Rising in Turkey's Northern Black Sea region, nestled in the provinces of Rize and Artvin, the Kaçkar Mountains are renowned as one of the most magnificent nature and adventure destinations, offering diverse experiences throughout the four seasons.
Thanks to this unparalleled richness, the Kaçkar Mountains continue to solidify their place on the world stage through prestigious international events they host. Following the highly successful launch of the KAÇKAR BY UTMB mountain ultramarathon last year, the International Kaçkar Tourism Fair will now take place in Rize on April 17-18.
Organized with the support of the Ministry of Culture and Tourism of the Republic of Turkey and the Turkish Tourism Promotion and Development Agency (TGA), the International Kaçkar Tourism Fair aims to transform the unique natural beauty and rich cultural heritage of the Kaçkar Mountains and the Black Sea region into a global attraction. As the region's most prestigious tourism event, the fair will go beyond a traditional exhibition format, encompassing panel discussions, conferences, and workshops where participants can explore new tourism trends and forge collaborations.
This year, the event, to be held at the Rize Tea Bazaar, will bring together over 1000 industry representatives and more than 3000 visitors.
Offering diverse experiences throughout the four seasons, the Kaçkar Mountains stand out for their unparalleled routes, deep-rooted history, and rich gastronomic culture, appealing to nature and adventure enthusiasts. The region is also one of Turkey's most naturally preserved areas, hosting a magnificent natural treasure with over 50 alpine lakes, deep valleys, dense forests reflecting every shade of green, and vibrant rivers shaped by diverse ecosystems.
Rising to an altitude of 3937 meters, the Kaçkar summit, as the highest point of the mountain range, dominates this enchanting landscape and further enhances the region's appeal for trekking, mountaineering, and nature exploration. Visitors can hike along scenic trails, cycle through winding valleys, observe rare wildlife, and take photographs. In winter, covered in snow, the Kaçkar Mountains become an invaluable destination for snowshoeing, skiing, snowboarding, and heliski enthusiasts.
Beyond its unique nature, the Kaçkar Mountains also offer extensive opportunities ranging from cultural tourism to ecotourism. Visitors can stay in eco-friendly accommodations, witness the vibrant local way of life, and explore numerous historical monuments. The local communities of these plateaus provide a deep immersion into the region's cultural heritage. Preserved languages, traditional handicrafts, the sounds of the tulum (a type of Kaçkar bagpipe), and the rhythmic Horon dance captivate travelers seeking authentic local experiences. From colorful plateau festivals to tea harvest celebrations, guests can fully immerse themselves in the region's vibrant traditions.
With their unique nature and the clean mountain air, the Kaçkar plateaus are also considered one of the most beautiful destinations for relaxation and health tourism. Visitors can enjoy both traditional and modern wellness procedures in harmony with the surrounding landscape, while Ayder's thermal springs offer natural healing and relaxation in one of the region's most iconic spots.
Complementing these experiences, the region's distinctive culinary heritage—organic honey, medicinal mountain herbs, world-renowned tea, and fresh seafood—transforms every visit to the Kaçkars into an unforgettable memory.
Thanks to this year-round diversity, the Kaçkar Mountains are increasingly gaining international attention and strengthening their position on the world tourism map.
The fact that the Turkey stage of the UTMB World Series and the International Kaçkar Tourism Fair are held precisely in this region is clear proof of this rise. Following the April fair, the 2026 stage of KAÇKAR BY UTMB will also take place in Rize on September 11-13.