The climbing season on Ararat runs from June to September, and these months also bring the best weather to the town itself — warm and dry, with the mountain frequently clear of cloud in the morning before afternoon haze builds. July and August are peak season for climbers.
Winters in Dogubeyazit are harsh — the town sits at 1,600 metres and temperatures regularly drop well below freezing from November through March. The mountain road to Ishak Pasha Palace can be difficult in snow. Spring (April–May) can be surprisingly pleasant, with wildflowers on the plains below Ararat and snow still on the upper mountain. Most travellers pass through in summer or as part of an overland route to or from Iran.