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HOLIDAY IDEAS
Best of Armenia
Grand Caucasus
Hiking
Trekking
Cycling
Biking
Rally Tour
Multi Activity
Archaeology
Bird Watching
Photography
Food & Wine
XC Skiing & Snowshoe
Ski Mountaineering
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Day 1Portrait of YerevanAfter a pre-tour meeting and welcome drink with expert photography guide and group participants we start our tour with the heart of Yerevan, Republic Square, continue to Cascade with the imposing statue of Mother Armenia and a splendid view of Yerevan with Mount Ararat in the background, perhaps the best-known symbol of Armenia. We will continue to city center, visit Freedom square with magnificent Opera House, and continue via Mashtots Avenue to reach Matenadaran. Proceed by Sayat-Nova Avenue, the business center to reach Abovyan street, the oldest and most favorite promenade of Yerevanians. Free time to explore downtown Yerevan immersing ourselves in the life of the city, a curious blend of the new and old: 7th century chapel hidden behind an imposing Soviet-era building, old people playing chess alongside ultra modern youngsters at outdoor terraces, dressed-up ladies with surprisingly high heels and old grannies selling fruits at street-corner stalls. Above all we enjoy the interaction with friendly and outgoing locals for whom the smile is never far away. Our guide will be on hand to give us tips on best spots and help refine our skills. It is hard to capture the spirit of Yerevan and we will keep coming back for more of its charming scenes. Photographic themes: urban architecture, street life, people Overnight: Hotel in Yerevan Meal plan: Breakfast Day 2World Heritage SiteBreakfast at hotel. Drive east to the magnificent Temple of the Sun at Garni and the legendary Monastery of Spear, World Heritage Sites. With its serene temple and superb views of misty mountains, Garni is a gem for any photographer to visit. A guided walking tour to Geghard acquaints us with Armenia's fascinating history, then there's free time to wander around the vast site, visit hermits' cells and pick up tips from our guide on how to get the best perspective of the monastic complex and exquisite carved stones in the face of sheer rock. A walk in the small market nearby and a lesson on portraiture. Evening back to Yerevan, transfer to hotel, rest. Photographic themes: pagan temple, cave monastery, people and landscapes Overnight: Hotel in Yerevan Meal plan: Breakfast Day 3Mount Aragats & Yezidi ShepherdsEarly start for Mount Aragats, the highest peak of Lesser Caucasus welcoming us with breathtaking views of rock spires, snow covered peaks, jewel colored lakes and sun scorched grasslands dressed in wildflowers. Birdlife abound here and we enjoy a full day on foot actively experiencing nature. Later in the day we reach high-mountain camps of friendly Yezidi tribes who tend their sheep under the towering peaks of Aragats. Discover the traditional way of life of these 'people of the mountains', visit their homes, try fresh cheese and yogurt and learn the art of permission-based travel portraiture. Photographic themes: wild flowers, birds, ethnic minority camp, people, mountain landscapes Overnight: Hotel in Yerevan Meal plan: Breakfast Day 4Nestled in the MountainsToday we depart from Yerevan. Guided by the remote majesty of Mount Ararat we take photos of idyllic rural scenes at Ararat Valley: farmers working in fields, women selling mouth-watering fruits at gardens and kids rushing to school. We proceed to Khor Virap royal prison at the border with Turkey before heading to our day's destination, mountains of Southern Armenia. Traveling off piste through some of Armenia's wildest terrain in a 4WD (with plenty of stops for photography) we reach our mountain camp at 1,700 m above sea level (fresh water supply, sleeping and dining tents, camping stools and tables provided). The location is ideal for morning shots of the surrounding mountain ranges. A fitting finale for a day full of impressions is a well-deserved dinner at Goat Cheese Farm in Mosrov where villagers adhere to their traditional ways of life. We fall asleep surrounded by rocks towering above us. Photographic themes: Mount Ararat, farm-life, people, wild mountain landscapes Overnight: Mountain camp Meal plan: Breakfast, dinner Day 5Monastery of WarriorsAfter breakfast load up your cameras for another perfect photography day. We will pass through flower-filled meadows and visit unique Zorats Monastery one of the walls of which was removed to allow warriors to attend the Holy Mess before heading to the battle. Set amidst a field of red poppies this is an amazingly photogenic setting. A short hike in the mountains (1 h.) will bring us to the castle of King Smbat with impressive fortifications erected by nature. Back to the village of Yeghegis situated in a narrow gorge, walk down to village centre and, if time permits, visit one of the village homes to take pictures of the garden full of apple trees and her sons working there. Fascinating legends attached to the foundation of this ancient village are lovingly preserved and passed through generations here. Proceed to Lake Sevan through rugged Selim Pass. We arrive at the Lake in time to take photos of postcard-perfect sunset. Photographic themes: monasteries and castles, flowers, people, farm-life and landscapes Overnight: Hotel at Lake Sevan Meal plan: Breakfast Day 6Armenia’s Photographic GemLake Sevan, paradise for photographers and nature lovers. Its ever-changing waters, bald peaks of Geghama mountains, unspoiled beaches, all this inspired its name, the Pearl of Armenia. Early morning start with a one hour walk to the top of Akhtamar Trail for one of the best photographic views of the Lake and romantic Sevanavank Monastery. Return to the hotel for breakfast before heading to the surrounding area for more photography. Afternoon spent in Shorja, famous fishers village, Stone Garden with unique collection of exquisite khachkars, Armenian cross-stones and Gull Island. In between capturing the remarkable scenery, you are free to take a dip in the emerald waters of the Lake. Photographic themes: birds, lake and landscape, people, fishers’ village Overnight: Hotel at Lake Sevan Meal plan: Breakfast Day 7Yerevan revisitedAfter breakfast a final day in Yerevan to complete your collection of photos with a couple of action shots at Vernisage, the bustling arts and crafts market open only on weekends. This is without a doubt the photography highlight of Yerevan. Later be guided by your senses through the tantalising spice and fruit market and dine al fresco at a food stall on Barbeque street. Meet the local characters and capture your last shots of Yerevan. Overnight: Hotel in Yerevan Meal plan: Breakfast Dates & Rates
Booking formTour notes1. Special notesThe 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.
3. Physical preparationThere will be no extreme fitness requirements and rough traveling. Some of the natural and historical sites we visit will require fair amount of walking with options for more keen travelers and nature explorers. A normal level of fitness will be expected and will certainly help enhance the opportunities to enjoy the trip. 4. MoneyYou 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.
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 AccommodationIf 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 tours we use comfortable, air-conditioned cars, minibuses and buses 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.
8. Staff and supportWhile on AdvenTour trips, you will be accompanied by a tour leader/driver. For this tour you have a professional photography guide as your tour leader. He/she 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. 9. MealsThe 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 driver 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. LaundryFacilities are offered by all hotels for a charge. 11. VisasTo 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 takePack 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. You should also have a day pack to carry your personal accessories during the day. 13. SafetyArmenia 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 tourismTourism 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. FeedbackAfter 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.
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