Of course. Here is a new section with important details for potential guests to consider before booking. You can add this to the program, perhaps just before the "Package Price & Services" section.
Important Information to Consider Before Booking Your Experience
This is an authentic backcountry adventure in a remote and wild mountain environment. To ensure your safety and enjoyment, as well as that of the group, please carefully review the following requirements before booking.
1. Skier/Snowboarder Ability & Physical Fitness
- Skill Level: This tour is designed for strong intermediate to advanced/expert off-piste skiers and snowboarders. You must be confident riding in a variety of snow conditions, including deep powder, wind-affected snow, and variable crud. Experience in tree skiing and navigating uncontrolled terrain is essential. This tour is not suitable for beginners or those new to off-piste riding.
- Physical Condition: A high level of physical fitness is required. Days can be long and physically demanding, involving multiple runs at altitudes between 1900 m and 3100 m. You should be capable of sustained physical activity for several days in a row.
2. Mandatory Safety & Personal Equipment
- Avalanche Safety Gear: It is mandatory for every participant to wear and know how to use an avalanche transceiver, and to carry a shovel and probe in a backpack on all ski days. While this equipment can often be rented, please inquire about availability and cost at the time of booking.
- Helmet: Helmets are mandatory for all skiing, snowboarding, and snowmobiling activities.
- Ski/Snowboard Equipment: We strongly recommend a dedicated powder/freeride setup (skis with a waist width of 100 mm or more are ideal) to make the most of the conditions. Ensure your equipment is in excellent working condition before you arrive.
- Backpack: A well-fitting backpack (25-35 liters) with straps for carrying skis or a snowboard is essential for carrying your safety gear, water, lunch, and extra layers. Airbag packs are highly recommended.
3. Snowmobile Operation
- While prior snowmobiling experience is beneficial, it is not required. Our expert guides will provide thorough instruction on how to safely operate the machines. However, you should be a confident and licensed driver with a willingness to learn and follow instructions carefully.
4. Comprehensive Travel Insurance
- It is a condition of booking that you have comprehensive travel insurance. Your policy must explicitly cover off-piste skiing, catskiing, snowmobiling, and emergency medical evacuation from a remote mountain environment. Please verify the details of your policy before your trip.
5. Flights & Logistics
- Please note that this tour starts and ends in different cities. You must book your inbound flight to Trabzon Airport (TZX) and your outbound flight from Erzurum Airport (ERZ).
- Ensure your passport is valid for at least six months beyond your planned departure date from Turkey and check any visa requirements for your nationality.
6. The Nature of Backcountry Travel
- Flexibility is Key: The itinerary is a guide. The daily plan is dictated by weather, snow stability, and group dynamics. Our guides will make decisions with your safety as the absolute priority. A flexible and positive attitude is essential.
- Remote Location: The Handüzü Plateau is a remote, high-altitude location. This means you are truly away from it all, with limited access to facilities like pharmacies or large stores. Please bring any personal necessities and medications with you.
