Lake Sevan, Hayravank, Noratus, Selim Pass, Jermuk, Areni

Discover Armenia’s Scenic Landmarks and Cultural Sites in a Private Tour

This 11-hour private excursion offers an immersive experience through some of Armenia’s most notable sights, all for $175 per group of up to three people. Led by a professional driver and optionally guided by an expert, the tour combines natural beauty, historic monasteries, and local traditions. With free hotel pickup and drop-off, WiFi, and air-conditioned transport, it provides a comfortable, personalized way to explore Armenia’s diverse landscape.

The tour’s highlights include Lake Sevan, the highest-altitude Hayravank Monastery, the Noratus cemetery famed for its thousands of khachkars, and Jermuk’s waterfalls and mineral waters. It concludes with a visit to the renowned Areni wine region for tastings, making it an appealing choice for those wanting a well-rounded glimpse of Armenian culture, nature, and local flavors.

While the tour offers plenty of highlights, it’s best suited for travelers who enjoy a leisurely pace and are comfortable with some walking and outdoor exposure. It does not include lunch, so planning ahead is recommended.

Key Points

• Duration: Approximately 11 hours, ideal for a full-day exploration
• Price: $175 for up to 3 people, including all taxes and fees
• Highlights: Lake Sevan, Sevanavank, Noratus cemetery, Jermuk waterfall, Areni wine region
• Transport: Private, air-conditioned vehicle with WiFi and bottled water
• Guidance: Guide service is optional but enhances the experience
• Flexibility: Hotel pickup and drop-off included for convenience

The Starting Point: Yerevan’s Convenient Pickup

This tour begins in Yerevan with hotel pickup and drop-off, making it easy to start your day without additional logistics. The private nature of the tour ensures personalized service, and the vehicle is equipped with WiFi and bottled water for your comfort. Most travelers find the cost of $175 to be reasonable given the comprehensive itinerary and private setup.

Exploring the Pearl of Armenia: Lake Sevan at 1,900 Meters Altitude

The first stop takes you to Lake Sevan, known as Armenia’s gemstone. Sitting at 1,900 meters above sea level, the lake is the largest in the Caucasus region and features crystal-clear waters. Surrounded by mountain ranges, the lake offers stunning views of alpine scenery that are perfect for photos.

The fresh mountain air and pure water provide a refreshing atmosphere, with around 2 hours allocated for this visit. The lake’s high elevation and natural purity are believed to have health benefits, making it a tranquil start to the day.

The Historic Monastery of Sevanavank on the Peninsula

On the Sevan Peninsula, the Sevanavank Monastery stands prominently. Built in 305 AD by St. Gregory the Illuminator, it sits on the site of a former pagan temple. The complex boasts two main churches built in the 9th century, St. Arakeloc and St. Astvatcatcin, which feature intricate wood-carved capitals.

The remnants of the domed church on the island’s summit are still visible, and the monastery grounds are rich in khachkars—cross-stones engraved with religious symbols. A spiritual school operated here from 1869, adding to the site’s historical significance. Visitors enjoy a 1-hour visit to absorb its serene atmosphere and learn about its history.

Noratus Cemetery: The Largest Collection of Armenian Khachkars

Continuing along the lake’s shore, the Noratus village hosts the largest collection of Armenian khachkars, numbering around 3,000 stones. These stone steles are engraved with crosses and scenes, believed to guide souls to salvation.

According to legend, Hayk, the Armenian ancestor, ordered his people to decorate every stone, which explains the extensive array of memorials. The Noratus cemetery offers a fascinating glimpse into Armenian artistry and religious tradition, making it an engaging stop for 45 minutes of exploration.

The Ruined but Characterful Hayravank Monastery

Next, the tour visits Hayravank Monastery, built between the 9th and 13th centuries on the coastal foreland of Lake Sevan. Though in a dilapidated state without its dome, it still showcases significant architectural features such as the church and courtyard.

Despite its degraded condition, the monastery remains a meaningful site, with khachkars scattered around the territory. This stop provides insight into Armenia’s monastic traditions and architectural resilience, with 45 minutes allocated for exploration.

Jermuk: Waterfalls and Mineral Waters in a Mountain Resort

In Jermuk, the landscape shifts to lush forests and mountains. This town is famous for its thermal mineral waters and its spectacular waterfall, which spans 70 meters in height—the second tallest in Armenia.

The Jermuk waterfall is a highlight of the visit, with about 1 hour set aside to enjoy its powerful cascade and the surrounding natural scenery. The town also features a mineral water gallery, where visitors can taste the local waters believed to possess therapeutic properties.

Jermuk Waterfall: Armenia’s Most Photogenic Cascade

Standing at 2000 meters above sea level, the Jermuk Waterfall impresses with its 70-meter height and powerful flow. Its picturesque setting makes it the most iconic waterfall in Armenia, drawing visitors for photos and a chance to experience the town’s health resort atmosphere.

The waterfall’s location in a health resort underscores Jermuk’s reputation as a wellness destination. Visitors typically spend around an hour here, enjoying the views and the fresh mountain air.

Areni: The Heart of Armenia’s Wine Heritage

The trip concludes in Areni, renowned for its wine production. Here, the wine region hosts a winery visit and a tasting session featuring three types of Armenian wine.

This one-hour experience gives a taste of Armenia’s centuries-old tradition of viticulture and provides an opportunity to enjoy some of the best local grape varieties. The region’s reputation for high-quality wine makes this a memorable way to end the day.

Practicalities and Additional Inclusions

The tour includes a professional driver, air-conditioned vehicle, bottled water, and WiFi onboard. The guide service is optional but recommended for enhanced understanding of each site. All fees and taxes are covered, and lunch is not included, so travelers should plan accordingly.

The tour is suitable for most travelers, with easy access to each stop, though some walking may be involved at sites like Sevanavank and Jermuk waterfall.

Who Will Appreciate This Tour the Most

This private tour appeals to those eager to see Armenia’s natural beauty, explore historic monasteries, and enjoy local wine in a relaxed setting. It’s particularly ideal for travelers who prefer a flexible itinerary with personalized attention. The upfront cost covers all major sites, allowing for a hassle-free experience.

Final Thoughts on the Armenia Landmark Tour

Offering a well-rounded look at Armenia’s most striking sights, this 11-hour private trip delivers natural, cultural, and gastronomic highlights. The combination of scenic lakes, historic monasteries, and vibrant towns makes it a compelling choice for first-time visitors.

While the itinerary packs in a lot, the pace remains manageable with appropriate breaks. The expert driver and optional guide enrich the experience, ensuring you gain both context and comfort during the day. This tour provides a balanced, immersive snapshot of Armenia’s diverse offerings.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is lunch included in this tour?
No, lunch is not included, so travelers should plan to bring snacks or purchase food during the stops.

How many people can join this tour?
The tour is designed for up to three people per group, making it ideal for small parties or couples seeking a private experience.

What is the duration of each stop?
Most stops range from 45 minutes to 2 hours, allowing enough time to explore without feeling rushed.

Are guide services included?
Guide services are optional but recommended; they can be arranged for an additional cost to enhance the experience.

What are the main sites visited on this tour?
Travelers visit Lake Sevan, Sevanavank Monastery, Noratus Cemetery, Hayravank Monastery, Jermuk Waterfall, and Areni wine region.

Is this tour suitable for travelers with mobility issues?
The tour involves some walking at sites like Sevanavank and Jermuk waterfall. Those with mobility concerns should assess their comfort accordingly.

How far in advance should I book?
Most bookings are made around 30 days in advance, reflecting high demand for this comprehensive Armenia day trip.

What is the cost of the tour?
The price is $175 per group of up to three people, covering transportation, fees, and bottled water.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, cancellations are free up to 24 hours before the start time for a full refund.

How do I contact the provider?
You can reach Jan Armenia Tours at +37444604080 or via email at [email protected] for questions or bookings.