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

Planning a trip to Armenia? This 7-day private tour promises an immersive experience through the country’s most captivating sights, from ancient ruins to mountain hikes, complemented by delicious local food and wine. While the price might seem steep at $6,240 for a group of up to six, it covers a comprehensive itinerary, private guides, meals, and comfortable transportation, making it an attractive option for those seeking a tailored adventure.

We love that this trip offers a blend of active exploration—think mountain hikes and scenic cable cars—alongside cultural insights into Armenia’s rich past. The inclusion of meals and wine tastings ensures you get a taste (literally) of local flavors. One thing to consider is the physical activity involved; with multiple long hikes and walking tours, it’s best suited for travelers who enjoy outdoor adventures. This tour suits history buffs, nature lovers, and those craving an authentic Armenian experience with a personal touch.

Key Points

• Private and Flexible: A small group experience with personalized guides.
• Active & Cultural: Combines hikes, site visits, and cultural learning.
• Culinary Delights: Includes meals, Armenian wine, and local specialties.
• Historic Sites: Visits to ancient fortresses, monasteries, and religious landmarks.
• Scenic Landscapes: Mountain hikes and lakes offer stunning views.
• All-Inclusive: Entrance fees, accommodation, meals, and transportation are covered.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the 7-Day Armenia Tour

This tour offers a thoughtfully curated journey through Armenia’s most iconic sites and landscapes, with a balance of physical activity, cultural exploration, and delicious eating. Designed for travelers comfortable with some hiking and active days, it promises an authentic experience that goes beyond just sightseeing.

Day 1: Yerevan’s Foundations and Erebuni Fortress

Your adventure kicks off with airport pickup and a drive to your hotel. The day’s highlight is a visit to Erebuni Fortress, an Urartian site dating back to 782 BC. Expect to walk through well-preserved ruins that reveal Armenia’s earliest urban settlements, with interpretive signs helping you understand this ancient civilization.

Following that, a walking tour of Yerevan provides a glimpse of the city’s lively streets. The city’s mix of Soviet-era architecture and modern cafes offers a vibrant atmosphere. Lunch at a local restaurant gives an introduction to Armenian cuisine—think fresh herbs, grilled meats, and hearty bread. The day wraps up with a relaxed evening at your hotel.

Day 2: From Garni to Geghard, and Religious Heritage

The second day features a scenic drive to Garni village, where a 4 km hike takes you from the mountain village to the Garni Temple, a stunning Greco-Roman style pagan temple from the 1st century AD. The walk takes about 2-3 hours, offering fantastic mountain vistas and a chance to enjoy Armenia’s natural beauty at a leisurely pace.

After lunch, visit the Geghard Cave Monastery, a UNESCO World Heritage site carved into the cliffs, renowned for its rock-cut churches and medieval khachkars. The combination of natural and spiritual history makes this a highlight for many travelers. The day ends with a drive back to Yerevan, giving you time to relax or explore the city’s evenings.

Day 3: Monastery Trails, Vineyards, and the Cave

Starting early, you’ll head to Khor Virap Monastery, famous for its panoramic views of Mount Ararat. Here, you can peek into Armenia’s religious history and enjoy stunning photo opportunities.

Next, a 13 km hike from Gnishik village to Noravank Monastery will take about 5-6 hours, weaving through dramatic mountain scenery and ancient red cliffs. The walk offers a chance to connect deeply with Armenia’s rugged terrain.

Later, riding the cable car to Tatev Monastery provides a breathtaking aerial view of the Vorotan Gorge. This iconic site dates back to the 9th century and is a symbol of Armenia’s medieval history. The day concludes in Goris, where you’ll overnight in a local hotel.

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Day 4: Cave Cities, Ancient Cemeteries, and Local Traditions

This day dives into Armenia’s diverse past. Visit Khndzoresk Cave City, an extraordinary settlement carved into cliffs, and wander through its tunnels and houses. Then, explore Yeghegis Village, home to ancient tombs and traditional rural life.

Lunchtime includes a visit to Zorats Church, a historic site with stone structures and a 13th-century Jewish cemetery—highlighting Armenia’s multicultural past. Spending the night in Yeghegis allows you to enjoy local hospitality and perhaps spot traditional shepherding scenes.

Day 5: From Caravanserais to Lakes

A scenic drive takes you to Selim Caravanserai, a well-preserved stopover from the Silk Road era, perfect for understanding Armenia’s role in historic trade routes. Next, visit Noratus Cemetery, known for its thousands of khachkars (cross-stones), illustrating Armenian religious art.

The afternoon is dedicated to Lake Sevan, one of the largest freshwater lakes in the Caucasus. Expect tranquil water views and perhaps a chance to try freshly caught fish. You’ll overnight in Dilijan, a charming town nicknamed the “Switzerland of Armenia” for its lush forests and quaint streets.

Day 6: Mountain Walks and Monastic Ruins

The sixth day features a beautiful 8 km hike from Goshavank to Parz Lake, surrounded by forest and mountain scenery. This walk takes about 3-4 hours and offers plenty of photo opportunities.

Afterward, a drive to Alaverdi introduces you to another monastic site, with an overnight stay planned there. The day balances active hiking with cultural exploration.

Day 7: Final Hikes and Farewell

The last day involves a scenic 10 km hike from Sanahin to Haghpat, two UNESCO-listed monasteries connected by history and footpaths. Enjoy your final Armenian lunch before heading back to Yerevan. The tour concludes with a farewell dinner, reflecting on your journey through Armenia’s landscapes and stories.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

Transport & Comfort: Modern, A/C minivans ensure a comfortable ride across sometimes rugged terrain. The small group size enhances intimacy and personalized attention.

Cultural & Historical Depth: The itinerary is packed with key sites—fortresses, monasteries, cemeteries—each offering insights into Armenia’s ancient civilizations and enduring faith.

Active Exploration: For those who thrive on physical activity, the hikes range from short walks to 6-hour mountain treks. Expect a lot of outdoors time, so good hiking shoes and sun protection are a must.

Culinary Experiences: Daily meals included mean you’ll enjoy Armenian dishes, from traditional khorovats (barbecue) to local bread and cheeses, with wine tastings adding a refined touch.

Value for Money: While the upfront cost is significant, the tour covers all entry fees, accommodations, meals, and private guides—delivering a hassle-free experience in a country where many sites are spread out and require transportation.

Things to Keep in Mind

This tour involves some physically demanding activities, including multiple long hikes. Be prepared with appropriate gear like hiking shoes, sun hats, and long pants. It’s not suitable for pregnant travelers, those with mobility issues, or children under 18. The experience provider offers flexible booking, allowing you to reserve now and pay later, which adds a layer of convenience.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This Armenia adventure appeals most to travelers who enjoy active holidays and want to combine outdoor pursuits with cultural discovery. It’s ideal for those comfortable with walking and hiking, eager to see historic sites up close, and interested in sampling local cuisine and wine. If you’re looking for a rich, personalized experience that takes you beyond the typical tourist spots, this tour offers a memorable way to explore Armenia’s landscapes and history.

For travelers craving a more relaxed pace or with limited mobility, this might be a challenge, but for adventurous souls, it promises a rewarding journey through one of the Caucasus’s most fascinating countries.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for people with mobility issues?
No, the tour involves multiple hikes and walking on uneven terrain, making it unsuitable for those with mobility impairments.

What should I bring for the hikes?
Comfortable hiking shoes, long pants, a sun hat, and warm clothing are recommended to stay comfortable during the outdoor activities.

Are meals included?
Yes, breakfast, lunch, and dinner are included for all 7 days, allowing you to enjoy Armenian cuisine without extra planning.

Can I book this tour and pay later?
Yes, you can reserve your spot now and pay at a later date, offering flexibility in planning your trip.

What kind of accommodation is included?
The tour features 3 and 4 hotels, as well as remote bed and breakfasts, providing comfortable bases for your explorations.

Are entrance fees covered?
Yes, all entry tickets to sites like Garni Temple and Erebuni Fortress are included in the price.

How long are the hikes?
Hikes vary from 2-3 hours to full-day treks of up to 6 hours, so you should be prepared for active days with some physical effort.

To sum it up, this private Armenia tour offers a comprehensive, active, and culturally immersive experience that’s perfect for travelers eager to see the country’s highlights while staying engaged physically. It’s especially suited for those who love history, outdoor adventures, and sampling local flavors, all within a well-organized, small-group setting. With its combination of scenic landscapes, ancient monuments, and authentic dining, it’s an excellent way to truly get to know Armenia in a week.

You can check availability for your dates here: