Trek in Arménie
Between volcanic massifs and thousand-year-old monasteries, Arménie reveals its treasures over 12 days of authentic hiking.
Duration
12 days
Ideal seasons
May, Jun, Sep, Oct
Style
Guided tour
Comfort
classique
Travelers
Solo, Couple, With friends
The spirit of travel
This 12-day itinerary takes you to discover the rich religious heritage of Arménie.
You will inevitably pass through the capital, Yerevan, before embarking on a discovery of the country's natural beauty. Surrounded by mountain peaks and endless plains, the most beautiful monasteries, churches and fortresses in the country are scattered here and there.
Throughout the stay, there are magnificent hikes punctuated by pleasant stops in small lost villages, a great opportunity to taste local wine.
The stages of your journey
Highlights
Day-by-day itinerary
Welcome to Arménie!
Zvartnots International Airport → Erevan
Upon arrival at Yerevan airport, your guide welcomes you before your transfer to the hotel. You then enjoy a free afternoon.
Optional and additional cost: if you arrive early in the morning, a discovery tour of Yerevan can be arranged.
First Hike in Arménie
You cross the Ararat Plain to reach the Khor Virap Monastery. Perched on a hill in the middle of vineyards and orchards, it offers a privileged setting to admire Mount Ararat and photograph the surrounding landscapes.
You continue eastward, into the Vayots Dzor Region, with a stop at the village of Areni. In this cradle of Armenian winemaking, you discover the wine-making processes, between artisanal practices and more modern techniques.
After lunch in the Vayots Dzor region, you head to Amaghou, the starting point of your first hike. You walk to the Noravank monastery, located in a gorge in the upper Amaghou valley. This stage combines heritage discovery and a warm-up before the longer walks of the following days.
Walking time: 3 hours
Distance: 4 km, including 1 km uphill
Altitudes: Amaghou at 1,550 m; Noravank at 1,550 m
Vehicle pickup not possible during the hike
A short transfer takes you to Eghegnazor for dinner and the night.
Vernashen to Chatinavank Hike
Your first long hike begins at Vernashen, a village located a few kilometers north of Eghegnadzor. You cross mineral landscapes punctuated by waterfalls and savannas, discovering the region's heritage.
You first reach Prochberd, a 13th century fortress isolated on a mountainside, then Spitakavor, a 14th century church. The hike continues northward to the ruins of Chatinavank monastery. Built in the 10th century, it was then an important cultural center.
Hiking duration: 7 hours
Distance: 21 km, including 6 km of climbing
Altitudes: Vernashen at 1,529 m; Prochberd at 2,380 m; Spitakavor at 2,180 m; Chatinavank at 1,500 m - Partial vehicle assistance available
After the hike, a drive of about twenty kilometers takes you to Hermon, where you settle in for dinner and the night.
Around Yeghegis
Early in the morning, you have the opportunity to observe the Bezoar goats in the surroundings of the village of Chatin.
A short car transfer takes you then to Artabuynk, about twenty minutes from Hermon. This village marks the starting point of your hike towards two historical sites in the region.
You first discover the Smbataberd fortress, built on the crest of a hill between Artabuynk and Yeghegis. Built in the 5th century, it was fortified in the 9th and 10th centuries under the reign of the Orbélian.
You continue towards the Tsakhats Kar monastery. Its western part dates back to the reign of King Abas of Arménie, in the 10th century, while its eastern part dates from the 11th century.
The hike brings you back to the village of Yeghegis, where you discover the church of Zorats Tatchar, dating from the 14th century.
Walking time: 7 hours
Distance: 15 km, including 4 km of ascent
Altitudes: Yeghegis at 1,532 m; Smbataberd at 1,950 m; Tsakhats Kar at 2,078 m
Vehicle pickup possible
You return to Hermon for dinner and overnight.
Towards Tatev Monastery through Vorotan Canyon
Hermon → Ltsen
This morning, you take the road south to reach the village of Ltsen, starting point of your hike.
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Ltsen → Tatev
You walk through the Vorotan canyon to the Tatev monastery. Perched above the canyon, this monastic complex was an important cultural and academic center. This stage combines hiking in nature and discovery of Armenian heritage.
Walking duration: 5 hours
Distance: 15 km, including 3 km uphill
Altitudes: Ltsen at 1,800 m; Tatev at 1,563 m
Vehicle pickup available
As an option, for an additional fee: you can also reach the monastery by cable car "Wings of Tatev". The journey extends over 5 kilometers above the Vorotan canyon, offering another perspective on the landscapes
Hiking in Khndzoresk and in the villages from Khot to Halidzor
You join Khndzoresk, a rural community located a few kilometers east of Goris. In this rugged terrain, you discover Old Khndzoresk, nicknamed the "city of caves". This former troglodyte village, nestled in the hills, was definitively abandoned in the 1970s. A walk takes you through the Khndzoresk gorge.
Walking duration: 1 hour
Distance: 1.5 km, including 500 m of uphill
Vehicle pickup impossible
Khndzoresk → Khot
A car transfer takes you to Khot, south of Goris, for a new hike.
Khot → Halidzor
You walk from Khot to Halidzor via Shinuhayr. These three villages and their surroundings offer an overview of the region's cultural, historical and architectural heritage. Along the route, you discover churches, shelters, waterfalls, khachkars and medieval cemeteries.
Walking time: 5 hours
Distance: 8 km, including 1 km uphill
Altitudes: Khot at 1,200 m; Shinuhayr at 1,200 m; Halidzor at 1,300 m
Vehicle pickup possible
Climbing Mount Armaghan
After breakfast, you head towards the foot of the mont Armaghan to begin the ascent of this extinct volcano.
At the summit, you enjoy a view of the surrounding mountains and the Lake Sevan. You also explore the crater and its lake, which allow you to appreciate the geological features of the site.
Walking duration: 6 hours
Distance: 12 km, of which 5 km uphill
Elevations: mont Armaghan at 2,827 m; village at 2,100 m; Sevan at 1,950 m
Vehicle pickup available
Mount Armaghan → Sevan
You continue towards Sevan, where you arrive in the evening for dinner and the night.
Hiking to Lake Parz
Sevan → Lake Parz
You join the Dilijan National Park to explore the surroundings of Lake Parz on foot. During this three-hour hike, you follow well-marked forest trails through rich and wild nature. Your route passes through the Areguni Pass and the Gochavank Monastery.
Walking duration: 3 hours
Distance: 7 km, including 3 km uphill
Altitudes: Lake Parz at 1,344 m; Gochavank at 1,232 m
Partial vehicle transfer available
Optional: a hike to Lake Gosh, including 2.5 hours of walking over 6 km, including 3 km uphill. Partial vehicle transfer available.
Lake Parz → Dilidjan
You then discover the old town of Dilidjan and its historical monuments. Surrounded by forests, this climate station is also known for its pure air and thermal springs.
Ijevan Natural Sanctuary
You set off on foot from Enokavan heading towards Lastiver, in the Ijevan natural sanctuary. West of the village, this preserved region in northern Arménie reveals thick forests, rivers, waterfalls and caves. A three-hour hike allows you to discover these landscapes.
Walking time: 3 hours
Distance: 6 km, including 3 km uphill
Altitudes: Enokavan at 1,365 m; Lastiver at 1,130 m
Vehicle pickup not available
Optional: Enokavan's Yell Extreme Park offers a zip-lining network above the forest, among other activities. Rates available on site.
You head back to the road towards Erevan, with a stop on the shores of Lake Sevan. At approximately 1,900 meters altitude, this vast expanse of water accompanies your discovery of the churches of the Holy Apostles and the Holy Mother of God.
You then arrive in the Armenian capital and settle into your hotel.
Garni Fortress and Geghard Monastery
You head towards the Geghama Mountains, southeast of Yerevan, to reach Garni. There you discover the Temple of Garni, a remnant from the Hellenistic period dedicated to the god of the Sun. A one-hour walk in the Azat canyon then allows you to appreciate the surrounding landscapes.
Walking duration: 1 hour
Altitudes: Garni at 1,400 m; Azat canyon at 1,250 m
In Garni, you share lunch at a local home and discover the traditional craft of making lavash, Armenian traditional bread. A moment of exchange around a local tradition.
You continue a few kilometers further towards the Geghard Monastery, at the entrance to the upper Azat valley. Largely troglodytic, this ensemble of churches and cross-stones bears witness to Armenian medieval architecture. A former major cultural and ecclesiastical center, it preserves relics from the Armenian Apostolic Church
Visit to Yerevan
You start the morning with a walking discovery of Erevan city center, accompanied by a cultural guide.
You continue towards the Cascade architectural complex, built in the 1970s. Leaning against a hillside, this set of terraced gardens and fountains offers, from its esplanade, a view over Erevan and the Mount Ararat.
After lunch, you visit the Armenian Genocide Memorial and its adjoining museum, located on the Tsitsernakaberd hill. This stop is dedicated to remembrance and reflection.
At the end of the day, you discover the dried fruit market, then enjoy the remaining time to stroll and do some shopping.
Have a great trip!
After your breakfast, you enjoy free time in Yerevan until your transfer to the airport for your return international flight.
Price per person
This trip can be tailored to your preferences
This itinerary provides an excellent foundation for discovery, but it can be fully customized. Our local advisors build each trip tailored to your budget, dates and preferences.
Not included
- Air tickets and insurance
- Picnic lunches and dinners
- Alcoholic beverages and personal expenses
- Tips for your guide, driver and porters
- Everything not mentioned in the inclusions
Included
- Airport transfers with driver airport-hotel-airport in Arménie
- Private and air-conditioned comfortable transport throughout the circuit (in minivan for 2 to 4 participants and in sprinter for 5 to 10 participants)
- The services of an English-speaking or local-language hiking guide throughout the circuit for the hikes mentioned in the program
- Accommodation in double/twin rooms in 4* hotels with breakfast in Yerevan, Eghegnadzor, Hermon, Goris, Sisian, Sevan and Enokavan according to the program
- Entrance tickets to sites, monuments and museums mentioned in the itinerary
Practical Information
Registration is considered firm and final after payment of a deposit of 30% of the total price and acceptance of the specific terms of sale.
The balance must be paid no later than 45 days before the departure date.
See our specific terms of sale for full details.
In the event of cancellation by the traveller, the following fees apply:
- Plus de 60 jours avant le départ : 40 % du prix total (acompte retenu)
- Entre 60 et 30 jours avant le départ : 50 % du prix total
- Moins de 30 jours avant le départ : 100 % du prix total
We strongly recommend taking out cancellation insurance. See our specific terms of sale for full details.
The information below concerns travelers who are nationals of the European Economic Area (EEA), Switzerland and Canada traveling to Armenia for tourism purposes. As entry rules may change, we recommend you verify this information with the official authorities before your departure.
Passport
To enter Armenia, your passport must be valid for the entire duration of your stay and contain at least one blank page for immigration stamps.
The document must be in good condition (no damaged, torn or altered pages).
Tourism stay without visa
Nationals of the European Economic Area, Switzerland and Canada benefit from a visa exemption for tourism stays in Armenia.
This exemption allows a stay of up to 180 days per year on Armenian territory, without any prior procedure required.
The authorities may also request:
a return travel ticket or onward flight,
proof of sufficient financial resources for the duration of your stay,
an accommodation address in Armenia.
Registration with local authorities
Any traveler staying in Armenia is in principle required to register with the local authorities within 20 days of arrival. In practice, this formality is generally handled directly by the hotel or accommodation establishment, which registers the traveler.
If staying with a private individual or in non-professional accommodation, you should ensure that this procedure is completed, as failure to do so may result in a fine upon departure from the territory.
Traveling with children
Minors must hold their own valid passport covering the duration of the stay.
In some European countries, when a minor travels without one of their parents, an exit authorization from the territory may be required according to the regulations of the country of residence.
Other nationalities
Entry conditions may vary depending on nationality. Travelers concerned should check with the Armenian embassy or consulate in their country of residence.
To participate in our trips, it is strongly advised to be insured for repatriation assistance and medical expenses abroad.
Your local agency encourages you to review the specific policy developed with our partners CHAPKA ASSURANCES and AXA ASSISTANCE.
To subscribe to insurance, learn about coverage and rates, follow the link below.
CAP EXPLORER: The complete insurance solution designed for a worry-free trip!
Choose the plan that suits you best:
Explorer'Multirisque
Explorer'Annulation
Explorer'Assistance
Explorer' Complémentaire Carte Bancaire
Specific to our trips, we strongly recommend subscribing to them.
If you choose to subscribe to one of these plans, the policy detailing all coverage and claims reporting procedures are available on the insurer's website.
Your local agency will be aware of this, but only the participant is responsible for following the claims reporting procedures. The participant must therefore keep this policy with them throughout their trip.
Chapka — Cap Explorer
Our insurance partnerTravel with peace of mind with our partner Chapka. Cancellation, repatriation, medical expenses, baggage… All the coverage for a worry-free trip.
Travel with peace of mind — I'll handle the insuranceFrequently asked questions
For a tourist stay in Armenia, no visa is required. A valid passport for at least 3 months after your return date is sufficient. Always check the latest conditions with the consular authorities of your destination before departure.
Go to the My Trips section to find all your projects.
You can send a message to your host directly from the Tea Lounge.
For a quality tailor-made trip, expect between 110 and 180 euros per day and per person, including accommodation, meals, internal transport and activities. International flights (400-700 euros round-trip from Paris) are additional. Armenia remains one of the most affordable destinations in the Caucasus.
Your documents are accessible in the Documents tab of your trip.
Absolutely. We tailor each itinerary to suit travelers' profiles. For families, we prioritize relaxed pacing, family-friendly accommodations, engaging educational activities, and comfortable private transfers. Our local English-speaking guides know how to capture children's attention with age-appropriate anecdotes.
It's simple. You exchange with our local team to define your wishes, budget and dates. You receive a detailed itinerary proposal within 48 hours. You adjust every detail together until you reach the perfect version. You confirm and travel with peace of mind. Your local agency remains available 7 days a week throughout your trip.
In case of emergency, contact your local agency immediately.
Payment is generally made in two installments.
Our agency is part of the Nomadays network, registered in France. You benefit from APST (Professional Tourism Solidarity Association) guarantee which covers 100% of your funds. Secure payment, repatriation insurance included, and English-speaking assistance 24/7 on site throughout your stay.
Let's talk about your adventure — Yerevan and Ararat Plain
Travel Creator Between Memory and Mountains, based in Arménie
Armenia is a land of memory, but also of life and human warmth. What I love is seeing travelers discover this energy far beyond the ideas they had before coming.
— Lilith
