Private Tour to Sevan, Haghartsin, Lake Parz & Deer Farm

Discovering Armenia’s Historic and Natural Gems: A Review of the Private Tour to Sevan, Haghartsin, Lake Parz & Deer Farm

Planning a trip to Armenia often involves a balancing act between exploring ancient monasteries and soaking in breathtaking landscapes. This private tour from Yerevan hits the sweet spot, combining cultural highlights with scenic nature excursions in a comfortable, personalized package. While we haven’t been on this exact journey ourselves, the glowing reviews and detailed itinerary suggest it’s a well-rounded experience for those curious about Armenia’s deep history and natural beauty.

What makes this tour stand out? First, the expert guidance ensures you won’t miss the historical nuances of each site. Second, the beautiful scenery—from alpine lakes to forested monasteries—is a feast for the eyes. Third, the flexible itinerary offers a nice mix of iconic sights and lesser-known spots, with enough time to truly enjoy each location. The only point to consider is that the day is quite full, meaning early mornings and some walking are part of the package.

This tour seems perfect for travelers who want to see the highlights without the hassle of organizing transport or guides themselves. It’s especially geared toward those with a keen interest in history, nature lovers, and anyone who appreciates comfort and local insights. If you’re after an authentic, engaging Armenian experience without feeling rushed, this could be an excellent choice.

Key Points

• Comprehensive itinerary covering Armenia’s top monasteries and scenic lakes in one day
• Private vehicle with WiFi and air conditioning for maximum comfort
• Expert guidance offered (optional), with knowledgeable drivers praised for local insights
• Stunning scenery at Lake Sevan, Dilijan National Park, and Haghartsin Monastery
• Flexible scheduling allows for sightseeing at your pace
• Good value at $115 for up to 3 travelers, including hotel pickup and drop-off

A Closer Look at the Itinerary: What to Expect

The Iconic Lake Sevan

Your day begins with a visit to Lake Sevan, often called Armenia’s “pearl.” Sitting at an impressive 1,900 meters above sea level, this high-altitude lake is famous for its crystal-clear water and panoramic mountain views. The scenery here is almost too picture-perfect, with the lake encircled by rugged mountain ranges that look as if they’ve been painted by an artist. Reviewers highlight that the lake’s pure water and mountain air have health benefits, but it’s the sheer scale that leaves visitors speechless. Expect around 40 minutes to take in the views, snap some photos, and breathe in the fresh mountain air.

Sevanavank Monastery: A Historical Landmark

Perched on a peninsula overlooking the lake, Sevanavank has roots dating back to 305 AD when St. Gregory the Illuminator founded it on the site of a pagan temple. The complex boasts two ancient churches built in the 9th century, funded by Armenian princes, and is famous for its intricately carved wood capitals. From the top of the hill, you get some of the best views of Lake Sevan, making it a favorite for photos. Visitors often marvel at the khachkars (cross-stones) that dot the territory, and some reviews note that a spiritual school operated here since 1869, adding a layer of ongoing tradition to the site. Expect about 30 minutes for this stop, which combines history, architecture, and stunning vistas—all free to enjoy.

Exploring Dilijan’s Forested Charm and Gosh-Goshavank Monastery

Next, the tour ventures north into the lush Dilijan National Park, often called the “Switzerland of Armenia” due to its verdant forests and rolling hills. Here, the highlight is the Gosh-Goshavank Monastery, built in 1188 by the renowned Armenian scholar Mkhitar Gosh, who is buried nearby. The monastery is beautifully situated amid tall trees, with the peaceful atmosphere making it easy to imagine monks going about their day centuries ago. A special mention from reviewers is Pavghoss (Poghos) Khachkar, praised as perhaps the most exquisite in Armenia, resembling embroidery carved into stone. The site offers both historical intrigue and photo-worthy scenery, with about 40 minutes allocated for this peaceful stop.

The Enchanting Haghartsin Monastery

The highlight for many is the Haghartsin Monastery, dating from the 10th to 14th centuries. The name, meaning “play of the eagle,” hints at its dramatic setting—clinging to the hills amid the forest, it feels like stepping into a fairytale. Visitors describe it as “breathtaking” and “like a scene from a movie,” with the surrounding nature adding to the sense of tranquility. Notably, the monastery has recently undergone renovations thanks to generous donations, including over $5 million from a UAE ruler, ensuring its preservation and beauty. Expect about 40 minutes here, allowing for some exploration and photography.

Lake Parz: Nature and Fun

Concluding the tour is Lake Parz, located in Dilijan National Park. It’s a serene spot perfect for relaxing or enjoying optional activities like boating or ziplining. Reviewers point out the gorgeous views and the peaceful atmosphere, making it a great way to wind down after a day of sightseeing. The visit is brief—just about a minute’s stop—giving you a chance to take in the scenery or perhaps grab a snack at the lakeside cafes.

Transportation and Comfort

The tour’s vehicle features climate control and WiFi, making the long drives more pleasant and productive—perfect for sharing your photos or catching up on messages. The private group size of up to three ensures you aren’t stuck in a crowded bus, which adds to the relaxed pace and personalized experience. Reviewers frequently mention the drivers’ local knowledge and friendliness, with some going out of their way to improve comfort or share insights about Armenian culture. Many describe the transportation as smooth and the journey as a highlight, especially on the winding mountain roads where the views are spectacular.

Pricing and What You Get for Your Money

At $115 per group (up to 3 people), this tour offers solid value. It includes hotel pickup and drop-off, all taxes and fees, a professional driver, bottled water, WiFi on board, and the option for a guide. Considering the full-day itinerary with multiple stops, private transportation, and the personalized touch, many reviewers feel the price is reasonable. The optional guide service enhances the experience, providing historical context and local stories that you might miss if exploring alone.

The Experience: Authentic, Informative, and Enjoyable

The tour is designed to balance sightseeing with comfort. As some reviews note, there’s a fair amount of walking, especially at the monasteries, but nothing overly strenuous. Guides and drivers are praised for their knowledge and friendliness, often engaging in multiple languages. Many guests appreciated the flexibility—there’s no rush, and you’re encouraged to explore at your own pace.

The stops are thoughtfully chosen to showcase Armenia’s diverse landscape—from lakes and forests to ancient stone churches—giving you a well-rounded picture of the country’s natural beauty and historical depth. These sites aren’t just tourist spots; they’re places where you can feel the centuries of history and the spiritual significance still alive today.

Authentic Experiences and Hidden Gems

One reviewer mentioned that the guide, Hamas, went beyond history to explain modern Armenian life, adding context that enriches the visit. Others raved about the delicious local food available at Lake Parz’s cafes or the beautiful autumn colors seen in the mountains, a reminder that timing can enhance your experience.

The deer farm entry isn’t included, but considering the other stops, it offers an optional side trip if you’re keen for more nature encounters. The tour promises an authentic taste of Armenia—its landscapes, its history, and its welcoming people.

The Sum Up: Who Is This Tour Best For?

This private tour is a great pick for history enthusiasts eager to learn about Armenia’s ancient monasteries and cultural heritage. It also appeals to nature lovers drawn to landscapes like Lake Sevan and Dilijan’s lush forests. The personalized aspect and the comfortable transportation make it ideal for travelers who want to relax and enjoy without the stress of planning every detail.

If you’re on a tight schedule but want to see a wide variety of sights, this tour hits key highlights efficiently. It’s also perfect if you appreciate stories and insights from knowledgeable guides, as many reviews confirm the guides’ warmth and expertise.

However, be prepared for a full day of sightseeing—there’s walking, some climbing, and a fairly packed itinerary. If you prefer a more leisurely pace or want to explore fewer sites in greater depth, some customization might be necessary.

FAQs

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, the tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off within Yerevan, making it very convenient for visitors staying in the city.

How many people can participate?
The tour is designed for groups of up to three, ensuring a private, personalized experience without large crowds.

What is the duration of the tour?
It’s approximately 11 hours, giving you enough time to explore each location thoroughly while still maintaining a relaxed pace.

Are the sites accessible for everyone?
Most sites are accessible, but some walking and climbing are involved, especially at the monasteries. Reviewers mention some walking but not anything overly strenuous.

What’s included in the price?
The fee covers private transportation, bottled water, WiFi, taxes, and driver services. Optional guide service is available at an additional cost.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, the tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours before the scheduled start, allowing for flexible planning.

In essence, this private Armenian day trip offers a balanced, well-organized way to see some of the country’s most iconic sites in comfort. With knowledgeable guides, stunning scenery, and good value, it’s a fantastic way to deepen your understanding and appreciation of Armenia’s history and natural beauty.