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Frozen Fire: A Volcanic Catskiing Journey on Mt. Erciyes

4 days

Easy

Unleash your potential on an extinct volcano with this elite 4-day Volcanic Catskiing experience. Reach 3,400 meters via Snowcat to conquer legendary powder routes like Lifos and the high-altitude Devil’s Route.

Experience a world-class Volcanic Catskiing adventure at Erciyes Ski Resort, where elite sports infrastructure meets legendary powder. This 4-day intensive program is designed to take you beyond the groomed runs and into the heart of the ancient volcano.

  • Summit Access: Reach elevations of 3,400 meters via specialized Snowcat to access the mountain's most challenging high-altitude lines.
  • Legendary Volcanic Routes: Carve through the deep powder of the Lifos route or descend the historic Devil’s Route (Şeytan Rotası).
  • Exclusive Backcountry: Explore "hidden treasure" zones like Oğlak Kıran and Süt Donduran, featuring north-facing slopes with superior snow quality and very few rocks.
  • Olympic Training Facilities: Visit the High-Altitude Center, home to specialized camps used by elite international athletes.
  • Inclusive Terrain: While we focus on expert freeride zones, the resort also offers gentle groomed slopes perfect for those looking for a more relaxed pace.
  • Safety First: Every tour includes professional mountain guidance (1:4 ratio) and mandatory avalanche safety briefings to ensure a secure mountain experience.
What's included?
  • Parking fees
  • Food & drinks
  • Landing & facility fees
  • WiFi
  • Goods & services tax
  • 3 nights Half-Board accommodation in Erciyes.
  • Private round-trip airport transfers.
  • Professional private freeride mountain guidance.
  • Snowcat / SnowTrac sessions for Day 2 and Day 3.
  • Airport Transfers from Kayseri Erkilet Airport
  • Domestic Flights Istanbul to Kayseri
Exclusions
  • Tip or gratuity

The following services and costs are not included in the tour package:

  • Ski Passes: Daily lift tickets for the Erciyes Ski Resort.
  • Equipment Rental: Personal ski or snowboard equipment, including boots and poles.
  • Avalanche Safety Gear: Mandatory safety kits (transceiver, shovel, and probe) are essential for freeriding but are not included in the base price.
  • Lunches: Midday meals on the 6 scheduled ski days.
  • Beverages: Drinks during meals, including water, soft drinks, and alcohol at dinner.
  • Insurance: Comprehensive travel and medical insurance that specifically covers off-piste skiing and freeriding is mandatory for all guests.
  • Personal Expenses: Costs for souvenirs, snacks, mini-bar items, or spa treatments.
  • Tips: Gratuities for mountain guides, drivers, or hotel staff.
Please note
  • Passport required

Before booking your Volcanic Erciyes Catskiing adventure, please review these essential travel, safety, and packing requirements to ensure a smooth experience.

1. Key Travel Information

  • Best Time to Visit: The general season runs from early December to late April. For the best powder and consistent snow, aim for December to February.
  • Flights: Most international travelers fly into Kayseri Erkilet Airport (ASR) via Istanbul (IST or SAW). The resort is a quick 30–35 minute drive from the airport.
  • Currency & Payments: The local currency is the Turkish Lira (TRY). Both cash and credit cards are widely accepted at the resort.
  • Lift Passes: Unlike many European resorts, Erciyes lift passes are often sold by number of rides rather than by day.
What to bring

    To ensure a comfortable and safe adventure on the volcanic slopes of Erciyes, travellers should pack for both extreme mountain conditions and relaxing downtime.

    Essential Technical Gear

    For the Volcanic Catskiing and freeride portions of the tour, specific technical equipment is required:

    • Avalanche Safety Kit: You must bring a transceiver, shovel, and probe. An avalanche airbag (ABS) is also highly recommended and often mandatory for backcountry trips.
    • Backcountry Skis/Snowboard: Equipment should be suitable for deep powder and varied terrain. If you are ski touring, remember your skins.
    • Helmet & Goggles: A helmet is vital for protection and warmth. Bring goggles with UV protection lenses suitable for high-altitude reflection.

    The "Onion Principle" (Layering)

    The weather at 3,400 meters can drop significantly, so layering is key to managing body temperature:

    • Base Layer: Moisture-wicking thermal underwear made of merino wool or synthetic blends (avoid cotton).
    • Mid-Layer: Insulating layers such as a fleece jacket, down vest, or a lightweight puffer.
    • Outer Shell: A high-quality, windproof, and waterproof ski jacket and pants (GORE-TEX or similar).
    • Accessories: Bring at least two pairs of waterproof gloves or mittens, a warm hat or headband, and a neck gaiter (buff).

    Personal Care & "Nice-to-Have" Items

    • Swimwear: Essential for enjoying the Turkish hammams, saunas, and heated indoor/outdoor pools available at 5-star mountain hotels like Megasaray or Radisson Blu.
    • Sun Protection: High-factor sunscreen (SPF 50+) and lip balm are critical at high altitudes to prevent snow blindness and severe burns.
    • Lodge & Leisure Wear: Pack comfortable "mountain casual" clothes, indoor slippers, and sturdy waterproof winter boots for walking in the resort or exploring Cappadocia.
    • Tech & Power: Bring a portable power bank(batteries drain faster in the cold) and a waterproof case for your smartphone to capture photos of the volcanic landscape.