Brief description​: The name Damavand means “frosty mountain” in Persian or “the mountain containing steam”. It is a classic volcano, but has not been active for about 150 years (dormant volcano). 
The magnificent volcano is located in the Ālborz Mountains, approx. 70 km northeast of the capital Tehran and south of the coastline of the Caspian Sea. It lies in the collision zone between the Eurasian and Arabian tectonic plates and is the highest point in the Middle East. 
In Persian literature and poetry, the mountain is also a symbol of the Iranian resistance against arbitrariness and foreign rule. This has given him a special place in Persian mythology. 
In Zoroastrian texts, the three-headed dragon Azhi Dahaka was chained to the mountain, where it had to stay until the end of time. 
After arriving in the capital Tehran, you will climb Tehran's local mountain, the 3,961 meter high Mount Tochal, in 2 days. During the ascent and from the summit you can enjoy a breathtaking view of Tehran and, with a bit of luck, the highest mountain in the country, the 5,671 meter high Damavand. 
Your next goal is to climb Mt. Doberar at an altitude of 4,050 m. In addition to improving the adaptation to altitude, you also have a fantastic view of the Damavand volcanic rock during the ascent and from the summit. With these two peaks in your luggage, you are now well prepared and ready for the ascent of Damavand. 
From the mountain village of Reyneh you now start on the most beautiful and easily accessible southern route up to the summit. The starting point is the Saheb al-Sahman Mosque at an altitude of 3,020 m. From here you hike over the mountain slopes littered with flowers and herbs to the high camp (refuge Bargah-e-Sewom). 
In the light of the headlamps, you start the ascent at night. With a constant gaze towards the summit, the ascent leads past lava rocks, sulphurous rocks and fields of snow to the roof of Iran. Once at the top, enjoy the outstanding view, which on a clear day extends to Tehran and the Caspian Sea. If you still have power reserves, you can also go around the summit cone (caldera). After the descent and return to Tehran, the hospitality of the Iranians, a hot shower and a city tour through the mega-metropolis await you again. 

Extension tip: Persia culture extension