of the year should we climb?
Mount Damavand’s weather in April and May is volatile and accompanied by severe storms. These can disrupt climbing programs and increase the likelihood of accidents. The best time to climb Mount Damavand is in July and August.
9) What days of the week should we climb?
We can refer this part to the southern route. Because the southern aspect of Damavand is the easiest way to climb, The presence of countless climbers along this path brings a lot of crowdedness and a lot of noise. This will prevent resting and easy climbing. The crowdedness is visible at the weekends. Therefore, we suggest that the climbing programs for this route take time in the first days of the week.
10) What time should we climb the day?
According to most climbers, it is better to climb in the night due to the warmth of the sunlight and the smell of sulfur. Sunshine may not cause many problems. Having a good rest at night and climb with more energy is our priority. The Damavand mountaineering tour that we have organized has a daily program till 7:00 pm. You can have time for personal activities or rest.
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Iran is a country of four seasons. Due to the specific geographical location of Iran, its placement between the two seas and its particular topography, you can find unique species of plants and animals in Iran.
Iran’s vegetation diversity is so vast that it is unique in other Middle East countries. Vegetation has covered a massive part of Iran due to the establishment of dry and semi-arid areas caused by the tropical tidal belt operating area. Because of the specific characteristics of Iranian ecology, vegetation diversity in Iran is always observed. This variation depends on the natural state of the climate. The boundaries of vegetation and animal areas are not completely clear. But concerning the weather, you can see the difference between plants and animals in three temperate regions of the Caspian. Temperate mountainous, and desert and semi-desert regions.
Flora of Iran
Fauna of Iran
Due to the geographical diversity, the existence of forests, deserts, mountains, seas and…, Iran is a habitat for various animal species. In the meantime, there are rare species such as Persian Caracal, Goitered gazelle, Iranian Cheetah, Maral, which is unique to Iran.
In addition to having a mammal, Iran has a variety of aquatic animals, birds, and reptiles. Four seasonal weather conditions in Iran have made the land not only the origin of native birds. Also, it has made Iran the primary source of migratory birds from the northern regions of Asia, Russia, and Siberia. The existence of two free-flowing seas in the south and the north has led to a variety of aquatic species. In the case of reptiles, the nature of Iran is the habitat of many reptiles and amphibians.
Fauna of Iran
Wildlife of Damavand
Mount Damavand is 5671 meters high. The highest mountain in Iran and the Middle East and the highest volcanic peak in Asia. In aspects of natural attractions, the Damavand slopes are unique. It consists of many hot and mineral springs, beautiful and lush valleys. The Plour Valley, the yellow flower Valley and the last but not least Damavand Peak are some of these attractions. Damavand honey is a typical product of Damavand wildlife. According to these features climbing Damavand on your own or taking a mount Damavand tour is a perfect idea.
But due to the non-expert development of this area, there are human risks. Mining, road construction, waste and most importantly, excessive livestock grazing are treating the wildlife of Mount Damavand.
Persian Goat – Mt.Damavand
Flora of Damavand
At various altitudes of Mount Damavand, there are plenty of plants, some of which are only visible at a certain height. The plants of this region: Kolah-e Mir Hassan Damavandi, Kezel Damavandi, Bu Madaran-e Damavandi, Pir Giah-e Damavandi, and others.
The vegetation of the southern, northern, eastern and western slopes of Damavand is different and does not have a steady image. At the height of 3200 to 3500 meters, there are grass and long, spiny and interconnected bits.
Anemone flower has covered Mount Damavand range at altitudes of 2000 to 3500 meters. This unique anemone is well-known in the world. People know it y the name, Shaghayegh-e Lar in the world’s leading botanical books.
Shaghayegh-e Lar, Mt.Damavand
Fauna of Damavand
Damavand mountain ranges and its heights are well suited for creating a unique fauna. Due to its exceptional location, which runs from the north to the forest and the south to the mountains bordered by the Kavir, this region hosts a variety of animals.
Mt.Damavand-Photographer: Sina Abbasnejad
Mammals of Mount Damavand:
the hedgehogs of Europe
the Hedgehog (in the foothills)
the fawn bat
the serotine bat
the long wing bat (in caves and mines)
the gray hamster
the driller
the usual butterfly (in highlands and mountains)
rabbits
Wolf
Jackal
Common Fox
Brown Bear
Sheng
Wild Cats
Leopard
Meral
Boar and Pumpkin
Can be mentioned in valleys, mountains, valleys, and slopes of Damavand.
Birds of Mount Damavand:
The birds are quite various, including the species of hawks, pigeons, owls, nightgowns, swallows, lobsters, bream barns, eels, wheel rims, and crows.
Reptiles are found in lower elevations, mountain peaks, and valleys, and include some unique species in Iran. From Snakes, Macrovipera le Betina, Alborzi Vipera, Damavandi Vipera, Caucasian Vipera (from the Poisonous Group) and many other species.
Birds of Mt.Damavand-Photographer: Babak Aliabadi
Mummies of Mount Damavand:
On the top of mount Damavand, you can find some frozen animal carcasses. People have seen them in this place for many years, and they include animals such as sheep and goat. The reason for finding these animals at the top of Mount Damavand and their death is not well known. Maybe due to the presence of sulfur gas, freezing temperature, starvation or some other reasons they are dead.
Mt.Damavand’s Summit (5671m) – (There is a sheep mummy on the right side)
Note about climbing Damavand
If you are into hiking and you might want to try Mount Damavand. You should consider that due to Damavand difficulty level you might need a Damavand climbing guide because many great hikers have lost their lives in this mountain.
You can also find more Iran mountains tours on our website!
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Damavand mount has a special place in Iranian mythology and stories. This mount has had a significant impact on the thoughts of the Iranian people throughout history. You cannot find any mount as tall as Damavand in the Alborz mountains. The greatness and glory of this mount have been engaging the minds of the people for so long. Therefore, the ancient geographers thought of it as an unreachable mount. The ancient Iranians believed that the ski is holy. Therefore, Damavand mount which is the closest place to the ski is counted as sacred as well.
Also, due to its unique place in history, Damavand affects the lives of the Iranians in many ways. Damavand has been the subject of many artistic and visual works by famous artists. This mount is still a symbol that you can see in different places. Its pictures are on the current Iranian money, coins, posters, etc.
Iranian Rials
Iranian Coin
Barfchal Ceremony
The inhabitants of Ab Ask village perform this ritual every year in the spring. They collect the snows left since the winter and collect them in a whole. This ritual shows the foresight of these people. They store the snows so they can have enough water in summer. At the end of this ritual the time of having food and celebrating comes. The inhabitants of Ab Ask village do this ceremony mostly because of their religious beliefs nowadays. This ceremony has been held for more than six centuries now.
Barfchal Ceremony
Barfchal Ceremony
Mount Damavand in Iranian Mythology
Many stories and myths are about Damavand due to its holiness. Some of the most critical mythologic events have occurred in Damavand. This mount is most famous for the legend of Zahaak and Fereydoun. Here are two of the most famous Iranian myths related to Mount Damavand.
Zahhak and Fereydoon:
According to Shahnameh by Ferdowsi Zahaak was a ruler that evil was able to deceive him easily. He had two snakes on his shoulders because the devil had kissed his shoulders. These two snakes were not removable because as soon as someone cut off their heads, another snake would replace it. These two snakes only ate human brains for food. Therefore, Zahaak had ordered to kill two men each day and feed their brain to these snakes. Fereydun was a young man who agreed to lead the people against Zahaak. He fought Zahaak and defeated him in the battle. But, he didn’t kill Zahaak. Fereydun imprisoned him in a cave underneath mount Damavand. This cave is the place where Zahaak will stay until the end of the world. Still, some of the residents near mount Damavand believe that Zahaak is in that cave. They also think that some of the sounds they sometimes hear in Damavand are Zahaak shouting and crying.
Ferdowsi‘s Shahnameh, Zahhak
Arash the Bowman:
In a war between Iranians and Turanians, both sides agreed for peace. They decided that wherever the bowshot of an Iranian bowman falls, will be returned to Iran. Therefore, the Iranians chose the best archer they had (Arash) and made a special bow and arrow. Arash stood on the top of the Mount Damavand and fired the arrow. The arrow flies since the dawn until sunset. The place where the arrow landed, became the border between Iranians and Turanians. Arash the Bowman dies at the second he fires the arrow because of using all his power. His body tears into pieces and spreads all around Iran and his soul flies with the arrow.
Arash The Archer sculpture in Sa’adAbad Palace
Poems About Damavand
Mount Damavand has always been the symbol of endurance of the Iranians. Therefore, it has attracted the attention of many Iranian poets of different eras. Ferdowsi, Rumi, Nizami, Vahshi Bafqi, Malek o-Shoara Bahar any many others have written poems about Damavand. For example, one of the most famous poems about Damavand is Ode to Damavand by Malek o-Shoara Bahar. In this ode, Malek o-Shoara used Damavand as the symbol of intellects of Iranian society in the 20th century. Malek o-Shoara believes their features are isolation, separation from the ordinary people and being upset with them.
You can see some verses of this beautiful critical poem below:
O’Shackled white demon!
O’dome of the world, Damavand!
You have a helmet on your head of silver
And a belt on your waste of iron
To cover your face from people
You have hidden your face behind clouds.
In order, to be left alone by these human-faced animals
And these demon-like, sinister people,
You have made a treaty with the lion of sky
And unified with the lucky star
When the earth became cold, dark and
Silent by the celestial oppression,
It threw its fist of rage up the sky,
And you are that fist, O’Damavand!
You are that mighty rough fist of earth
Inherited through long centuries
Europeans in the history of Damavand
The first Europian who wanted to conquer Damavand French. His name was Antoine Olivier, and he was a natural sciences researcher. He came to Iran due to his mission for gathering some information about the Middle East. During his first attempt at conquering Damavand, he found sulfurous rocks on his way. However, he couldn’t conquer Damavand on his first attempt. He tried once more some years later, and this time he managed to conquer Damavand successfully.
Jacques de Morgan travelled the north and south of Iran with the help of the French government. Although he did many valuable services in the field of archaeology, he was a geologist as well. In the winter of 1889, de Morgan tries conquering Mount Damavand but fails at 5300 meters. He provides a plan of Mount Damavand and goes back to France.
De Morgan’s program of climbing is significant because it happened 120 years ago in -26 centigrade temperature.
Mt.Damavand (5671m)
Damavand and Music
Shahin Farhat is an Iranian music composer who has composed Damavand symphony. He mentions this symphony as his best work. This symphony includes three parts; the first part visualizes the personality of Damavand and an abstract conquering. The second part is about the beauties of Mount Damavand. Finally, the third part envisions the snow and blizzard in Damavand. Then, this part finishes by describing the glory of Damavand.
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Many know Iran for its rich culture and fantastic nature. But, other aspects of Iran such as its skiing resorts are not recognized well enough. Having Alborz mountain range in the north and Zagros mountain range in the west, Iran is a mountainous country. You can find many peaks higher than 3000 meters in these mountain ranges (especially in Alborz). Besides, Iran is a country of four seasons and is appropriate for skiing in most months of the year.
Therefore, Iran is an excellent destination for skiers from all around the world. The ski resorts in Iran are the most qualified ski resorts in the Middle East. Also, the prices of Iran tour packages for skiing can be slightly lower than in other countries. Another important aspect of skiing with Iran tours is the possibility of both ski touring and skiing in the ski resorts. Putting all these together, Iran can be a significant place for skiing comparing to other countries.
Here are some points about Iran skiing:
1) The Costs of Skiing in Iran
Many think of skiing as a luxurious winter sport. The costs of skiing are not just limited to ticket prices. You probably have to think of hiring ski guides, ski gears, lift chair tickets and, the costs of accommodation as well. The expense of hiring a ski guide in the Alps can be up to 500 Euros per day. On the other hand, the cost for a day of ski touring in Iran can be 100-150 Euros.
The cost of tickets of the biggest ski resort in Iran, Dizin ski resort, is 120000 Tomans (almost 10 USD). Also, the costs of hiring gear are 100000 Tomans, practically equivalent to 8 USD. The prices of accommodation in ski resorts such as Dizin and Shemshak are almost 150000 Tomans (12.5 USD) for private rooms. Besides, those skiing in groups (8-10 people) can stay in chalets which are very cheap (almost 6 USD). Considering the differences in prices, Iran has some of the most affordable ski resorts in the world.
Dizin ski resort
2) Iran Backcountry Skiing
Besides having qualified ski resorts, many peaks in the central Alborz give the skiers the opportunity of Iran ski touring. Therefore, it is a fantastic opportunity for those seeking new snow and engagements in more attractive activities. Peaks like Damavand, Alamkuh, Gol-e-Zard, Dowbarar and, Dizin are appropriate for such activity. Also, Alamkuh ski tours are very trendy among skiers interested in ski touring. You can rarely find such opportunities of ski touring in mountain ranges such as the Alps. March, April, and May are the best months for ski touring in Iran. Some of the trendiest Iran backcountry skiing mounts are Alamkuh, Damavand, and Zagros mounts.
3) The Biggest and The Highest Ski Resorts in The Middle East
One of the Tehran ski resorts is Dizin located in the north of this city. This ski resort is the biggest ski resort in the Middle East and the most excellent ski resort in Iran. Also, the World Ski Federation has confirmed this ski resort for holding official tournaments. The height of this piste is 2650- 3600 meters. Besides, it is appropriate for both off-piste and on-piste skiing.
The Tochal ski resort is the highest ski resort in the Middle East. The height of this ski resort in almost 3850 meters. For getting up, you will need to take two telecabins that takes around 45 minutes in total. The distance between the seventh and fifth stations of this ski resort is almost 5500 meters. In addition, Tochal is usable for skiing for eight months per year.
Tochal ski resort
4) Risks of Skiing in Iran Comparing to the Alps
One of the most significant points about skiing in Iran is the safety of it. There is no probability for the occurrence of an avalanche in the peaks of Iran such as Damavand peak. Mainly, because skiing is mostly done in the springs, there won’t be any risk of powder snow avalanches. Because at that time of the year the snows are very rigid and very appropriate for skiing. Also, the low slope of these mountains makes skiing on them much more manageable. Besides, there are no ice slots in these peaks. Therefore, the skiers will not need to do any technical climbing or using ropes and ice axes. All these points make the mountains of Iran a safe destination for the skiers comparing to the Alps.
Damavand Ski Touring
5) The Best Peaks for Acclimatization
Many of the tourists traveling Iran want to conquer the Damavand summit. You can rarely find peaks as high as mount Damavand in the central Alps. Fortunately, this 5000-meter peak has a low degree of difficulty. But still, conquering such a high peak is not possible without acclimatization. For climbing this tall beauty, you will need to make yourself ready for a few days before climbing it. Luckily, there are 4000-meter peaks that give the skiers the chance of adjusting their bodies with height. Some of the best peaks for acclimatization are Sichal, Kolun Bastak, and Dowbarar. Acclimatizing on these mountains, you can surely have a much more convenient and joyful experience during your Damavand ski tour.
Damavand Ski Touring
6) The Destination between the Base Stations and The Peaks
What makes the experience of mountaineering in Iran unique is the short time you will need for climbing high peaks. As we mentioned before, Iran has mountains higher than 4000 meters in the central Alborz. In these mountains, the base stations (villages) for skiing are located at a high point of the peak. Therefore, it only takes the skiers a short time, like 5-6 hours to get to the height of 4000 meters. The skiers can come back to the base station for having a rest or taking a shower at nights. Then, they can climb the peak again next day. It can be a fantastic opportunity for them to spend 3-4 days in that area and explore different paths and valleys. Mountains such as Shirband, Sahand, and Darbandsar, are among the mountains with the highest base stations in the world.
Damavand Ski Touring
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Mountaineers need to have skills and know techniques for mountaineering. Also, they normally face with financing issues. Of course, the challenge of conquering various peaks is an inseparable part of this sport. Every mountaineer has always demanded climbing and conquering peaks.
There are so many challenges in the world for mountaineering such as:
Climbing fourteen 8000 meters peaks
Climbing the highest peaks in the seven continents
The Snow Leopard prize for climbing five 7000 meters peaks in the Pamirs and Tian Shan mountains
Mountaineering Grand Slam
Climbing the second highest peak in each continent
Climbing the seven volcanic peaks in the seven continents
Between all these challenges, conquering the volcanic seven summits in the seven continents seems to be more accessible. It seems like both financial issues, and difficulties of climbing are less in this challenge. Of course, climbing these peaks needs skills in climbing as well. The so-called “Volcanic seven summits” are the seven highest volcanic peaks in the seven continents. For doing this challenge, the Mountaineers need to travel seven points in the seven continents. Although this challenge is easier than the other mountaineering challenges; traveling around can make it harder. Also, conquering the less known peaks can be an issue, but that’s what makes it more attractive. Contractually, the volcanic seven summits include the following summits:
Kilimanjaro is one of the seven volcanic summits. It has three volcanic cones named Kibo, Mawenzi, and Shira. It is the highest mountain in Africa and is 5895 meters above sea level. Also, it is a half-active volcano in Tanzania on its borders with Kenya. This mount also counts as one of the Seven Summits (the highest summits in the seven continents). Kibo is the highest peak in Kilimanjaro. Mawenzi cone is 5149 meters above the sea located near Kibo. Also, it is the third highest peak in Africa. Shira has 4005 meters height and is the third highest peak in Kilimanjaro.
Mt. Kilimanjaro
Mount Orizaba
Pico de Orizaba is a stratovolcano and also the highest peak in Mexico. Also, it is the third highest summit in North America. This summit has 5636 meters height and is 1287 kilometers away from the borders of the United States. Conquering this summit is on the list of most attractive summit conquerings in Mexico.
Mt. Orizaba
Mount Ojos del Salado
One of the other seven volcanic summits is Ojos del Salado. Nevado Ojos del Salado is on the borders of Argentina and Chile. Also, it is the highest active volcano in the world. This volcano is 20 kilometers away from the San Francisco Pass. This summit is in the middle of a volcanic mountain chain that is more than 80 kilometers long. Furthermore, Ojos del Salado is the second highest summit in the Andes mountain range in South America. The height of this mount is 6893 meters.
Mt. Ojos del Salado
Mount Sidley
This summit is located in Marie Byrd Land in Antarctica and is the highest volcanic mount in this continent. It is also the seventh mount on the list of volcanic seven summits. Mount Sidley is between 4181-4285 meters high and is a possibly dormant volcano in the south of Antarctica. Bill Atkinson from New Zealand was the first person who conquered this mount in 1990.
Mt. Sidley
Mount Elbrus
Mount Elbrus is a summit on the east of Caucasus Mountain in the Kabardino-Balkaria and Karachay- Cherkessia. Also, this mount is on the north of Iran plateau and is near Georgia. This summit is the highest point in Europe. The names of this mount and Alborz mountains derive from the same root. So, both of these names are Iranian words. This mount has two summits on its west and east. The west summit is 5642 meters and is the highest peak in Europe. Its east summit is only 21 meters shorter than its west summit.
Mt. Elbrus
Mount Giluwe
This mount is the second highest mount in Papua New Guinea with 4367 meters height. Giluweh is the highest volcano in Oceana. Therefore, it counts as one of the volcanic seven summits. The Australian migrants were the first ones who conquered this summit. But, there are some disagreements about who conquered it first. Due to its location, this mount has a very beautiful and unique flora.
Mt. Giluwe
Mount Damavand
Damavand is a mount in the north of Iran and is the highest peak in Iran. Also, it is the highest volcano in Asia and the Middle East. Damavand peak is on the center of Alborz mountains on the south of the Caspian Sea. The location of this peak is in the Larijan district in Mazandaran province. This peak is visible from Tehran, Varamin, Qom, and the Caspian Sea southern shores on days with smooth weather. Mount Damavand was registered as the first National Iranian Natural Phenomena on the 3rd of July 2008. Furthermore, the Iranian literature and mythology have mentioned the name of this mount many times.
Mt.Damavand
Damavand Mount Altitude
There are various opinions about mount Damavand’s altitude. The National Statistical Federation of Iran stated that Damavand is 5610 meters. On the other hand, NASA states it is 5670 meters. Also, Damavand’s relative height from the lowest valley is 4667 meters. Therefore, Damavand is the 12th on the list of most prominent peaks in the world. Mount Everest, Aconcagua in Argentina, Denali in the USA and Mount Kilimanjaro in Tanzania are other mounts on this list. Also, its relative height is more than K2, Kanchenjunga and, many other mounts. The rank of Damavand on this list shows the prominence of this volcanic mass compared to its surroundings. The main reason why Damavand is visible from far distances is its high relative prominence.
Damavand Volcano
Damavand is a potentially active volcano formed during the Quaternary. Its first eruption was almost 1.78 million years ago. Its last eruption was between six hundred thousand and two hundred eighty thousand years ago. Estimations by using the carbon method say that Damavand mount dates back to at least 38500 years ago. The sulfur and hot water springs on this mount are the evidence of the activity of this volcano. Also, there are some active fumaroles on this mount which makes the experience of climbing it very attractive. Because of these active fumaroles, a huge smoke constantly comes out of Damavand.
The diameter of this volcano’s crater in almost 400 meters and an icy lake covers it.
Damavand Sulfuric Hills
Isn’t climbing Damavand hard?
Iran is a mountainous country with more than 100 summits higher than 4000 meters in its mountain ranges. Iran’s location is on down of the north temperate zone. Therefore, there won’t be any problem for conquering this mount in the summer. If you want to climb Damavand, all you need is physical readiness and appropriate weather. Needing just appropriate physical readiness is one of the appealing features of Damavand tours. So, you can easily hike Damavand and climb 5671 meters with an appropriate acclimatization schedule.
The amenities of Damavand mount are very suitable and make conquering it enjoyable and easier. Having shelter, rooms with beds, bathrooms, and access to the internet in the 4200 meters altitude, are some examples of its amenities. Also, the Mountaineers can transfer their extra and heavy stuff to the 4200 meters camp by a mule.
There are some hot water springs on the hillside of Damavand which can be a place for Mountaineers to relax. The water of these springs has sulfur and other minerals that are very beneficial for your skin. Also, the hot water of these springs helps with the elimination of cramps and recovering. Therefore, we highly recommend it after conquering.
Damavand Summit (5671m)
Am I going to be safe during climbing?
There is no possibility for avalanche even during the winter in Damavand. Also, the conquering route is completely safe. Damavand has some natural glaciers and, they have a unique, spectacular view on the conquering route during summer. The route of Damavand is secure during the summer. You can stand over Damavand without needing technical ascending or any involvement with the glaciers.
Mt.Damavand
Easy Access to Damavand Region
The access route for a mount with more than 5000 meters height might seem very hard and long. But, you will only need a 3-hour drive from Tehran to be able to settle in the main camp of this mount. In smooth weather, you can see the sulfur smoke coming out of Damavand with the naked eye.
Security of Iran and Damavand
What does the news say?
The Secretary-General of the World Tourism Organization has declared that Iran is very safe for tourism.
An Australian media published a report saying when it comes to the travel risks, Iran is as safe as Australia.
Iran has a high level of security. It might be in contrast with what the political reports in the western media might say. But, according to what tourists who have traveled Iran say, Iran’s security level is higher than many western countries. So, Iran tours are among the safest tours in the world. Those who want to travel Iran destinations can be assured.
Also, Damavand mount is very safe according to the reviews submitted in websites and journals such as Tripadvisor. The tourists can enjoy a wonderful Damavand trek and conquer the highest mount in Iran and the Middle East with Damavand guided tours.
Damavand Summit (5671m)
How Many Days You Will Need for Damavand Trip?
With the favorable weather of summer, an acclimatization schedule and, physical readiness even amateur mountaineers can conquer Damavand. The days you will need for conquering Damavand can vary between 2-6 days according to your physical readiness. Also, the height of the place you live and your compatibility with the high altitudes are important factors. Professional mountaineers who have high physical readiness can conquer Damavand in one day. Also, you should have felt more than 4500 meters height in the past few days for doing it.
A Reasonable and Affordable Trekking Tour
The costs of Damavand trips are more affordable than other similar summits. The tourists can begin climbing by paying just 50 dollars (till the end of 2019) for a license. Of course, there will be additional costs for having food, a Mount Damavand guide and carrying cargo. These expenses do not include transportation to Damavand.