Aborz or Zagros, this is the question!
Aborz or Zagros, this is the question!
Iran; the land of different mountains, has two main mountain ranges called Alborz and Zagros. Each of these mountain ranges has a different origin and geographical characteristics. Most of tourists have questions like which mountain range hast highest peaks, that we should climb? Or which mountain range is great for skiing or climbing?
As you know, each mountain range has different seasons according to its geographical and location, so choosing the best case depends on your interest and abilities. In this article, Iran Mountain Travel as local tour operator and special mountain tour organizer, wants to acquaint you with the differences between these two mountain ranges and review the best and most important specifications related to mountaineering and skiing. This text can be your guide for Iran mountain tours for your next mountain or ski travel so if are interested in Iran mountain or ski tours, don’t miss to read that!
Choose best mountain range to climb and ski
Finding the best mountain to climb or ski is always one of the concern of travelers. Iran with two different mountain ranges can be a great place to satisfy you. These two mountain ranges have different specific but we categorize them to three cases to help you in the best way:
- Location
Alborz mountain ranges is located in the division of the mountains of Iran, in the northern mountains, starts from Ararat in Turkey and joins the Hindu Kush mountains in Afghanistan after crossing the southern shores of the Caspian Sea and North Khorasan with a length of approximately 1,800 km. winter in Alborz is normally longer then Zagros. It starts from late December to early March. Alborz, specially in its middle part, has more precipitation than Zagros also as Alborz is younger then Zagros from geological point of view, so it has steeper and more technical mountains. Most of Iran 4000m peaks are located in Alborz include the highest one, Damavand 5610m.
Zagros Mountains range is about 1,600 km long and more than 240 miles 240 km wide. This region, which is mostly in Iran, forms the western border of the Iranian plateau. Its slopes extend to the north and west to neighboring countries, starting almost from Lake Van in Turkey and extending to the south and southeast of Iran. Zagros is older than Alborz so generally is less steep. As Zagros is located more south, winter in Zagros is shorter and starts January to late February. According to these different locations, we have amazing conditions, that are very unique and unexpected.
So generally we can say If you are looking for alpine and technical mountaineering, Alborz is a better choice. For ski touring, if you go to Zagros in a proper time in January and February, you may find amazing slopes and nice snow but Alborz is suitable for ski in March, April and even May with more than 3 months full of snow for skiing and organize Iran ski tours. from the other hand, Zagros is closer to some spectacular cities like: Isfahan and Shiraz so you can merge your tour with an amazing citi tour there. Early spring is a nice time for hiking in both mountain ranges.
- Weather and mountain folds
Alborz, which separates the central plateau of Iran from the Caspian Sea with its deep valleys and very high peaks in a northwestern-eastern direction and prevents rainfall winds from entering the plateau. This mountain range, like a natural dam, prevents humidity passing from the shores of the Caspian Sea to the south so the Alborz has more rains during the year. It can be between 300 to 1000mm per year!
Zagros date back to about 5500 years ago. The predominant tree in these forests is oak. The Zagros forests are generally divided into two parts, the North Zagros and the South Zagros. Vegetation in the western regions includes cold plants and in the eastern regions includes tropical plants. The main vegetation of the Zagros forest habitat is oak trees. It’s amazing to know that Zagros mountain have been creature by Mediterranean weather.
- Logistics and local people
Because of the location of Alborz mountain range and nearness of some big cities like Tehran and Karag to Alborz, there are lots facilities. Even you can find more mountain hotels in Alborz. Even in some small touristic villages in Alborz like SHemshak or Dizin you can fine proper accommodation and transport so generally we can say Alborz is more equipped than Zagros and logistics is better there. But if you are interested in virgin areas, small cities and villages that can not provide you a three star accommodation even in average cities like Chelgerd and if you like to experience your travel with locals, Iran Mountain Travel suggest Zagros. Zagros mountain region is more virgin and marvelous for adventurers. By traveling to Zagros region, you will experience an unforgettable journey around local people.
Choosing the best mountain range for climbing or skiing is depends on your interests. For more information and selecting best choice, send Iran Mountain Travel an inquiry.