Weekend Kackars Snowmobile Backcountry Snowboarding & Freeride Skiing Tour

3 days

Easy

Weekend Kackars Snowmobile Backcountry Snowboarding & Freeride Skiing

The Kaçkar Pulse: Handüzü Valley Backcountry Blast

2 Days | 2 Nights | Pure Powder

Escape the crowded resorts and experience the raw beauty of the Rize backcountry. This high-octane weekend is designed for freeriders and splitboarders who want to maximize their vertical without the skinning sweat. Using snowmobiles as our private lifts, we’ll access the untouched bowls and steep couloirs of the Handüzü Valley.

The Experience

  • The Terrain: Handüzü is a gateway to the Kaçkar range, known for its reliable snowpack and diverse geography—from wide-open glacial faces to technical tree runs.
  • The Lift: No queues, no slow chairs. Our snowmobiles provide rapid access to the ridgelines, allowing for more laps and fresh tracks all day long.
  • The Stay: Retreat to Flora Handüzü Bungalows. Nestled right in the valley, these cozy cabins offer the perfect "apres-ski" atmosphere with stunning mountain views and traditional Black Sea hospitality.
What's included?
  • National park entrance fee
  • Parking fees
  • Entry tax
  • Food & drinks
  • Entry or admission fee
  • WiFi

What’s Included

  • Lodging: 2 Nights Half-Board (Breakfast & Dinner) at Flora Handüzü Bungalows.
  • Transport: Round-trip transfers from Rize-Artvin Airport (RZV).
  • The Mission: 2 Full days of snowmobile-supported backcountry access.
  • Expertise: Professional mountain guidance focused on safety and finding the best lines.
Note: This tour is best suited for intermediate to advanced riders comfortable in off-piste conditions. Safety is our priority; avalanche gear (transceiver, probe, shovel) is highly recommended for all participants.
Exclusions
  • Goods & services tax

What’s Not Included

  • Airfare: International or domestic flights to/from Rize-Artvin Airport.
  • Personal Gear: Skis, snowboards, boots, and technical outerwear.
  • Safety Equipment: Avalanche safety kits (Transceiver, Shovel, Probe) and Airbags. (Note: These can be arranged for rental upon request).
  • Lunches & Drinks: Mid-day snacks/mountain lunches and all alcoholic beverages or extra soft drinks at the bungalows.
  • Insurance: Mandatory health and mountain rescue insurance (must cover off-piste activities).
  • Gratuities: Tips for your guides and snowmobile drivers.
Please note
  • Accessible for those with limited mobility
  • Passport required
Important Details & Local Context
  • Snow Quality: Handüzü is famous for its "Sea Effect" snow. Similar to Japan, the proximity to the Black Sea creates high-moisture air that hits the cold peaks, resulting in massive accumulations of deep, stable powder.
  • The "Flora" Comfort: Unlike high-altitude base camps, the Flora Handüzü Bungalows provide a touch of luxury. You aren't just sleeping in the mountains; you’re experiencing modern comfort with underfloor heating and panoramic windows—essential for drying out gear after a deep day.
  • Safety First: The Kaçkars are serious mountains. Our guides monitor snow stability and weather windows hourly. We reserve the right to change routes to ensure the safest and highest-quality riding experience.
What to bring

    Pack Like a Pro: Your Handüzü Gear List

    The Kaçkar Mountains are majestic but demanding. To get the most out of your weekend, we recommend the following:

    The Essentials (On the Mountain)

    • Layering System:* Base Layer: Moisture-wicking thermal tops and bottoms (merino wool is best).
      Mid-Layer: A fleece or "puffy" down vest/jacket for insulation.
      Outer Shell: Waterproof and breathable GORE-TEX (or similar) jacket and pants.
    • Head & Hands:* A warm beanie and a neck gaiter (buff).
      High-quality waterproof gloves or mittens (plus a spare pair in your pack).
    • Vision:* Goggles: Preferably with two lenses (one for bright sun, one for "flat light" or snowy conditions).
      Sunglasses: For when we stop for lunch or during the snowmobile transit.
    • Safety Gear: If you have your own Avalanche Transceiver, Shovel, and Probe, please bring them. (Rental units are available if pre-booked).

    The "Nice-to-Haves" (Comfort & Après-Ski)

    • Swimwear: Flora Handüzü Bungalows offers a cozy atmosphere—if you plan on hitting a sauna or a hot bath after a long day in the cold, don't forget your suit!
    • Sun Protection: The reflection of the sun off the high-altitude snow is intense. Bring High-SPF Sunscreen and lip balm with UV protection.
    • Indoor Footwear: A pair of warm slippers or "down booties" for lounging inside the wooden bungalows.
    • Power Bank: Cold temperatures drain phone and camera batteries quickly. Keep a portable charger in your inner pocket.