For this trip we will be based in the Zagros mountains of Western Iran. This area is approximately 500km from Tehran. Within the Zagros is the Zardkouh region, which is ideal ski touring terrain, with plenty of peaks around 3500m high and accessible for day tours.
The exact itinerary will be decided upon once current conditions and weather are known, but in a one week trip we anticipate skiing for 6 days. A sample itinerary is contained within the trip brochure. Standard days involve being dropped at a roadhead between 2200m and 2500m and skinning for up to 1200m to reach our objective.
Sample itinerary:
DAY 1: Travel day. Hopefully fly to Isfahan. Sightseeing in Isfahan. Overnight in hotel.
DAY 2: Ski touring Samsami peak 3450m. Drive to Chelgerd (3hrs) then drive to 2400m. Ski Tour on Samsami peak 3450m. 1hr drive back, overnight at local house in Chelgerd.
DAY 3: Ski touring Shahmansouri peak 3600m. Drive 1hr to 2500m. Ski tour on Shahmansouri peak 3600m . Overnight at local house in Chelgerd.
DAY 4: Ski touring Gilas peak 3200m. 1hr drive to Gilas village and tour from there. Drive back to Chelgerd.
DAY 5: Ski tour in Mohammad-Abad. 20min drive to Mohammad-Abad at 2300m. Ski touring day from small village to another village (Niakan). 10min drive back. Overnight at local house in Mohamad-Abad.
DAY 6: Ski touring Niakan peak 4050m. Early morning start. Full day ski touring on Niakan peak 4050m. Overnight at local house in Mohamad-Abad.
DAY 7: Back to Isfahan, with the possibility of a short ski tour en route. Overnight in hotel.
DAY 8: Departure. Full day city tour in Isfahan. Shopping. Departure
Culture: Iran has a unique culture that should really enhance the trip. In fact, if you view it as a cultural trip, with ski touring, then it won't be possible to be disappointed.
Insurance: This is mandatory and must include Rescue and Medical Cover as well as Covid cover. Hopefully we have almost seen the back of covid, but it is impossible to know and it would be prudent to take out cover just in case.
This is a chance to experience a completely different ski touring venue. It is not currently on the radar of many ski operators, and hence is quiet and unspoiled. Let's get there before the crowds ! Currently I am offering one week only. If the week fills I will offer a second trip the following week.
Please download the trip brochure for more detailed information.
Dates and Prices on application.
Please contact me at info@stuartmacdonald.org for more details.