Turkey is a country that has a very rich geography in terms of the mountains that are spread all over the country and these mountains have a great importance in terms of culture and history. From the biblical Mount Ararat to the rocky massifs of Taurus Mountains, these heights provide stunning views and the possibility of exciting hikes. Here are the list of the top 10 highest mountains in Turkey.
1. Mount Ararat (Ağrı Dağı) – 5,137 meters.
Mount Ararat is the highest mountain in Turkey and is a dormant volcanic cone in the Eastern Anatolia region. It comprises two peaks: The largest of them is Greater Ararat (5,137 meters) and the other one is Lesser Ararat (3,896 meters). This mountain has a special importance in many civilizations and beliefs and is linked with the story of Noah’s Ark. The snow on its peak and the glaciers surrounding it make it a dominant part of the Armenian Highlands.
2. Mount Cilo also known as Cilo Dağı – 4,116 meters.
Mount Cilo is situated in the Hakkari Province and is one of the peaks of the Cilo-Sat range which is a continuation of the Taurus Mountains. It is the second highest mountain in Turkey and has a very steep face and is considered to be a very difficult climb. The area has steep valley floors and high ridges, providing a perfect ground for climbers and lovers of the natural environment.
3. Mount Süphan (Süphan Dağı) – 4,058 meters.
Mount Süphan is located in Eastern Anatolia, close to Lake Van and is an extinct stratovolcano. It is the third highest mountain in Turkey and the most famous for its large volcanic tableland. The mountain has green slopes of alpine meadows and the peak offers a looking over the surrounding area.
4. Mount Kaçkar (Kaçkar Dağı) – 3932m.
Mount Kaçkar is one of the ranges of the Pontic Mountains in the Black Sea region and the highest point in the Kaçkar range. It is a home to beautiful landscapes, glaciers, lakes and is a rich habitat for plants and animals which make it a favourite for hikers and trekkers. The climate of the region is suitable for growth of diverse plant life, including endemics.
5. Mount Erciyes (Erciyes Dağı) – 3,917 m.
Mount Erciyes is an ancient stratovolcano which is in Central Anatolia, close to the city of Kayseri and is the highest peak of central Turkey. It has snow-capped slopes that are home to one of the most famous ski destinations in the country and perhaps the world. The geology of the mountain also gives a clue of the volcanic history of the area.
6. Lesser Ararat (Küçük Ağrı Dağı) – 3,896m.
Lesser Ararat is a volcanic cone next to Mount Ararat and is part of the Ararat massif. Despite the fact that it is smaller than its neighbor, it offers its own variety of geological formations and difficulties for mountaineers. It is a place that has many legends and historical backgrounds that surround it to make it more beautiful.
7. Mount Kızılkaya – 3725 Mt.
Located in the Aladağlar section of the Taurus Mountains, Mount Kızılkaya is the tallest mountain with steep slopes and rocky surface. The region is a popular one for rock climbers and there are different routes for the climbers of different abilities. The limestone of the mountain has given rise to some stunning karst features.
8. Mount Demirkazık (Büyük Demirkazık) – 3.756 m.
Demirkazik is also in the Aladağlar range and is famous for the difficult climb and is also the most popular center for mountaineering in Turkey. The peak got its name ‘Great Iron Stake’ from the look of the peak which is quite intimidating. The national park that surrounds the area is home to a number of animals like the Anatolian wild goat.
9. Mount Emler – 3,723 meters
Located in the Aladağlar National Park, Mount Emler is famous for its relatively easy trekking trails and the beautiful sceneries. The summit is a great vantage point for watching the Taurus Mountains and the summit is accessible for both beginners and professionals. The region boasts of different habitats that accommodate different plant and animal species hence being a famous destination for tourists.
10. Mount Verçenik – 3,711 meters
Sitting in the Kaçkar range, Mount Verçenik is the second highest peak of the Pontic Mountains. Because of its isolation and difficult routes, it is considered a perfect place for experienced climbers who want to climb in peace. It has glacial features and alpine meadows which make the mountain have a natural beauty.
Apart from being the main feature of Turkey’s diverse geography, they also give a glimpse of the country’s natural resources. If you are an adrenaline junkie, a lover of nature or simply in search of beautiful sceneries, then Turkey’s highest mountains have what you need.
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