Damavand Camp

Damavand Camp - Base Camp Shelter

This campsite is also called Damavand Camp II, GoosfandSara or the Modque

Damavand Base Camp Overview:

Base Camp is a key starting point for Mount Damavand trekking tour on the southe route, situated at an altitude of 3,040 meters above sea level (masl). This summer starting point features a small mountain shelter, known as a refuge, a mosque called Saheb Zaman (or Saheb al Zaman), and a sheepfold.

During the summer climbing season, climbers and their equipment are transported to this site using off-road vehicles such as 4WD Jeeps and Land Rovers. While it is possible to find some water, food, and drink at the Damavand base camp, it is highly recommended to bring your own supplies. Additionally, mules and porters are available to carry equipment to the final campsite, Camp 3 Bargah Sevom.

Important Note:

This Damavand Camp is not ideal for accommodation or acclimatization during the busy summer climbing season. It tends to be crowded, noisy, and dirty, filled with people and vehicles. For more information, refer to the Damavand Tour Info.

Winter Conditions:

In winter, the gravel road leading to Base Camp is often blocked by heavy snowfall, making it inaccessible by car. The winter starting point for Mount Damavand is typically at the gravel road junction (GPS Landmark No. 5) or nearby. During the cold season, this area is generally remote and less crowded, and you may use the shelter or mosque for accommodation.

Accommodation in Mt. Damavand Camp 2 Base (Goosfand Sara)

As mentioned earlier, Goosfand Sara is not ideal for accommodation or acclimatization during the summer season due to overcrowding, noise, and dirt. For a better experience while trekking Mount Damavand, consider using Camp 1 Polour or Camp 3 New Hut. However, if you decide to stay at Goosfand Sara, it is advisable to bring your own tent and set it up a few hundred meters away from the main area for more comfort and privacy.

A - Shelter or Refuge: The shelter has two old rooms, but they are currently unsuitable for use as the doors and windows are damaged.

B - Mosque: The mosque has a vacant room, but it tends to be crowded during the summer.

C - Tenting: For better comfort and privacy, bring and use your own tent, setting it up at a distance from the main area.

Please note: It is recommended to plan your accommodations carefully and consider alternative campsites to avoid the issues at Goosfand Sara.

Facilities and Advantages
Primarily for the summer season:

• Starting point of the South route for Damavand Climbing Tours.
• Accessible by car.
• Mule and porter services available.
• Some food, drinks, and water available.
• Mobile network coverage.

Disadvantages
Primarily in summer:

• Not a good campsite for Mount Damavand; it needs major reconstruction.
• Old shelter/refuge with no facilities.
• Unsuitable for acclimatization and accommodation.
• Often lacks running water.
• Noisy, crowded, and dirty.
• Not suitable for foreign travelers.
• Overrun by people and cars.
• No proper toilets.
• Lack of management.
  
  
  
  Mount Damavand Base Camp (Tenting)
  
  
  

Location
Gosfandsara Shelter (lat: 35.9020°, lon: 52.1094°, alt: 3,025 m)

• Altitude: 3,025 m
• Latitude: 35°54'10" N
• Longitude: 52°06'34" E

Camp 1 Polour to Camp 2 Base

• Transfer via gravel road, by car in summer or by foot in winter.
• Distance from Camp 1 Polour: Approximately one hour by car (mostly gravel road).
• Ascent to Camp 3 Bargah-e Sevom: 4 to 6 hours by slow walk.
• Descent from Camp 3 Bargah-e Sevom: 2 to 3 hours.

Other Names

• Farsi Name: Gosfand Sara, Goosfand Sara ye Ehsan, Masjed, Masjed Saheb al Zaman.
• Old Name: Alaf Chin.
• English Name: Base Camp, Mosque, Base shelter/refuge, Sheepfold. Gosfand Sara means sheepfold.

Please note: It is advisable to plan your accommodations carefully and consider alternative campsites to avoid the issues at Goosfand Sara.

How to Get to Camp 2 Base
To reach Camp 2 Base (Goosfand Sara) from Camp 1 (either Polour or Reyneh):

1. Book a suitable Car in Advance: If you plan to leave Camp 1 early in the morning, it is recommended to book a good car the day before. The drive to Camp 2 Base typically takes about one hour.
   
   
2. Transfer by Car: Request for a good car (not any car) to take you from Camp 1 Polour or Reyneh to Base Camp (Goosfand Sara). Be aware that most of the road is gravel, which may be impassable in spring and winter. Cars may not be able to reach the base camp, so consider traveling "as far as the car can go."
   
   
3. Vehicle Recommendation: For this part of the journey, use strong 4WD vehicles such as Land Rovers, Jeeps, or patrol cars. Avoid using mini trucks.
   
   

Note:

• Use Land Rovers, Jeeps, and 4WD patrol cars.
• Do not use mini trucks.

Damavand Camp 1 to Camp 2 Map

Gravel Road, by car in summer or walk in winter.

Mount Damavand Campsites

Mount Damavand features ten camps and shelters that offer hikers and mountaineers essential resting places with basic amenities. Strategically located along the four main routes to the summit, these Damavand campsites provide trekkers with opportunities to relax, acclimate to the high altitude, and plan safe overnight stays. This guide provides a comprehensive overview of Damavand's camps, including mountain huts, shelters, and tenting spots, detailing their locations and safety information. It is an invaluable resource for hikers planning and executing treks on the various routes to the peak.

Key Campsites and Their Importance

Among the notable campsites are Camp 1 Polour and Camp 3 Bargah-e Sevom, which serve as crucial acclimatization points and staging areas for summit attempts. Camp 2 Base (Goosfand Sara) is a popular but often crowded spot, offering basic services and transportation access. Despite the popularity of this Damavand Camp, it is recommended to consider alternative sites for a quieter and cleaner environment. Additionally, specialized campsites on the northern, southern, eastern, and western routes each offer unique perspectives and challenges, catering to different levels of experience and preferences. Proper planning and familiarity with these campsites are essential for a safe and successful ascent to the summit of Mount Damavand.

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Mount Damavand Iran Road and Route Map
By A. Soltani

Mount Damavand Base Camp (Crowd)

Damavand Camp - Base Camp Shelter 24DIC0724B