Private trip: Khor Virap, Noravank, and Ughtasar Wonders

If you’re considering a full-day adventure around Armenia’s most iconic sites, this private tour offers a thoughtfully curated experience that combines history, natural beauty, and a touch of archaeology. Designed for small groups—up to three people—it promises a personalized touch, making it ideal for couples, friends, or solo travelers who want to avoid crowded tours and explore at their own pace.

What we really appreciate about this experience is how it balances culture with breathtaking scenery and unique activities. You’ll get stunning views of Mt. Ararat from Khor Virap, which is often a highlight for visitors, and explore the intricate architecture of Noravank Monastery in a dramatic gorge. Plus, the jeep adventure to Ughtasar Lake with its ancient petroglyphs offers something truly special—an archaeological treasure hunt that feels like stepping back in time.

One thing to keep in mind is the length of the day—11 hours is quite full, and some travelers might find the early start or the drive a bit tiring, especially if you prefer more relaxed sightseeing. Also, while the tour is well-reviewed, the inclusion of optional craft workshops or wine tastings depends on your preferences, so check if those are part of your plan.

This trip suits those who enjoy a mix of history, natural beauty, and cultural insights. If you’re keen on exploring Armenia’s less-traveled paths in a private setting, this experience will likely check all your boxes.

Key Points

• Private and Intimate: Up to three people, personalized experience with guiding services.
• Stunning Views: Unbeatable vistas of Mt. Ararat from Khor Virap.
• Architectural Beauty: Explore the detailed and historic Noravank Monastery.
• Unique Adventure: Jeep tour to Ughtasar with ancient petroglyphs from as early as 7000 BCE.
• Cultural Touches: Optional wine tasting and craft workshops enhance the experience.
• Full-Day Journey: Expect about 11 hours of travel, sightseeing, and exploration.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Closer Look at the Journey

Starting Point: Khor Virap Monastery and Mt. Ararat

Your day begins with a visit to Khor Virap Monastery, perched on a hill overlooking the border with Turkey. This site is more than just a religious landmark; it offers some of the best views of Mt. Ararat, which dominates the landscape. Whether you’re a picture-taker or simply soaking in the scenery, the sight of the snow-capped mountain against the sky is truly striking. Many reviews highlight how this view alone makes the trip worthwhile—an unforgettable image etched into your memory.

We loved the way the monastery’s location heightens the sense of history and spiritual significance. It’s an active site where you can wander around the centuries-old structures, and the atmosphere is peaceful, with panoramic views everywhere you look.

Noravank Monastery: A Geographical and Architectural Gem

Next, you’ll head to Noravank, a 13th-century complex set in a narrow gorge. The architecture here is intricate, with red cliffs framing the stone structures, creating a picture-perfect backdrop. The monastery is famous for its surrounding beauty—the cliffs, the carved stone decorations, and the quiet atmosphere.

Visitors often mention how exploring Noravank feels like stepping into a different era, with its well-preserved carvings and the iconic Surb Astvatsatsin Church. It’s a great spot to learn about medieval Armenia, especially since the site has been carefully maintained and is less crowded than other landmarks.

Wine Tasting and Cultural Stops

After Noravank, the tour typically includes a visit to Areni Winery, where you can indulge in a tasting session. Armenia’s winemaking tradition goes back thousands of years, and this is a perfect way to deepen your cultural experience. The wines are well-regarded, and some reviews mention the “excellent selection,” which makes it worth the stop even if you’re not a wine enthusiast.

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Jeep Tour to Ughtasar: A Window into Ancient Armenia

One of the most unique aspects of this tour is the jeep ride to Ughtasar Lake, where you’ll encounter thousands of petroglyphs dating as early as 7000 BCE. The journey is around 20 kilometers on Soviet-era jeeps, which adds a sense of adventure. The drive is described as “exciting,” with many reviewers mentioning the thrill of riding through rugged terrain to reach this archaeological site.

The petroglyphs are carved into black boulders and are only visible during the summer months—covering the rocks with snow for most of the year—making the timing of your trip important if you want to see them. Once there, the guided hike to the lake offers stunning scenery, with black volcanic rocks and the lake surface reflecting the sky.

Many visitors find Ughtasar fascinating, not just for the ancient carvings but also for the feeling of being among untouched landscapes. It’s a bit of a trek—about an hour’s walk from the jeep drop-off—but many reviews note how “worth it” the effort is.

Additional Cultural Gems: Old Khndzoresk and Tatev

If your schedule permits, the tour often includes a drive to Tatev Monastery, accessible via the longest reversible cable car in the world. The views over the Vorotan River Gorge are breathtaking, and the monastery itself is a UNESCO site with a fascinating history. This addition enhances the experience of stepping into Armenia’s cultural fabric.

Another optional stop is Khdzoresk, famous for its caves and suspension bridge, giving a feel of ancient village life. The views here are also spectacular, and walking through the cave village provides insights into how people once lived in harmony with their rocky environment.

Practical Details and Price Analysis

At $390 for a private group of up to three, the cost breaks down to roughly $130 per person—an investment in personalized service, the convenience of private transportation, and flexible scheduling. Considering this includes guiding services and transportation, it is competitive compared to group tours, especially if you value a more exclusive experience.

The full-day duration (about 11 hours) means you’ll see a variety of sites without rushing, but it’s a long day. Pack snacks, comfortable shoes, and be prepared for some driving. The private nature also means you can customize parts of the trip—perhaps spend more time at certain sites or skip optional stops if you prefer.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is best suited for travelers who love history, breathtaking scenery, and a touch of adventure. It’s perfect if you want a private, flexible day with a knowledgeable guide, and appreciate the quiet beauty of Armenia’s less-visited sites. If you’re okay with a full schedule and some driving, you’ll find this a rewarding way to see a diverse slice of Armenia.

While it’s not explicitly marketed as family-friendly, active travelers with kids who enjoy exploring outdoors and ancient sites might also find it suitable—just note that the jeep ride and hike to Ughtasar require a bit of stamina.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for people who don’t like long drives?
The tour involves around 11 hours of travel, including some long drives between sites. If you prefer very relaxed days or minimal travel time, this might be a bit much, but most find it manageable given the variety of sites visited.

Do I need to worry about the weather?
Since the petroglyphs are only visible during the summer, timing matters. The hike to Ughtasar Lake can be affected by snow in winter, so plan accordingly. Summer trips tend to be best for seeing everything in full bloom and at the site’s clearest.

What’s included in the price?
Guiding services and private transportation are included. Optional wine tasting and craft workshops might be available, but confirm ahead of time if these are part of your package.

How private is this experience?
It’s designed for small groups of up to three people, which provides a very personalized experience. You get your own guide and transportation, avoiding crowded tours.

Are there any additional costs?
Any optional activities like wine tasting or craft workshops would be extra. Entrance fees to sites are usually included, but double-check to avoid surprises.

Is this tour good for photography?
Absolutely. The panoramic views, ancient carvings, and rugged landscapes offer plenty of photo opportunities. Be sure to bring your camera or phone with extra batteries and memory.

Can I customize the itinerary?
Since it’s a private tour, you can likely request to spend more or less time at certain sites—just discuss your preferences with your guide beforehand.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes for walking, sun protection, water, and snacks are recommended. If you’re visiting in colder months, layered clothing would be wise.

How do I book this tour?
You can reserve this experience with Travel By Time through their booking platform. Payments are flexible with the “Reserve now & pay later” option, and full cancellation is available if you change your mind at least 24 hours in advance.

Wrapping It Up

This private tour to Armenia’s Khor Virap, Noravank, and Ughtasar delivers a comprehensive glimpse into the country’s ancient past, spectacular scenery, and cultural traditions. The combination of stunning views, archaeological wonders, and personalized service makes it a compelling choice for travelers who want depth and quality in their day.

While it’s a full and sometimes physically demanding itinerary, those who enjoy active exploration and historic sites will find it well worth the effort. The inclusion of wine tasting and optional craft workshops adds extra layers of cultural richness, making it more than just a sightseeing trip.

In short, if you’re after a tailored experience that covers Armenia’s highlights in one day, this tour suits adventurous, curious travelers eager to blend history, nature, and local flavor into their Armenia adventure.

You can check availability for your dates here: