Mt Damavand Ascent: Iran Trekking Holiday

Essential Information

Trip Profile

5 days walking with full porterage; altitude maximum 5671m, average 3400m.

Accommodation

5 nights camping, 3 nights en suite hotels.

Food

All food included on trek, breakfast only in Tehran.

Reality Check

This is a grade D strenuous trek to one of the highest volcanoes in the Northern Hemisphere.

Though not a technical climb under normal circumstances at the time of year where departures are scheduled, icy or windy conditions could make the summit day more difficult than expected.

Night time can be extremely windy at the campsite but this usually dies down during the day. A good degree of fitness is required and ideally you should have some experience of walking at altitude.

Organised trekking trips in Iran are still in their infancy so you should be prepared to take things as you find them. You should not expect the same level of service as found on camping trips to Nepal or Peru with Exodus. Mules are used to transport everything rather than porters and there are fewer staff to assist with general camp chores. You will need to assist with erecting and dismantling your tent. You will be walking on sheep paths, some of which are ill defined, and the gradient is steep at times.

The trails are mainly rocky and uneven underfoot. This, combined with the rapid gain in altitude, makes the trek very demanding. The day's climb to the peak itself is the hardest day and you can expect to be walking on snow and ice for some of the ascent. There are a couple of short scrambles and the sulphurous volcanic scree can be a bit slippery. The descent back to base camp is taxing on the thigh muscles and knees, making this a hard day.

Normal group size and age

Normally 6 to 12, plus leader and appropriate local staff. Minimum age 18.

Icons explained

The vast majority of Exodus adventures are adult group holidays. Groups are always small in size. We strongly believe that this adherence to small groups means a better experience for all; more time with your guide, less waiting around and a reduced impact on the communities and environments visited.
Each group is generally made up of like-minded travellers - with singles, couples and friends all joining in together. All these trips are suitable for single travellers, but if you prefer to travel with clients booking individually, please see our Solo Departures page.

Those experienced in trekking for a number of consecutive days in the Scottish Highlands, will understand how tough treks at this grade can be – stamina is essential, as walking days are long. We recommend previous trekking experience, preferably at altitude; you need complete confidence in your physical condition and the ability to trek for many days over difficult terrain.

Walking & Trekking: Trips are wholly trekking-focused or simply include a significant number of walking days during the itinerary.