Turkish Alps - Kaçkars Backcountry Snowmobile Adventure

8 days

Challenging

Prepare for the ultimate winter adventure in the heart of Turkiye's breathtaking Kaçkar Mountains.

This exclusive tour package offers a unique blend of snowmobile-accessed freeride skiing and catskiing in one of the most pristine and untouched powder paradises in the world. From the high-altitude comfort of Flora Handüzü Resort, you will explore vast, remote valleys, ride thrilling lines, and immerse yourself in the raw beauty of the Turkish Alps. Conclude your journey with a cultural exploration of the historic city of Erzurum.

Tour Highlights

  • Experience the thrill of backcountry skiing and snowmobiling in the stunning Kaçkar Mountains.
  • Explore remote valleys, open bowls, and forested terrain with breathtaking views.
  • Enjoy 4-6 drops per day in exclusive, uncrowded zones.
  • Relax in the comfort and authentic hospitality of the Flora Handüzü Resort & Bungalow, perched at an altitude of 1800 meters.
  • Discover the rich history and culture of Erzurum, a city at the crossroads of ancient civilizations.

Tour Details

  • Dates: February - March, 2026
  • Duration: 8 Days / 7 Nights
  • Accommodation: Flora Handüzü Resort & Bungalow (6 nights) & Erzurum Hilton Garden Inn (1 night)
  • Focus: Backcountry Freeride Skiing, Catskiing, Snowmobiling
  • Location: Handüzü Plateau, Rize, Kaçkar Mountains, Turkey

Mountain & Skiing Specifications

  • Highest Point: 3100 m
  • Lowest Point: 1900 m
  • Typical Skiing Start Altitude: 2100 m
  • Daily Descents: 4-6 drops
  • Maximum Vertical Drop: 700 m (from 3100 m to 2400 m over a 2.5 km run)
What's included?
  • National park entrance fee
  • Food & drinks
  • Landing & facility fees
  • Entry or admission fee
  • WiFi
  • Goods & services tax

Included Services:

  • 6 nights accommodation at Flora Handüzü Resort & Bungalow
  • 1 night accommodation at Erzurum Hilton Garden Inn
  • Daily breakfast and dinner
  • Daily lunchbox for ski days
  • Experienced Freeride Skiing Guidance
  • All snowmobile and snowcat tours as described in the itinerary
  • Experienced snowmobile guides
  • Snowmobile rental and fuel for the duration of the tour
  • All airport and land transfers as mentioned in the program
  • Travel insurance
Exclusions
  • Tip or gratuity
  • Fuel surcharge

Not Included Services:

  • International and domestic flights
  • Alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks (besides water with meals)
  • Personal expenses
  • Optional activities and excursions
  • Avalanche safety equipment (transceiver, shovel, probe - rental may be available upon request)
  • Gratuities for guides and staff


Please note
  • Accessible for those with limited mobility

Of course. Here is a new section with important details for potential guests to consider before booking. You can add this to the program, perhaps just before the "Package Price & Services" section.

Important Information to Consider Before Booking Your Experience

This is an authentic backcountry adventure in a remote and wild mountain environment. To ensure your safety and enjoyment, as well as that of the group, please carefully review the following requirements before booking.

1. Skier/Snowboarder Ability & Physical Fitness

  • Skill Level: This tour is designed for strong intermediate to advanced/expert off-piste skiers and snowboarders. You must be confident riding in a variety of snow conditions, including deep powder, wind-affected snow, and variable crud. Experience in tree skiing and navigating uncontrolled terrain is essential. This tour is not suitable for beginners or those new to off-piste riding.
  • Physical Condition: A high level of physical fitness is required. Days can be long and physically demanding, involving multiple runs at altitudes between 1900 m and 3100 m. You should be capable of sustained physical activity for several days in a row.

2. Mandatory Safety & Personal Equipment

  • Avalanche Safety Gear: It is mandatory for every participant to wear and know how to use an avalanche transceiver, and to carry a shovel and probe in a backpack on all ski days. While this equipment can often be rented, please inquire about availability and cost at the time of booking.
  • Helmet: Helmets are mandatory for all skiing, snowboarding, and snowmobiling activities.
  • Ski/Snowboard Equipment: We strongly recommend a dedicated powder/freeride setup (skis with a waist width of 100 mm or more are ideal) to make the most of the conditions. Ensure your equipment is in excellent working condition before you arrive.
  • Backpack: A well-fitting backpack (25-35 liters) with straps for carrying skis or a snowboard is essential for carrying your safety gear, water, lunch, and extra layers. Airbag packs are highly recommended.

3. Snowmobile Operation

  • While prior snowmobiling experience is beneficial, it is not required. Our expert guides will provide thorough instruction on how to safely operate the machines. However, you should be a confident and licensed driver with a willingness to learn and follow instructions carefully.

4. Comprehensive Travel Insurance

  • It is a condition of booking that you have comprehensive travel insurance. Your policy must explicitly cover off-piste skiing, catskiing, snowmobiling, and emergency medical evacuation from a remote mountain environment. Please verify the details of your policy before your trip.

5. Flights & Logistics

  • Please note that this tour starts and ends in different cities. You must book your inbound flight to Trabzon Airport (TZX) and your outbound flight from Erzurum Airport (ERZ).
  • Ensure your passport is valid for at least six months beyond your planned departure date from Turkey and check any visa requirements for your nationality.

6. The Nature of Backcountry Travel

  • Flexibility is Key: The itinerary is a guide. The daily plan is dictated by weather, snow stability, and group dynamics. Our guides will make decisions with your safety as the absolute priority. A flexible and positive attitude is essential.
  • Remote Location: The Handüzü Plateau is a remote, high-altitude location. This means you are truly away from it all, with limited access to facilities like pharmacies or large stores. Please bring any personal necessities and medications with you.
What to bring

    Important Notes

    • This itinerary is a sample and may be subject to change due to weather conditions, snow safety, and other unforeseen circumstances. The head guide will make the final decision on the daily plan to ensure guest safety and the best possible experience.
    • Participants should be in good physical condition, with strong intermediate to advanced skiing/snowboarding skills in varied off-piste terrain.
    • Some prior experience with snowmobiles or off-road vehicles is beneficial but not strictly required; guides will provide instruction.
    • Proper winter clothing, helmet, and off-piste ski/snowboard equipment are essential.
    • It is highly recommended to purchase comprehensive personal travel insurance that covers winter sports activities, including off-piste skiing and snowmobiling.

    To book this tour or inquire about availability, please contact us directly. We look forward to welcoming you to the Turkish Alps for an unforgettable snowmobile adventure!