Sacred Monasteries & Ancient Wines: Khor Virap to Areni ,Noravank
The Heart of Ancient Armenia
This journey takes you through the Ararat Plain and deep into the dramatic landscapes of Vayots Dzor. It is a perfect blend of biblical history, world-renowned archaeology, and the centuries-old traditions of Armenian viticulture.
Itinerary
This itinerary can be customized to meet your needs and preferences. Send me a message with your requests!
Meeting Point
Your hotel in Yerevan
- Your Location Address
Khor Virap Monastery
Located at the foot of Mount Ararat, this is the most iconic viewpoint in the country.
This is the site of the ancient city of Artashat and where Gregory the Illuminator was imprisoned for 13 years before converting Armenia to Christianity in 301 AD.
Explore the underground dungeon and the 17th-century chapel while enjoying unparalleled views of the biblical peak.
Areni wine Factory
Areni is the epicenter of Armenian winemaking, famous for its indigenous Areni Noir grapes.
A visit to a local factory offers insight into both traditional and modern production methods. You’ll enjoy a tasting session featuring a variety of red and white wines, as well as unique fruit wines like pomegranate and apricot.
The bird's Cave
A premier archaeological site where researchers discovered the world’s oldest leather shoe (5,500 years old) and the oldest winery (6,100 years old).
Walk through the limestone caverns to see the ancient clay vats (karasses) where wine was fermented during the Copper Age.
Noravank Monastery
Hidden at the end of a winding canyon, the monastery is framed by towering red limestone cliffs that glow at sunset.
Noravank is a A masterpiece of the 13th century,and it is famous for the work of the architect/sculptor Momik.
It is Special with intricate stone carvings and the unique two-story Surb Astvatsatsin church, accessible by a narrow, steep stone staircase on the facade.
Ending Point
Yerevan Republich square or Your accommodation.
Want to personalize this tour?
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This tour can be customized to meet your needs and preferences. Click below to send me a message with your requests.
Inclusions & Exclusions
Guide fee
Hotel pick up
Private transportation (TOYOTA CAMRY V70 2018)
Professional Driver
Gasoline,Toll and parking Fees.
Bird's cave entrance 1000 AMD
Personal expenses
Tour Important Information
This tour involves a lot of walking, so make sure to wear comfortable shoes.
Visitors can descend a narrow, steep ladder (approx. 4.4m diameter, 6m deep) into the historic pit where St. Gregory was held for 13 years.
Cancellation Policy
- Free cancellation - 8 days prior to meeting time
- 50% Refund - 3 to 7 days prior to meeting time
- No Refund - Within 2 day(s) prior to meeting time
About Tour Guide Chris K.
Hello, I am Chris, a professional Driver. If You Plan to Visit Armenia. Touring with me it will be interesting, funny and exciting.
To me, visiting a place isn't just about seeing a destination, it's about feeling the pulse of the place and leaving with a story to tell.
I assure you that together we will have Happy times ,beautiful photos and lasting memories.
Armenia indeed is a must see country and i Would enjoy if you would choose me as your Driver to explore it.
I am native Armenian speaker, fluent in English, Arabic, Turkish and conversational in French.
SEE YOU IN ARMENIA
Wish you Happy, SAFE, and exciting times ahead.
Reviews
Celine A.
“Incredible experience”
I really enjoyed this excursion. It combined a great and rare mix of contemporary history, science and adventure with a little dosis of adrenaline! The guide was kind, really competent and patient, and proactive to propose different options to make the best out of the trip. I do highly recommend !!!
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Chris K.
Thank you so much for the fantastic review! I'm thrilled to hear that you enjoyed the unique mix of science, history, and a touch of adventure on our trip. It was a absolute pleasure guiding you, and I truly appreciate your kind words about the experience. Hope to welcome you back for another great excursion in Armenia whenever you're ready for the next adventure!
Daniel M.
“Nice Trip ”
The telescope trip was such a nice and interesting experience. Our guide Kevork explained a lot about this lost place from Soviet times until now. In addition, he was driving very safe and convenient. We enjoyed the trip with him a lot and can definitely recommend!
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Chris K.
Hi Daniel, Thank you so much for the kind review! We're thrilled to hear you enjoyed the telescope tour and had a great experience learning about its unique Soviet-era history. Kevork is wonderful at bringing those hidden gems to life, and I'll be sure to pass along your compliments on his guiding and driving. Safe travels, and we hope to welcome you back to Armenia again in the future!
Martha slot T.
“Fantastic tour ”
We had a fantastic tour with Kevork, a great and very knowledgeable guide who was very friendly and flexible. He gladly answered all our questions. We did a customized tour with both ROT54, Garni temple, Geghard monastery and other nice stops. Would definitely recommend going with Kevork/Chris!
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Chris K.
Thank you so much for the fantastic review! It was an absolute pleasure customizing the day for you. ROT-54, Garni, and Geghard make such a wonderful combination, and I'm so glad Kevork took such great care of you, kept things flexible, and shared so much along the way. Your recommendation means the world to us! Hope to welcome you back to Armenia for another adventure in the future!
$135/ per group
More tours by Chris K.
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Trip To ROT54 MIRROR RADIO TELESCOPE ORGOV BYURAKAN
THE Forgotten giant,Come and Explore the abandoned Herouni Radio Optical Telescope ,Located in the town of Orgov,you will travel through Space and Time.
Trip To ROT54 MIRROR RADIO TELESCOPE ORGOV BYURAKAN
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A Scenic tour of lake Sevan's shores. Noratus, Hayravank, Mikayelyan family farm, Sevanavank.
A tour of Lake Sevan’s shores highlights the "Blue Pearl" of Armenia, offering a blend of ancient Christian heritage, unique medieval artistry, and serene volcanic landscapes. As one of the highest freshwater lakes in the world, the tour typically follows the western and southern shores, providing a comprehensive look at the region’s cultural and natural landmarks.
A Scenic tour of lake Sevan's shores. Noratus, Hayravank, Mikayelyan family farm, Sevanavank.
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Nature’s Trio: Exploring Tsaghkadzor, Lake Sevan, and Dilijan.
Exploring the "Nature's Trio"—Tsaghkadzor, Lake Sevan, and Dilijan—is essentially the ultimate Armenian "Greatest Hits" tour for nature and history lovers. In a single day, you transition from alpine ski slopes to a high-altitude "sea," ending in a lush, misty forest.
Nature’s Trio: Exploring Tsaghkadzor, Lake Sevan, and Dilijan.
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Garni & Geghard: History, Nature & Lavash Baking
The Garni-Geghard tour is the most popular day trip from Yerevan, typically taking 4 to 6 hours. It covers the highlights of the Kotayk region, transitioning from pagan antiquity to medieval Christian architecture and unique geological formations.
Garni & Geghard: History, Nature & Lavash Baking
Other Popular Art, Culture, & Historical Tours in Yerevan
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Garni Temple, Symphony of Stones & Havuts Tar Monastery Trek
Private tour (up to 5 guests) to Garni Temple (1400m) & Symphony of Stones (1220m). Includes a 5 km trek to the 11th-century Havuts Tar Monastery (1590m) near Khosrov Reserve. Led by a certified mountain rescuer (First Responder, 20+ years exp.) for 100% safety. Comfortable transport provided by a professional driver in a Dodge Journey or Nissan Quest. Complimentary airport transfer, light breakfast, & traditional mountain coffee included!
Garni Temple, Symphony of Stones & Havuts Tar Monastery Trek
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Garni Stone Symphony, mountainous Geghard and lunch on Lake Sevan
Embark on an unforgettable tour of eastern Armenia blending pagan myths, Christian heritage, and local cuisine. * Garni: Explore the 1st-century AD sun temple and basalt pillars above the Azat River gorge. * Geghard: Visit the remarkable rock-carved monastery complex, a historic spiritual center. * Lake Sevan: Enjoy breathtaking views at Sevanavank Monastery and taste local whitefish. *Details:* Starts at your accommodation. Extra costs apply for Garni entry, optional gorge ride, and lunch.
Garni Stone Symphony, mountainous Geghard and lunch on Lake Sevan
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A Scenic tour of lake Sevan's shores. Noratus, Hayravank, Mikayelyan family farm, Sevanavank.
A tour of Lake Sevan’s shores highlights the "Blue Pearl" of Armenia, offering a blend of ancient Christian heritage, unique medieval artistry, and serene volcanic landscapes. As one of the highest freshwater lakes in the world, the tour typically follows the western and southern shores, providing a comprehensive look at the region’s cultural and natural landmarks.
A Scenic tour of lake Sevan's shores. Noratus, Hayravank, Mikayelyan family farm, Sevanavank.
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Khor Virap, Noravank and Areni Winery
Explore Armenia's heritage starting at Khor Virap Monastery, where Gregory the Illuminator was imprisoned, with views of Mount Ararat. Next, journey to the Areni wine region to sample local wines and tour the Areni-1 cave. Conclude at the 12th-century Noravank Monastery, nestled amid red rock cliffs. Khor Virap: Historic monastery. Areni: Wine tasting and cave tour. Noravank: 12th-century complex. Details: Hotel pickup. Extra costs apply for wine tasting and tickets.
Khor Virap, Noravank and Areni Winery
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