Day Trip to Garni,Gegard and Lake Sevan

Setting out on a captivating day trip from Yerevan, explorers can discover the ancient wonders of Armenia. This itinerary showcases the stunning Garni Temple, the UNESCO-listed Geghard Monastery, and the serene Lake Sevan. Visitors will marvel at the remnants of Armenia’s pagan past, enjoy the rich Christian heritage, and find solace by the shores of the mountain lake. With personalized service and a small group setting, this day trip promises to be a memorable adventure for those seeking to uncover the unique cultural tapestry of this remarkable country.

Key Points

• This full-day tour from Yerevan, Armenia visits the pagan Garni Temple, UNESCO-listed Geghard Monastery, and the serene Lake Sevan.
• The tour includes hotel pickup, entrance fees, and air-conditioned transportation, ensuring a comfortable and immersive cultural experience.
• Travelers can explore the ancient Garni Temple’s panoramic views, the Geghard Monastery’s rock-hewn architecture, and the Sevanavank Monastery on the Lake Sevan peninsula.
• The tour is limited to a maximum of 6 travelers, providing a personalized experience with an informative and friendly guide.
• Accessibility options are available, and the tour price starts from $69 per person, with lunch at the traveler’s own expense.

Tour Overview

This full-day tour from Yerevan, Armenia, offers visitors the opportunity to explore three of the country’s most captivating destinations: the Garni pagan temple, the UNESCO-listed Geghard monastery, and the breathtaking Lake Sevan.

Travelers will be treated to magnificent views of Mount Ararat and Lake Sevan, and can enjoy the tour’s great value, which includes hotel pickup, entrance fees, and comfortable air-conditioned transport.

The tour accommodates a maximum of 6 travelers, ensuring a personalized experience. With an informative and friendly guide, visitors can enjoy Armenia’s rich cultural heritage during this engaging and enjoyable excursion.

Highlights of the Day

The tour offers travelers a captivating journey through Armenia’s most iconic landmarks.

First, visitors explore the ancient Garni pagan temple, a stunning example of Greco-Roman architecture with panoramic views of the Ararat Mountain.

Next, they venture to the UNESCO-listed Geghard Monastery, renowned for its medieval Armenian architecture and sacred cave dwellings.

The tour culminates at the breathtaking Lake Sevan, where guests can marvel at the serene blue waters and visit the Sevanavank Monastery.

Throughout the day, travelers are treated to the magnificent landscapes that have defined Armenia’s rich cultural heritage for centuries.

Exploring Garni Temple

As the tour begins, visitors are greeted by the magnificent Garni Temple, a captivating remnant of Armenia’s pagan past.

This Greco-Roman style structure, built in the 1st century AD, is the only surviving pagan temple in the country. Visitors can explore the temple’s intricate carvings and admire the stunning views of the Azat River Gorge.

The site also features the remains of a royal summer palace, providing a fascinating glimpse into Armenia’s pre-Christian heritage.

With its historical significance and picturesque setting, Garni Temple is a highlight of the day trip, offering travelers a unique cultural experience.

Visiting Geghard Monastery

Next, the tour explores the UNESCO-listed Geghard Monastery, a medieval Armenian cathedral renowned for its striking rock-hewn architecture.

Carved directly into the mountainside, the monastery’s main cathedral and surrounding churches display intricate stonework and Armenian crosses. Visitors can wander through the complex, admiring the interplay of light and shadow in the cavernous interiors.

A highlight is the Spelaeum, a chapel carved into the rock that was once used for baptisms.

The monastery’s history dates back to the 4th century, making it a significant cultural and historical site in Armenia. This stop offers a unique glimpse into the country’s rich Christian heritage.

Marveling at Lake Sevan

After exploring the historic Geghard Monastery, the tour proceeds to the majestic Lake Sevan, one of Armenia’s most captivating natural wonders.

Nestled high in the Armenian highlands, the lake is renowned for its azure waters, picturesque shoreline, and the 9th-century Sevanavank monastery perched on the peninsula.

Visitors can admire the stunning views of the Caucasus Mountains reflecting in the lake’s surface. The tour allows time to wander the monastery grounds and take in the serene ambiance before continuing on to the final stop of the day.

The breathtaking scenery of Lake Sevan is a highlight of the Armenia tour.

Logistical Details

The tour departs daily at 9:30 am from central Yerevan, providing hotel pickup for added convenience.

The full-day excursion is conducted in a comfortable air-conditioned minivan, with a maximum of 6 travelers per group.

All entrance fees and taxes are included in the tour price, which starts from $69 per person, varying based on group size.

Lunch is at the traveler’s own expense.

The tour returns to the original departure point in Yerevan.

While the monastery at Lake Sevan requires climbing 250 steps, the overall experience is accessible, with stroller and service animal options available.

Accessibility and Additional Information

Although the tour is not wheelchair accessible, it does accommodate strollers and service animals.

Infants are welcome to join, but must sit on laps as infant seats are available. Guests should note that there are 250 steps to reach the Sevanavank monastery, so a moderate level of mobility is required.

Despite these considerations, the tour give you an immersive cultural experience accessible to a wide range of travelers.

Guests are advised to dress comfortably and bring any necessary medication or personal items to ensure a smooth and enjoyable day exploring Armenia’s historical and natural wonders.

Traveler Experiences and Recommendations

What do travelers have to say about this tour? Based on the 14 reviews with a 4.9 rating, it seems that travelers thoroughly enjoyed their experience. In particular, they highlight the knowledgeable and friendly guides, the unique culture, the delicious local cuisine, and the personal and relaxed pace of the tour. As the table below shows, the vast majority of travelers enthusiastically recommend this day trip.

Recommendation	Percentage
Highly Recommend	100%
Recommend	0%
Neither	0%
Do Not Recommend	0%

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Bring My Own Food on the Tour?

Though the tour includes transportation and entrance fees, outside food is generally allowed. However, a lunch stop is planned, so bringing your own meal may not be necessary. It’s best to check with the tour provider for their specific policy on outside food.

Is There a Discount for Children or Seniors?

The tour does not offer any discounts for children or seniors. The tour price is fixed at $69.00 per person, regardless of age. There are no special pricing tiers or reduced rates available for this one-day excursion.

Do We Have Time for Shopping or Souvenirs?

The tour includes visits to key sites, but does not provide dedicated time for shopping or purchasing souvenirs. Travelers can explore local markets and shops during the lunch break, if desired, based on individual interests and available time.

Can I Leave the Group and Explore on My Own?

Participants are expected to remain with the group for the duration of the tour. Deviating from the itinerary is not recommended, as the tour is designed to provide a comprehensive cultural experience. Exploring independently is not permitted during this organized excursion.

What Is the Dress Code for the Monasteries?

The tour includes visits to religious monasteries, so modest attire is recommended. Visitors should avoid shorts, short skirts, and sleeveless tops. Covering up with long pants, long sleeves, and headscarves is advisable to respect the sites’ cultural and religious traditions.

The Sum Up

Set out on a captivating day trip from Yerevan to explore the ancient Garni Temple, the iconic Geghard Monastery, and the serene Lake Sevan. Marvel at the diverse cultural heritage, stunning scenery, and personalized service on this unforgettable journey. With its practical logistical details and traveler recommendations, this day trip offers an immersive and enriching experience in the heart of Armenia.