In the rainy and lush landscapes of Northeastern Turkey,
the Kackar mountains form the Northern section of the Anatolian mountain
chain.The Kackar-Kavron summit, at an altitude of 3932 meters, is the
highest point in the range. Extensive glacier and water erosion have given
these mountains their craggy, rugged look, and they are known for the
complexity and power of the streams and rivers which rush down to the
lower altitudes. In fact, this range is the third most important glacial
region in Turkey following the Agri (Ararat) and CiloSat mountains. The
geological and mountaineering aspects of the Kackars contribute to their
importance in Turkey’s economy and tourism.
The region enjoys an almost sub-tropical climate of
temperate yet rainy weather with an average temperature of 14 C. The
lowest temperature, 7 C., falls in the month of January while August sees
the hottest days reaching a maximum recorded temperature of 22.6 C
The Kackars rise between the shores of the Black Sea to
the North and the Coruh river valley to the South. On the Northern flank,
an immense variety of vegetation flourishes in the rainy climate. Up to
500 meters above sea level, tea plantations and citrus orchards cover the
hillsides. Chestnut, hornbeam, beech and other large-leafed trees forest
the slopes to 750 meters. Between 750-1500 meters of elevation, pines mix
in with the large-leafed trees until gradually they remain the only
species of tree from 1500-2000 meters. Alpine meadows and other grassy
vegetation cover the ground above 2100 meters. On the Southern faces of
the Kackars., which receive strong sunshine and less precipitation, the
agriculture is based on the cultivation of fruit and vines. On the
Northern side, in the higher elevations, meadows of wild flowers and
grasses blanket the slopes up to elevations of 2300 meters.
Trips and Climbs
The Altiparmak, Kavron and Varsamba mountains are the
principal peaks of the Kackars. Both the North and South faces of the
Altiparmak and Kavron can be scaled but Varsamba should only be attempted
from the North face. It is imperative to use a local guide when climbing
the Kackars.