From Yerevan: 5 day tour in Armenia

Planning a trip to Armenia and wondering if a 5-day tour around the country is worth it? I’ve looked into this experience offered by Armland Adventure Club, and I want to share what makes it special — and what you might want to consider before booking.

What really caught our attention are the stunning vistas of the Armenian highlands and the chance to taste authentic Armenian dishes along the way. Plus, the interactive Lavash baking class adds a fun, hands-on element that tends to stand out in such tours. On the flip side, this tour doesn’t include everything — notably, your flights or meals in Yerevan are extras, which is good to keep in mind for budgeting.

If you’re someone who loves combining cultural exploration with some scenic nature, this could be a solid pick. It’s especially suitable if you’re eager to see Armenia’s iconic sites without planning every detail yourself. But if you prefer a more relaxed pace or want to explore off-the-beaten-path corners, this might feel a bit structured for your taste.

Key Points

• Comprehensive itinerary covering major Armenian highlights in just 5 days
• Includes expert-guided visits to iconic sites like Garni, Geghard, and Tatev Monastery
• Offers cultural experiences such as Lavash baking and wine tasting in Areni
• Breathtaking views of highland landscapes and historical monuments
• Value for money at $685, given the inclusions like transportation, entrance fees, and some meals
• Group size and logistics are managed for comfort, with hotel stays outside Yerevan providing a good break from city sightseeing

You can check availability for your dates here:

What to Expect from the 5-Day Armenian Tour

This tour is designed to give you a well-rounded taste of what Armenia has to offer — the history, the scenery, the food, and the local culture. Let’s walk through each day to see what makes it tick.

Day 1: From Yerevan to Ancient Monuments

The journey kicks off with a lively city tour of Yerevan, where you’ll get a quick overview of the capital’s highlights. Sites like Erebuni Fortress, Victory Park, the impressive Cascade, Opera House, and the bustling Northern Avenue give a good feel for the city’s vibe. These spots are great for snapping photos and soaking in the city’s energy.

After the city tour, the trip heads out to the Pagan Temple of Garni, built in the first century A.D. as a Sun god temple. It’s one of those sights that instantly transports you back in time and is a symbol of pre-Christian Armenia. The structure is well-preserved, and the setting on the highlands makes for striking photos.

Next up, you’ll visit the Symphony of Stones, a natural basalt formation that looks like a set of giant, straight pipes. It’s a natural wonder, and we loved the way nature’s artwork is so perfectly formed — no human intervention here.

The day wraps up at Geghard Monastery, founded in the 4th century, partly carved into the mountainside. The atmosphere is peaceful and ancient, a perfect end to your first day. Returning to Yerevan in the evening, you’ll have a sense of the deep history embedded in Armenia’s landscape.

Travel tip: Expect a full day of sightseeing, so wear comfortable shoes and bring a camera — the views are truly memorable.

Day 2: Architectural Marvels and Mountain Vistas

Day two begins with a visit to Zvartnots Cathedral, built in the seventh century. Its intriguing circular design makes it stand out among other ruins, and it offers another perspective on Armenia’s early religious architecture.

From there, the tour moves to Amberd Fortress, perched on the slopes of Mount Aragats. The location offers panoramic views of Biblical Ararat in the distance and the fortress itself is a striking relic of medieval Armenia. It’s a chance to get a sense of Armenia’s defensive history against invading forces.

Lunch follows, giving you a break to enjoy some traditional dishes — always a highlight for us as Armenian cuisine packs bold flavors and hearty ingredients.

In the afternoon, you’ll visit Lake Kari, a high-altitude lake also on Mount Aragats. The landscape here is rugged but beautiful, with the lake’s still waters reflecting the sky and the mountains. It’s an ideal spot for some quiet reflection and photos.

Back in Yerevan in the evening, you’ll have seen a lot of natural beauty and architectural marvels packed into one day.

Worth noting: The combination of mountain vistas and ancient sites offers a layered experience that will appeal to nature lovers and history buffs alike.

Day 3: Deep Dive into Armenia’s Cultural Heartland

The third day is particularly rich in cultural and historical significance. The morning starts at Khor Virap Monastery, famously overlooking Armenia’s sacred mountain, Mount Ararat. It’s a spot that’s almost a pilgrimage site, known for its deep religious history — Gregory the Illuminator was imprisoned here.

Next, we visit the Areni village, famous as Armenia’s wine capital. Here, you can enjoy a wine tasting session at a local winery, which provides insight into centuries-old winemaking traditions. The village’s charm lies in its rustic vibe and the chance to sample authentic Armenian wine.

Following that, the Noravank Monastery, built in the 13th century, is set amid dramatic red cliffs that make for some stunning photos. The combination of architecture and landscape is truly captivating.

A stop at the Bird Cave adds an element of adventure — a fascinating natural site, often praised for its historical and geological significance.

The day ends in Goris, a town that offers a peaceful base for the next leg of the journey.

Travel tip: This day is packed with sights that highlight Armenia’s spiritual and winemaking traditions, ideal for those eager to understand the country’s soul.

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Day 4: Exceptional Views and Unique Experiences

Day four is dedicated to some of Armenia’s most iconic sites and scenic spots. The highlight is Khndzoresk bridge, a swinging bridge that offers thrilling views of the canyon below. It’s a small adrenaline rush and a fun photo opportunity.

Then, the tour takes you to the Tatev Monastery, perched on the edge of a deep gorge. The fun part is the world’s longest cable car ride (5,752 meters), which offers sweeping views of the landscape as you travel from the top to the monastery.

Finally, a visit to Shaki Waterfall rounds out the day. This waterfall is praised as one of the most picturesque in Armenia, and you’ll have time to enjoy the scenery and snap some memorable shots.

Overnight is spent in Egeghis village, giving you a break from city life and a chance to take in the natural beauty.

Note: The cable car experience is a standout feature here, combining scenic views with a touch of adventure.

Day 5: Lake and Forests

On the final day, the journey heads to Sevanavank Monastery, situated on a peninsula of Lake Sevan, one of the largest freshwater high-altitude lakes in the world. The views of the lake and the surrounding mountains are calming and photogenic.

After a hearty lunch, the tour continues to Dilijan, often called “Armenia’s Switzerland” because of its lush forests and charming townscape. You’ll visit Lake Parz, a small, tranquil lake perfect for a relaxing walk or picnic.

Lastly, a visit to Deer Park provides a gentle, nature-focused end to your trip, where you can spot local wildlife and enjoy the peaceful setting before returning to Yerevan.

Travel tip: The lakes and forests here are ideal for unwinding, and the scenery feels like a different side of Armenia compared to the historical sites.

Is the Tour Worth the Price?

At $685 per person, this tour offers a lot — from transportation, entrance fees, and accommodations (apart from Yerevan), to guided commentary and some meals. Considering the number of UNESCO sites and natural wonders included, the value seems fair. It covers many of Armenia’s highlights without the need for you to plan each step, which is a big plus if you prefer a hassle-free experience.

However, keep in mind that meals in Yerevan aren’t included, and international flights aren’t part of the package, so factor those into your overall budget. Also, some travelers mention that the pace is quite full, so if you’re someone who prefers a slower, more relaxed trip, this might feel a bit busy.

Final Thoughts: Who Is This Tour Best For?

This Armenia tour is particularly suitable for travelers who want a rundown of Armenia’s key sites without the stress of organizing each detail themselves. The scenic views along the way are breathtaking, especially the mountain panoramas and ancient monasteries perched amid rugged landscapes.

If you’re a history buff or someone who loves cultural experiences mixed with natural beauty, you’ll find a lot to enjoy here. The inclusion of activities like Lavash baking and wine tasting adds a hands-on touch that makes the trip memorable.

On the downside, if you prefer a leisurely pace, or if you’re traveling with very young children who might find long days challenging, this tour could be a bit intense. Also, those looking for off-the-beaten-path adventures outside the main routes might be disappointed, as the itinerary sticks to Armenia’s most famous sights.

Overall, it’s a solid choice for first-time visitors wanting to get a rich, visual, and cultural introduction to Armenia in a relatively short period.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for families or children?
While not specifically marketed as a family tour, the sights are generally suitable for older children who can handle full days of sightseeing. Keep in mind the days are packed, so younger kids might find it tiring.

Are the accommodations comfortable?
The tour includes overnight stays outside Yerevan, in places like Egeghis village and Goris. While the details on hotel quality aren’t specified, reviews suggest they are decent, offering a good rest after busy days.

What’s included in the price?
Your tour price covers transportation, guide services, entrance tickets to major sites, some meals, and two overnight stays outside Yerevan.

What is not included?
Flights to and from Armenia, meals in Yerevan, alcohol, and travel insurance are extra.

How flexible is the tour?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, which offers some peace of mind when planning ahead.

What languages are guides available in?
Guides speak English, Armenian, and Russian, making it accessible for many travelers.

Are there any physical activity requirements?
Some walking and stair climbing are involved, especially at sites like Tatev Monastery and Shaki Waterfall, so be prepared for some moderate activity.

Does the tour follow a set schedule?
Yes, the itinerary is quite structured, making for a full but organized experience.

Are meals included?
Breakfasts are included at the hotels, but other meals are paid separately, except during the guided lunch stops.

Is the transport comfortable?
While specific vehicle details aren’t provided, the trip covers long distances with dedicated transport, generally comfortable for group tours.

If Armenia’s landscapes, history, and culture are calling you, this tour could be just the right fit. It offers a chance to see a lot in a short time, with views that you’ll remember long after. Just be sure to consider your pace and what you want to get out of the trip before booking.

You can check availability for your dates here: