Horseback Riding in Armenia

If you’re considering a horseback riding adventure in Armenia, this 12-day tour offers a chance to explore some of the country’s most breathtaking scenery on horseback. While we haven’t personally been on this exact trip, the detailed itinerary, glowing reviews, and honest description make it clear that this is a solid choice for those wanting to combine outdoor adventure with cultural discovery.

What we love about this experience? First, the stunning landscapes you’ll traverse—think lush canyons, forested mountains, and shimmering lakes. Second, the expert guidance from friendly, English-speaking guides like Saro, who seems to genuinely care about making sure everyone has a good time.

A possible consideration? The tour is geared toward intermediate riders, so if you’re a complete beginner or looking for a very relaxed vacation, it might not be the best fit. Also, the price tag of nearly $950 per person for 12 days isn’t cheap, but the value comes in the thoroughness of the experience and the included accommodation, food, and transportation.

If you love outdoor adventures, cultural sites, and don’t mind a bit of physical activity, this tour could suit you nicely. It’s especially good for travelers looking for an active, immersive experience that combines riding with sightseeing.

• Scenic landscapes: Expect mountain lakes, canyons, forests, and traditional hamlets.
• Cultural highlights: Visits to medieval shrines, fortresses, and monasteries enrich the journey.
• Guided expertise: Friendly, knowledgeable guides, like Saro, help with logistics and ensure safety.
• Comfort & logistics: Includes accommodation, transportation, and all meals, simplifying your planning.
• Group size: Small groups of 2-12 make for a more personalized experience.
• Physical effort: Designed for intermediate riders, with daily rides of 5-7 hours over 12 days.

Day 1 kicks off with a transfer from Zvartnots International Airport to Yerevan, followed by a guided city tour. This initial day is a good way to get acquainted with Armenia’s lively capital before heading into the countryside.

Day 2 transports you north to Lori province, where the adventure truly begins along the Dzoraget Canyon. The scenery here is dramatic—cliffs, rushing streams, and lush greenery—making for a memorable start to your riding days.

Day 3 continues in Debed Valley, with trails through wooded areas. The reviews highlight how calming and friendly the horses are, which is reassuring if you’re not an experienced rider but still want to enjoy the ride.

Day 4 takes you to Lake Tsover, perched atop hills, offering fantastic views and a chance to appreciate Armenia’s varied terrain. The ride becomes a mix of hilltop panoramas and forested trails, bringing a sense of adventure and tranquility.

Day 5 features riding through Marts Gorge, with ups and downs that keep things interesting. Reaching Ahnidzor, you’ll get a real sense of the rugged landscape.

Day 6 introduces you to the Sarnajur River, marking the northern edge of Dilijan National Park. The park’s lushness is often praised, and the landscape is quite dramatic here.

Day 7 offers a highlight—a ride through rolling forests to Haghartsin monastery. The blend of natural beauty and historical architecture adds depth to the experience.

Day 8 takes you to Lake Parz in Aghstev Valleys, where the mirror-like surface makes for stunning photo ops and a peaceful ride.

Day 9 involves passing through pastures on Mount Lurt, then to Goshavanq monastery and nearby Lake Gosh—a perfect mix of cultural sites and scenic spots.

Day 10 sees you heading towards Mets Maymekh Mountain, culminating in arrival at Lake Sevan on the last full riding day.

Day 11 is the grand finale, with a ride along the sandy beaches of Lake Sevan, cantering toward Sevanavaq monastery. Afterward, you return to Yerevan to enjoy its vibrant city life—an ideal way to wind down.

Day 12 wraps up with a transfer back to the airport, leaving you with a sense of having truly experienced Armenia’s diverse landscapes and culture.

The price of $949.84 per person includes a lot, which helps justify the cost. Accommodation for 11 nights, all meals, private transportation, and guide services are bundled in. This means you won’t have to worry about logistics or finding places to eat, allowing you to relax and focus on the riding and sightseeing. The small group size (2-12) means more personalized attention, and the inclusion of pickup makes the start and end of your trip smooth.

The tour is suitable for travelers with moderate physical fitness who are comfortable with intermediate riding—so if you’re new to horseback riding, you might find some days challenging but still manageable if you’re in decent shape. The daily rides average 5-7 hours, which translates into a fair bit of time in the saddle, but the horses are described as calm and friendly, which makes a big difference.

In terms of logistics, the tour starts at 9:00 am each day, and the experience is private, so your group will have exclusive access, making for a more intimate adventure. The tour also offers group discounts—a nice bonus if you’re traveling with friends or family.

From the reviews, Saro, the guide, is highly praised for his friendliness and patience—especially appreciated when traveling with kids or less experienced riders. He also helps with organizing transport, which is a huge plus in making everything seamless.

What truly sets this tour apart is the chance to experience Armenia’s diverse scenery from horseback. The ride along Lake Sevan’s sandy beaches, culminating in a view of Sevanavaq monastery, sounds like a postcard moment. The views of canyons, forests, and lakes will make you appreciate the country’s natural beauty in a way that photos can’t fully capture.

The cultural visits—such as the monasteries and fortresses—provide a meaningful counterpoint to the natural scenery, enriching the whole experience. The reviews emphasize how friendly guides like Saro make the trip comfortable and enjoyable, explaining local customs and helping with logistics.

Food is also a highlight, with traditional cuisine served during the trip. This adds a layer of flavor and authenticity that makes the journey even more memorable.

This horseback riding tour is best suited for adventure-seeking travelers with a decent level of physical fitness who want to explore Armenia’s stunning landscapes in a more active way. It’s ideal if you love being outdoors, enjoy cultural sights, and are comfortable on horseback for several hours a day.

While the price is on the higher side, the comprehensive inclusions—accommodation, meals, guiding, and transportation—offer good value for those looking for an immersive, well-organized experience. It’s also perfect for groups of friends or couples who want a private, personalized adventure.

Keep in mind that this tour isn’t designed for absolute beginners or those looking for a very relaxed holiday. The focus on riding and exploring rugged terrains makes it more suitable for those with at least some riding experience or a good level of fitness.

If these points sound appealing, and you’re ready for a true exploration of Armenia’s natural beauty by horseback, this tour could be a fantastic choice.

Is this tour suitable for beginners?
This tour is designed for intermediate riders, so if you’re a true beginner, it might be a bit challenging. However, the horses are described as calm and friendly, and guides are attentive, which can help less experienced riders enjoy the ride safely.

What should I bring for the trip?
Bring long pants for riding, a sweater or light jacket, sun hat, rain jacket, sunscreen, and any personal medications. The tour’s focus on outdoor activity means packing appropriately for varying weather conditions is a smart move.

Are meals included?
Yes, breakfast, lunch, and dinner are included, making it easier to focus on enjoying the scenery without worrying about food logistics.

How long are the riding days?
Expect daily rides of about 5 to 7 hours, so be prepared for a fair amount of time in the saddle each day.

What’s the group size?
The group size ranges from 2 to 12, allowing for a more intimate experience with personalized attention.

Is transportation provided?
Yes, private transportation is included throughout the tour, from airport pickups to daily transfers, which simplifies your travel logistics.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, the tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours before the start, with a full refund. If canceled less than 24 hours ahead, the refund isn’t available.

If you’re ready to see Armenia from a different perspective—by horse in some of its most beautiful parts—this tour offers a memorable way to do it. Just pack your sense of adventure, your camera, and maybe a comfy pair of riding pants, and you’ll be set for an unforgettable journey.