Kaçkar Mountains National Park,Turkey

• Kaçkar Summit and high peaks (approaching ~3,900 m)
• Glacial lakes and tarns scattered across alpine plateaus
• Ayder Yaylası (gateway plateau known for hot springs and traditional wooden houses)
• Fırtına Valley and its historic stone bridges
• Alpine meadows (yaylas) and traditional mountain villages

• Active glacial features and glacial cirques
• Temperate rainforest zones at lower elevations with dense, mossy forests
• High plant endemism and rich wildflower displays in summer
• Dramatic vertical relief rising from the Black Sea coast to glaciated summits
• Traditional rural architecture and living pastoral culture

• Multi-day trekking and the classic Kaçkar traverse (Alpine routes for experienced hikers)
• Summit climbs and glacier routes (technical sections require experience or guides)
• Day hikes to alpine lakes and meadows
• Wildlife and birdwatching (watch for chamois, deer, birds of prey and other mammals)
• Rafting and river sports in Fırtına Valley
• Visiting yayla villages to experience local culture and cuisine
• Photographic tours of waterfalls, old bridges and highland landscapes
• Relaxing in Ayder's thermal springs

June–September for most trekking and high-mountain access; late spring (May–June) for abundant waterfalls and wildflowers. Winter offers snow scenery but many routes are inaccessible without specialized gear and experience.

Highly variable: coastal humid, rainy conditions on lower slopes and cool, changeable alpine weather at higher elevations. Expect sudden temperature drops, frequent rain and fog; high-altitude areas stay cool even in summer.

The national park is open year-round. Small entry or parking fees may apply at some access points or managed areas; facilities and seasonal trail huts have their own opening times. Check locally for the latest fee information.

Nearest airports: Rize–Artvin Airport (RZV) and Trabzon Airport (TZX). Main access towns and gateways include Çamlıhemşin and Ayder (Rize Province). Public transport: regional minibuses (dolmuş) and buses connect Rize/Artvin to village gateways; many trailheads require driving on mountain roads. Guided transfers and local guides are recommended for remote routes.

2 days for a short visit (Ayder and nearby valleys); 3–7 days for multi-day trekking or summit attempts; longer if combining cultural visits in Rize/Artvin.

Layered clothing, waterproof outerwear, sturdy hiking boots, warm mid-layers, hat and gloves for high altitudes. For glacier/summit routes bring crampons, ice axe, helmet and rope if attempting technical sections. Always carry water, high-energy snacks, sun protection and a basic first-aid kit.

Try regional specialties such as Rize tea, muhlama (cheesy cornmeal), hamsi (anchovies, in season), and locally produced honey. Souvenirs: handwoven textiles, wooden crafts, local tea leaves and organic honey.