Testimonial and Trip Report - Sophie Lee Taylor

Sophie Lee Taylor from England - April 2014

I had a wonderful time on Damavand Mountain, Iran. The climb was one of the best organised and most professional I have ever experienced. We got caught in bad weather on the way down from the summit, but my guide, Ali Fard, took us down safely and quickly and I felt in very safe hands indeed. The mountain itself is stunning and I would recommend the expedition to anyone.


Sophie Lee Taylor: Seven Volcanoes Project
Sophie Lee Taylor, MSc Public Health by Distance Learning graduate, has undertaken the project of a lifetime in support of Caner Research…

“In 2008, life was very different – I was working as a foreign correspondent in China, and fully absorbed in a busy career which was rewarding and challenging in equal measure. My parents lived in the UK, I visited them every few months, and had absolutely no idea how much I was taking for granted.

After a few months of feeling vaguely unwell, my father was diagnosed with cancer of the oesophagus. Only two weeks after his diagnosis, he passed away. I was back in Shanghai at the time packing in my job, and was not able to be there when he died. It was the most gut-wrenching, agonising experience.

Shortly after my father's passing I moved back to the UK, and since then I have climbed a mountain a year in his memory to raise funds for cancer research. I had never climbed one before, but wanted to focus my energies on something proactive and positive.

This year, I decided to make an all-out effort and climb the highest volcano on every continent to fund a clinical trial for a cure for oesophageal cancer run by Cancer Research UK (www.sevenvolcanoes.com). Every donation means a great deal to me and it would be absolutely wonderful to reach the £7,000 target.

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

Referred to by several names, Damavand Camp is also known as the Damavand Base Camp, Damavand Camp II, or the second campsite on the mountain. Locally, it’s called Goosfand-Sara (گوسفند سرا ), meaning "sheepfold," or the Saheb al-Zaman Mosque (مسجد صاحب الزمان ) campsite. This is a major stop for trekkers and mountaineers preparing for their climb of Mount Damavand, offering essential amenities to rest and prepare.

As the most accessible and popular starting point for Mount Damavand, this camp provides basic amenities, including a small refuge, a mosque, and a sheepfold. Positioned at an elevation of 3,040 meters, at coordinates Latitude 35.9020° and Longitude 52.1094°, it is the primary base camp for those taking the south route, especially in the summer. This location is ideal for climbers to rest before their ascent.

Sophie Lee Taylor Cairns from Britain 25DIC0202CG