The Cilo-Sat mountains are the eastern extension of the Toros (Taurus) mountain chain which stretches from west to east along Turkey's southern boundaries. The mountain range forms the western section of the Himalayan mountain belt. At 4136 meters, the Uludoruk (Re-ko) summit is the highest in the Cilo mountains; Catalkaya(Samdi), which rises to 3794 meters crowns the Sat mountains. 

Resembling the Alps both in general appearance and glacier topography, the Cilo-Sat mountains are the areas that are most affected by glaciers. The high altitudes of the mountains testify to the effects of glacial formation and water erosion. Of the ten differently shaped glaciers, Izbìrak that is the largest one, measures 5 kms in length, 500-600 meters in width. It reaches up to 100 meters in depth. 

A wide arid expanse stretches across the southern base of the mountain range. The highlands, in contrast, receive plentiful precipitation during the winter months. In between crests and summits, fertile green valleys dotted with rural settlements, enjoy a temperate climate that makes them ideal for wine and fruit agriculture. 
Above the low valleys, alpine meadows blanket the mountain slopes at altitudes between 2000 and 3100 meters.

Elevated summits, high glaciers, glacial rivers and fast moving streams combine to make the Cilo-Sat mountains both a fascinating geographic and geological site of worldwide importance and a national park of spectacular beauty. The best time for summer excursions is during June, July, August and September. For winter climbing February and March are the best months. 

Transportation

To reach the Cilo-Sat mountains, take Van-Ankara road; you can also travel with train or plane. Then follow the 245 km long highway to Hakkari. Serpil village offers one route for an ascent of Uludoruk.

Regional Highlights 

A vast plateau, yayla culture has evolved on the Cilo and Sat mountains. You shouldn't miss the summer migration of the colorfully clad local population to the high grazing pastures! It's a memorable event. Mountain glaciers and swiftly running rivers alive with fish and beautiful glacier lakes are a few of the area's natural wonders.