Dilijan is often called the “Switzerland of Armenia” for good reason. Its lush forests, scenic mountains, and tranquil lakes make it a perfect playground for outdoor enthusiasts and culture lovers alike. Whether you’re looking for heart-pumping activities like zip-lining and horseback riding or more relaxed explorations of ancient monasteries, Dilijan offers a variety of experiences that highlight its natural beauty and historic charm. One standout is the Adventure Tour: Adrenaline Rush in Sevan, Dilijan and Ijevan, which combines forest hikes, zip-lining, and horseback riding—a great pick for thrill-seekers. For those interested in a more cultural and scenic day, the From Yerevan: Lake Sevan and Dilijan: Private Day Tour offers a comprehensive look at the area’s most iconic sites. Whatever your taste, these tours showcase why Dilijan is a must-visit for Armenia travelers.
Quick Overview
Our list covers a mix of adventure-packed tours, such as the Adventure Tour and horseback riding experiences like Horseback riding in Dilijan. For a blend of nature, history, and local culture, check out the Forest to Monasteries and the Private Armenia Tour. Wine lovers can enjoy a unique Bottle Your Own Local Sparkling Wine experience, and those with a sweet tooth might want to try making their own Armenian gata. Each offers a different way to enjoy Dilijan’s scenic landscapes, rich history, and local flavors.
1. Adventure Tour: Adrenaline Rush in Sevan, Dilijan and Ijevan
At number 1, this Adventure Tour is perfect if you crave physical activity and stunning views. Priced at $210 per group (up to 3 people), it lasts about 9 hours and covers some of the most scenic spots in Tavush Province. The tour offers a chance to hike through luxuriant forests within Dilijan National Park, where the dense foliage makes every step feel like a secret discovery. The highlight is zip-lining amid treetops, giving you an exhilarating perspective on the forest canopy. Along with this, you’ll enjoy horseback riding through Ijevan’s greenery—a perfect way to feel the freedom of Armenia’s outdoors. The guide is knowledgeable and shares insights into the region’s flora and fauna.
This tour is ideal for active travelers looking for a full day of adventure. The combination of forest hikes, aerial thrills, and horse riding makes it a well-rounded experience of Armenia’s natural landscapes. Be prepared for physical activity, but the adrenaline and views make it worth it. A reviewer notes, “The zip-lining was the highlight of our trip—such an adrenaline rush while surrounded by beautiful scenery.” Bottom line: If you’re after an energetic day with plenty of photo ops, this tour hits the mark.
2. Horseback riding in Dilijan
For around $213 per group, Horseback riding in Dilijan offers a 5-hour adventure that combines Armenia’s natural beauty with the thrill of riding. The tour begins with a scenic drive past Lake Sevan, setting the stage for a memorable day. Once on horseback, you’ll climb mountain trails that reveal panoramic views of the surrounding landscapes. The experience is customizable—whether you prefer a gentle ride or a more challenging ascent, the guides accommodate your level. Throughout, you’ll enjoy unforgettable photo opportunities of Lake Sevan and the lush forests.
What makes this tour stand out is the personal connection with the horses and the ability to explore Armenia’s scenic terrain from an animal’s perspective. The itinerary includes a visit to Sevan, with a break for photos, then continues to Dilijan for sightseeing, followed by a return drive to Yerevan. This tour suits those who want a more leisurely pace, with plenty of time to soak in the scenery and take photos. Reviewers mention the thrill of mountain ascents and the peacefulness of riding amid nature—“a highlight was the connection with the horses and the stunning views.” Bottom line: This is a great choice for travelers eager to combine outdoor activity with beautiful scenery.
3. From Yerevan: Lake Sevan and Dilijan: Private Day Tour
At number 3, this private day tour offers a rundown of the region’s highlights for $149 per group (up to 3). It starts from Yerevan and includes visits to Lake Sevan, where you’ll stop for photos and a guided walk around the peninsula of Sevanavank—an iconic monastery with spectacular views. Then, the tour explores Dilijan National Park and its charming towns, including a visit to Goshavank, renowned for its intricate khachkars. The itinerary also features time at Haghartsin Monastery, a 13th-century site that’s less crowded but deeply atmospheric.
This tour is well-suited for travelers with a full day to spare who want a personalized experience with flexible stops. The guide shares stories about the monasteries and the region’s natural beauty, making it engaging and informative. Reviewers praise the seamless logistics and the chance to relax while soaking in Armenia’s scenic countryside. The tour’s value lies in its private, tailored approach—ideal for couples or small groups seeking a more intimate experience. Bottom line: If you want an easy, hassle-free way to see the highlights of Sevan and Dilijan, this private tour is a solid choice.
4. Forest to Monasteries: A Magical Tour of Dilijan and Ijevan
Number 4 on our list offers a rich mix of natural beauty and historic sites. Starting with a walk through mystical forests in Dilijan National Park, this 9-hour tour takes you to notable landmarks such as the Haghartsin Monastery, a 13th-century marvel surrounded by nature. The tour then ventures to Ijevan, where you’ll visit a local winery and learn about Armenian wine-making traditions—an unexpected highlight for wine lovers. The blend of outdoor exploration and culture makes this tour stand out.
What makes it special is not just the scenery but the experience of tasting local wines amidst Armenia’s scenic landscapes. The guide provides insights into the region’s flora, fauna, and winemaking. The tour is perfect for those who love a balance of nature, history, and local culture. Expect to walk through forests, explore ancient monastic ruins, and sip Armenian wine with the backdrop of lush hills. Reviewers appreciate the peacefulness of the forest walks and the quality of the wine-tasting experience.
Bottom line: This tour is ideal if you want a full day of diverse experiences, from ancient monasteries to wine tasting, with plenty of time to enjoy the peaceful natural surroundings.
5. Bottle Your Own Local Sparkling Wine
At just $21 per person, Bottle Your Own Local Sparkling Wine offers a fun, hands-on experience. Hosted by Hovaz Wines, this activity takes about 1.5 hours and lets you learn traditional Champagne-style wine-making techniques. You’ll watch the process, then get to label and cork your own bottle—making it a memorable souvenir. The experience also offers a chance to hear about Armenia’s ongoing wine evolution and its commitment to sustainable viticulture.
What makes this activity unique is its intimate, craft-focused approach. It’s perfect for wine enthusiasts or anyone curious about Armenia’s wine-making traditions. You’ll leave with a bottle you personally labeled, adding a personal touch to your trip. The guide is enthusiastic and knowledgeable, making the process engaging. This experience is more about fun and education than logistics, but it’s a great way to slow down and appreciate local craftsmanship.
Reviewers often comment on how much they enjoyed creating something tangible. “It was fun to learn the process and come away with a bottle I made myself,” said one visitor. Bottom line: If you’re interested in wine or want a memorable activity beyond sightseeing, this is a perfect choice.
6. Armenia: Private Tour to Dilijan & Lake Sevan
This private 9-hour tour offers a detailed exploration of Dilijan and Lake Sevan. The itinerary includes stops at Lake Sevan for an hour, where you can walk along the shore or visit Sevanavank Monastery. Then, the tour visits Dilijan National Park and the charming town of Parz Lake. The highlight is the Haghartsin Monastery, a peaceful place with beautiful architecture and a tranquil setting.
What sets this tour apart is its flexibility and personal touch. It’s ideal for travelers wanting an intimate experience with plenty of time at each site. The guide provides context about each location, making the history come alive. This tour is suitable for those with limited time but who want to see the key sights comfortably. It’s especially good for families or small groups who prefer tailored experiences.
Reviewers note the smooth logistics and the opportunity for photos at every stop. The combination of nature, history, and relaxation makes this a well-rounded day. Bottom line: For a personalized, well-paced tour of Armenia’s highlights, this private option delivers.
7. Group Tour: Dilijan, Parz Lake, Makaravank, wine factory
Number 7 offers a full 11-hour day exploring Dilijan’s Old Town, Parz Lake, and the impressive Makaravank Monastery. The tour also includes a visit to a local winery, combining scenic sightseeing with Armenian wine culture. You’ll wander through the town’s traditional architecture, take in views of the forested lake, and marvel at medieval monastery architecture from the 10th to 13th centuries.
This is a solid choice for travelers who want to see a little bit of everything while enjoying the social aspect of a group. The guided stops at Makaravank reveal hidden architectural details, and the visit to Parz Lake provides a peaceful break for photos or a quick swim. The winery visit adds a cultural and culinary element that rounds out the day.
Guests appreciate the well-organized itinerary and the opportunity to learn about Armenian history and culture in a lively group setting. It’s an 11-hour adventure suited for those who want to pack a lot into a single day without planning every detail themselves. Bottom line: If you prefer a guided group experience that combines nature, history, and local flavors, this tour is a great pick.
8. Make Your Own Creative Armenian Sweet-gata
Finally, for a sweet ending, this Gata-making experience costs $47 per person and lasts about 2.5 hours. Hosted in a cozy guest house in Dilijan, this hands-on activity teaches you how to craft the traditional Armenian pastry using non-traditional ingredients. You’ll get to customize your flavors and then enjoy eating your creation with your hosts.
What makes this experience special is its focus on local culinary traditions and the personal interaction with the hosts. It’s perfect for foodies or travelers interested in local crafts and recipes. The relaxed setting allows for conversation and learning, making it more than just a cooking class. Many participants leave with a new skill and a tasty souvenir.
Reviewers mention the friendly atmosphere and the delicious gata they created. “It was fun to experiment with different flavors and meet the hosts,” one person said. Bottom line: For a delightful taste of Armenian culture in a relaxed setting, this activity offers a memorable, tasty experience.
How to Choose the Right Tour in Dilijan
When selecting a tour, consider your interests and fitness level. If you’re after thrills, the Adventure Tour provides an adrenaline punch with forest hikes, zip-lining, and horseback riding. For a more relaxed cultural experience, the Private Tour to Dilijan & Lake Sevan offers tailored visits with plenty of time at each site. Wine enthusiasts might enjoy the Wine Bottle Activity, while those with a sweet tooth should try making gata.
Budget-wise, group tours like the Group Tour offer a full day at a good price, whereas private options provide flexibility but at a higher cost. For activity timing, most tours run year-round but check availability and weather conditions for outdoor activities like horseback riding or forest walks. Early booking is recommended during peak season (spring and summer) to secure your spot.
Final Thoughts
Dilijan offers a wide range of tours, from adrenaline-pumping adventures to peaceful monastery visits. For active travelers, the Adventure Tour and Horseback Riding are top choices. Culture and history enthusiasts will appreciate the Private Day Tour and Forest to Monasteries. And for a fun culinary twist, the Gata-making activity offers a delicious hands-on experience.
With such a diverse lineup, you’re sure to find something that matches your interests and pace. Booking early, especially in peak months, will ensure you get the best experience. Whether you want adventure, culture, or just some relaxing scenery, Dilijan’s tours are well worth exploring.