FAQ's

Frequently Asked Questions

  • How to book

    Select your holiday
    Choose your trip and let us know your preferred travel period. Contact Demavend Travel for detailed information, terms and conditions.
     
    Choosing your holiday
    It is important that you choose a holiday that is well suited to your experience and capabilities. Please read carefully information regarding difficulty, elevations, ascents and descents, distances and times.
     
    Create your own tailor-made itinerary
    At your request, we can compose you individual programs or special trips (e.g. company incentives), according to your specific interests. You will have complete freedom to choose and decide where you want go and what you want to see. Contact us and build your own adventure day by day, combine different trips and areas, add pre & post tour arrangements to your itinerary or shorten or extend your chosen program. Design your own tailor made trip, a unique experience, developed according to your most personal travel desires.
     
    Read the booking conditions
    After receiving details and documents from us, it is important that you read the contract conditions and the itinerary with information carefully before making your booking.
    To guarantee a booking, we require a completed booking form and a deposit of % 30 of the total tour fee upon execution of the agreement.
    The final amount should be paid latest 7 days after receiving final Invoice.
    A booking is definite and a detailed invoice will be delivered to you once Demavend Travel agency has confirmed acceptance in writing in all terms and conditions.
     
    Before you book
    Before booking a holiday with us please ensure that you are aware of following important issues:
     
    - Travel insurance      
    Suitable travel insurance is a necessity for all clients on a Demavend Travel holiday.
    It is an essential condition that you have a valid travel insurance policy to cover the cost of any emergency medical treatments and to protect your holiday payments in the event of cancellation and in the event of losses and damages.
    We recommend arranging a personal travel insurance in your home country as this is not included in our service.
     
    - Passport        
    Please make sure to have at least 6 months validity on your passport (at the completion of your trip).
     
    - Visa
    Turkey requires visas from some European countries as well as from overseas. While some applicants may be exempt from visa for their touristic or business visit to Turkey, the others can obtain an
    E-visa, the electronic Visa (E-visa) application system: this system allows visitors travelling to Turkey to easily obtain their E-visas online via 
    All other applicants will need to obtain a visa through Turkish representations in the abroad. It is highly recommended that foreigners, who wish to visit Turkey, should read the related information about our country’s visa requirements.
    An information note about visa regime of Turkey is available in the following address
     
    Please ensure that you have adequate time to arrange your visa prior to departure.
    You must allow at least one free page in your passport for any visa required.

  • Essential information

    Group size
    Travelling in a small group provides a more familiar experience; a quiet and pleasant atmosphere where you can fully enjoy the entire diversity of your trip. That’s why our groups generally consist of 4 to 16 participants, but on your special request we can of course provide and organize special tours for less than 4 and/or for groups larger than 16 participants.
    Important: group size can also vary depending on the type of trip, the transport, accommodation used and the activities included.
     
    Age limit
    When booking a trip and/or services through us, please inform us at the time of booking about the age of your party. Please be advised that some of our itineraries include walking and trekking, cycling, water sport and winter adventures, depending on the level of activity, requiring a minimum age limit and a minimum level of fitness and stamina.
    The minimum age, depending on chosen trip and included activities, generally starts at 6 - 8.
    Throughout all of our trips and services it is mandatory that a parent or adult must accompany people under the age of 18.
    Important: we do require those under the age of 18 (by parents) and over the age of 70, at the time of travel, to send us a written file to confirm that they fully understand the implications of the trip and that they are fit enough to participate fully.
     
    Transfer & transportation
    All necessary transfers and transportations are made with private buses, minibuses or 4WHD cars.
    While hiking in the mountains, all of your luggage (except daily backpack) will be carried by private vehicles, horses/mules and/or porters.
     
    Flights
    We usually only offer and book domestic flights for clients joining our trips and/or use services directly arranged by us. We are happy to give advice on which flight schedules fit best with your chosen itinerary and give you information on suitable rates.
     
    Accommodation
    Wherever possible, we try to include accommodation which best reflects the local area and is located close as possible to the main sights to which we are travelling.
    In cities we generally prefer to stay in 3 or 4 star/or special class boutique accommodations (depending on your choice bed and breakfast (BB) or half board (HB) service included).
    In small towns and villages we also stay in well selected, original and authentic style local/family run (pension) accommodations.
    In mountain and national park areas we provide fixed campsite accommodation, including comfortable and quality two-person tents.

    Stay in a family-run stone guesthouse built in traditional Cappadocian architecture — X Hotel.
    Experience the warmth of local hospitality in this charming guesthouse carved from natural stone, reflecting the region’s unique architectural heritage. Each room is individually decorated with local textiles and handcrafted furniture, offering an authentic and cozy atmosphere.

    Enjoy dinner at a local restaurant featuring Anatolian dishes prepared by a women’s cooperative, housed in a beautifully restored Ottoman-era building.
    Savor traditional recipes passed down through generations, made with fresh, locally sourced ingredients. This cooperative not only preserves culinary traditions but also empowers women by providing them with meaningful employment opportunities.

    In Aladağlar, we collaborate with family-run mountain lodges operated by local residents.
    These accommodations offer a rustic and genuine experience of mountain life. Staying here supports the local economy and gives you the chance to connect with the community, learn about their traditions, and enjoy homemade regional specialties after a day of trekking or exploring the landscape.

    Single room and/or tent accommodation
    On request single room and/or tent accommodation is available for all of our trips, please check the trip file send to you for explanation, availability and rates.
    Please note that at high camps, because of limited space availability, single tent accommodation cannot be provided.
     
    Camps & equipment
    During all of our trips you will accommodate at Demavend Travels private and fixed campsites, with necessary camping equipment (mattresses, necessary kitchen gears and dinnerware) of high quality and Demavend Travel cook and staff support throughout provided.
     
    Meals
    Generally in all of our published itineraries meals are provided within the trip price, however, there is no set rule and it can be changed and adapted to your personal choice.
    The Turkish cuisine is considered to be one of the richest kitchens in the world, varied and complex as its history. Throughout all of our itineraries we try to offer you as much as possible varieties of traditional dishes and local tastes, all prepared and served by well selected restaurants and our professional cooks at our campsites. Where there is no option, such as when no restaurant available during walking or remote mountain areas, you will be provided with a special lunch package including a contemporary selection of many special local foods along with some sweet specialties.
    Important: as far as possible we try to cater for you if you have special dietary requirements, for example vegetarian, diabetes, gluten and/or similar. But please notice that we have to ask you to have realistic expectations, in some areas it may be difficult to cater for all special meal requirements. That’s why it is important to inform us as soon as possible about dietary requirements of your party and to sort out all kind of questions before you book your trip.
     
    Mt. Ararat permit
    Mount Ararat climbs require permission (permit) application given by the government.
    Therefore it is necessary to confirm your Ararat climb 30 days in advance before the tour begins.
    To complete all requirements by time, it is an absolute necessity to send us all required personal details of each group member 30 days in advance
     
    Necessary information we need from all participants 30 days in advance:
    -              Your full name and surname (as indicated in your passport)
    -              Date and place of birth
    -              Nationality
    -              Passport number
    -              Issue and expiry date of passport (please make sure that expiry date is beyond travel dates)
    -              A copy of your passports ID (Information) page containing your personal details (including picture & passport number)

  • Difficulty levels

    It is important for us to provide you, our guests, with relevant information, that you can decide which of our trips are right for your personal conditions.
    A detailed description of our difficulty levels will help you to decide which of our trips suits you and ensures you have an enjoyable trekking and holiday experience with us.
     
    A = easy
    Average walking time per day approx. 2 - 4 h.
    Light ups and downs, vary in altitude between 100 - 300m, trekking routes up to maximum 6 - 8 km.
    These tours are suitable for all guests who are in good health. Hiking experience is not required.
     
    B = medium (gentle)
    Average walking time per day approx. 4 - 5 h.
    Ups and downs vary in altitude between 300 - 500m, trekking routes up to maximum 8 - 12 km.
    These tours are a good choice for beginners with little or no trekking experience. Good health and a certain degree of fitness are required.
     
    C = moderate
    Average walking time per day approx. 5 - 6 h.
    Ups and downs vary in altitude between 500 - 600m, trekking routes up to maximum 12 - 15 km.
    These tours are suitable for trekkers with initial hiking experience at altitudes around and above 2.500 - 3.000 meters, with solid/good fitness, stamina and hiking condition.
     
    D = challenging
    Average walking time per day approx. 6 h.
    Ups and downs vary in altitude between 600 - 800m, trekking routes up to maximum 16 - 18 km.
    These tours are a good choice for trekkers with hiking experience at altitudes at around and above 3.000 - 3.500 meters, good physical condition, fitness and stamina is required.
     
    E = demanding (difficult)
    Average walking time per day approx. 6 - 8 h.
    Ups and downs vary in altitude between 600 - 1.000m, trekking routes up to maximum 18 - 25 km.
    These tours are for sure-footed and experienced mountain hikers in good physical condition, with experience at altitudes above 3.500 up to 5.000 meters (Mt. Ararat highest mountain of Turkey with 5.137m).  Appropriate altitude tolerance is required.

  • Packing list

    As each person’s needs and requirements vary we do not provide a comprehensive individual packing list for each tour.
    The list down below is a sample to ensure you don’t miss key items.
     
    Necessary (advisable) equipment
    Trekking and mountain clothing, summer and winter
    –          Walking boots / trekking shoes (good profile and water-repellent)
    –          Crampons, previously tested and adapted, especially necessary for Mt. Ararat summit climb
                Important: customers have to bring their own crampons, it is in the Van/Dogubeyazit area impossible to rent or buy crampons.
                Crampons are a necessity for Ararat summit climb and without not possible.
    –          Ice axe and mountain safety harness (for Mt. Ararat summit climb)
    –          Walking poles / sticks
    –          Walking clothes
                –           Warm (down) jacket / wind stopper (polar) jacket (water-repellent)
                –           Waterproof jacket
                –           Waterproof trousers and gaiters
                –           Breathable wicking layers / walking/trekking clothes (quick-dry); pullover, sweatshirt, T-shirt, trousers, shorts
                –           Thermal underwear
                –           Walking socks
                –           Gloves or mittens
                –           Warm hat / cap (sun protecting)
                –           Sunglasses
    –          Daily backpack (advisable minimum 25 - 30 L volume) with cover (rain protection)
    –          Kitbag (travel/duffel bag)
                Alternative/reserve bag (to leave all non-essentials at base camps)
    –          Sleeping bag (minimum minus (-) 25 °C in extreme)
    –          Headlight / torch & batteries
    –          Water bottles or hydration system / thermos (for warm drinks)
    –          Water purification
    –          Energy bars and snacks
    –          First aid kit (first aid items for your own personal use) / personal medication / antibiotics / blister kit / insect repellent
    –          Sun protection cream
     
     
    Additional activities & equipment
     
    Trekking
    –          GPS outdoor navigation device
     
    Ski
    –          Ski and equipment (clothes)
    –          Ski shoes
    –          Ski helmet
    –          Ski poles / sticks
    –          repair kit and tools / spare parts
     
    Snowshoe
    –          Snowshoes (raquettes)
    –          Walking poles / sticks
     
    Cycling & MTB
    –          Bicycle & mountain bike
    –          Cycling helmet
    –          Cycling shoes
    –          Cycling gloves
    –          Cycling shorts (padded) & shirts
    –          Sunglasses
    –          Small backpack and/or bum-bag
    –          Water bottles or hydration system
     
    Bike kit
    –          repair kit and tools / spare parts and tyres
    –          Mini pump and tyre levers
    –          SPD pedals and shoes
    –          Speedometer
     
    Documents
    –          Passports & visas
    –          Vaccination certificates
    –          Travel insurance documents
                Important: please ensure that a 24/7 contact telephone number of a family member and your insurance company is written on your documentation
                in case of an emergency.
    –          A copy of important documents, separately packed (passport/visa/insurance details) in case of loss or damage
    –          Bank (cash) and/or credit cards
    –          E-ticket and/or flight details
    –          Travel contract (agreement) and booking terms & conditions
    –          Notebook and pen
    –          Document wallet or money-belt

  • Sustainability

    Demavend Travel – Sustainability Policy

    Demavend Travel organizes cultural, adventure, and nature tours throughout Turkey. Since the 1960s, our company has grown with a strong sense of responsibility towards the environment, our guests, and the communities in which we operate. For us, sustainability is not only about reducing negative impacts, but also about creating long-term positive outcomes. This policy describes our commitments to protecting the environment, respecting culture, engaging with local communities, and ensuring the wellbeing of our customers. It aligns with our Travelife report and is reviewed annually.

    1. Sustainability Management & Legal Compliance

    Demavend Travel is fully committed to sustainability performance. Our management endorses this policy, and we follow all local, national, and international regulations. We apply a strict zero-tolerance policy for corruption, bribery, forced labor, and discrimination. A Sustainability Coordinator is appointed to oversee implementation and reporting through the Travelife platform. This policy is reviewed and updated every year.

    2. Social Policy & Human Rights

    Our employees are our most valuable asset. We ensure:

    • Legal contracts, fair salaries, and social security for all staff.

    • A safe and healthy workplace in line with legal standards.

    • Equal opportunities and non-discrimination at every level.

    • Regular trainings on sustainability, workplace safety, and child protection.

    • An anonymous feedback system to raise concerns.

    Child Protection: Demavend Travel does not allow child labor or any form of exploitation. Guides and staff receive awareness training on protecting children in tourism.

    3. Environment in Office Operations

    We minimize the footprint of our office activities:

    • Energy and water consumption is monitored monthly through bills, and reduction

    targets are set.

    • FSC-certified paper and eco-friendly cleaning products are used.

    • Printing is kept to a minimum and always double-sided in black and white.

    • All devices and lights are energy-efficient and turned off when not in use.

    To reduce our carbon impact, unnecessary travel is avoided. Where emissions cannot be reduced, we support reforestation projects such as TEMA.

    4. Suppliers and Partners

    We prefer to work with local suppliers who share our values.

    • Women’s cooperatives and small producers are prioritized.

    • Locally produced, seasonal products are chosen whenever possible.

    • A Supplier Code of Conduct ensures respect for human rights, fair labor, and

    environmental protection.

    • Partnerships are ended immediately if violations occur.

    5. Inbound Partner Agencies

    All partner agencies must follow our Code of Conduct. They are encouraged to use the Travelife learning platform and to act in the best interest of communities, the environment, and our guests.

    6. Transport

    • All transfers are carried out by licensed vehicles and in full compliance with national

    regulations.

    • We only use safe, registered, and insured transport providers.

    • Short-haul destinations are reached by land transport instead of flights where

    possible.

    • Vehicle size is selected according to group size to avoid unnecessary emissions.

    • Guests are encouraged to use public transport or shared transfer options whenever

    available.

    7. Accommodations

    • We only cooperate with accommodations that respect our Code of Conduct.

    • Hotels and guesthouses with clear sustainability practices (waste separation, energy

    and water saving) are preferred.

    • We give priority to accommodations that respect local architecture and traditions.


    8. Activities & Excursions

    • Activities that harm animals, nature, or cultural heritage are strictly excluded.

    • We promote community-based excursions and work with local guides.

    • Guests receive information on responsible shopping and are warned against illegal

    souvenirs.

    • Camps and excursions are organized with eco-friendly and culturally respectful

    methods.

    9. Guides & Local Representatives

    • Qualified local guides are hired, paid fairly, and provided with safe working conditions.

    • All guides receive regular training on sustainability topics.

    • Special training on child protection and prevention of exploitation in tourism is

    mandatory.

    • Guides are responsible for informing guests about cultural sensitivity, environmental

    issues, and safety.

    10. Destinations

    • To avoid over-tourism, we promote less-visited regions.

    • We cooperate with local authorities and communities to protect nature (for example,

    in Aladağlar National Park).

    • Destinations with poor human rights records are not supported.

    • Guests are encouraged to support local culture, buy responsibly, and avoid forbidden

    products.

    11. Customer Communication & Protection

    • All tour information is accurate and transparent; misleading marketing is not

    accepted.

    • We are committed to honest communication and avoid greenwashing.

    • Guests are informed about sustainability before and during their trip.

    • Complaints and feedback can be submitted through our website form, by e-mail, or byphone. All feedback is registered and answered within 7 days.

    • Customer privacy is fully protected according to legal standards.

    • Health and safety procedures are applied in all tours, including emergency protocols.

    Contact / Responsible person

    All staff are responsible for the ownership and undertaking of this policy.

    All staff are responsible for the promotion and implementation of this sustainability policy within their departments.

    The implementation of this policy will be lead by the Sustainability Coordinator, Mr. Mehmet Donmez, who can be reached at mehmet@demavendtravel.com

  • Health & Safety

    Health & Safety Information for Travellers

    1. General Health & Safety Policy

    Demavend Travel prioritizes the health, safety, and well-being of all guests and staff during every tour. Our guides are trained in first aid, emergency communication, and risk awareness for outdoor activities.

    2. Main Health & Safety Risks and Precautions by Tour Type

    a. Mountain and Trekking Tours (e.g., Aladağlar, Mt. Ararat, Kaçkar)

    Potential risks:

    - Altitude sickness (especially above 3000 m)
    - Sun exposure and dehydration
    - Uneven terrain, slips or falls
    - Sudden weather changes (heat, rain, snow, lightning)

    Precautions:

    - Gradual acclimatization and rest days are included in the itinerary.
    - Clients must bring proper hiking gear (boots, waterproof jacket, hat, sunscreen).
    - Daily health checks by guides (pulse, oxygen, hydration).
    - Mountain guides carry first-aid kits and portable oxygen if required.
    - Emergency evacuation procedures are in place in cooperation with local rescue teams.

    b. Camping and Outdoor Activities

    Potential risks:

    - Minor injuries (cuts, insect bites, allergic reactions)
    - Food hygiene issues or dehydration
    - Fire or equipment hazards

    Precautions:

    - Campsites are licensed or authorized by local authorities.
    - All meals are prepared with clean water and hygienic practices.
    - Drinking water is provided daily.
    - Campfires are controlled and extinguished safely after use.
     

    c. Cultural and City Tours (e.g., Cappadocia, Istanbul, Ephesus)

    Potential risks:

    - Crowded public areas (risk of pickpocketing or personal injury)
    - Road traffic hazards during transfers
    - Heat exhaustion in summer months

    Precautions:

    - Group leaders remind travellers to keep valuables secure.
    - All transport vehicles are licensed and insured.
    - Air-conditioned buses and regular water breaks during visits.
    - Entrance tickets are pre-arranged to avoid queuing.

    d. Seasonal & Regional Health Risks

    Potential risks:

    - Tick bites in rural and forest areas (spring–summer)
    - Mosquito bites in lowland areas (summer)
    - Winter frostbite or hypothermia in high-altitude zones

    Precautions:

    - Use insect repellent and cover skin when hiking in nature.
    - Carry prescribed medication if allergic to insect bites.
    - Guides monitor weather and cancel or adjust activities when conditions become unsafe.

    e. Cultural & Gender-Specific Considerations

    Potential risks:

    - Misunderstandings related to dress code or local customs, especially in rural or conservative regions.

    Precautions:

    - Travellers receive pre-departure information on respectful behaviour, dress codes, and photography permissions.
    - Female travellers are advised to wear modest clothing in villages or religious sites.
    - Guides ensure respectful interaction with local communities.

    3. Disease Prevention and Medical Information

    There are no mandatory vaccines for travel to Turkey, but travellers are advised to check WHO’s International Travel and Health page: www.who.int/ith.
    It is recommended to have routine vaccinations up to date (tetanus, hepatitis A, typhoid for rural areas).
    Clean drinking water is provided; bottled water is widely available.
    Travellers with chronic conditions should inform Demavend Travel in advance and bring sufficient medication.

    4. Emergency Contacts and Medical Support

    Local hospitals and clinics are available in all main destinations.
    In case of emergency, guides contact 112 (national emergency line) and company headquarters.
    Mountain tours include contact with local gendarmerie and regional rescue units.
    Demavend Travel maintains an emergency contact available 24/7.

    5. Insurance Requirement

    All travellers are required to have personal travel and health insurance covering medical emergencies, evacuation, and trip cancellation.
    Proof of insurance may be requested before the trip.

    Your safety is our top priority. Before travelling with us, please take a few minutes to read the Health & Safety Information below to better understand the destinations, possible risks, and how to enjoy your trip safely.  

     

     

  • What We Expect!

    As part of our commitment to sustainable tourism, we kindly ask all guests to follow these guidelines during our tours:

    1.      Respect Nature
    Do not leave litter; dispose of waste in designated areas.
    Stay on marked trails during hikes.

    2.      Protect Wildlife
    Do not feed or disturb animals.
    Keep noise levels low to avoid disrupting the natural environment.

    3.      Behave Responsibly at Cultural and Historical Sites
    Do not touch or damage historical monuments and structures.
    Always ask permission before taking photos of local people.

    4.      Respect Local Culture
    Follow local dress codes and etiquette.
    Support the local economy by choosing locally produced goods and services.

    Use Resources Wisely
    Save water and energy whenever possible.
    Reduce the use of single-use plastics.