Lusarat offers a fascinating mix of history, natural beauty, and Armenian culture—making it a prime destination for travelers eager to explore Armenia’s rich past and vibrant present. What makes Lusarat truly special is its wealth of monasteries, vineyards, and spectacular views of Mount Ararat. Some tours stand out for their comprehensive itineraries, like the From Yerevan: Khor Virap, Areni region, Noravank, Tatev, which combines history, scenery, and fun activities such as wine tasting and the longest non-stop cable car ride. Others, like the Private tour to Khor Virap, Ararat view, focus on the awe-inspiring view of Mount Ararat and the story of Armenia’s adoption of Christianity. For those with a keen interest in wine, the Givany Winery Tour & Tasting Experience offers a chance to sample local wines straight from the vineyard.
Below you’ll find a detailed look at each of these top-rated tours, helping you decide which fits your interests, schedule, and budget.
1. From Yerevan: Khor Virap, Areni region, Noravank, Tatev
At number 1, this full-day adventure offers a thorough immersion into some of Armenia’s most iconic sites. Starting from Yerevan, the tour takes you to Khor Virap with its stunning views of Mount Ararat. This monastery, famously tied to Armenia’s Christian heritage, features the royal dungeon where Gregory the Illuminator was imprisoned—an unforgettable piece of history. The journey continues to the Areni wine region, where you can enjoy a wine tasting—a highlight for many—paired with local snacks. You’ll visit the Areni-1 Cave, known for its 6,000-year-old artifacts, offering a glimpse into Armenia’s ancient past. Next, the breathtaking Noravank Monastery provides spectacular photo opportunities among its red cliffs, and the Wings of Tatev cable car, the longest non-stop in the world, offers sweeping views of the Armenian landscape. The day concludes with a relaxing stop at Shaki Waterfall before returning to Yerevan.
This tour is perfect if you want a comprehensive day trip filled with history, scenery, and culture. The ability to see multiple UNESCO sites with expert guides makes it a top choice for travelers seeking value. The reviews are glowing, with many praising the smooth logistics and knowledgeable guide.
Bottom Line: If you want to experience a wide variety of Armenia’s highlights, this tour provides a detailed, comfortable, and memorable journey.
2. Private tour to Khor Virap, Ararat view
Number 2 on our list is the private experience focusing on Armenia’s most iconic mountain, Mount Ararat, and the Khor Virap Monastery. This tour lasts about 3 hours, making it ideal for travelers with limited time. Your guide will take you to the nearest point where you can see Mount Ararat up close, with plenty of opportunities for photos and local storytelling. The visit to Khor Virap is a highlight, emphasizing Armenia’s deep Christian roots, and the private nature of the tour allows for a more personalized experience.
What sets this apart is the intimate setting and flexible itinerary, perfect for travelers who want to focus on this one major site without the pressure of a full-day schedule. The reviews mention the guide’s attentiveness and the clarity of explanations.
Bottom Line: Best suited for those short on time but eager to see the Ararat and learn about Armenia’s spiritual history firsthand.
3. A breathtaking tour of Khor Virap with wine tasting included
For around $199, this 4-hour tour offers a deep dive into Khor Virap Monastery with a special emphasis on wine. You’ll explore the monastery with spectacular views of Mount Ararat, and visit the royal dungeon where Gregory the Illuminator was held. The highlight is the visit to Tushpa Winery, where you’ll enjoy tastings of wines that, interestingly, were served to Pope Francis. The focus on wine culture makes this tour ideal for enthusiasts who appreciate Armenia’s ancient winemaking traditions.
This experience is praised for the combination of spiritual and gustatory delights. The tour is well-paced for a four-hour window and provides an authentic taste of Armenian hospitality. The exclusive wine tasting at one of the oldest private wineries in Armenia adds a unique touch that elevates this tour.
Bottom Line: Perfect for wine lovers seeking a short, memorable experience that combines history and local flavors.
4. Khor Virap, Garni, Geghard, Lavash baking, Master class
This 9-hour tour offers a rich cultural itinerary starting with the Khor Virap Monastery and ending with a lavash bread baking master class. You’ll enjoy stunning views of Mount Ararat and visit the Azat Reservoir viewpoint for excellent photo ops. The highlight is exploring Garni, the only pagan temple in Armenia, and Geghard Monastery, carved into the mountainside and steeped in legend.
What makes this tour special is the interactive experience of baking traditional Armenian lavash bread and learning about local legends, such as the story of St. Lance. The tour is suitable for travelers interested in history, architecture, and culinary traditions. The review mentions the guide’s engaging storytelling and the memorable culinary experience.
Bottom Line: Ideal for those wanting a full culture in Armenia’s ancient sites and food traditions.
$41 per person
5. Khor Virap, Areni, Noravank, Tatev (ropeway) Self-Guided
Number 5 offers a self-guided adventure with private transport, perfect for travelers who prefer flexibility. You’ll visit Khor Virap, Noravank, and Tatev with the world’s longest reversible aerial tramway. This trip allows you to explore at your own pace, with the driver acting as a personal guide. The itinerary includes scenic stops like the Shaki Waterfall and Armenian wine tasting.
The positive reviews highlight the comfortable vehicle and the flexibility, letting you linger or move quickly depending on your mood. An added advantage is the affordability, at $257 for a group of up to three, making it a good value considering the private transport.
Bottom Line: Best suited for independent travelers who want control over their schedule while visiting key sites.
$257 per group up to 3
6. Lusarat: Givany Winery Tour & Tasting Experience
Number 6 is a relaxed, 1.5-hour winery tour at Givany Winery, featuring a guided walk through vineyards and the historic cellar. During the season, visitors can participate in fruit and grape picking, adding an authentic farm-to-glass experience. The tasting includes three local wines, paired with small local foods, offering a flavorful glimpse into Armenia’s wine culture.
What makes Givany stand out is its personalized approach and focus on local winemaking traditions. The reviews mention the friendly atmosphere and the chance to learn about the aging process firsthand. It’s an excellent choice for travelers who want a close-up experience with Armenia’s wine heritage without committing to a long tour.
Bottom Line: Perfect for casual wine enthusiasts seeking an intimate tasting with local producers.
$26 per person
7. Khor Virap, Areni, Noravank, Birds’ cave, Jermuk waterfall
Rounding out the list is an 11-hour adventure-packed tour combining pilgrimage sites and natural wonders. It covers Khor Virap, visits the Areni Wine Factory, explores Noravank, and includes a stop at the Birds’ Cave and Jermuk Waterfall. This itinerary offers a well-rounded experience of Armenia’s spiritual sites, archaeological sites, and spectacular waterfalls.
The route is ideal for travelers who want to see diverse scenery and learn about Armenia’s 6,000-year-old wine-making history. The review highlights the scenic views and the variety of sites, making it a comprehensive day trip.
Bottom Line: Great for those wanting a full-day, multi-faceted exploration of Armenia’s cultural and natural highlights.
$203 per group up to 3
How to Choose the Best Tour in Lusarat
When selecting the right tour, consider your interests—history, wine, scenery, or a mix—and your available time. For a full immersion with guided insights and multiple sites, the From Yerevan: Khor Virap, Areni region, Noravank, Tatev offers exceptional value. If you prefer a more personalized experience, the private tour to Khor Virap ensures flexibility. For those interested in Armenia’s wine culture, the Givany Winery Tour provides a relaxed, intimate tasting.
Budget-conscious travelers may find the Lavash baking and cultural tour a fantastic value, combining cultural sites with a hands-on experience. If time is tight, the shorter Khor Virap and Ararat view is perfect.
Finally, for explorers who want to customize their day, the self-guided tour offers flexibility, especially with private transport.
The Sum Up
Lusarat’s tours cover a wide range of interests—whether you’re captivated by monasteries, eager to taste local wines, or want to experience breathtaking scenery. For a classic, all-in-one experience, the From Yerevan tour hits many marks. For a more intimate, focused experience, the private Ararat view tour is hard to beat. Wine lovers will appreciate the Givany Winery, while those seeking culture should consider the lavash baking experience.
Whatever your interests, booking early ensures you get the preferred date and time. Lusarat’s diverse offerings mean there’s something for all, whether you want a structured guided day or a flexible self-guided adventure. Prepare to enjoy Armenia’s remarkable sites and stories—it’s a journey you won’t forget.