Hiking tour in Armenia 7 nights / 8 days
8 days / 7 nights
Day 1: Transfer from the airport to the hotel, walking tour in the historic part of the capital Yerevan
Day 2 :Azhdahak- Mars Planet Of The Armenian Highlands, Dragon Stones, Garni Pagan Temple,
The Gegham Mountains are a stunning spectacle of rugged peaks and volcanic landscapes. The crown jewel of these mountains is Azhdahak Mountain, rising to 3,597 meters. Its striking red slopes have earned it the nickname “Mars Planet” among mountain enthusiasts. At the summit lies a breathtaking crater lake, a mirror of the sky—the highest lake in Armenia—creating a surreal, otherworldly view.
From Yerevan, we will reach Geghama mountains by offroad car, reaching the height of 3000 meters, and then we will start our hiking from there.
On the way back, we will also visit Vishapalich (Dragon Lake), located in the Geghama mountains, to see the thousand-year-old dragon stones.
Vishapakar "dragon stones", are characteristic monoliths found in large numbers in the Armenian Highlands, in natural and artificial ponds, and other sources of water. They are commonly carved from one piece of stone, into cigar-like shapes with fish heads or serpents.
In the 20s of the last century, 7,000-year-old petroglyphs were also discovered in the Geghama Mountains, which depict the lifestyle, worship and daily life of the people who lived here thousands of years ago.
Route length: 10km
Relative gain: 500 m
Day 3 Following the stars and sunrise, night ascent to the southern peak of Aragats (3887m)
Mount Aragats boasts four majestic peaks. The northern peak, rising to 4090 m, is the highest point in the Republic of Armenia. The southern peak, at 3879 m, is the lowest of the four, yet many mountaineers consider it the most breathtaking. as you can see the crater of this giant volcanic mountain and the other three peaks, as well as the beautiful horizon in the distance, which of course becomes even more beautiful under the first rays of the sun. Perhaps this is the reason for organizing our ascent at night, as well as admiring the clean mountain air at night and the presence of countless stars.
We start the ascent from Kari Lake, at an altitude of 3200 m.
Route length: 10 km
Relative gain: 700 m
Day 4 Free day, a visit to the Yerevan National Opera and Ballet Theater.
Perhaps you have a question about what is the connection between the marching band and the mountains with classical music. We believe that people interested in mountains cannot be indifferent to quality music, especially opera and classical music.
Day 5 Mount Dimats, Ijevan mountain range, Tavush Region- the Armenian Switzerland
If during our first days we saw two of the most beautiful volcanic peaks in Armenia, then today's hike will be in the northern and greenest region of our country, in Tavush, where the Ijevan mountains await us. Օur goal is to climb perhaps the most famous peak of this mountain range, Mount Dimats 2378 m.
from the summit, the reward is unforgettable: panoramic views of the rugged Ijevan rocky mountains, stretching 33 km, and the verdant Tavush region, blanketed in dense forests
Our adventure begins at one of Armenia’s renowned cultural and religious landmarks, the Haghartsin Monastery, a magnificent medieval center. From here, we will start our ascent, gradually gaining approximately 1,000 meters in elevation as we make our way toward the peak.
Route length: 18 km
Relative gain: 1000 m
Day 6 Etchmiadzin – The Spiritual Heart of Armenia, Brandy testing in the legendary Ararat Brandy Factory
Etchmiadzin is the spiritual center of Armenia where the Mother Cathedral is located.
The Mother Cathedral, dating back to the early 4th century (traditionally 301–303 AD), is regarded as the first state-built Christian cathedral in the world. According to tradition, it was founded by Saint Gregory the Illuminator after Armenia adopted Christianity as a state religion. The cathedral is part of the UNESCO World Heritage list and remains an active place of worship.
A short drive from Etchmiadzin lies the magnificent ruins of Zvartnots Cathedral, built in the 7th century. Once a grand circular cathedral, it was destroyed by an earthquake in the 10th century. Today, its impressive remains stand as a symbol of medieval Armenian architecture and are recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
We will conclude your day with a visit to the famous Yerevan Brandy Company, home of the legendary ARARAT brandy. During the tour, you’ll learn about the history and production process of Armenian brandy, followed by a tasting session of this iconic spirit that has been crafted for more than a century.
Day 7 . The pearls of Aragats mountain: Rapi, and Mtnalich lakes.
Mount Aragats, the highest peak in the Republic of Armenia at 4,090 meters, is a true treasure trove of water resources. The mountain range is dotted with more than ten stunning mountain lakes, the most famous of which is undoubtedly Kari Lake, easily accessible by car. It is one of the most popular destinations in Armenia during the warm summer months.
For those seeking adventure and the serenity of untouched nature, the remaining lakes can only be reached on foot. In this itinerary, we highlight three spectacular lakes located in the northern part of Aragats.
Our journey begins with an off-road drive to the first of these three gems, Rapi Lake, situated at 3,001 meters above sea level. Here, travelers can marvel at the breathtaking lake and the northern peak of Mount Aragats, which is part of the mountain’s four-peak formation.
From Rapi Lake, we will begin our ascent toward the northern peak, stopping at the highest lake on Aragats, Mtnalich Lake, perched at 3,446 meters.
This route offers mountain lovers and ecotourism enthusiasts a chance to experience the pristine beauty of Aragats and its hidden lakes, creating memories that will last a lifetime.
Day 8: Transfer to the Airport