Testimonial and Trip Report - Frans van den Aardweg

Frans van den Aardweg from Holand - October 2013

I needed an new challenge after I failed to climb Mt Aconcaqua February this year because of the bad weather. I found Mount Damavand, Iran by the girlfriend of my brother. I climbed before Mt Blanc, Kilimanjaro, Elbrus, Mt Stanley, Mt Meru and was on Everest up to 6000m so Damavand became my challenge.


I booked my trip by the site www.damawand.de because there was lots of good information and it sounded reliable. Because I would like very much to summit I booked 1 extra day for acclimatization. I did not want to climb with to warm weather so I choose to go at the end of the season, what afterwards was a very well decision. So I arrived on 29 sept on IKA after 2 hours delay because off one bad engine.

Mr Soltani was there to say hello and brought me to the Shahr Hotel in Tehran. The next day he brought me to Polour and introduced me to my guide Amir. He checked my gear and that was oke so I was ready to go the next day to go from hut 2 to hut 3, where we arrived in the  afternoon. Because of the climb  I had an little headache, but this was gone the next day.

The next day Amir and I climbed for more the 1 hour and then descend again to acclimatize.
I enjoyed this day very much. The next day we where ready for the summit. Because I wanted to summit my wish was to start early and when I talked to my guide we decided to start at 6 o’clock.

We started at 5:50 AM and after 8 hours we reached the summit at 1.50 PM. The wind was very hard and I had some problems with breathing especially near the summit because there was also a lot off sulfur in the air coming from the summit. There was also an other climber who we helped to the summit. I was very pleased when we reached the summit and made a movie from the last part.

We stayed about half an hour on the summit before we went down. The way back to hut 3 was long and slippery because all of the small rolling stones. After 4 hours we reached the hut finally. I was very tired but also very pleased that I did reached the summit.

The next day we descended to hut 2 where the car brought us back to Polour. After a welcome shower and  an “Melon” party we went for an lunch in an restaurant. In the afternoon after thanking my guide I was going to an Spa in (Abe Garm Larijan near) Reyneh with Mr Soltani. This was very nice to do.

The next day we went to Tehran where he showed me the (Golestan) Palace, the (Big) Bazaar and we went to (Darband) the north of Tehran we made and walk uphill with many stairs. We drunk something near the “Summit” before we went down. We enjoyed the scenery over Tehran and took some last pictures. Then Mr Soltani brought me back to my hotel, where he would pick me up that night to bring me back to the airport.

The next morning I flew back to Amsterdam. I was filled with joy and like to thank Mr Soltani for this wonderful trip which I will not forget. Also thanks to my guide Amir.

Damavand Peak Trekking Tour
Join a Damavand trekking tour for an unforgettable adventure that caters to your skill level. Whether you’re a novice hiker or an experienced mountaineer, these guided tours offer a variety of options to suit your preferences. From multi-day trekking expeditions to shorter day hikes, you can explore the beauty of Mount Damavand with expert local guides who ensure safety and enjoyment every step of the way. Experience the thrill of navigating through stunning landscapes while connecting with fellow adventurers, making your journey through Damavand an enriching and memorable experience that you'll cherish forever.

Certified Iranian Mountain Climbing Guide
Choosing certified Iranian mountain climbing guides guarantees that you are in the hands of professionals who possess extensive knowledge of Mount Damavand’s terrain and weather conditions. These guides undergo rigorous training to handle all aspects of the climb, from altitude acclimatization to managing the risks of sudden weather changes. They offer international quality trekking tours that adhere to global safety standards, ensuring that climbers have a safe, organized, and enjoyable experience. Their expertise helps climbers focus on their journey, knowing that their safety is being taken care of by the best in the business.

Damavand Camp

Known by many names, including Damavand Base Camp and Damavand Camp II, Damavand Camp is often referred to locally as Goosfand-Sara (گوسفند سرا ), meaning "sheepfold," or as the Saheb al-Zaman Mosque (مسجد صاحب الزمان ) campsite. It is a crucial location for climbers and trekkers looking to scale Mount Damavand, providing essential facilities for preparation and rest.

As the most accessible and renowned starting point for climbing Mount Damavand, this base camp offers basic accommodations like a mountain refuge, mosque, and sheepfold. Situated at 3,040 meters, with coordinates Latitude 35.9020° and Longitude 52.1094°, it is the key site for those embarking on the south route, particularly during the summer. Climbers use this site to rest and prepare before ascending the mountain.

Mount Damavand: A Comprehensive Guide to Iran’s Majestic Peak – Facts and Figures Unveiled
Mount Damavand stands as a breathtaking natural wonder in Iran, known for its striking beauty and towering presence. As the highest peak in the Middle East, it rises to an impressive 5,671 meters (18,606 feet) above sea level. This comprehensive guide unveils all essential facts and figures about Damavand, including its geographical location, geological features, and its historical and cultural significance. Whether you're a mountaineering enthusiast or a curious traveler, this guide will provide a thorough understanding of why Mount Damavand is revered as one of Iran's most iconic landmarks.

Frans van den Aardweg from Holand 25DIC0202BK