Treasures of Armenia
Duration of this Trip 10 Days Priced From $2,899 per person
Armenia is an ancient and beautiful country, modernizing and blossoming after years of Soviet rule. Incredible landscapes, a rich history and modern amenities combine to make Armenia an unforgettable travel experience. Bustling, lively cities give way to rolling hills, flowing rivers, tall mountains and UNESCO World Heritage Sites. From the mountain meadows of Tsakhkadzor to the historic churches of Echmiadzin and the urban pulse of Yerevan, Armenia offers something for everyone!
A journey through Armenia begins in the nation’s capital of Yerevan. Surrounded on three sides by mountains, the skyline is dominated by legendary Mount Ararat. The Hrazdan Rver flows through the city, giving it a variety of elevations and neighborhoods, and even a cable car to a panoramic viewpoint.
In Yerevan we offer a walking tour between museums and art galleries around spectacular Victory Park. Then we explore the open air Vernisaj bazaar stocked with traditional carpets and crafts. The Cascade Complex is a must-see of staircases connecting the downtown to residential districts. There are escalators to whisk you up and down the fountains and sculptures. Stop in one of the many cafes to sample the most delicious apricots, berries and pomegranates or take in a jazz concert in the warmer seasons. Armenian cuisine is one of the oldest in the South Caucasus. Our hand-picked local guides will take you to traditional restaurants to enjoy authentic Armenian kufta, or dolma and of course lavash, the pliable flatbread cooked on the walls of a wood-fired clay oven.
Fabulous historic sites are never far away from the capital city. We'll tour the Holy Etchmiadzin Cathedral, the first Christian cathedral in the world. Then on to explore the many majestic architectural treasures in Armenia. Visit Zvatrnos Cathedral, Geghard Monastery, Garni, and the 5th c. Khor Virap Monastery. Khor Virap offers visitors stunning views of Yerevan and Mount Ararat.
Armenians are warm and hospitable and visitors are honored guests. Near Garni you will be invited by a local family to participate in the preparation of lavash and learn to cook traditional Armenian-style kebab with lamb and vegetables. Throughout the trip you'll sample creamy homemade Armenian yogurt and cheeses; they're delicious!
Continuing along the old Silk Road routes takes us to the charming city of Dilijan, stopping by beautiful Lake Sevan for a local fish lunch. The largest and one of the most beautiful lakes in Caucasus, its colors change from azure to turquoise to navy blue. Many locals call this lake the “Armenian Sea.”
Dilijan is famous for UNESCO World Heritage sites - its ancient monasteries Haghartsin and Goshavank date from the 11- 13th centuries. Dilijan is charming and picturesque - “Armenia’s Switzerland”. Visit the workshops of local artisans and take the opportunity to make you own wooden jewelry, pencil box or porcelain ornaments.
Hike the foothills of Mount Ararat, a magnificent, symbolic landmark of this beautiful country. It's an excellent place to taste Armenia's famous khash soup. Your local guide knows the best locations to experience the beauty of Yerevan and the surrounding regions. At your farewell dinner, there will be a performance by a special folklore group. Join them to dance and learn to say see you again soon in Armenia!
At a Glance
Duration
10 DaysPriced From
$2,899 per personDepartures
- May 1-10, 2024
- June 15-24, 2024
- August 20-29, 2024
- September 14-23, 2024
- Choose your date for private tour
Itinerary
Day 1: Yerevan
Day 2: Etchmiadzin - Azat River Valley
Day 3: Khor Virap Monastery, Noravank and Tatev
Day 4: Karahunj –Selim Noratus
Day 5: Tsakhkadzor - Dilijan
Day 6: Yenokavan Resort
Day 7: Lori - Dzoraget
Day 8: Yerevan
Day 9: Mount Aragats
Day 10:Departure
Itinerary
Day 1. Yerevan
Arrival in Yerevan, the capital of Armenia. You will be met by our representatives at the airport and will be transferred to the hotel. Today we start our Armenia Tour with discovering Yerevan. Founded in 782 BC this mix of the ancient and modern attracts travelers from all over the world. Visit the extensive collections of the State History Museum of Armenia. The Matenadaran is a renown depository of ancient manuscripts including many hand-written bibles. At the Yerevan Brandy Company, learn about Armenia's long tradition of its most famous drink. We finish our sightseeing tour with an exploration of wool carpet production. Armenia is recognized as an historic region for some of the earliest oriental carpets. Welcome dinner.
Day 2. Etchmiadzin - Azat River Valley
Sightseeing drive to Etchmiadzin – the spiritual center of Armenia and the seat of the All Armenian Patriarch. Sightseeing tour to the UNESCO heritage sites of the 7th c. Church St. Hripsime and Zvartnots Cathedral, Mother Cathedral of Holy Etchmiadzin (303 AD), and the Monastery of Geghard. This afternoon explore the ancient 3rd c. Fortress of Garni. This evening enjoy participating in the process of making Armenian lavash bread. Dinner.
Day 3. Khor Virap, Noravank, and Tatev
Today we visit three important monasteries, in incredibly picturesque settings. Khor Viap Monastery, one of the cradles of Armenian Christianity, Noravank Monastery (4-14th c.) and magnificent Tatev Monastery. Khor Viap is set against a backdrop of biblical Mount Ararat, just across the Turkish border. Norovank is preserved in a peaceful narrow river valley, its churches beautifully carved and the area dotted with khachkars. Uniquely Armenian, these carved religious stones are one of the most characteristic symbols of Armenian identity and Christian art. Tatev is located on a promontory rising above the Vorotan River, once an important medieval educational, theological and administrative center. While driving up to the monastery we'll stop for photos at the Devil's Bridge, a natural, stalactite draped bridge in the Vorotan gorge. Accommodation in Goris.
Day 4. Karahunj – Selim Noratus
Armenia was an important center on the Great Silk Road. Discover well preserved ancient sites like Karahunj-Armenia's Stonehenge, the Caravansary of Selim high on a mountain pass, and khachkars at the medieval cemetery of Noratus. We will finish our tour with the 9th c. Hayravank Monastery perched on a rock by Lake Sevan. Overnight at the Lakeshore hotel.
Day 5. Tsakhkadzor - Dilijan
Scenic drive to Tsakhkadzor. Located on the foot of Mount Teghenis, visit the 11th c. Monastery of Kecharis, a major center of learning, the 9th c. Monastery of Sevanavank on the hill of the Sevan Peninsula. We'll enjoy a lunch of fresh fish at the restaurant beneath the hill and looking over lake Sevan. Another charming resort town – Dilijan is home to the Ethnographical museum, and there will be an opportunity to meet local crafts people and visit their workshops. The next stop will be at the newly renovated Monastery of Haghartsin. This architectural jewel of the 10-14th centuries is located deep in the forest of Dilijan. The scenic road will lead us to our accommodation at the Yenokavan Resort.
Day 6. Yenokavan Resort
Yenokavan Resort offers a homey atmosphere, and opportunities galore to explore its forested mountain surroundings. We start the day hiking the path on the edge of a canyon, with hidden caves, and a landscape of trees, jutting rock faces, and waterfalls. The afternoon offers more hiking or horseback riding. Overnight.
Day 7. Lori - Dzoraget
Explore the jewels of Northern Armenia. Our first destination will be the Monastery of Haghpat (10-13th c.) nestled on a promontory in the Lori region. An internationally recognized medieval structure and UNESCO World Heritage Site, it was a thriving intellectual and cultural center in the 11-13th centuries. We'll visit the Monastery of Sanahin and the 6th c. Odzun Church. Overnight in Dzoraget.
Day 8. Yerevan
On our 3 hour drive back to Yerevan we'll stop by the 4th c. Holy Cross Church in Aparan, one of the earliest Christian constructions in the world. On arrival at the hotel, enjoy a free afternoon to explore more of Yerevan. Overnight in Yerevan.
Day 9. Around Mount Aragats
We enjoy our last day on the foothills of Mount Aragats – the highest mountain of Armenia. Visit the Fortress of Amberd (9-11th c.). Built at an elevation of 7550 ft / 2300 m it served an important role in defense against the Mongols. We drive up closer to the peak of the mountain for a spectacular view of the region. At 10650 ft / 3250 m above sea level we reach the Lake Kari. Snow never melts on the northern sides of the rocks there, providing visitors cool summer temperatures. An excellent place to taste Khash - a special cold weather Armenian soup. We drive down to the Saghmosavank Monastery, founded by St. Gregory. Farewell dinner in a unique tavern with traditional Armenian cuisine and a folklore performance.
Day 10. Yerevan
Departure from Yerevan International Airport
Land Tour Costs
From $2,899 for 6-10 travelersSingle Supplement
$369Scheduled Departures
- May 1-10, 2024
- June 15-24, 2024
- August 20-29, 2024
- September 14-23, 2024
- Choose your date for private tour
Trip Highlights
- Experience modern Armenian culture in the capital city of Yerevan
- Tour Armenia's incredible monasteries, churches, and cathedrals
- Hike up Mount Aragats, the highest mountain in Armenia, for a breathtaking view of Lake Kari and the surrounding region
- Explore Armenia's natural architectural wonders, including art-filled caves and the Devil's Bridge!
- Make your own Armenian lavash bread, and enjoy delicious Armenian food and warm hospitality
Visited Countries
ArmeniaVisited Cities & Places
Yerevan, Etchmiadzin, Ancient Siunik, Lake Sevan, Tsakhadzor, Dilijan, Yenokavan, LoriSuggested Extensions
Reading Lists
Lonely Planet: Georgia, Armenia & Azerbaijan (2012)
Thomas De Waal: The Caucasus, An Introduction (2010)
What's Included
- Visa support
- Ground Transportation (Land and mountain)
- Experienced English-speaking guides/escort
- Hotel accommodation
- Meals: Breakfast and Dinner
- Entrance fees for the sights,mountains and parks
- Brandy factory tour and winery tour in Areni
- Solo performance at Geghard Monastery
- Folklore Show in Yerevan
What's Not Included
- International Flights
- Charges in hotels for additional services
- Consular fees
Scheduled Departures
- May 1-10, 2024
- June 15-24, 2024
- August 20-29, 2024
- September 14-23, 2024
- Choose your date for private tour