Interesting places – landscapes
Muradiye Waterfalls
Muradiye Waterfalls are located right by the main road leading from Van to Dogubayazit, so whenever you are travelling from Van, you can stop by to admire them. They are about 10 meters high and undoubtedly create a picturesque and fairytale-like spot. You can enjoy the view both from above and below. Muradiye Waterfalls feed the Yaniktar River, which flows into the Lake Van. This place is often chosen for picnics, and it is visited by both tourists and locals. In Turkish, the waterfalls are called Muradiye Şelalesi. You will visit the Muradiye Waterfalls during all of our trips that arrive at Van Airport. More info below.
Lake Van
Van Gölü – a saline lake in eastern Turkey located on the Armenian Plateau. It is the largest and deepest lake in all of Turkey. It was formed as a result of the eruption of the Nemrut Dagi volcano, through the outpouring of lava. The water in the lake contains a "detergent" – alkali, which allows you to do laundry without soap powder 🙂. The lake features several islands with preserved Armenian monuments. The most famous and developed island is Akdamar Island with the Armenian Church of the Holy Cross. Several Armenian monuments are also preserved around the lake. A trip around Lake Van is an opportunity to see many interesting places, including landscapes and monuments from many cultures.
You will have a chance to see Muradiye Waterfalls and swim in the Lake Van during the following trips:
Tusheti
Tusheti is a real treasure among the Georgian mountains. It offers extraordinary landscapes, gorges, waterfalls, and picturesque valleys. Located in the northeastern part of the country, at altitudes reaching 3000 meters above sea level, it delights with its wild nature and traditional way of life. The region is famous for its mysterious defensive towers in villages such as Omalo and Dartlo, as well as for the production of sheep cheese called Guda (not Gouda!).Tusheti is also home to unique species of fauna, such as Caucasian ibexes and golden eagles, which can be encountered during trekking. The Tusheti Biosphere Reserve offers numerous trails through passes and alpine meadows. It is a true paradise for hiking enthusiasts. The road to Tusheti, considered one of the most spectacular in the world, is an additional attraction for those who wish to discover the wild side of Georgia. To discover the beauty of Georgia, we invite you to book a tailored trip or Mt Kazbek tour. More info below.
Truso Valley
Truso Valley, located in the Kazbegi region, is one of the most picturesque places in Georgia, which enchants both with its tranquillity and the raw beauty of nature. Surrounded by the majestic peaks of the Caucasus, this valley offers breathtaking views of limestone cliffs, hot springs, and intensely orange mineral deposits which create a striking contrast with the greenery of alpine meadows. Its unique landscape attracts not only trekking enthusiasts, but also photographers and travellers seeking places where time seems to stand still. The valley contains numerous historical remnants, such as the ruins of medieval defensive towers and abandoned villages, which hold many stories about the former inhabitants of these lands. One of the most important points in the valley is the source of the Terek River, which flows through the area, creating picturesque meanders and waterfalls. Along the trekking route, you can also admire the sulphuric hot springs, which give the valley a unique atmosphere. Truso Valley is also a place to encounter local culture. In the season, you may meet shepherds leading their flocks of sheep in the traditional way and try local delicacies such as cheese or bread baked on a hot stone. Hiking in Truso Valley allows you to connect with both the nature and the traditions of the region. This is a truly unique place that offers an incredible harmony between wild nature and traces of human activity. It will surely stay in the memory of everyone who decides to visit it. You can trek Truso valley during a tailored tour or during a trip around Georgia (Mt Kazbek tour).
Chaukhi mountain range and Rcheulishvili peak
The Chaukhi mountain range, often called the Georgian Dolomites, is one of the most spectacular places in the Kazbegi region. The towering peaks, rocky spires, and monumental granite walls create a landscape that attracts both climbers and trekking enthusiasts. Special attention should be given to the Rcheulishvili peak, rising to 3842 meters above sea level, which is one of the most challenging and impressive feats in the region. This place is a true paradise for those seeking activities in the mountains – from easier trekking trails, to more difficult passes, and technical climbs for the more experienced. The valleys around the Chaukhi range are rich in alpine vegetation, and on the trails, you can encounter wild fauna, including eagles and ibex. The route leading to the base of Rcheulishvili also offers beautiful views of green meadows, turquoise lakes, and small mountain villages, where time seems to flow more slowly, and the local hospitality becomes an unforgettable experience. The Rcheulishvili peak and the Chaukhi range are not only a sporting challenge but also a journey through the beauty of Georgian nature. The trail leading through the Chaukhi pass (3338 m above sea level) is one of the most popular and scenic in the region, providing spectacular panoramic views of the Caucasus. You will visit these places during a trekking trip in Georgia or on a tailored trip.
Gergeti Glacier
The Gergeti Glacier, located on the southern slopes of Mount Kazbek, is one of the most impressive places in Georgia. Stretching from about 3500 m to 5000 m above sea level, the glacier impresses with its size and raw beauty. Its ice tongue, surrounded by rugged rocks and snowfields, is a natural landmark of the Caucasus and one of the most accessible glaciers in this part of the mountains. One interesting fact about the glacier is that its name comes from the nearby Gergeti Trinity Church – an icon of Georgia, often photographed against the backdrop of the majestic Kazbek. The Gergeti Glacier is also an important place in the local traditions. In ancient times, it was believed that the glacier and Mount Kazbek were guardians of the treasures and secrets of this mountainous land. The glacier is also a unique site from a scientific perspective. It is one of the few glaciers in the region that has survived despite the ongoing climate changes. Scientists have been monitoring its surface and structural changes for years, making it an important site for glaciological research in the Caucasus. Thanks to its unique location and trails filled with breathtaking views, the Gergeti Glacier has been attracting travellers from all over the world for years. The visitors want to see one of the most beautiful places in the Caucasus in its natural icy setting.
You will see Tusheti, the Truso Valley, the Chaukhi mountain range, Rcheulishvili Peak, and the Gergeti Glacier during the Mount Kazbek Tour.
Gegham Mountains
The Gegham Mountains are located in the central part of Armenia. This mountain range, with exceptional beauty and volcanic origin, covers an area of about 6000 km2, reaching a maximum height of 3597 m above sea level (Azhdahak peak). This peak is also one of the most characteristic points of the region. The Gegham Mountains are known for their rugged landscapes, volcanic formations, and numerous lakes, such as Akna and Vank, which beautifully fit into the surrounding terrain. An interesting fact is that the volcanic ground of the Gegham Mountains makes the land exceptionally fertile, allowing for the occurrence of unique flora. In the spring, the mountains bloom with a carpet of wildflowers, creating breathtaking views. The region is also home to many wild animals, including eagles, vultures, and ibexes, making it a paradise for nature lovers. The Gegham Mountains have been a place of worship and inspiration for local residents for centuries. On their slopes, one can find numerous petroglyphs – rock drawings from several thousand years ago, which testify to the rich history of the region. A legend says that Azhdahak – the highest peak – took its name from the dragon of Armenian myths, which adds to the mystique of this place. Thanks to the small number of tourists, the Gegham Mountains have preserved their wildness and authenticity, offering unforgettable views and tranquillity. It is an ideal place for those seeking silence, beautiful landscapes, and contact with nature in its purest form. You can admire the massif during the following expedition with Ararattrek: Mount Aragats And 3 Other Volcanos - 9 Days
Alborz Mountains
Another beautiful place worth seeing is the Alborz mountain range. The mountains rise in the northern part of Iran, forming a natural border between the Caspian Sea coastline and the plateaus of central Iran. The Alborz Mountains are one of the most distinctive mountain ranges in Western Asia. They are known for their breathtaking views and diverse landscapes. The Alborz Mountains are home to the highest peak in the Middle East – the Damavand volcano, which reaches an impressive height of 5610 meters above sea level. However, it is not only this majestic peak that attracts tourists. The range also hides numerous Caspian forests that stretch across the northern slopes and are one of the oldest forest ecosystems in the world. Further south, the landscape changes into dry, rocky slopes, giving the region an extraordinary contrast. The Alborz Mountains are also a place of rich history and cultural significance – in ancient times, these mountains were considered sacred, and legends mentioned them as a refuge for heroes and kings. It is a place where nature, history, and mythology merge into a harmonious whole, creating a landscape that leaves a lasting impression.
Caspian Sea
Another beautiful place that you can see during our expeditions is the Caspian Sea. The interesting facts about this body of water are as fascinating as its vast waters, which have inspired travellers and researchers for centuries. The Caspian Sea is the largest inland body of water in the world, covering an area of about 371,000 km², making it larger than the area of some countries, such as Germany or Japan. Many wonder whether the Caspian Sea is a lake or a sea? Its name can be misleading. It is a lake because it has no direct connection to another water body. Its waters are brackish, although much less so than in traditional seas. The salinity and chemical composition of the water vary depending on the region of the basin, and in some places, you can observe unique natural phenomena, such as underwater sand dunes. The Caspian Sea is surrounded by five countries: Russia, Kazakhstan, Turkmenistan, Iran and Azerbaijan. Particularly, the northern shores in Iran offer not only beautiful views, but also access to the unique Caspian forests that surround the Alborz Mountains. The waters of this lake play a key role in the region's ecosystem and economy – they are a source of natural wealth, such as oil and gas, and are also home to many species of fish, including the famous sturgeon, from which caviar is produced. This place impresses with its vastness and mysterious character, while also being a source of knowledge about the contemporary and historical connections between the cultures of the region.
You can see the Alborz Mountains and the Caspian Sea on the following expeditions:
- Alam Kuh And Damavand Tour - 11 Days
- Damavand Plus Tour (Sightseeing In Iran) - 15 Days,
- Damavand And Ararat Tour - 15 Days,
- Mount Damavand Tour – 8 Days.
Tabatskuri Lake
Tabatskuri Lake is one of the most picturesque places in the Armenian Plateau. It is surrounded by majestic mountains and vast meadows. Located at an altitude of about 1991 meters above sea level, it delights with its crystal-clear waters and exceptional tranquillity. The lake, which was formed as a result of volcanic activity, is one of the cleanest bodies of water in Georgia, making it a favourite spot for nature lovers. This body of water is a place of exceptional biodiversity. Around Tabatskuri Lake, you can find numerous species of birds, including herons and terns, which nest among the reeds and wild shrubs. The lake's waters are abundant with fish, making it an attractive destination for anglers as well. This reservoir is not only a natural gem, but also a place where nature harmoniously coexists with the traditional lifestyle of the local people. Legend has it that Tabatskuri Lake was formed from the tears of a shepherd who lost his flock during a storm in the mountains. This story adds a unique, mysterious character to the place. You have the opportunity to visit Tabatskuri Lake during a tailored expedition.
Knowledge Zone – learn more about the landscapes you will see on our expeditions
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Choose one of the above-mentioned expeditions or see all of them below: