Armenia Trekking Culture

Breakfast at the hotel.

Yerevan City Tour. We will begin our tour with the capital of Armenia: Yerevan. For centuries, this city has been known as the “pink city” due to the color of the volcanic tuff stone used in its construction. Yerevan is one of the world’s oldest continuously inhabited cities, founded in 782 BC, and its streets are filled with history, culture, and vibrant energy.
During our tour, we will explore some of the city’s most iconic landmarks:
Republic Square – The heart of Yerevan, surrounded by government buildings and the History Museum. At night, the square comes alive with its famous dancing fountains.
Mashtots Avenue – Named after Mesrop Mashtots, the creator of the Armenian alphabet, this central avenue is lined with shops, cafes, and cultural institutions.
Aram Khachaturian Opera and Ballet Theatre – This grand structure, named after the famous Armenian composer, is a cultural hub for opera, ballet, and concerts in Yerevan.
Cascade Complex – A massive staircase that connects the downtown area with the Monument neighborhood, offering stunning views of the city and Mount Ararat. The Cascade is also home to the Cafesjian Center for the Arts, featuring modern sculptures and art exhibitions.
Mother Armenia – A towering statue that symbolizes peace and strength, offering a panoramic view of Yerevan. Located in Victory Park, the statue serves as a reminder of Armenia's resilience.

Throughout the tour, we will also have the chance to explore local markets, parks, and enjoy the city's lively cafe culture. Yerevan blends the old and the new, offering visitors a unique glimpse into Armenia’s rich past and vibrant present.
Matenadaran museum - Then we will visit the Manuscript Museum of Armenia, which is called Matenadaran; here all ancient Armenian and World Manuscripts are kept. The Museum and the Memorial of the victims of the Genocide. Then we should visit Genocide Museum and Memorial known as Tsitsernakaberd.

Overnight in Yerevan.

Meal Plan: Breakfast

Breakfast at the hotel.

Garni Temple - Take a trip to Garni, home to the only standing Pagan temple in Armenia, built in the 1st century AD. This unique structure was dedicated to Mihr, the god of light and purity, showcasing Armenia’s ancient pre-Christian beliefs. While the temple was largely destroyed by an earthquake in 1679, it was meticulously restored in 1975, bringing back its classical Greco-Roman architectural style. Set atop a rocky hill with stunning views of the Azat River gorge, the Temple of Garni provides a fascinating insight into Armenia's pagan history and its preservation efforts.
Trekking: Garni Symphony of Stones - Waterfalls Vahagn and Astghik. From Garni, embark on a trekking tour to the hidden waterfalls of Vahagn and Astghik, nestled in the lush Khosrov Reserve. These natural treasures lie about 10 km from the Garni Pagan Temple, offering a scenic hike through rugged landscapes and untouched nature. The waterfalls, named after Armenian deities, represent the ancient beauty and mystical allure of Armenia’s historic landscapes, making this a perfect adventure for nature lovers and history enthusiasts alike.
Master class of Lavash Baking and Lunch - Afterwards we will a local house where you will have the chance to see and participate in the preparation of Armenian national bread: lavash. It is a very thin, usually sold in very large forms. It is usually cooked in a ground oven: “tonir''. In 2015 it has been inscribed in UNESCO intangible heritage list. Here we will enjoy the “Armenian fast food” with lavash and cheese.
Geghard Monastery - We’ll continue to the Monastery of Geghard, named after the legendary lance that pierced Christ’s body and was kept here for centuries. Although the exact founding date of the monastery remains unknown, the current complex dates back to the mid-13th century. Built partially into the cliffs of a spectacular gorge, Geghard Monastery is a masterpiece of medieval Armenian architecture and a UNESCO World Heritage site, symbolizing both faith and artistry.

Overnight in Yerevan.

Meal Plan: Breakfast and Lunch

Breakfast at the hotel.

Khor Virap - Photo stop Take trip to Khor Virap Monastery (4-18th cc.). This monastery is very prominent because of its history; Gregory the Illuminator, who introduced Christianity to Armenia, has been imprisoned there about 13 years as at that time there was a prison in the place of the monastery. Here we can enjoy the spectacular view of the sacred Ararat Mountain - an immortal symbol of Armenia.
Areni - We will visit village Areni which is considered to be an important center of wine production industry. You are welcome to taste local wines.
Noravank - We will continue our tour to Noravank, a 13th-century monastery nestled among stunning red cliffs at the edge of a winding gorge in the Vayots Dzor Province. This remarkable site is not only known for its dramatic natural surroundings but also for its rich architectural and cultural significance. Noravank is the only monastery in Armenia where you can find a unique sculpture of God the Father, depicted above the entrance of the Surb Astvatsatsin (Holy Mother of God) Church—an extraordinary and rare representation in Armenian religious art.

Drive to Goris
Karahunj observatory - We will explore the ancient observatory of Karahunj, often compared to Stonehenge in England. The standing stones, arranged like soldiers on a hill, number 204 and are located near the town of Sisian. These ancient stones have long been associated with mystical, fertility, and cosmic powers. However, it is their astronomical significance that has caused a particular sensation in scientific circles. Karahunj is believed to have been used for stargazing and astronomical observations, making it one of the oldest known observatories in the world.
Dinner.

Overnight in Goris.

Meal Plan: Breakfast and Dinner

Breakfast at the hotel.

Tatev Monastery - Continue our trip to monastic complex Tatev (9-13th century): a famous center of studies of those times. To reach the monastic complex we should use a cable car which holds the record for world’s longest non stoppable double-track cable car.
Tatev Cable Car - Visiting Tatev we can use the world’s longest rope way, which has length of 5700 m.

Trekking to Khot village from Shinuhayr
The trekking route from Khot to Shinuhayr is a scenic journey through the beautiful landscapes of Syunik, Armenia. This trail takes you along rugged paths surrounded by lush greenery, steep cliffs, and dramatic views of the Vorotan Gorge. Starting from the ancient village of Khot, known for its abandoned cave dwellings and historical ruins, you'll make your way towards Shinuhayr, a picturesque village known for its traditional Armenian architecture and breathtaking panoramas. This trek is ideal for those looking to experience Armenia’s natural beauty and cultural heritage in one adventure.
•    Route Length: 6.5 km
•    Altitude Gain: 400 m
•    Difficulty Level: Moderate

Drive to Yeghegis village.

Dinner.

Overnight in Yeghegis.

Meal Plan: Breakfast and Dinner

Breakfast at the hotel.

Smbataberd-Tsakhats Kar
The trail starts from Artabunk it leads to Smbataberd Fortress (5th century) and TsakhatsKar Monastery (10th century). The terrain is moderate and assures amazing views of Teksar Mountains. 
•    Distance - 12km
•    Time - 6-7 hours 
•    Min: 1565m, max: 2080m, ascent: 734m, descent: 219m

Selim Caravanserai - Visit Selim Caravanserai, the immortal evidence of Great Silk Road
Sevan - We will drive to Lake Sevan, one of the largest freshwater high-altitude lakes in the world, often referred to as the "Pearl of Armenia." The lake stands out with its sweet and astonishingly blue water, reflecting the surrounding mountain landscapes. Situated at an altitude of about 1,900 meters (6,200 feet) above sea level, it is a vital ecological and cultural landmark for Armenia. Visitors can enjoy the breathtaking scenery and serene ambiance, making it a perfect spot for relaxation and photography. Next, we will visit Sevanavank Monastery, a historic complex located on the Sevan Peninsula. Originally, the peninsula was an island, but due to a decrease in the water level of the lake, it has transformed into a peninsula. 

Dilijan National Park - This park is often referred to as the "Armenian Switzerland" and offers numerous bike trails through dense forests and gentle hills.

Dinner.

Overnight in Yeghegis

Meal Plan: Breakfast and Dinner

Breakfast at the hotel.

Haghartsin Monastery - Visit the monastery of Haghartsin, which is a prominent structure of Medieval Armenian Architecture.

Mount Dimats - We will take 4x4 cars. Drive to Mount Dimats, located in the Tavush region in the north-east of Armenia, is a real paradise for travelers and nature lovers. The road to Dimats is not easy: you will find a real extreme with passes, depressions, roads near cliffs. It is necessary to go to the mountain in SUVs with a driver who knows the surroundings. What is special about this place? If you are looking for extreme adventures and magnificent landscapes, then you definitely need to visit Dimats. The peaks of the mountain are covered with green Alpine meadows, where bright flowers bloom, and the view from there will not leave even the most avid travelers indifferent!
This majestic natural landmark is famous for its unique nature, diverse flora, as well as impressive panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.

Lunch during the visits.

Return to Yerevan. Overnight in Yerevan.

Overnight in Yeghegis.

Meal Plan: Breakfast and Lunch

Breakfast at the hotel.

Amberd Fortress - The tour continues to Amberd fortress. The medieval fortress of Amberd (7th–13th century AD) is built on the southern slope of Mount Aragats (4091 meters above sea level) and is the only well-preserved from Medieval Armenia.
Picnic lunch, coffee break with snacks during the tour.
Aragats - Hike to the south summit of Mount Aragats (3,887 m). Aragats is an extinct volcano whose eruption formed four peaks, the lowest being the south summit. The trail starts at Lake Kari, located at 3,200 m above sea level. A rocky path leads to the summit. During the hike, the mysterious Mount Ararat accompanies hikers approaching from the south, although it may sometimes be hidden by mist. From the summit, you will enjoy a splendid view of the crater and the three other peaks.
•    Trail length: 10 km
•    Duration: 5–6 hours
•    Total altitude: 3,887 m
•    Elevation gain: 600 m
•    Difficulty: Moderate

Return to Yerevan.

Overnight in Yerevan.

Meal Plan: Breakfast and Lunch

Breakfast at the hotel.

Transfer to the airport. Say goodbye to Armenia!

Departure from Zvartnots International Airport.

Meal Plan: Breakfast