Read testimonials by our past travellers, find out what they thought of their Armenia holiday

Connie, Norway

Why Armenia? I did not even know how to find it on the map. I only listened to that special voice inside that tells me where to find the next biking adventure. It has not been wrong yet.
I discovered that the internet knows more than I do, so I started by typing “bike trip Armenia” on Google. Only one travel agency popped up. It was called AdvenTour and I figured it was a promising name so I wrote. That was the beginning of a delightful correspondence with Hasmik.
We arrived in Yerevan at midnight and were met by a delightful young man named Vrezh who was to be our driver for the trip. The look on his face when he saw two elderly ladies that would be in his charge for 10 days on the road could not be compared to his expression when he met us the next morning in our lycra biking shorts!
Our bikes, loaded on a small Land Rover, were waiting for us outside the hotel. Vrezh advised us NOT to bike through Yerevan, and after seeing the worst drivers I have ever seen on any of my travels, I knew he was right. After we cleared the city we biked through villages and gardens towards Mt. Ararat and Khor Virap Royal Prison. It was the first of many remote monastic sites we visited, with secret pathways and underground chambers - fascinating parts of Christian history.
Armenia was the first country to have Christianity as the state religion (311 AD) and those ancient monks sure could find the most inaccessible sites on mountain tops to build their monasteries. If their purpose was contemplative prayer in safety, it was achieved.
I had prepared some talking cards with phrases like “Where is the toilet? ” and “Your country is so beautiful ” and “Thank you for helping me”, etc which I asked Vrezh to translate into Armenian. They were much appreciated by the Armenians, not so much for the content but for the respect they showed.
Let me state that our driver was NOT just for taking our luggage from one point to another. We learned that he had been engaged (at no extra cost to us!) to take care of us 24 hours a day for 10 days - and he did. He left us to bike alone as long as we wished, but magically appeared whenever we needed him.
Our first evening dinner on the road was one of several things we could never have done on our own. We were having our first dinner at a remote goat cheese farm. With the bikes on the back of the Land Rover we bounced up a dirt track for nearly an hour, finally arriving at an old stone farmhouse at the top of the mountain . We were welcomed by mother and her daughter Katrik, who greeted us proudly in school-girl English but could not converse. Grandfather was perched on a little stool near the door, dressed for the occasion in knickers, a shirt and jacket, heavy knitted brown kneesocks with short knitted grey socks over them, thick-soled slippers and a cap. His broad smile showed his gold tooth and we sipped welcoming cups of thick Armenian coffee.
Dinner was a feast. A table had been set in the garden under the heavy boughs of a nut tree in deep grass. There were platters of fried chicken, fried potatoes, goat cheese, sliced cucumbers, whole green chili peppers, a bowl of chopped greens and herbs mixed with yogurt, and freshly-baked soft flat Armenian bread wrapped in plastic bags as individual servings beside each place. Dessert was thick sour cream topped with homemade honey and our beverage was ton, a ubiquitous Armenian drink made with plain yogurt mixed with water until it looks (and tastes nothing) like milk.
It turned out that the mother taught German to school children in her home. Ingrid managed to keep the conversation going with her limited German and I kept patting my stomach and waving my “ The food is delicious! ” talking card. There were hugs all around as we left and I thanked God (and Hasmik) for these new friends.
Biking the next days was often at 4000 - 6000 feet, so we were grateful for our strong lungs - and legs. Sometimes the roads were so steep and winding that, when flying down, we were “biting ourselves in the tail” as they say in Norwegian. Sometimes the road was so narrow that there was no room for two cars and a bike to meet at the same time, yet the hairpin turns were so tight one could not see what was coming. We checked our brakes many times a day!
The fields of wild flowers with intense colors were everywhere, the most spectacular I have ever seen. We always brought a picnic lunch of bread, cheese fresh tomatoes and apricot jam (my favorite) along the roadside, washed down with gallons of water. It is hot and dry in southern Armenia at this time of year (July) and dehydration can be dangerous for bikers.
Perhaps the most unforgettable occasion for us was one no one could not have programmed. I had read in my book before the trip that Armenian hospitality was legendary and that total strangers might invite you into their homes. Well, it happened to us! We were standing on a village street when two little boys popped out of an old stone house and were fooling with our bikes. The boys’ mother came out and asked if we would like to come in for a drink of ton. Naturally I was thrilled and Vrezh accepted for us. He stayed in the background, but Ingrid and I were escorted through an old kitchen with loaves and loaves of bread cooling on the table and into a small living room. We were seated on a sofa with a little table in front of us.
Well, it was just like the book. First came the glasses of ton, and then the platters of cheese, tomatoes, cucumbers, fresh herbs and bowls of yogurt, loaves of the newly-baked lavash, bowls of sour cream for dessert and a plate of chocolate. I had good use of my “Your country is beautiful” and “The food is delicious! ” and “Thank you for your friendship” cards! When we left we discovered that they had given Vrezh a bag of bread and a huge hunk of cheese for us to eat later. I will never forget that spontaneous and loving hospitality.
The most moving occasion on the trip was our visit to the memorial for the Armenian genocide in 1915. Until I started reading some Armenian history I did not know of the dreadful holocaust in which 1.5 million people were murdered or sent off to die in the desert. The memorial and the garden in which trees are planted by people from many countries in memory of those who died touched me deeply. I will never forget what happened to the people of this magnificent country.
I almost forget that I knew nothing about Armenia a few months ago. I now know where it is on the map, I know that it is full of Christian history, gorgeous scenery, bumpy roads and great food. But most of all I know it is full of warm, wonderful hospitable people who are proud of their heritage and their country.
Biking Armenia

Eva, Germany

First of all I would like to thank you for making it possible for me to take part in this trip by keeping the door open to the very last minute - and beyond. I have indeed come back with vivid beautiful memories and images. It still seems like magic. I especially liked the way we were able to get into contact with people in Armenia, who are so open and friendly. Also, of course, we all liked Karina’s surprises which kept popping up along the way. A special thanks to her for the way she made this tour an unforgettable experience! The scenery is magnificent, the old monasteries impressive. I would have loved to stay a little longer.
Best of Armenia

Thomas, Germany

We were looking for a very special adventure holiday in Armenia in June 2006. A unique tour combining extreme sporty character on mountain bikes with beautiful landscapes in remote areas.
After a long preparation phase involving a lot of research we have found an ideal tour operator fulfilling our special needs: AdvenTour really did a great job putting a perfect adventure travel programme together for us. Thanks to Hasmik and her team for realizing this difficult task. We are already looking forward to our next Armenia tour in 2009.
Biking Armenia

Monique, Austria

Thank you for this wonderful holiday, we really enjoyed our Armenia tour. The most memorable thing was the adventure caving, because it was really exciting and something special. We will never forget our adventure holiday and we always remember Armenia and its people. Visiting your country was a very special experience and I hope that many more tourists and travelers will discover the beauty of one of the most exciting spots on earth, Armenia.
Multi Activity Armenia

Ray, USA

Armenia is a beautiful country, with a host of historic sites and wonderful people. But traveling to a new country and not speaking the language can be a daunting experience. The beauty of planning this trip through AdvenTour was that by the time I was ready to leave essentially all my concerns had been laid to rest by Hasmik, who patiently and promptly answered all my questions. Also, when I was in Armenia I found that AdvenTour staff not only were knowledgeable but very adept at making sure that all the little details of the trip were taken care of. If one is interested in seeing Armenia, which I would recommend, then AdvenTour is the way to go.
Best of Armenia

Joe, UK

I had a great time on Armenia Trekking Tour with Martin as our guide. We walked that exact terrain that I was looking for. I always felt safe with the guide's choice of routes while still providing a challenging experience. I have already recommended your tour to my friends who are looking for an exciting trekking tour. Thank you for working with my schedule and placing me in such a dynamic group.
Trekking Armenia

Hazel, USA

My plan to revisit Armenia after 40 years was more than satisfied when I chartered a special custom-made archaeology tour through AdvenTour. The tour was wonderfully planned and executed. My son and I were so thrilled to see the beautiful Armenian landscape and her ancient sites. Working with Hasmik was very pleasant — she helped us out at every step in the planning process and our driver, Artak, was kind and courteous—what else could we ask for?
Archaeology Armenia

Peter, Germany

With our club team we were looking for a hiking tour of Armenia and were lucky to find AdvenTour. Well-organised walks, expert guide, beautiful scenery, excellent food all this made our 10 days in Armenia a fun and challenging experience. Enormous thanks for all your work on our behalf.
Hiking Armenia

Mourad, USA

Armenia left me with a mesmerizing emotion. I loved the country side, the villagers, the shepherds and the common folks. Yerevan on the other hand is just another city that did not play a role in my emotional stage. Thanks to AdvenTour, my Armenia travel was exciting to say the least. I will recommend it to all.
Love Armenia.
Best of Armenia

Sarah, USA

We had the most wonderful time in Armenia. We created many happy memories, and I know that we will plan to return in the future. I also wanted to tell you how much we liked AdvenTour team and appreciated all of you during our visit. I know our time in Armenia went so smoothly because of your hard work and I wanted to thank you for everything! I think our favorite part of the trip was the lunch in Vandzor, and the trip to Echmiadzin. We will be telling others about your agency so that they can feel confident in their visit to Armenia.
Thank you again for making our trip memorable and fun. You are a treasure, and we loved Armenia and the Armenian people.
Hiking Armenia

Pat, USA

Thanks for the best experience ever. We had such a fantastic time during our rally tour to Armenia. It was definitely the best way to see Armenia and we have already recommended it to all our friends. Thanks Hasmik and David, you guys were great. P.S. My son, Steven can't stop taking about the trip!
Rally Tour Armenia

Alexi, Guatemala

En julio, mi hijo de 14 anos me dijo: pa, porque no vamos a conocer un pais diferente osea Armenia, asi podemos saber un poco de nuestros ancestros. Pues me parecio buena idea y reservamos desde Guatemala por internet el vuelo hacia Yerevan y asimismo contactamos adventour. Pues ahora que estamos de nuevo en Guatemala nos han quedado los mejores recuerdos de Armenia, nuestro corazon y nuestra alma se quedaron en Armenia. Que pais tan diferente a lo que conociamos, su gente es excelente y el pais es lindo lleno de historia, por supuesto gracias a Artak el guia que nos asigno adventour fue una excelente persona. Ahora mi hijo quiere ir de nuevo y quiere aprender el idioma, asimismo mi esposa y mi otro hijo tambien quieren ir a conocer despues de que vieron las maravillosas fotos, asi que con pocas palabras aconsejo a cualquiera ir a conocer este lindo pais Armenia. AdvenTour seria una buena eleccion, hacen un muy buen trabajo.
Best of Armenia

Walter und Elisabeth, Germany

Einen guten Tag nach Yerevan, liebe Hasmik!
Sie haben sich nach unserer Heimkehr nach Deutschland eine "short message" von uns gewunscht. Das machen wir sehr gern.
Die Wochenendfahrt nach Tatev war sehr interessant. Die Sehenswurdigkeiten von Noravank, Tatev und dem Steinfeld waren so eindrucksvoll, wie wir sie in den Kunstbeschreibungen erklaert fanden. Doch es gab zusaetzlich noch gute, unerwartete Ueberraschungen. Mit einem Hoehlenfuehrer konnten wir in die geheimnisvolle Welt von Tropfsteinhoehlen klettern, .noch fast unberuehrt vom "grossen" Tourismus. Der anschliessende Besuch in einer Familie (mit 3 Generaionen!) brachte uns in den direkten Kontakt mit der Lebensweise, den Freuden und Leiden in einem armenischen Dorf. Wir erlebten gastfreundliche Menschen, mit denen wir assen, diskutierten und lachten. Fuer uns war dies eine sehr eindrucksvolle und wichtige Ergaenzung unserer Armenienreise!
Ich hoffe, Ihnen mit meiner Rueckmeldung nicht nur zu danken, sondern auch zu helfen bei Ihrer Arbeit.

Sean and Maude, USA

Have you ever been to Armenia to watch the birds? We have! It's the best place in the whole world for what we seek - rare species, wonderful scenery. We just let the experts at AdvenTour think of everything and handle all the details as we relaxed and enjoyed the trip. Please, if you're not sure discuss it further with the staff at AdvenTour. They are also great and aim to please you in every way they can.
Bird Watching Armenia

Robert, Canada

Armenia remains one of our World's hidden jewels. The birth of Christian Europe, a country of contrasts, unspoiled antiquity. Unlike Italy and Greece, where ancient ruins have become buried under the weight of humanity, Armenia remains pure. Pagan temples and ancient history clear to the eye. A most unexplored landscape with friendly people, deep roots, exceptional foods, and fabulous Brandy. If you are either a novice or a world traveler and have not visited Armenia you have yet to see the cradle of our way of life. Rivals the traditional visitations to both historical and religious pasts. A Country that truly is the King of Kings. Would I travel there again. In a heartbeat.

Daniel, The Netherlands

Traveling to Armenia from my home city Amsterdam, I was expecting to find a country still living in the style of the former Soviet bloc. However, except for the look of the peaked caps of the friendly policemen, nothing really strongly reminded of that era. It was even the opposite! I discovered a cheerful, highly active and young society, eager to meet foreigners, ready to learn and living 'outside'. The flower shops and fruit stalls in the streets of Yerevan, as well as the numerous open air terraces where you could enjoy all kinds of drinks and a freshly served meal, reminded me of the most lively cities in Europe and North America. Also, while being driven through this relatively small mountainous country with its ever changing landscapes, its historical and cultural sites, I encountered a lot of open and friendly people. There is only one slight, but also charming problem. If you do not happen to understand Armenian or Russian, you might have to find your way through sign-language, or find an English speaking guide. The latter I definitely found while booking through AdvenTour! I can highly recommend you to explore Armenia 'your way'.

Frank and Rens, The Netherlands

ARMENIA, a country not very well known in the rest of the world. But what a revelation when you go there and meet the Armenians! We got acquainted with Hasmik from AdvenTour and when we arrived at the airport they took us by the hand and during our 10 days' stay showed us interesting places, the natural beauty of the mountains and the characteristic quality of people. Considering their history of repeated occupations, loss of parts of their country especially their most worshipped biblical mount ARARAT Armenians are warm hearted, hospitable and have a great sense of humor. An important experience to us, people from the western world, was the safety in that country, where ladies can safely leave their handbags in the car without being stolen. There was no sign of criminality. We fully enjoyed this cultural tour. Of course you can go to Spain, Italy, France etc. but we strongly recommend that next time you go and visit Armenia. When in the hands of AdvenTour you will be a happy and welcome visitor.