The treasures of Persia have long attracted the intrepid traveler and it is with great excitement that we are on the forefront of leading climbs to this historic region. Our entrance into Iran elicits the warmth and long standing hospitality that is well known throughout the land. Although we often refer to the blend of climbing and culture in all of our trips, we dare say it is unrivaled in Iran.
Climbing Damavand
The Alborz Range stands huge and stunning as it leans against the Caspian Sea. The climb of Damavand is non-technical, but offers challenging climbing and remarkable scenery. Iranians are hearty and avid climbers, mountains like Damavand and Alum Kuh have given them a wonderful training ground for big peaks around the world.
Gezenak Route
After traveling by road about 120k, we reach Gezenak or Nandel village. We begin with an easy three hour walk through a very beautiful valley. Soon after, we make our way to 3500m at Estele-Sar spring and will camp this night amongst the shepherds. The next morning we begin a full day climb to the Takht-e-Fereidoon shelter at 4500m. We will likely spend an additional day here before attempting the summit. The summit itself presents an eight-ten hour climb/return to the Takht-e-Fereidoon shelter. At the top with clear weather permitting we will have extraordinary views of neighboring mountains and the Caspian Sea.
Americans in Iran
We have explored Iran and hand picked the most impressive sites for our tour. The Iranians were among the most hospitable and warm people we've encountered in our travels. Although there was criticism of the American policies in the newspaper, the Iranian people were always first to mention their affinity for the American people and the friendships that existed between the two cultures prior to 1978. It should be noted that during the Islamic Conference in Tehran (December 1997), President Khatami stressed his interest in bettering relations with the West. Since his presidency began, a number of policy changes have been made, which have improved relations with the West. It is a virtually crimeless country. We have had a number of travelers join our Iranian counterparts in 2002, 2003 and 2004 and all had wonderful experiences.
Customs
We encourage you to acquaint yourself with traditional Persian customs as a way to better understand the country of Iran. Woman travelers are asked to wear long coats and a head scarf while traveling. During the climb, women can wear western-style climbing clothes.
PREREQUISITES
Climbing Skill Level
Climbers should have completed our 6-Day Training course or have equivalent experience. It is a moderately technical, glaciated climb and requires that a climber have a good comfort level on crampons. The requirement is also based on our desire to have similarly skilled team members.
Physical Conditioning
In the best interest of personal safety, success and team compatibility, adequate training and excellent physical condition are required. Prior experience carrying a heavy pack for multiple days serves as excellent preparation for this climb. Climbers must be able to carry an average of 40lbs or more and be physically and mentally prepared to deal with strenuous situations at high altitudes. Climbers need to be in excellent physical condition for both personal enjoyment and to be an integral team member. We encourage you to contact us so that we may assist you in developing a training program that meets your particular needs. Comprehensive training information can be found here.
Environmental Responsibility
Alpine Ascents is deeply committed to maintaining ecosystems at home and around the world. With each expedition, trek and course, we not only attempt to leave the environment as we found it, but strive to assist the local population in protecting the land and people indigenous to that region. Alpine Ascents reaches for the highest ethical business practices at home and abroad. Each staff member is dedicated to environmentally sound alpine ascents.
At Alpine Ascents environmental stewardship remains one of our core values and we take Leave No Trace ethics and practices very seriously. The mountains are our home and we are unwilling to sacrifice their preservation for human objectives. On every one of our courses and climbs we teach and follow the environmentally appropriate Leave No Trace principals and practices.
Over the years, with the assistance of our Sherpa teams, we have stepped up efforts to clean Mt. Everest. Our Wag Bag® program made a pioneering step in human waste management for the National Park System and Forest Service in the North Cascades. On Aconcagua, we pioneered a waste removal system on our climbs, utilizing the WAG Bag® system. And we continue our on-going maintenance and minimal impact plans wherever we guide. We believe that given the proper information most people will do all they can to help protect and maintain the environment. Alpine Ascents is committed to developing safe, self-reliant and environmentally conscious mountaineers.
Private Groups
We regularly organize private climbsfor individuals, corporate groups, families and friends. We encourage you to book these climbs early as we are often able to cater these climbs to group-specific desires. Please contact our office to further discuss the benefits of private courses.