Group Tour: Lake Sevan (Sevanavank), Dilijan (Goshavank, Haghartsin)

This full-day group tour from Yerevan offers an engaging introduction to some of Armenia’s most picturesque sites. Priced at $32 per person, it combines stunning natural scenery with historic monasteries, all with entrance fees included. The tour lasts roughly 9 to 10 hours, making it a convenient way to explore without the need for planning, and it suits first-time visitors eager for a comprehensive experience.

This tour departs from Hyur Service in Yerevan at 10:00 am, traveling in air-conditioned vehicles. It features visits to Lake Sevan, known as the “blue pearl,” along with three notable monasteries: Sevanavank, Goshavank, and Haghartsin. Snacks, bottled water, WiFi, and admission tickets are included, offering good value for an accessible price. The only extra costs are for lunch and optional purchases.

While the tour is highly praised for its knowledgeable guides and breathtaking sites, it’s worth noting that some stops require walking or climbing stairs—200 steps to Sevanavank, and 600 meters to Haghartsin. The group size maxes out at 49 travelers, ensuring a lively atmosphere but also a group dynamic that requires patience. This tour appeals most to those interested in Armenian history, architecture, and scenic landscapes.

Key Points

• Affordable price at $32 per person, with all entrance fees included
• Durations around 9-10 hours, starting at 10:00 am from Hyur Service in Yerevan
• Visits to Lake Sevan and three major monasteries: Sevanavank, Goshavank, and Haghartsin
• Snacks, bottled water, and WiFi provided during transport
• Guides are friendly, professional, and well-informed, with bilingual (English and Russian) commentary
• Moderate physical activity involved, including stairs and walking

Starting Point at Hyur Service in Yerevan

The tour begins at Hyur Service, located at 96 Nalbandyan Poxoc in Yerevan. It’s an easily accessible meeting spot, close to public transportation options. The vehicle departs promptly at 10:00 am, so arriving a few minutes early helps ensure a smooth start. The bus is air-conditioned, with WiFi, and can host up to 49 people, making it a lively but comfortable setting.

The tour concludes back at the same meeting point, usually around 8:20 pm, after a full day of sightseeing. Because there’s no hotel pick-up or drop-off, travelers need to organize their own transportation to and from the meeting point.

Exploring Lake Sevan and Its Spectacular Views

Lake Sevan is the highlight of this tour, often called the “blue pearl of Armenia.” The stop here lasts about 30 minutes, during which visitors enjoy iconic views of the lake ringed by mountains. It’s a perfect spot for photos, and the clear waters and peaceful environment make it a favorite among past participants.

From the lake, travelers walk approximately 600 meters downhill to reach Sevanavank Monastery, which provides sweeping views of the lake and surrounding landscape. The ascent to Sevanavank involves climbing roughly 200 steps, so some physical effort is required. The scenery here offers a chance to appreciate Armenia’s natural beauty closely.

Sevanavank Monastery and Its Stunning Setting

Sevanavank stands out with its striking silhouette perched on a hilltop overlooking Lake Sevan. The monastery’s architecture dates back centuries and offers insight into Armenian religious history. Visitors usually spend about 1 hour exploring the grounds and taking in the panoramic views.

The site’s elevated position provides excellent photo opportunities, especially if the weather is clear. The walk down the hill involves descending the 200 steps, which is manageable for most but worth considering for those with mobility challenges.

Discovering Goshavank Monastery’s Natural Surroundings

Next, the tour visits Goshavank Monastery, set amid lush greenery. This site offers a peaceful atmosphere away from crowds, with its historic structures blending into the natural landscape. The stop here lasts approximately 40 minutes, giving enough time to wander the grounds and appreciate the architecture.

Goshavank’s serene environment contrasts with the lake views, offering a different perspective on Armenia’s monastic history. Visitors can enjoy the tranquil setting and take photos of the monastery against the backdrop of Armenia’s mountains.

Haghartsin Monastery: A Hidden Gem in Nature

The final monastic stop is Haghartsin Monastery, which is surrounded by dense forests. This site is a highlight for its authentic atmosphere and picturesque setting, with about 1 hour allocated for exploration.

Reaching Haghartsin involves walking 600 meters from the vehicle, and the terrain can be uneven, so sturdy footwear is recommended. The monastery complex features ancient churches and ruins, set amidst greenery, creating a sense of stepping back in time. The natural surroundings make this a peaceful spot for reflection and photography.

Guided Tours with Bilingual Commentary

Throughout the day, guides provide commentary in English and Russian, sharing stories and insights about each site’s history and architecture. Past reviews praise the guides’ knowledge, friendliness, and ability to keep the group engaged. Their explanations add depth to the visits, making the experience both educational and enjoyable.

The tour’s small group size—up to 49 travelers—ensures that guides can offer personalized attention and answer questions. The guides also handle logistics smoothly, maintaining punctuality and managing the pacing so that travelers have enough time at each stop.

Practical Details and Group Size

The tour features air-conditioned transport with WiFi, providing comfort and connectivity during long drives. Snacks and bottled water are supplied, keeping participants refreshed. The entire day is paced to allow adequate time at each major site without feeling rushed.

Since lunch is not included, travelers should budget around 3900 to 4900 AMD (about $10-13 USD) for a meal. The tour does not include hotel transfer services, so transportation to the meeting point must be arranged separately.

Physical Requirements and Accessibility

Participants should be prepared for some physical activity, including walking and climbing stairs at Sevanavank. The 200-step ascent and 600-meter walk to Haghartsin might be challenging for those with mobility issues. The tour advises dressing appropriately for weather conditions, as some stops are outdoors and involve uneven terrain.

The Group Atmosphere and Overall Experience

Past reviews highlight the friendly and professional guides, with many describing the tours as well-organized and informative. Travelers appreciate the opportunity to see Armenia’s scenic landscapes and historic monasteries with minimal hassle. The group size fosters a lively atmosphere and makes it easier to connect with fellow travelers.

Some reviewers note that the lunch options could be improved, and a few mention the walking involved, but these are minor considerations compared to the overall positive experience.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour Most?

This tour is ideal for first-time visitors to Armenia who want a rundown of the country’s natural and historic treasures. It suits those interested in architecture, history, and stunning scenery without the need for extensive physical activity. The affordable price, combined with inclusive entrance tickets and snacks, makes it a practical choice for budget-conscious travelers.

Because the tour operates in all weather conditions, it’s suitable regardless of the season, although dressing appropriately for rain or sun is advisable. The well-paced itinerary ensures enough time for exploration and photos, making it a well-rounded day out.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is included in the price of $32?
All admission tickets, snacks, bottled water, and WiFi during transport are included. The tour does not cover lunch or hotel transfers.

How long is the tour, and what time does it start?
The tour lasts approximately 9 to 10 hours, starting at 10:00 am from Hyur Service in Yerevan.

Are there any physical challenges involved?
Yes, visitors should be prepared to climb 200 steps to Sevanavank and walk around 600 meters to Haghartsin Monastery. Proper footwear and weather-appropriate clothing are recommended.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Children must be accompanied by an adult, and the physical activity involved should be considered when planning for younger participants.

Can I cancel this tour if my plans change?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

How accessible is the meeting point?
The tour departs from Hyur Service, which is near public transportation options in Yerevan, making it convenient to reach.

What if I want to include lunch?
Lunch is not included, but travelers should budget around $10-13 USD for a meal at nearby restaurants.

Is the guide bilingual?
Yes, guides provide commentary in English and Russian, ensuring clear communication for a diverse group.

Can I expect a personalized experience?
With groups limited to 49 travelers, guides can manage group dynamics well and offer informative insights without feeling rushed.

What makes this tour stand out among others?
The combination of natural beauty, historic monasteries, and the expert guides’ commentary makes this tour a practical and rewarding choice for those new to Armenia’s highlights.

This full-day tour of Lake Sevan and Dilijan offers a well-balanced mix of scenic views, cultural sites, and friendly guides—all at an accessible price point. It’s perfect for those eager to see Armenia’s most iconic landmarks in one day, with the convenience of included entrance fees and snacks.