Itinerary
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Day One, Jul 17 2027 Arrival in Yerevan, Armenia
• Arrive at Zvartnots International Airport in Yerevan, the capital of Armenia.
• After being transferred to the hotel, check in and spend the rest of the day at leisure. In the evening, there will be a welcome meeting with your tour leader.
• Overnight in Yerevan.
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Day Two, Jul 18 2027 Yerevan City Tour
• The day begins with a city tour of Yerevan, one of the world’s most ancient cities, dating back to 782 BC. Often referred to as “The Pink City”, Yerevan’s architecture is distinguished by its unique pink volcanic tuff stone. We will visit iconic landmarks such as Republic Square, the Opera House, and Swan Lake.
• Next, we will walk along Northern Avenue, the city’s modern pedestrian street; we will then ascend the Cascade Complex, an open-air museum of contemporary art. From the top, enjoy a panoramic view of Yerevan, framed by Mount Ararat.
• Afterwards, we will visit the Ararat Brandy Factory, where we can taste Armenia’s world-renowned brandy and learn about the country’s rich tradition of brandy-making.
• Overnight in Yerevan.
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Day Three, Jul 19 2027 Badi Lake & Azhdahak
• In the early morning, we will drive from Yerevan to the starting point of our trek at Badi Lake, situated at around 3,100 m in the remote Geghama Mountains.
• On the way, we will visit Geghard Monastery, a remarkable UNESCO World Heritage Site set among the towering cliffs of the Azat Gorge. Partly carved directly into the rock, this medieval monastery is renowned for its unique architecture, exceptional acoustics, and deeply spiritual atmosphere.
• Once we arrive at Badi Lake, we will follow the trail across the high-altitude volcanic landscape toward Azhdahak, the highest peak of the Geghama Range at 3,597m.
• After reaching the slopes of the mountain, we will set up camp in the spectacular alpine surroundings and enjoy an evening in the wilderness, with panoramic views of the surrounding peaks and valleys.
• Overnight camping.
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Day Four, Jul 20 2027 Akna Lake
• We will start the day from the slopes of Mount Azhdahak and trek through the spectacular Geghama Mountains toward Akna Lake.
• Enjoy panoramic views, volcanic landscapes, and peaceful mountain scenery along this remote section of the Transcaucasian Trail.
• Later, we will return to Yerevan, where we will spend the night.
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Day Five, Jul 21 2027 Monasteries & Areni Cave & Winery
• This morning, we will drive to Khor Virap Monastery, the closest point to Mount Ararat. The name Khor Virap means “deep pit”, which symbolises its history. The monastery was built over an underground dungeon, where Saint Gregory the Illuminator was imprisoned for about 14 years by the Armenian king Trdat for spreading Christianity in Armenia.
• Next, we will head to Noravank Monastery, a true treasure of Armenian
religious art. What makes it unique is that Noravank is one of the few monasteries in the world consisting of two floors. Noravank is a must-see place not only for its cultural importance but also for its magnificent location, with the red rock cliffs surrounding it.• Finally, we will visit Areni Cave, home to the world’s oldest known winery, dating back to 6100 BC. After exploring this remarkable archaeological site, we will head to Areni Winery to taste Armenian wines made from the unique Areni grape variety.
• Overnight in Yerevan.
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Day Six, Jul 22 2027 Tour Ends
• Today, the tour ends. Transfer to the airport for departure.
- Armenia: From Monasteries to Volcanic Highlands
- Tour Price: £1130
- Deposit: £350
- Single room supplement: £120
- Tour Price: £1130
- Talk to a travel rep
info@lupinetravel.co.uk