Kackar Mountains Travel Guide
Great Trekking in Turkey’s Beautiful Northeast
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The Kaçkar Mountains lie to the north of Erzurum and form a barrier between the high Anatolian plan to the south and the Black Sea coast to the north. Rising to 3937m the higher slopes are dotted with yaylas - high altitude pastures, and lower down, villages which retain strong traditions. The combination of superb walking amongst stunning scenery and contact with local people is making the Kaçkars an increasingly popular trekking destination.
Trekkers coming to Turkey are spoilt for choice, from the Aladağlar Mountains close to the Mediterranean coast to the easier Lycian Way and tough Mt Ararat in the east there is something for all. The beauty of the Kaçkars has been known about for some time but as trekking in Turkey is only growing in popularity slowly walkers here can be assured that a visit will give little contact with fellow trekkers. The slopes are carpeted with wild flowers in the spring and summer and make for a botanists paradise.
Attractions in Kackar Mountains
Separating the coast from the Anatolian plateau the lower slopes are dotted with villages such as Yusufeli, a popular start point for treks. The small village of Yaylalar is similarly unspoilt and provides an insight into rural Turkish life; higher up yaylas dominate. These are high pastures used by shepherds who spend the summers grazing their sheep and making cheese, butter and yoghurt. It is meetings with locals such as these combined with the profusion of wild flowers that make the Kaçkars such a great place to walk.
Activities in Kackar Mountains
Unless aiming to be completely self-sufficient most trekkers make arrangements through a specialist Turkish operator who can tailor a package to suit the needs of the individual or group. Most treks start from Yusufeli and head up to Yaylalar and then the summit of Mt Kaçkar from there; the ascent is not particularly difficult but at 3937m is more than a stroll. From its summit there are breathtaking views of the Caucasus and Mount Ararat to the southeast. Many people elect to combine a trek in the Kaçkars with a climb of Mt Ararat or some white-water rafting on the Çoruh River.
Relaxing
Nothing can beat an evening round the campfire when trekking in the mountains. Yusufeli has a number of good little restaurants to enjoy post-trek.
Getting Around
Most trekking expeditions include transport to and from the start of the trip at Yusufeli (or beyond if required).
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