Photo essay - Karakaya
Streching in Karakaya, 2026
As the weather gets warmer, our passion for the outdoors gets more intense.
Going on a climbing trip is more than just a physical activity; it is a collective community meeting. Climbing is not supposed to be done alone; you trust your friends, your community, with your life when they are belaying you. Their mistakes are your mistakes, their achievements are your achievements.
My friends from the university’s climbing club, Barış, Eda, Talha, and I, decided to spend the first sunny days of the season on the Karakaya climbing garden near Eskişehir, Sivrihisar. We have been going to this garden since 2024, and it has a special place in our hearts. My first rock climbing experience took place here, with a large number of friends, passionate about teaching. I enjoyed every moment, even the freezing cold at night in my tent. So whenever I come here again, I remember those moments gratefully.
Barış, following the route, Karakaya, 2026
Before starting climbing, the climber and the belayer both have to read the route. This is a necessary step because you need to prepare your body and equipment to avoid mistakes.
Eda, getting ready, Karakaya, 2026
Another critical stage of getting ready before climbing is the “buddy check”. Both the climber and the belayer has to check each other’s harness, helmets, quickdraws, and knots.
Route’ view, Karakaya, 2026
The view from the ground is intimidating, yet exciting. It looks as if the ground and the objects on it are so small, they are unimportant. What I love most about going climbing outdoors is how you realize nothing is as important as they make you feel. I worry about so many things that actually have no effect on me, and the most fun and effective way of seeing this, I believe, is to compare it to a huge rock on the mountains.
Talha, watching the climber, Karakaya, 2026
Practicing the moves, Karakaya, 2026
The summit, Karakaya, 2026
On the way, Karakaya, 2026
Celebration, Karakaya, 2026
To complete a route, is worth celebrating. And shared joy is doubled. Everyone celebrates Eda as she crushes the climb, even though she’s a beginner.
