Mount Damavand Crowd
Mount Damavand Popularity and Crowd
Lots of people love to trek Mount Damavand Iran. But, because it's so popular, it gets really crowded in the summer. When there are too many people, it causes problems. The campsites and tenting places where climbers sleep get full. The paths get jammed, so it's hard to organize a proper Damavand trekking tour program. And sadly, more people means more chances for someone to get hurt.Based on our experience on our years of Guiding Mount Damavand Iran, we've found the summer season's peak crowds occur on Thursdays and Fridays (the Iranian weekend), leading to limited availability of huts, shelters, and tent space at the Damavand southern route camps. To avoid these peak crowds, we highly recommend starting your summit push on Saturday or Sunday. Be aware that similar crowding can occur at shelters on other Damavand routes, particularly during Iranian Public Holidays.
Mount Damavand Base camp Summer Crowd
In technical terms, Damavand Mountain is favorite due to its impressive height, gentle climbing slopes, moderate grade, intermediate difficulty, well-equipped huts, and easy access from Tehran. For up-to-date information, check the Damavand Info webpage.
Today, Damavand Mountain is an international mountaineering destination, counted among the world's finest peaks. While the exact number of climbers annually is unclear, around 10% are estimated to be foreign climbers, emphasizing its global appeal. Due to the following mentioned reasons Mount Damavand, the massive volcano it is a favored destination for Iranian mountaineers. It also has rapidly gained popularity among international mountain tourists, with the Damavand south route being particularly favored.
Mount Damavand is a symbol of resilience and the majestic beauty of Iranian nature. It is the peak of Persia and lord of the Alborz Mountains! It holds significance as the highest peak in the country and is symbolically tied to freedom in Persian myths, echoing through literature and folk poems.
Due to its stunning beauty, Mount Damavand attracts many trekkers, especially in the summer. However, this popularity leads to overcrowding during the summer season, which creates several challenges.
- Full and Jam-packed Campsites: Finding a comfortable and safe Damavand camp can be difficult with the rise of climbers.
- Crowded and Packed Trails: Damavand trails become crowded and packed, making navigation and adherence to schedules challenging.
- Increased Safety Risks: Large crowds can increase the risk of accidents for both experienced and novice climbers.
How to Avoid Damavand Crowd
Beat the Crowds on Mount Damavand
Peak Season: Mount Damavand experiences its busiest period between June 20th and September 23rd, coinciding with school vacations. The peak of the crowds falls between August 4th and 6th.
Planning your Climb: To avoid the worst of the crowds, consider the following:
In Iran, the first day of the week (workweek) starts on Saturday, while the official weekend falls on Thursday and Friday.
Choose the Saturday or Sunday departures, starting your program on a Saturday or Sunday, (the starting days of the week in Iran) and finishing your Damavand program before the Iranian weekend (Thursday-Friday). This strategy minimizes overlap with peak periods.
In addition to avoiding weekends, it is advisable to schedule your climb outside of Iranian Public Holidays to minimize the potential for encountering large crowds.
- Research and book accommodations well in advance, especially during peak season.
- Familiarize yourself with safety regulations and Leave No Trace on the mountain.
- Pack appropriate Damavand gear and clothing suitable for the weather conditions.
- Be mindful of your physical fitness level and choose a suitable Damavand climbing route.
Mount Demavand Third Camp Crowd around Old Shelter
About Damavand Camp 2 - Base Camp
Avoid Camp 2: Opt for a More Pleasant Acclimatization Experience
While Mount Damavand offers various campsites for acclimatization, Damavand Camp 2 Base is not recommended. Here's why:- Limited Suitability: Camp 2 is generally considered the least desirable option for acclimatization compared to Camp 1 Polour and Camp 3 New Hut.
- Crowded and Below standard: The campsite struggles with overcrowding and cleanliness issues, potentially impacting your comfort and experience.
- Summer Disruptions: During summer, the area experiences high volumes of cars, mountaineers, local residents, and animals, leading to noise and potential congestion.
- Unpredictable Traffic: Cars frequently arrive and depart throughout the day and night, causing noise and disruption.
Damawand Base camp in Summer
Demavand South Route Base camp Summer Season
Damavand Base Camp
The Damavand Base Camp, known locally as Goosfand Sara Campsite, is the most accessible and famous starting point for ascents of Mount Damavand in Iran. At an elevation of 3,040 meters, it features a small mountain refuge, the Saheb al Zaman mosque, and a sheepfold. This base camp is the primary location for summer treks on the southern route, located at 35.9020° N and 52.1094° E.
Guided Trekking Tours on Mount Damavand
Guided trekking tours on Mount Damavand offer a unique opportunity to explore Iran’s tallest peak in a safe and enjoyable manner. These tours are led by experienced local guides who ensure your safety while providing insights into the area’s rich history and natural beauty. With a range of tour packages available, you can choose the best option for your fitness level and adventure goals, making your Damavand trekking expedition both enjoyable and challenging. Whether you're trekking through vibrant alpine meadows or climbing rocky paths, these guided experiences promise unforgettable memories and personal growth throughout your journey.