ABOUT MOUNT SUPHAN
| MT. SUPHAN QUICK FACT BOX |
| Elevation |
13,313 feet, 4,058 meters |
| Location |
Turkey, Middle East |
| Coordinates |
38°55′00″N 42°49′00″E |
| Type |
Stratovolcano |
| Last Eruption |
1597 |
| Convenient Center(s) |
Adilcevaz, Turkey |
| Nearest Major Airport |
Van Airport, Turkey |
Mount Suphan is located in the volcanic mountain chain that starts with Nemrut Mountain (to the west of Lake Van) and extends along Mount Ağrı (Ararat). This extinct volcano, which is the second highest mountain after Mount Ararat, is located in the north of Lake Van and has a summit elevation of 4058 m. The volcano's summit holds a snow-filled crater, but is generally broad and rugged from eons of erosion. The slopes, however, have retained much of their conal form, making the ascent of Suphan a straightforward one.
On Mount Suphan, there are several small glaciers located above the recent snow line of 3700 meters. The largest glacier on the Mount Suphan is Hızır Glacier located on the northern slope of the crater.
SEASON AND WEATHER
Throughout the winter, snow falls on Suphan reaching three to four meters. The mountain's steep slopes and snow blanket combine to make it a good location for "Heli-skiing" -- using helicopters to drop you off on the slopes for an adventure of high mountain skiing. The easily accessible southern and eastern flanks of Suphan are the preferred faces for ascending the mountain; they both offer spectacular views.
The best season to climb is July to September, with most often the better weather and without the covering of snow.
On Mt. Suphan in the summer there are problems with water during climbing. There are no streams, although on the sothern route one small stream can be found. There is a plenty of water from small glaciers on the level of the crater lakes, however it is not advised to take water from the lakes as they are already contaminated by sheep.
CLIMBING ROUTES
The easily accessible southern and eastern flanks of Suphan both offer spectacular views, and are the preferred faces for ascending the mountain. To climb from the eastern flank take the coastal road that circles Lake Van. In the stretch between Adilcevaz and Ercis, turn north to Aydinlar village. From there you continue on to Kicgilli village where you can engage a guide to lead you in your ascent. The climb from the south begins at the village of Harmantepe.
PERMITS & REGISTRATIONS
You are required to register in the gendarmerie's office in Adilcevaz, there are not any fees associated with this.
