What better way to discover a country than celebrating its festivals with locals? Check out great Special Offers - WATER FESTIVAL, GRAPE BLESSING and colorful TBILISOBA!
In a mood for a bit of change this New Year? Join our Armenia New Year Special tour to spice up your experience! Check out SPECIALS
NEW! 15% OFF trips departing soon. Check out Dates & Rates now!
Be in the know with the latest in Armenia travel - sign up for AdvenTour eNEWS
|
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
|
Please fill in the following details
and download your tour information (  PDF)
Day 1Land Of NoahMeet your group and have a briefing of your trekking tour by the group leader, our expert mountain guide. Proceed to a short city tour of Yerevan before late afternoon transfer to the base of Mount Aragats for acclimatisation. A virtually uninhabited road leads us to the intersection of two mountain streams where we have an opportunity to admire the wild landscape as we have a light hike to Amberd Fortress (elevation 2,300 m, walking distance 15 km, time app. 3 h). Sitting impressively on a hill, the fortress overlooks the area. Transfer to Kari Lake via stony, picturesque path that winds up the slopes of Mount Aragats. Our trekking camp site is near the Lake spectacularly situated at a cirque directly beneath the towering spires of Mount Aragats. The rest of the day is yours to relax, walk to the lush village of Byurakan, the summer residence of the Catholicos of all Armenians, an area famous for its beautiful orchards and superb fruit. Overnight: Camp at Aragats Meal plan: Breakfast, lunch, dinner Day 2Highest peak of Lesser CaucasusThis morning we rise early to start the trek of the highest mount of Lesser Caucasus, Mount Aragats (4,090m). The barren alpine scenery with only small clusters of scrubs is in stark contrast with the snowy peaks and deep blue skies. We start the trek of Southern and Western peaks of the Mount. The walking is a series of ups and downs but the impressive views are worth the effort (elevation 3,878 m, trekking distance 16 km, time app. 6 h). Descending from the peak leads down to our pleasant camping area where a well-deserved dinner awaits us. Overnight: Camp at Aragats Meal plan: Breakfast, lunch, dinner Day 3World Heritage SitesFirst we have a short drive to Yezidi shepherd camp living in high mountain yailas. Most Yezidis follow a curious blend of pagan and Christian traditions and are extremely friendly with visitors. 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. Later continue our way to Northern Armenia. After about 2 hours drive we leave the main road and strike out via a stony path to reach the monastery of Kobayr filled with frescoes that can only be described as 'miraculous' (walking distance 2 km, time app. 1 h). Descend to the highway where our transport waits us to transfer to sleepy Alaverdi. Taking the right side from the highway and crossing Debed River we reach our destination, Monasteries of Sanahin and Haghpat listed among UNESCO World Heritage sites. Drive to our lodge at cozy town of Dilijan, popular with our visitors for its charm and family atmosphere, overnight. Overnight: Guesthouse in Dilijan Meal plan: Breakfast Day 4Dilijan Nature ParkAfter a leisurely breakfast we have a light hike through lovely lush forest on a good path in Dilijan Nature Park (walking distance 2 km, time app. 2 h). Here there is time to visit some of the ancient monasteries in the area and opportunities for botanising, bird watching and enjoying the tranquility of this hidden land. In the afternoon transfer to Lake Sevan. After an hour's drive we should gain our first views of Lake Sevan, one of the highest freshwater lakes in the world. Visit Sevan peninsula with Sevanavank monastery on the top and enjoy fantastic photographic moments. Later we branch off the main road and transfer to Tsakhashen village where our truck takes us to Lake Akna at the foot of Mount Azhdahak (elevation 1,100 m, transfer by trucks 15 km). This is an area more akin to high altitude desert and contrasts markedly with the fertile scenery we left behind. The remainder of the day is spent resting in preparation for the ascent of the following day at our trekking camp near the lake. Overnight: Camp at Azhdahak Meal plan: Breakfast, dinner Day 5Azhdahak TrekEarly breakfast and start the trek of Mount Azhdahak rewarded by superb all-round views and a tangible sense of wilderness (elevation 3,597 m, trekking distance 12 km, time 7.5 h). The gradual ascent enables us to build the slow, steady rhythm required when walking at high altitude. We reach the summit on midday in time for lunch and have a chance to enjoy the unforgettable views of alpine meadows of rare beauty. Back to camp to warm up by crackling fire and enjoy the dinner after exhilarating adventures of the day. Overnight: Camp at Azhdahak Meal plan: Breakfast, lunch, dinner Day 6Garni CanyonA wonderful day of trekking as we continue our exploration of this enchanting area. We begin the return journey by descending to Sevaberd Fortress, a formidable black castle perched on the edge of rocks (walking distance 12 km, time 3 h). From here we take our bus to reach Garni Gorge. The walking trail contours through pleasant picnic areas, then a narrow dirt road descends into the wonderful rocky gorge. The view is awesome with superb panoramas of surrounding mountains. Later we reach Garni Temple standing in perfect harmony with the surrounding nature and unique rock carved Geghard Monastery. Suggested lunch at a villager's home at Garni. Transfer to Yerevan for overnight. Overnight: Hotel in Yerevan Meal plan: Breakfast Day 7Culture & HistoryToday we have a drive to Syunik - dramatic scenery, superb culture and history - perhaps the most inviting area of Armenia. On the way we visit Khor Virap Royal Prison, built on the side of a hill overlooking the border with Turkey. The view is stunning with an impressive panorama of Biblical Mount Ararat. The next stop of our tour is Noravank Monastery, the sudden view of which after a drive through surreal rocky gorge is a dramatic sight. The exquisite carvings and precious cross-stones, surreal red rocks and dramatic scenery compete for attention. Our day ends in the picturesque town of Goris (total distance covered 300 km). Overnight: Guesthouse in Goris Meal plan: Breakfast Day 8High Route to KhustupA day dedicated to the final and by far the steepest and most demanding trek of this tour, Mount Khustup (3,214 m). In the morning transfer to the foot of the Mount in Russian military jeeps (distance 12 km). We leave the inhabited lower valley behind and start the tough trek accompanied by views surpassing the wildest imagination (trekking distance 12 km, time 8 h). The trail contours through beautiful dog-roses and other bush, then climbs onto treeless, grassy slopes to the top of a rocky ridge. Once again the views of the mountains are magnificent! Overnight: Guesthouse in Goris Meal plan: Breakfast Day 9Land of WineBreakfast at hotel and drive back to Yerevan. From the main road turn to Yeghegis for the best day hike in this remote area accessed by just a handful of tourists. The day can be as strenuous or light as the group prefers - taking a narrow village path we will stop at the small church of St. Catherine with some romantic stories attached to its history, continue on foot to reach Zorats Cathedral situated in a gorge flanked by towering cliffs (walking distance 3 km, time 2 h). Perhaps a little less 'spiritual' activity is visiting Areni wineries where you can see every step of the wine-making process from fresh grapes to delicious wine, discover age-old secrets and, finally, taste the finished product. Proceed to Yerevan to rest and refresh. Overnight: Hotel in Yerevan Meal plan: Breakfast Day 10Free day in YerevanFree day to relax and enjoy Yerevan at your own pace! Explore the treasures of the cultural life of Yerevan, ramble in the oldest part of the city or just relax in shady parks or busy outdoor cafes, enjoying the young and lively atmosphere of this ancient city, the contemporary of Babylon and Rome. 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. Trekking conditionsSome of the trails on this trek are extremely rugged and suitable for fit and regular hill walkers. Technical experience is necessary. Normally we will walk for between 6-8 hours per day but climbing the mountains can take longer and you should be prepared for this. Walking during the first day of the trek should provide adequate acclimatisation for higher altitudes at Aragats, Azhdahak and Khustup Mountains. Grading B (strenuous). 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 & dining tents, camping stools & tables are provided. Please note that at Aragats and Azhdahak wild camping is provided; you should expect rough conditions and occasionally help staff in erecting/dismantling tents.
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 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.
8. Staff and supportWhile 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 handlingAll 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 and full board camping. We will generally have a packed lunch on the peaks and a hot meal in the evenings.
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. 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. Recommended: Tracksuit, gaiters, thermal underwear, trekking poles 14. 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. 15. 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. 16. 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.
AdvenTour Travel |
PDF