The Complete Armenia: South to North Expedition

This is the ultimate journey for the traveler who wants to see it all.

Go beyond the standard routes to cross the Selim Mountain Pass, ride the world's longest cable car to Tatev, and explore the ancient cave villages of the south. From the red canyons of Vayots Dzor to the green forests of Dilijan, experience the full diversity of the Armenian landscape.

Duration: 9 Days / 8 Nights

Included: 4* Hotels, Private Driver, English-speaking Guide, All Breakfasts.

Not Included: Flights.

Daily Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival in Yerevan

• Arrive at Yerevan International Airport.

• Meet your private driver and transfer to the hotel.

• Overnight in Yerevan.

Day 2: City Highlights & Culture

• Morning: Start with a panoramic view from Mother Armenia and visit the ancient manuscripts at Matenadaran.

• Art & History: Walk through the Cascade Complex (open-air art center) and visit the History Museum at Republic Square.

• Shopping: End the day at Vernissage, the famous open-air market for unique Armenian crafts.

• Overnight: Yerevan.

Day 3: The Spiritual Heart (UNESCO Sites)

• The Vatican of Armenia: Visit Echmiadzin Cathedral (4th century) and St. Hripsime Church.

• Ruins: Explore the 7th-century Zvartnots Temple (Temple of Angels).

• Remembrance: Return to Yerevan to visit the moving Genocide Memorial (Tsitsernakaberd).

• Overnight: Yerevan.

Day 4: The Southern Route (Views & Stones)

• The Icon: Visit Khor Virap Monastery for the closest view of Mount Ararat.

• Wine & Canyons: Explore the Areni-1 Cave (oldest winery) and the dramatic Noravank Monastery.

• Ancient Mystery: Visit Karahunj (Zorats Karer), the "Armenian Stonehenge," which is 3,500 years older than Stonehenge in England.

• Arrival: Drive to the red-roofed city of Goris.

• Overnight: Goris.

Day 5: Wings of Tatev & Cave Cities

• The Adventure: Walk across the 160-meter swinging suspension bridge to explore the ancient cave dwellings of Old Khndzoresk.

• The Flight: Ride the Wings of Tatev, the world's longest reversible cable car (5.7 km), soaring over the Vorotan Gorge.

• The Monastery: Explore the spectacular Tatev Monastery, perched on the edge of a cliff.

• Overnight: Goris.

Day 6: The Silk Road & The Blue Pearl

• The Pass: Drive across the Selim Pass (2,410m) and visit the best-preserved medieval Caravanserai on the Silk Road.

• The Lake: Arrive at Lake Sevan. Visit Noratus (famous for its field of ancient cross-stones) and Sevanavank Monastery on the peninsula.

• Nature: Continue to the lush forests of Dilijan.

• Overnight: Dilijan.

Day 7: The Northern Monasteries

• UNESCO Gems: Head north to the Lori region to visit Haghpat Monastery (UNESCO) and the fortress-monastery of Akhtala, famous for its rare medieval frescoes.

• Return: Drive back to the capital in the evening.

• Overnight: Yerevan.

Day 8: Temples & Traditions

• The View: Stop at Charents Arch for a final frame of Mount Ararat.

• The Temple: Explore Garni Temple, the only standing pagan temple in the region.

• The Cave: Visit Geghard Monastery, partially carved out of the solid mountain rock.

• Local Taste: Participate in a Lavash baking demonstration and visit a local food market.

• Overnight: Yerevan.

Day 9: Departure

• Morning: Final breakfast.

• Transfer: Private drive to the airport.

• Farewell: End of services.