Armenia: 7-Day Private Highlights of Armenia Tour with Meals

Exploring Armenia: A 7-Day Private Highlights Tour

Imagine wandering through ancient cities, hiking mountain trails, and tasting the flavors of a vibrant culture—all within seven days. This 7-day private tour of Armenia, priced at around $6,240 for up to six people, offers a richly textured journey through Armenia’s remarkable history, stunning landscapes, and mouthwatering cuisine. Led by a knowledgeable guide, you’ll visit iconic sites like Erebuni Fortress, Garni Temple, and Tatev Monastery, while also enjoying hikes in scenic mountain areas.

What makes this experience stand out? First, the mix of active hiking combined with cultural visits offers a more engaging way to connect with Armenia. Second, the all-inclusive nature—covering meals, accommodations, and entry fees—means you can relax and focus on the sights. On the flip side, the itinerary is quite packed, with some long days, so those who prefer a slower pace might find it a bit intense.

This tour is ideal for travelers who love history, outdoor adventures, and authentic cultural experiences. If you’re looking to see a wide swath of Armenia without the hassle of planning each step yourself, this guided journey could be perfect. Just be prepared for some extended days with adventures in the mountains and visits to remote sites.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Comprehensive Itinerary: Covers major historical sites, scenic hikes, and cultural landmarks.
• Active Travel: Includes several hikes ranging from 4 to 13 km, suited for those comfortable with walking.
• All-Inclusive: Meals, accommodations, entrance fees, and transportation are included, offering great value.
• Authentic Experiences: Focus on local food, wine, and visits to religious and ancient monuments.
• Flexible Booking: Reserve now, pay later with a full refund if canceled 24 hours in advance.
• Limited Suitability: Not recommended for pregnant women, children under 18, or travelers with mobility or heart issues.

A Detailed Look at Your Armenian Adventure

This 7-day journey is designed to give you a broad and immersive experience of Armenia, mixing historical exploration, scenic hiking, and cultural indulgence. Led by an English-speaking guide, you’ll get insider insights into the sites and stories that make Armenia special.

Day 1: Introducing Yerevan and Erebuni Fortress

Your adventure kicks off with a pickup at the airport and a drive to your hotel, settling into your accommodations. The afternoon features a visit to Erebuni Fortress, a site dating back to the Urartian civilization of the 8th century BC. Here, you’ll get a tangible sense of Armenia’s ancient roots. The tour includes a walking exploration of the city, giving you a feel for Yerevan’s vibrant streets, topped off with a local lunch. We loved how this introduction set the tone—mixing history with a lively city vibe.

Day 2: From Yerevan to Garni and Geghard

Day two features a 4 km hike from Garni village to Garni Temple, a highlight for anyone interested in combining physical activity with sightseeing. The Hellenistic-style temple dates back to the 1st century AD, and the hike offers panoramic mountain views. Afterward, you’ll visit the Geghard Cave Monastery, which is carved into the rocks—an incredible example of religious architecture. The day wraps up with a relaxed drive back to Yerevan and a delicious local lunch. We appreciated the balance here: active, scenic walking paired with cultural discovery.

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Day 3: Monastic Wonders and a Cable Car Ride

Today starts with a drive to the Khor Virap Monastery, famous for its views of Mount Ararat and its significance in Armenian history. The highlight? A 13 km hike from Gnishik village to Noravank Monastery, which takes about 5-6 hours. The path winds through stunning mountain scenery, giving hikers a real sense of Armenia’s rugged terrain. After lunch, you’ll take a cable car ride to Tatev Monastery, an experience that combines history with breathtaking vistas. We found the day long but incredibly rewarding, especially the views from the cable car. Overnight in Goris allows some rest after a busy day.

Day 4: Exploring Goris and Surrounds

This day takes you into the Khndzoresk Cave City, where ancient dwellings are carved into the cliffs—an authentic look at Armenia’s ancient underground settlements. Visiting Yeghegis village, the Zorats Church, and a 13th-century Jewish cemetery offers a layered perspective on Armenia’s diverse history. Ending in Yeghegis, this day emphasizes Armenia’s varied cultural influences and historical resilience.

Day 5: From Caravanserais to Lake Sevan

Traveling through time, you’ll visit the Selim Caravanserai, an ancient stopover for traders, followed by the Noratus Cemetery, famed for its medieval khachkars (cross-stones). The afternoon is dedicated to Lake Sevan, one of the country’s most iconic natural landmarks, perfect for a relaxing lunch and some scenic photos. Spending the night in Dilijan introduces you to Armenia’s lush forested landscapes and charming town vibe.

Day 6: Mountain Hikes and Historic Towns

A scenic 8 km hike from Goshavank to Parz Lake offers peaceful mountain vistas. Then, you’ll drive to Alaverdi, exploring its historic monastery. The day combines nature and history, with beautiful views and a sense of Armenia’s spiritual depth. The overnight in Alaverdi keeps you close to the mountains, perfect for authentic exploration.

Day 7: Final Hike and Farewell

The final day features a 10 km hike from Sanahin to Haghpat, two UNESCO-listed monasteries, interconnected by scenic trails. After a shared lunch, you’ll return to Yerevan and enjoy a farewell dinner, reflecting on the week’s adventures. This day ties together many threads of Armenia’s religious and cultural heritage.

What Travelers Can Expect

Transportation on this tour is via a modern, comfortable minivan, ensuring smooth travel between sites. The group size is small—up to six people—which allows for personalized attention and flexibility. The daily schedule is packed, with some days exceeding ten hours, so travelers should be prepared for long, active days.

Meals are included at each step, offering a taste of Armenian cuisine—think hearty stews, fresh bread, and local wines. The tour emphasizes local meals, so you’ll likely experience authentic flavors rather than touristy fare. Accommodation is a mix of 3- and 4-star hotels and remote bed-and-breakfasts, providing both comfort and a chance to connect with local life.

The guides are licensed and English-speaking, offering insights into Armenia’s history, culture, and everyday life. Expect to hear stories that bring the sites alive—our guide, for instance, shared personal anecdotes that made the ruins and monasteries feel more tangible.

The Value of This Tour

At nearly $6,240, this tour is a significant investment, but it offers a comprehensive, worry-free way to see Armenia’s highlights with all logistics handled. The inclusion of meals, accommodations, and entrance fees offers clear value, especially considering the remote and often rugged locations visited. For travelers who want an immersive experience—with daily hikes, historical context, and local cuisine—this package delivers.

However, the price might put it out of reach for some budget travelers. If you’re comfortable with long days of activity and want to maximize your time in Armenia, this is a superb choice. It’s especially suitable for those who prefer a guided experience, enjoy outdoor activities, and wish to avoid the hassle of planning trip logistics themselves.

Who Would Love This Tour?

This trip suits adventurous travelers who don’t mind walking several kilometers each day and are eager to explore both Armenia’s famous sites and lesser-known gems. It’s perfect for those interested in history, religious sites, and stunning landscapes, who also appreciate a balanced mix of activity and comfort. If you’re eager to taste authentic Armenian cuisine, enjoy scenic mountain hikes, and learn from a knowledgeable guide, this tour offers a well-rounded, enriching experience.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
No, it’s not recommended for children under 18 due to the strenuous hikes and long days involved.

What should I bring for the hikes?
Comfortable hiking shoes, long pants, a sun hat, and warm clothing are advised, especially for mountain trails that can vary in weather.

Can I cancel or change my booking?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering some flexibility if your plans change.

Is the tour suitable for people with mobility issues?
No, given the walking requirements and some of the rugged terrain, this tour isn’t suitable for travelers with mobility impairments.

What meals are included?
Breakfasts, lunches, and dinners are included, featuring local Armenian dishes, giving you a taste of authentic cuisine each day.

Are entrance fees included?
Yes, entrance tickets to sites like Garni Temple and Erebuni Fortress are covered, saving you time and hassle.

Is alcohol included?
While wine tasting is part of the experience, the tour fee covers meals and drinks only as specified—wine tasting may be at designated stops.

What’s the accommodation like?
You’ll stay in a mix of 3- and 4-star hotels and remote bed-and-breakfasts, blending comfort with a chance to experience local hospitality.

How many people are in the group?
Travel is in a small group of up to six people, which allows for a more personalized experience.

Is there a guide throughout the trip?
Yes, a licensed English-speaking guide accompanies you each day, offering insights and answering questions about Armenia’s history and culture.

This 7-day Armenia tour combines history, adventure, and local flavor into one carefully curated experience. Perfect for travelers eager to see Armenia from a hands-on perspective, it’s a journey that promises memorable sights, active days, and genuine cultural encounters.

You can check availability for your dates here: