This private full-day tour offers a unique opportunity to explore some of Armenia’s most renowned religious and cultural sites. Starting from Yerevan, travelers can enjoy the country’s rich Christian heritage by visiting Khor Virap, Noravank, and Tatev monasteries. Along the way, they’ll be treated to stunning views of the iconic Mount Ararat and the chance to ride the ‘Wings of Tatev’ cable car. With an experienced guide to provide context and insights, this tour promises an unforgettable glimpse into Armenia’s remarkable history and architecture. For those eager to uncover the spiritual and cultural essence of this captivating country, this day-long journey may hold the key to a truly transformative experience.
Key Points
- Comprehensive private tour visiting three prominent Armenian monasteries: Khor Virap, Noravank, and Tatev, accompanied by an English or Russian-speaking guide.
- Transportation provided in an air-conditioned vehicle with free pick-up and drop-off within Yerevan.
- Opportunity to explore the historical significance and architectural wonders of each monastery, including Khor Virap’s ‘Pit of Khor Virap’ and Noravank’s unique staircase.
- Panoramic views of the surrounding landscapes, including the iconic Mount Ararat and the Noravank Gorge.
- Inclusive tour package covering guide service, transportation, bottled water, and insurance.
Tour Overview
This private full-day tour allows visitors to discover three prominent monasteries in Armenia – Khor Virap, Noravank, and Tatev.
Guests will be accompanied by an English or Russian-speaking guide and transported in an air-conditioned vehicle.
The itinerary includes a visit to the Khor Virap Monastery, which sits in the shadow of Mount Ararat, followed by the medieval Noravank Monastery and its iconic Holy Mother of God Church.
Finally, guests will ride the Wings of Tatev cable car to reach the remote Tatev Monastery.
Throughout the tour, the guide will provide insights into the history and significance of Christianity in Armenia, offering a personalized and immersive experience.
You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in Yerevan.
Included in Tour
The tour includes an English or Russian-speaking guide service, air-conditioned vehicles with professional drivers, and bottled water.
Plus, free pick-up and drop-off within Yerevan as well as vehicle and passengers insurance are provided.
This ensures a comfortable and worry-free experience throughout the day.
The guide service offers personalized attention, sharing insights into the history and significance of the monasteries visited.
The air-conditioned vehicles provide a relaxing mode of transportation, while the bottled water keeps travelers hydrated.
With the complimentary pick-up and drop-off, as well as the insurance coverage, the tour is designed to prioritize the safety and convenience of the participants.
Khor Virap Monastery
At the base of the majesistic Mount Ararat, Khor Virap Monastery stands as a profound symbol of Armenia’s deep Christian heritage. This ancient monastery, dating back to the 4th century, is renowned for its role in the country’s conversion to Christianity.
The monastery complex includes a small church, the St. Astvatsatsin, as well as the famous pit where Gregory the Illuminator, the patron saint of Armenia, was imprisoned for 13 years. Visitors can descend into this pit, known as the "Pit of Khor Virap," to gain a sense of the site’s historical significance. The monastery’s hilltop location offers stunning views of Mount Ararat, making it a popular destination for both religious pilgrims and sightseers.
Feature | Description |
---|---|
Founding | 4th century |
Significance | Conversion of Armenia to Christianity |
Key Site | "Pit of Khor Virap" where Gregory the Illuminator was imprisoned |
Highlights | Stunning views of Mount Ararat |
Noravank Monastery
Nestled amidst the rugged Vayots Dzor mountains, Noravank Monastery stands as a striking architectural masterpiece from the 13th century. This Armenian Apostolic cathedral is renowned for its intricate khatchkars (cross-stones), ornate bas-reliefs, and a unique staircase leading to the upper church.
Visitors can:
- Marvel at the monastery’s red-brick facade and towering spires that contrast beautifully with the surrounding cliffs.
- Step inside the Holy Mother of God Church to admire the exquisite frescoes and detailed stone carvings.
- Climb the winding staircase for a breathtaking view of the monastery and the picturesque Noravank Gorge below.
Noravank’s historical significance and architectural splendor make it a must-visit destination for anyone exploring Armenia’s rich cultural heritage.
Tatev Monastery
Situated atop a narrow plateau in the Syunik province, Tatev Monastery commands a breathtaking view of the surrounding Vorotan River gorge.
This 9th-century monastery was once a prominent center of Armenian culture and learning, home to a university that attracted scholars from across the region.
Visitors can reach the monastery by riding the ‘Wings of Tatev‘ cable car, one of the longest reversible aerial tramways in the world.
At the monastery, they’ll discover a magnificent complex of churches, chapels, and fortifications, including the iconic St. Mary’s Cathedral.
Tatev Monastery offers a glimpse into Armenia’s storied past and the enduring influence of its Christian heritage.
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Additional Information
The private full-day tour offers a personalized experience, with an English or Russian speaking guide and air-conditioned vehicles throughout the journey. It’s not wheelchair accessible, but stroller-friendly, and conveniently located near public transportation.
Infants must sit on laps, with infant seats available for their comfort. Most travelers can participate in this private tour, which ensures that only your group will be involved.
The tour includes:
- Complimentary bottled water
- Free pick-up and drop-off within Yerevan
- Vehicle and passengers insurance
Confirmation is received at the time of booking, and the lowest price is guaranteed, making this an attractive option for a memorable exploration of Armenia’s historic monasteries.
Pricing
The private full-day tour from Yerevan to visit Khor Virap, Noravank, and Tatev monasteries is priced from €223.92 per group of up to 3 people. Additional fees apply for the Tatev cable car at 9000 AMD (~$24) per person. However, the lowest price is guaranteed, ensuring an affordable exploration of Armenia’s historic sites.
Pricing Details | |
---|---|
Tour Price | €223.92 per group |
Cable Car Ticket | 9000 AMD (~$24) per person |
Lowest Price Guarantee | Yes |
Tour Group Size | Up to 3 people |
Other Inclusions | Guide, Transport, Bottled Water, Pick-up/Drop-off |
Booking Details
Customers can secure their spot on this private full-day tour by booking in advance. Confirmation is received immediately upon completing the reservation process.
The tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, but strollers are permitted. Infants must sit on a lap during the journey, with infant seats available as needed. Most travelers can comfortably participate in this excursion.
The tour includes the following:
- English or Russian speaking guide service
- Air-conditioned vehicles with professional drivers
- Bottled water and free pick-up/drop-off within Yerevan
This private tour/activity ensures that only your group will participate, providing a personalized experience throughout the day’s itinerary.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can We Bring Our Own Food and Drinks?
Yes, participants can bring their own food and drinks on the tour. The tour includes bottled water, but additional snacks and beverages may be brought if desired to enhance the experience.
Are There Any Age Restrictions for the Tour?
There are no age restrictions for this tour. Infants can sit on laps, and infant seats are available. Most travelers, regardless of age, can participate in this private tour activity.
Is It Possible to Customize the Itinerary?
Yes, the tour itinerary can be customized. The private tour allows flexibility to adjust the schedule and focus on specific interests. Travelers can discuss options with the tour provider to personalize their Armenian monastery experience.
What Is the Cancellation Policy for This Tour?
The tour’s cancellation policy allows full refunds for cancellations made at least 24 hours prior to the tour’s start time. Partial or no refunds may apply for cancellations within 24 hours. Customers should review the policy details upon booking.
Can We Leave the Group During the Tour?
Yes, you can leave the group during the tour. The tour is private, so participants have the flexibility to explore the monasteries and sites at their own pace within the provided itinerary.
Recap
This private full-day tour offers visitors a chance to explore three of Armenia’s most significant monasteries.
Travelers will marvel at the stunning views of Mount Ararat from Khor Virap, admire the intricate carvings and frescoes of Noravank, and discover the rich cultural heritage of Tatev via the ‘Wings of Tatev‘ cable car.
This tour provides an immersive experience into Armenia’s deep-rooted Christian history and architecture.
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