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Offered languages
- English
Get into the Essence of Armenia by doing the Essential Armenia tour. Visiting the most important and distinct sites in the country. If you have limited time in the country, this tour is just for you. It is a great way to explore Armenia, by not only, visiting its main sites but also meeting local people, eating in their house and getting to know rural life in Armenia. Our English-only guides will make your journey unforgettable
Start your morning by admiring the magnificence of Azat gorge and the stunning rock formation known as the Symphony of Stones. Explore the amazing Geghard monastery carved within a mountain and the iconic Garni temple. Visit a local family and learn about life in the Fantan village over a home cooked lunch. Be amazed by the sheer number of “khachkar'' (stone etched headstones) at the Noratus cemetery and discover the history behind them. Appreciate the serenity of Lake Sevan from the picturesque Sevanavank perched on top of a hill overlooking the lake.
What's Included
Meeting and pickup
The tour departs from Envoy Hostel located at 54 Pushkin street. However, the entrance of the hostel is from Parpetsi street.
Itinerary
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1Garni Gorge
Start your morning by admiring the magnificence of Azat gorge and the stunning rock formation known as the Symphony of Stones. Unique to Armenia the symmetric basalt columns of the Symphony of Stones are a great start to the tour. Enjoy the sounds of nature as the magnificent river Azat creates the symphony in the stones.
1 hour 10 minutes • Admission ticket included -
2Garni Temple
Built in 66 AD by King Tirdates I Garni temple is the only surviving pagan temple in Armenia. The temple is done in a typical Greco-Roman style similar to many temples in Greece and Italy. Learn about the history of this one and only temple, how it got to the modern times and how it survived the Christinazation of Armenia. In the temple grounds marvel at the unique roman style bathhouse and its original mosaics that are 2000 years old.
1 hour • Admission ticket included -
3The Monastery of Geghard
This UNESCO world heritage site is one of a kind. Geghard Monastery is partly carved into the mountain side and the caves that is surrounded by. Marvel at exquisite carvings of pomegranates, grapes and Saints. Learn about the mystical history of the spear that wounded Jesus during the crucifixion and how it got to Geghard Monastery. Enjoy classical Armenian snacks just before heading out for lunch.
1 hour 10 minutes • Admission ticket free -
4
Get to know the local rural life of Armenia and specifically the life in the village of Fantan over a home-made lunch. The Essence of Armenia cannot be understood without stepping into the house of typical family. All dietary requirements can be catered to. After lunch coffee/tea and deserts are provided.
2 hours 30 minutes • Admission ticket included -
5Noratus Cemetery
Be amazed by the sheer number of “khachkar”‘s (stone etched headstones) at the Noratus cemetery and discover the history behind them. Learn about the customs of the locals and the legends they have by exploring this medieval cemetery.
30 minutes • Admission ticket free -
6Monastery Sevanavank
Sitting on top of the hill of Sevan peninsula this Monastery has the best views of Lake Sevan. Built in 10th century Sevanvank has been an important cultural and spiritual century for Armenia.
1 hour • Admission ticket free -
7Lake Sevan
Appreciate the serenity of Lake Sevan from Sevan peninsula. Lake Sevan is one of the largest and highest freshwater lakes in the world. In the summer time by the agreement of the whole group it is also possible to swim in the lake and cool yourself.
30 minutes • Admission ticket free
Additional info
- Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
- Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
- Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
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Cancellation Policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
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Cancellation Policy
- For a full refund, you must cancel at least 24 hours before the experience’s start time.
- If you cancel less than 24 hours before the experience’s start time, the amount you paid will not be refunded.
- Any changes made less than 24 hours before the experience’s start time will not be accepted.
- This experience requires a minimum number of travelers. If it’s canceled because the minimum isn’t met, you’ll be offered a different date/experience or a full refund.
Rating
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance of the experience for a full refund.
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