From Yerevan: 5 day tour in Armenia

Planning a trip to Armenia? This 5-day guided tour offers a rich taste of the country’s captivating landscapes, ancient monuments, and delicious cuisine. While it’s not a cheap excursion at $685 per person, the price covers a lot—transport, entrance fees, breakfasts, and guided insights—making it a solid value for those eager to explore Armenia’s highlights without the hassle of organizing every detail themselves.

What we particularly like about this tour is how it balances spectacular scenery with deep culture. From the ancient pagan temple of Garni to the dramatic Tatev Monastery accessed by the longest cable car in the world, you’ll get a genuine sense of Armenia’s soul. The chance to participate in a Lavash baking class adds a hands-on culinary touch that many travelers seek.

One consideration: the tour covers quite a bit of ground, which means some long days on the road. If you prefer a more relaxed pace or more time in each site, this might feel a bit rushed. But if you’re eager to see a broad swath of Armenia’s treasures in a short span, this trip is quite fitting.

This tour suits travelers who want a rundown of Armenia, appreciate stunning views, and enjoy learning through guided experiences. It’s ideal for first-timers or those with limited time but who still want a taste of authenticity, history, and scenic beauty.

Key Points

• Stunning Views: The tour offers breathtaking vistas of mountains, lakes, and ancient stone formations.
• Cultural Richness: Visit iconic monasteries, pagan temples, and historic sites that define Armenia’s spiritual landscape.
• Authentic Experiences: Participate in Lavash baking and wine tasting, offering a taste of local traditions.
• Well-Organized: Includes transportation, guided commentary, entrance fees, and breakfasts, streamlining the travel experience.
• Long Days, Rich Rewards: Expect some long travel days, but with plenty of rewarding sights along the way.
• Ideal for First-Time Visitors: Perfect for those new to Armenia looking for a broad, authentic adventure.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the 5-Day Armenia Tour

This tour, offered by Armland Adventure Club, promises a thorough introduction to Armenia’s highlights, blending natural beauty with cultural landmarks. The price of $685 per person, which includes transportation, entrance fees, some meals, and expert guides, provides notable value considering the scope of sights covered. Let’s walk through what each day entails and what you can expect.

Day 1: Yerevan, Garni, and Geghard

The adventure kicks off with a city tour of Yerevan, Armenia’s lively capital. You’ll explore key sites like Erebuni Fortress, Victory Park, The Cascade, the Opera House, and the Republic Square, getting a feel for the city’s vibrant atmosphere and its blend of Soviet-era architecture with modern life.

After the city sights, you’ll head out to Garni, a site that embodies Armenia’s ancient pagan roots. The Pagan Temple of Garni, built in the first century A.D. as a Sun god temple, is a striking reminder of pre-Christian Armenia. The guide often points out that it’s become a national symbol and a favorite photo stop. Nearby, the Symphony of Stones—natural basalt columns—offers a surreal landscape, with some reviews noting their eerie, pipe-like shapes that seem almost musical.

Your day concludes at Geghard Monastery, founded in the fourth century and carved into the rocks. Its dramatic setting and ancient churches make it a must-see. Many visitors mention the peaceful atmosphere and the stunning stonework. Returning to Yerevan in the evening, you’ll have a chance to enjoy the city’s lively cafes or relax after a day full of history and scenery.

Day 2: Architectural Marvels and Mountain Views

On Day 2, the focus shifts to spectacular architecture and mountain panoramas. The morning begins with a visit to Zvartnots Cathedral, built in the seventh century, which impresses with its unique circular design and fragile-looking stonework. The site feels like a glimpse into Armenia’s early Christian era and offers excellent photo opportunities.

Next, the tour takes you to Amberd Fortress, perched on Mount Aragats. Here, you’ll enjoy sweeping views of Biblical Ararat in the distance—a highlight for many travelers. The fortress’s rugged stone walls tell stories of medieval Armenia’s defensive history.

A relaxing lunch follows, giving you a chance to sample more Armenian cuisine. Post-lunch, travelers often mention the Lake Kari, a high-altitude lake whose mirror-like surface reflects the surrounding mountains. The experience of being on the slopes of Mount Aragats with such dramatic scenery is a real highlight.

Day 3: Khor Virap, Areni, Noravank, and Goris

Day 3 ventures into Armenia’s famed wine country. The day starts at Khor Virap Monastery, famous for its views of Mount Ararat and its historical significance—the site where Gregory the Illuminator was imprisoned. The stunning backdrop and spiritual ambiance make this one of the top highlights.

Next, you visit Areni, the Armenian wine capital. Guests enjoy wine tastings at local wineries, often described as a delightful way to connect with Armenia’s long winemaking tradition. Many reviews praise the authentic, friendly atmosphere during tastings.

Continuing to Noravank Monastery—a 13th-century gem—you’re greeted by a dramatic canyon setting. The intricate stonework and peaceful atmosphere often leave visitors feeling both humbled and inspired.

The day wraps up at the Bird Cave, an archaeological site and natural wonder. Travelers mention that the caves add an element of adventure and mystery. The overnight stay in Goris provides a base to explore the next day’s mountain adventures.

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Day 4: Khdzoresk, Tatev, and Shaki Waterfall

This day is packed with some of the most striking visuals Armenia offers. The Khdzoresk Bridge—a swinging, footbridge—offers a sense of adventure and a chance to see the traditional cave-dwelling community that once thrived there. Visitors often comment on its breathtaking views and the thrill of crossing.

A highlight is the Tatev Monastery, accessed via the World’s longest aerial cable car—a record-breaking 5,752 meters. The cable car ride itself is a thrilling experience, providing panoramic vistas of the surrounding mountains and the monastery perched on the edge of a deep gorge.

Your day ends at the Shaki Waterfall, praised for its picturesque setting. Many travelers mention the waterfall as one of the most beautiful natural sights in Armenia, perfect for photos and a peaceful moment amidst nature.

Day 5: Lake Sevan, Dilijan, and Deer Park

The final day takes you to the colossal Sevanavank Monastery, sitting atop the peninsula of Lake Sevan—one of the largest freshwater high-altitude lakes in the world. The views of the lake’s shimmering surface are unforgettable, and the monastery’s clifftop position offers perfect photo opportunities.

After a relaxing lunch, you visit Dilijan, often called “Little Switzerland” for its lush green forests and charming town atmosphere. The nearby Lake Parz offers a calm spot for a walk or a boat ride, and the Deer Park provides a gentle wildlife encounter before heading back to Yerevan for the end of your journey.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out (and What to Consider)

The stunning scenery throughout Armenia is undeniable. From mountain peaks to ancient monasteries, the landscape is one of the trip’s biggest draws, often praised in reviews for its breathtaking views. Many find the natural and historical sites to be genuinely inspiring, making it well worth the price.

The cultural experiences—wine tasting, Lavash baking, visits to ancient churches—offer authentic glimpses into Armenian life that many travelers appreciate. The included guides, speaking English, Armenian, or Russian, bring the sites alive with stories and context, adding depth to the sightseeing.

However, it’s worth noting that the tour involves considerable driving, with some days stretching into long hours. While the itinerary is tightly packed, those who prefer more leisure time or a slower pace might feel a bit rushed. Also, the price point of $685 per person, while inclusive of many expenses, might seem steep to budget travelers, but the convenience and guided insights tend to justify it.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This Armenia tour is perfect for first-time visitors eager to see the highlights without the hassle of planning. It’s ideal for travelers who love natural beauty, historic sites, and tasting local cuisine. If you’re after breathtaking vistas and an immersive cultural experience, you’ll find this trip rewarding.

It also suits those comfortable with a somewhat packed schedule and long days on the road. If you’re traveling with family, friends, or as a solo traveler wanting a guided group, this tour offers camaraderie and expert insights.

Final Thoughts: Is This Armenia Tour Right for You?

If your goal is to see Armenia’s most iconic sites in a manageable package, this 5-day tour hits the mark. The inclusion of spectacular mountain views, ancient monasteries, and local culinary experiences makes it a well-rounded introduction to the country. The guided format means you’ll gain a deeper understanding of Armenia’s history and culture, often missing in self-guided trips.

While it does involve some long travel days, the payoff is the chance to witness stunning vistas that stick with you long after your trip ends. The carefully curated stops and friendly guides make this a practical choice for those looking for a comprehensive, authentic Armenian adventure.

In sum, if you value organized travel with expert guidance and are keen to explore Armenia’s highlights—this tour offers a compelling, well-priced option that balances scenery, history, and culture.

FAQ

Is transportation included?
Yes, the tour includes transport services throughout the trip, including airport transfers and all site visits.

Are accommodations included?
Yes, the tour includes 2 overnight stays at hotels (except in Yerevan), with breakfasts included each morning.

What sites are covered in the tour?
You’ll visit major sites like Garni, Geghard, Zvartnots Cathedral, Amberd Fortress, Lake Kari, Khor Virap, Areni, Noravank, Bird Cave, Tatev Monastery, Shaki Waterfall, Lake Sevan, Dilijan, Lake Parz, and Deer Park.

Are meals included?
Breakfasts are included at the hotels. Meals during the tour include Armenian traditional dishes, but meals in Yerevan and alcohol are not included.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Is the tour suitable for all ages?
Generally, yes, but be prepared for some long days and walking, especially around sites like Tatev and Khdzoresk.

What languages are guides available in?
Guides speak Armenian, English, and Russian, providing flexible language support.

Is there a limit to group size?
While not specified, group tours typically involve a moderate number of travelers, making it easy to ask questions and stay engaged.

Are there any restrictions?
Alcohol and drugs are not allowed during the tour for safety and compliance reasons.

What is the best time to do this tour?
The data doesn’t specify, but Armenia’s best weather is usually in late spring, summer, and early fall, ideal for mountain and outdoor visits.

This 5-day guided tour of Armenia offers a thoughtful balance of scenic beauty, historical depth, and authentic experiences. Perfect for travelers ready to explore Armenia’s most photogenic sites comfortably and with expert guidance—an adventure packed with wonder and cultural insight.

You can check availability for your dates here: