Character

For those who want to do it all in one great Armenia multi activity adventure! Walk at Hermits' Trail, try canoeing or go back in time horse riding at Lake Arpi National Park, head into perfect wilderness by 4WD and bike at Mount Hovasar to meet friendly shepherds.

Activities

Hiking, biking, horse riding, canoeing, food, people

Duration

7 days / 7 nights

Accommodation

Superior hotels, local guesthouse, camp (1 night)

Meals

7 breakfasts, 3 lunches, 3 dinners

Mode of travel

Comfortable 4 WD vehicles/on foot/bike/horse

Tour support

AdvenTour tour leader /driver, local guides

Tour grade

A What’s this

Included

• Accommodation for 7 nights
• Meals as specified in the itinerary
• AdvenTour tour leader /driver, local guides
• All activities as per itinerary
• All transfers in comfortable 4WD vehicles
• Travel permits in protected areas
• Outdoor Armenia information kit

Excluded

• Optional activities

Day 1Yerevan new & old 

The day starts with a quick pre-tour orientation meeting with your tour leader followed by an introductory cultural tour of Yerevan, new and old. We start our exploration with the Republic Square with it magnificent buildings enhanced by singing fountains, continue to Erebouni Fortress, the birthplace of Yerevan. Explore the impressive ruins and drive to the Railway Station to see the beautiful monument of David of Sasun, national hero. On to Mashtots Avenue, past Blue Mosque and huge fruit market to reach Cascade. Later we drive to south, catch our last view of Mount Ararat and descend to the sleepy town of Vayk. After the drive, here is a chance to relax and enjoy the peace and quiet of our hotel.

Overnight: Hotel in Vayk Meal plan: Breakfast

Day 2Hiking at Hermit’s Trail 

We offer a unique option this afternoon, hiking the Hermits’ Trail. Transfer by jeep to Jafar hill station to start the day’s hike. After an hour’s walk you can see Noravank Monastery in the distance - a sudden and dramatic sight amid surreal red rocks. Continue walking and come to a pleasant picnic area under rosehip trees, where there is time to relax, enjoy your lunch and share your thoughts. After rest continue to reach an abandoned military point, walk down the gorge, cross the river and hike your last hour to reach Noravank. This is around 6 hours' hike through exciting terrain, ranging from steep rocky paths down to tree-studded ravines, then to open, grassy hilltops. Take a guided tour of the monastery, examine the exquisite carvings, precious cross-stones and cliffs that have long been a mecca for climbers. In the evening dinner with local wine at farmhouse, the head of the family will act as your toastmaster governing the event according to age-old rules of Caucasian hospitality. For those feeling energetic there is an opportunity to explore caverns of Mosrov decorated with stalactites and stalagmites of amazing color and diversity (caving gear provided). Transfer for overnight to your secluded fixed mountain camp in magic Gnishik gorge (fresh water supply, shower/toilets, comfotable sleeping tents and dining area).

Overnight: Mountain camp Meal plan: Breakfast, lunch, dinner

Day 3Into the wilderness by 4WD 

Wake up to the aroma of hot coffee. We start early to beat the heat of the day. Today’s ride follows the spectacular route of Her-Her trail. You'll be amazed by what a four-wheel-drive vehicle can do: traversing mud, holes and hillsides so steep you'll have to fight to stay in your seat! It starts with gravel tracks across high altitude plains and remote villages, is followed by hard climbs but the thrill of visiting this land of rugged beauty is ample reward. This is a hard but rewarding trip, with extended periods at high altitudes, a real extreme day. Traverse Selim Pass with amazingly intact Selim Caravanserai to arrive at the shores of Lake Sevan.

Overnight: Hotel at Lake Sevan Meal plan: Breakfast

Day 4Swim & Relax at Lake Sevan 

There has to be an easy day on your holiday and this is it! Enjoy on your own at the beach or relax in a coffee shop catching up on your post cards. For nature lovers there is the option of bird watching at Gulls' Island. If you choose this option, your bird watching guide will pick you from the hotel and drive to the area. Another attractive option is a boat ride to Noratus to explore unique Stone Garden. Your leader can also arrange a hiking trip to Artanish Peninsula guided by a local guide for splendid views of Greater and Lesser Sevan.

Overnight: Hotel at Lake Sevan Meal plan: Breakfast

Days 5-6Flexible activity days at Lake Arpi National Park 

Transfer to Lake Apri National Park, a high mountain plateau of volcanic origin with mountain steppes, sub-alpine grasslands and crystal-clear rivers (2,000-3,196m above sea level). The area harbors unique ecosystems with many unusual species and is covered with a carpet of alpine flowers of rare beauty. You can select your preferred activities here - walking, biking, horse back or canoeing - perfect ways to discover hidden corners and feel at one with nature. We have local outfitters, Ana and Arthur, so the group can be split according to preferences. We will use 4WD to travel to the start and end of walks/rides, affording us flexibility to follow the trails based on the ability of group. We will spend our days hiking or biking at beautiful trails to discover Paleolithic sites perched on the edge of rocks, dramatic gorges and passages cut into steep cliff face and graceful waterfalls hidden between rocks. Those preferring canoeing will spend a fun day out canoeing in open boats at river Akhuryan. Starting at the source, they will go through beautiful meadows and end the trip in dramatic Khorank Gorge. Horse riders will be transferred to the small village of Darik for guided riding at green hills above the village. We will all visit local farms, chat with friendly locals, have lunch and refresh at beautiful springs. We spend 2 nights at a local guesthouse (shared facilities).

Overnight: Local guesthouse Meal plan: 2 Breakfasts, 2 lunches

Day 7Free day in Yerevan 

Departure from Lake Arpi for a free afternoon in Yerevan at your own pace - last minute shopping and a final evening out in the city. You may wish to wander in the labyrinth of Vernisage arts and crafts market, climb up to Mayr Hayastan monument to get a bird’s eye view of the city or climax your day with a visit to Yerevan Brandy Company to explore the secrets of making the delicious, internationally acclaimed beverage, the favourite of Sir Winston Churchill.

Overnight: Hotel in Yerevan Meal plan: Breakfast

Dates & Rates

Start Date	End Date	Price	Notes	Reserve
14 May 2009	24 May 2009	€ 790.00	available	Book Now
11 Jun 2009	21 Jun 2009	€ 790.00	available	Book Now
9 Jul 2009	19 Jul 2009	€ 790.00	available	Book Now
6 Aug 2009	16 Aug 2009	€ 790.00	available	Book Now
3 Sep 2009	13 Sep 2009	€ 790.00	available	Book Now
1 Oct 2009	11 Oct 2009	€ 790.00	available	Book Now

Booking form

Tour notes

1. Special notes

The information in these Special Notes covers the average range of conditions likely to be found on this trip. In remote destinations unexpected conditions can prevail at any time, and all adventurous holidays can therefore be subject to unexpected changes; in order to enjoy them you should be prepared to be flexible where necessary.

2. Travel health and insurance

No vaccination is required for travelling in Armenia. The country’s climate is very pleasant, with no health risks. Water in Armenia is very clean and safe. However, travellers usually prefer bottled spring and mineral water, which can be found in shops and supermarkets.
There are registered pharmacies in all cities and towns with all basic medications. Travellers with special needs are advised to take a supply of those medications that they are likely to require. Medical facilities are numerous with many qualified doctors practicing in all specialties. Doctors and hospitals often expect cash payment for their services. Travellers are advised to consult their medical insurance company prior to travelling to confirm whether their policy applies overseas and covers emergency expenses such as medical evacuation. Also please ascertain whether payment will be made to the overseas healthcare provider or if you will be reimbursed later for expenses incurred. When selecting a travel insurance policy we require that it cover medical expenses including emergency repatriation and personal liability. We also strongly recommend that the policy cover loss of luggage and personal effects.

3. Conditions

Hiking: Trails are almost always good though we occasionally come across rough sections in mountains and valleys. Climbing to mountain peaks is optional. Technical experience is not a must. Normally we will walk between 4 to 6 hours per day. Walking during the first day of the hike should provide adequate acclimatization for higher altitudes.
4WD: Road conditions are mostly good. In the mountains we use off-road trails developed by our experts and ensuring maximum off-road fun. The environments we travel through are fragile. It is our responsibility as visitors to minimize the impact of our presence.
Horse riding: Horse riding routes/trails are developed by our experts. Routes vary from alpine meadows to forests.
Cycling: The roads are country roads between villages and little towns, quite peaceful, sometimes without cars, often used by carts and herds. Quiet tarmac roads are used where necessary. Cycling is not difficult though some tracks are rough in parts.

Grade A

 (moderate).
Involves some longer walking/horse riding/cycling generally at low altitudes below 2,500 m. The tour is designed within the capabilities of those with normal physical fitness, but previous experience would be beneficial.

4. Money

You will need to allow enough money for meals as well as optional activities. An average meal in a restaurant should cost between EUR8-10. Tipping is customized and not compulsory. You should be aware that Armenia is still a cash-only economy and credit cards are not accepted in the majority of shops and restaurants. There are several ATM machines in Yerevan and other cities where you can obtain cash. 10 000 Armenian Drams (approximately EUR 26) is charged as a departure tax on exiting Armenia by air.

Please note: we do not charge sightseeing fees in advance allowing you to choose whether or not you visit sites, depending upon your interests.

5. Communication during the tour

If you need to be contacted while travelling we recommend that you set up an email address that can be accessed on the road. Email cafes are common and are the preferred way for our leaders and travellers to stay in touch.
If someone wishes to contact you in an emergency while you are on an AdvenTour trip we recommend that they contact our operator by phone + 374 91 42 67 45 or E-mail: adventour@netsys.am.

6. Accommodation

We choose facilities that combine high level of comfort and service with unique design and appreciation of the natural beauty of a region. The emphasis is on location, practicality and reasonable degree of comfort. Furthermore, our close relationship with leading hotels allows us to offer you special rates and upgrades.

Hotel/Guesthouse

 – Accommodation is generally in same sex twin rooms. If you are sharing with another single no supplement is necessary. Our costs are generally based on 3 or 4 star properties. If you want higher-class accommodation you can request an upgrade at the time of booking.

Single Supplement

 – Should you want more privacy during your trip, you can upgrade by the requesting your own room, often at a little extra cost.

Camping

 – In some regions we provide accommodation at mountain camps or forest cabins at well-appointed locations, usually at the bank of a river or lake. Full facilities: fresh water supply, shower, toilets, sleeping and dining tents, camping stools and tables are provided.

Pre / Post-Tour Accommodation

If you require additional accommodation either before or after the trip, we can book this for you provided you notify us at the time of booking. Please contact AdvenTour for current prices. Payment for this must be made to AdvenTour. Please note that AMD 5,000 booking fee is added to the cost.

7. Transport and private transfers

The mode of transport we use is chosen to suit the environmental aspects and local infrastructure. During these tours we use comfortable 4WD vehicles as well as some local transport that is well-maintained and supplied with a first-aid kit. In fact, we often use more than one type of transport per trip. And just in case you are wondering - we also travel by foot.
Airport transfers are not included in the cost of the trip. Please, let us know at the time of booking if you would like us to arrange a private transfer for you.

8. Staff and support

While on AdvenTour trips, you will be accompanied by a tour leader/driver. The tour leader is in charge of general organization of your trip making sure that you have a most enjoyable time. He/she has broad general knowledge of the places visited, including historical, cultural, religious and social aspects. The tour leader is able to provide suggestions on what to do and see and can recommend great local eating venues. Local guides are an important part of AdvenTour team, they are trained by us and support our groups in sites and locations where their special knowledge of the trails, particular activities or communities will add to the enjoyment of the tour.

Luggage handling

All your gear is carried for you on this tour; you carry only a daypack.

9. Meals

The tour cost includes bed and breakfast in the hotels and guesthouses. Meals, when included, will feature local cuisine. For other meals, you are left to choose what and where to eat, though your leader will be on hand to suggest venues and arrange where necessary. This can be one of the great joys of this trip as the food in Armenia is superb. Vegetarians should have no problems on this tour.

10. Laundry

Facilities are offered by all hotels for a charge.

11. Visas

To obtain a tourist visa for traveling to Armenia, you should apply to the Embassy of the Republic of Armenia in your country or online at http://www.armeniaforeignministry.com/eVisa/. Another option is to obtain your visa upon arrival at Zvartnots International Airport. Visa regulations can and do change without notice. Please check the current regulations in good time to obtain a visa if one is required.

12. What to take

Pack small and light. From early May to late October the weather is generally warm and pleasant with some hot days in July - August. Sometimes it can get cool in the mountains so we recommend taking a couple of warm sweaters. In addition to your "normal" daily clothes, you will need the following: 2/3 seasons jacket, light waterproof jacket, sunhat, water bottle, lightweight boots and a day sack.

13. Safety

Armenia is a very safe country. Anyway we always recommend the use of a neck wallet or money belt while travelling, for the safe keeping of your passport, air tickets, cash and other valuable items. All the hotels we use have safety deposit boxes, which can be used to store your valuables.

14. Responsible tourism

Tourism can be a real help to local communities providing income, positive cultural exchanges and the financial incentive to protect the natural environment. Our trips are designed to use family-based guesthouses in the regions, buy local food, hire local guides, drivers and rent trucks to ensure that as much money as possible is retained within the local economies.

15. Feedback

After your travel, we would like to hear from you. Within two weeks after your departure we will send you a feedback form to complete.

Information in this document has been compiled with care and is provided in good faith. However it is subject to change and does not form part of the contract between the client and AdvenTour.

AdvenTour Travel
39 Pushkin st., Yerevan, Armenia
Tel: +374 10 53 96 09, + 374 91 42 67 45
Fax: +374 10 53 80 17
E-mail: adventour@netsys.am, info@armeniaexplorer.com
URL: www.armeniaexplorer.com