Welcome to Damavand challenge!
Here comes one unforgettable journey to the highest volcano in Asia – the majestic Mount Damavand, standing tall at 5,671 meters. Located in northern Iran, in the heart of the Alborz Mountain Range and overlooking the southern coast of the Caspian Sea, this dormant volcano is not only a natural wonder but also a proud landmark of the Middle East.
As the highest peak in the region and the second tallest volcano in the Northern Hemisphere, Damavand offers a thrilling, high-altitude challenge for anyone seeking both beauty and adventure.
While technically straightforward, climbing Damavand is not to be underestimated. The true challenge lies in the high altitude and unpredictable weather. That’s why our 4-day itinerary includes a buffer day, giving us flexibility should conditions delay our summit attempt. Most importantly, we prioritize proper acclimatization every step of the way to help everyone reach the top safely and confidently.
Our expedition however starts with acclimatization day at Damavand’s lower brother – Tochal (3,962m) to reassure proper adaptation to the altitude. Further on we hit the road to tranquil Polor village and begin our gradual ascent. The trek to the base camp at 4,200 m, reached on Day 3, is a delightful and scenic hike – a perfect warm-up to prepare your body and spirit. With breathtaking landscapes, alpine air and the blooming meadows, each step brings you closer to the summit.
Trekking Damavand is comparable to Kilimanjaro, both have a very similar profile.
Let's go!
Day 1: Touchdown and Acclimatization at Mt. Tochal
Meeting at airport for a direct flight to Tehran. After arrival and completing immigration procedures, we'll take a short rest before heading straight out for our first hike. A cable car will take us up to 3,550 meters, where our hotel for the night, Tochal Hotel is located.
For those who want to catch two birds with one stone, there's even an optional hike to Tochal summit at 3,962m. It’s a relatively short, two-hour ascent and a great way get acclimatized. Highly recommended as a warm-up! Tonight, we'll sleep at altitude at Tochal Hotel, getting a head start on the days ahead.
Day 2: Down the Cable Car, Off to Polor Camp 1
After breakfast, we’ll hop on the Tochal cable car for a scenic ride back down, then hit the road to Polor Camp (our first Damavand base). This is a chill day to rest, acclimatizee a bit more, and get prepped for the real trek. We’ll stay overnight at Camp 1 in Polor.
Day 3: Trek Begins – Up to Camp 3
We’ll have breakfast and drive up to Camp 2, located at around 3,000 meters—this is where the real adventure starts. From there, we’ll hike up to Camp 3 at 4,200 meters, where we’ll settle in Bargah Sevom shelter and rest up for the big day ahead.
Day 4: Summit Day!!
Today is the day! Early wake up call around 4am, breakfast and straight into our summit push. It’s a long, steady climb to Damavand’s 5,671m peak. We will pass the screes, Sulphur exhaust crater, greet the sunrise and slowly ascent towards the sky. The trek will take about 10–12 hours round-trip, depending on conditions. Fingers crossed (Inshallah!) we all make it to the top! Descent down to Camp 3 to rest for the night.
Day 5: Back to Civilization & Celebration
After breakfast, we’ll descent to the pick-up point where our van will be waiting for us. On the way back to Tehran, we’ll stop for a well-earned lunch. Once we check into the hotel and freshen up, we’ll celebrate our climb with a feast at a beautiful traditional restaurant in Tehran’s historic old town.
Day 6: A Taste of Tehran
After checking out, we’ll explore a bit of Tehran: visiting the Sa’dabad Palace complex, set in lush gardens, and browsing the colorful Tajrish Bazaar. One final lunch together, then we’ll head back to the airport for flight home, with summit selfies or two, certificate and a lifetime memories! Inhsallah.
Temperatures: 20C at 2,200m to -10C at the peak, 5-10°C in the shelter.
Requirement:
Trekking shoes and socks.
0°C Sleeping bag,
Main backpack and a daypack
Trekking poles - Gloves - Hat/wool hat
Glacier sun glasses with Side Covers 100% UV, IR.
Warm clothes,
Sunscreen cream min. SPF 50
Water Bottles
Cup,
Toiletries
Camera.
Headlamp and spare batteries
Gallery from first trip in 2014:
https://www.meetup.com/trekkup/photos/23546802/
Level of difficulty: peak day is hard - 10-12 hours at high altitude. Reaching the base camp on day 3 at 4200 mtrs is a nice and very pleasurable hike. Climbing is technically, easy however due to the altitude, requires a good physical fitness. The main challenge is acclimatization and the weather.
Accommodation & meals: Shelters and hotels - double sharing, meals on the mountain included.
Portering of main luggage to Camp 3: included.
Cost: 4,900 AED all incl. flights, excluding visa expenses and restaurant meals on transfers. Payment - cash on briefings only.
Cost valid until JUNE 01. Past this date cost will change.
Specifically excluded:
e-visa. We will apply on your behalf, you ll need to visit consulate for payment and issuance of paper visa.
- Restaurant meals.
VISA:
No more passport stamps in Iran.
Most nationalities are visa free or eligible for E-visa.
UK USA CAN passports visa lead-time min. 45 days, during process you ll be asked to provide your professional CV.
For more information:
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Visa_policy_of_Iran.
It is sole responsibility of trip participant to assure admission to country of destination.
See yah on Damavand x
Trekkup Crew
Whastapp 050 4848238 /
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Find all trekkups at linktr.ee/trekkup
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