Open Travel Guide
Adventure in Erzurum

Erzurum Adventure Activities Guide 2026

From half-day thrills to multi-day expeditions — how to plan adventure travel in Erzurum.

By Updated Reviewed by Daniel Mercer

The short answer: start with Downhill Skiing at Palandöken, Snowboarding at Palandöken and Snowmobile Safari. This guide profiles 8+ adventure activities in Erzurum, with prices, timing, and the practical notes that decide whether each one earns a place in your plan.

Erzurum is a historic city at 1,890 metres elevation in northeastern Turkey, commanding the high plateau where ancient Silk Road caravans once crossed. The city holds one of Turkey's finest concentrations of Seljuk and Mongol architecture — the Çifte Minareli Medrese, Yakutiye Medresesi and Üç Kümbetler tombs stand beside an Ottoman castle with sweeping panoramas. Fifteen kilometres from the centre, Palandöken mountain hosts one of the Middle East's premier ski resorts. Erzurum is the birthplace of cağ kebabı, the horizontally-spit-roasted lamb unique to the region, and the origin of oltu taşı jet-stone jewellery.

Top adventure experiences

The most exciting activities Erzurum has to offer.

  1. 1

    Downhill Skiing at Palandöken

    800–1200 TRY / $24–36 (day pass); equipment rental 400–700 TRY / $12–21

    Best season: January–February

  2. 2

    Snowboarding at Palandöken

    800–1200 TRY / $24–36 (day pass); snowboard rental 400–600 TRY / $12–18

    Best season: January–March

  3. 3

    Snowmobile Safari

    600–1500 TRY / $18–45 depending on duration

    Best season: January–February (deep snow)

  4. 4

    Cross-Country Skiing on Palandöken Plateau

    300–600 TRY / $9–18 (trail pass + equipment rental)

    Best season: January–February

  5. 5

    Summit Trekking on Palandöken (3,176 m)

    300–500 TRY / $9–15 (summer chairlift) + free hiking

    Best season: July–August

  6. 6

    Paragliding from Palandöken

    800–1500 TRY / $24–45 (tandem with instructor)

    Best season: July–August (stable thermals)

  7. 7

    Mountain Biking on Palandöken

    400–800 TRY / $12–24 (bike rental at resort)

    Best season: July–August

  8. 8

    ATV Tour on Erzurum Plateau

    600–1200 TRY / $18–36 per person

    Best season: June–September

Activities by type

Find adventures that match your interests.

Land

Land adventures

Trekking, mountaineering, rock climbing, mountain biking, and overland expeditions through diverse terrain.

Water

Water adventures

Rafting, kayaking, diving, snorkeling, and water sports where conditions permit.

Air

Air adventures

Paragliding, skydiving, hot air ballooning, and aerial tours for unique perspectives.

Multi-day

Expedition treks

Multi-day treks and expeditions through remote areas with camping and guide support.

Difficulty levels

Beginner

No experience needed. Suitable for most fitness levels.

Moderate

Basic fitness required. Some prior experience helpful.

Challenging

Good fitness and some experience required.

Expert

Significant experience and high fitness essential.

Recommended operators

Vetted companies for safe adventures.

Choosing an operator

Look for licensed, insured operators with verifiable guide qualifications, recent customer reviews, proper safety equipment, transparent cancellation policies, and reasonable group sizes. Your accommodation can often provide trusted recommendations.

Adventure safety

Stay safe while pushing your limits.

Critical

Never go on adventures alone in remote areas. Always use reputable guides for challenging activities.

High

Get comprehensive travel insurance that specifically covers adventure activities and emergency evacuation.

High

Check weather conditions and be prepared to cancel or postpone. Mountain weather changes rapidly.

Medium

Know your limits. Choose activities appropriate for your fitness and experience level.

Medium

Acclimatize properly before high-altitude activities. Altitude sickness is serious.

Preparation & gear

Get ready for your adventure.

Essential gear

  • Quality hiking boots (broken in)
  • Layered clothing system
  • Rain gear and sun protection
  • First aid kit
  • Headlamp and batteries
  • Water purification

Physical preparation

  • Start training 6-8 weeks before
  • Build cardio endurance
  • Include strength training
  • Practice with loaded backpack
  • Get medical clearance if needed

Related topics