Private trip: Khor Virap, Noravank, and Ughtasar Wonders

Explore Armenia’s impressive historical and natural wonders on this private day trip for up to 3 guests, priced at $390. With a duration of approximately 11 hours, this customized tour offers a deep dive into some of the country’s most iconic sites, led by knowledgeable guides and private transportation. The tour is rated 4.7 out of 5, reflecting its popularity and the high level of service.

Starting from Sisian, the journey takes you to Khor Virap Monastery for breathtaking views of Mt. Ararat. A visit to Noravank Monastery in a scenic gorge follows, showcasing intricate architecture from the 13th century. The tour then weaves in a wine tasting at Areni Winery and a jeep adventure to Ughtasar Lake—famous for its thousands of petroglyphs dating back to 7000 BCE—making this trip a perfect mix of history, nature, and local culture.

While the tour covers a lot in a single day, it combines cultural sightseeing with outdoor exploration in a way that suits travelers eager for a comprehensive Armenian experience. The presence of guiding services and private transport ensures comfort and flexibility, though it’s worth noting that the jeep ride involves a 20 km drive on rugged roads, which might not be ideal for those with mobility concerns.

Key Points

• Private tour for up to 3 guests at $390, offering a personalized experience.
• 11-hour day trip exploring Armenia’s most striking sites, including Khor Virap, Noravank, and Ughtasar.
• View Mt. Ararat from Khor Virap Monastery, a highlight for its stunning landscape.
• Discover ancient petroglyphs at Ughtasar Lake on a jeep tour, with carvings dating back to 7000 BCE.
• Experience the UNESCO World Heritage site of Tatev Monastery and ride the longest reversible cable car in the world.
• Includes guiding services and private transportation, with flexible booking options.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Armenian Monastery with Views of Mt. Ararat at Khor Virap

Khor Virap Monastery is the first stop on the tour and a major highlight. It offers spectacular panoramic views of Mt. Ararat, which dominates the landscape. The monastery’s location on a hilltop provides a striking backdrop for photos, and the site itself has deep religious significance in Armenia. The tour guides explain the history of Khor Virap and its importance for Armenian Christianity.

Visitors can wander through the ancient church, admire the stone architecture, and enjoy the expansive vistas that extend across the border into Turkey. This stop combines spiritual heritage with natural beauty, making it a memorable starting point for the day.

Exploring Noravank Monastery in a Picturesque Gorge

Next, the tour reaches Noravank Monastery, renowned for its intricate stone carvings and unique architecture from the 13th century. The monastery is situated within a narrow gorge, framed by red cliffs that add vibrancy to the scenery. The main church, Surb Astvatsatsin, features a beautifully carved portal, and the site as a whole offers a peaceful atmosphere for exploration.

The architecture and scenic setting of Noravank make it a favorite for photography and history enthusiasts. The site’s remote location means fewer crowds, allowing for more relaxed sightseeing. Guides share insights into the monastery’s history and construction, enriching the experience.

Tasting Armenia’s Wine at Areni Winery

A visit to Areni Winery introduces travelers to Armenia’s long-standing winemaking traditions. The tour includes a wine tasting session, giving an appreciation for local varieties. This stop provides a pleasant break, combining cultural insight with the chance to enjoy some of Armenia’s acclaimed wines.

The winery offers a chance to learn about the winemaking process and Armenia’s viticultural history, which dates back thousands of years. It’s an ideal addition for those interested in Armenian culture and cuisine.

Jeep Tour and Petroglyphs at Ughtasar Lake

The highlight for outdoor enthusiasts is the jeep adventure to Ughtasar Lake. A Soviet-era jeep takes you across rough terrain for approximately 20 kilometers, leading to a remote field of petroglyphs. These carvings, depicting animals and symbols, are some of the oldest in the world, dating back to 7000 BCE.

The jeep ride offers thrilling views of the volcanic landscape and black boulders that surround the lake. Upon reaching Ughtasar Lake, visitors hike to see thousands of petroglyphs engraved on the rocks, which are visible mainly during the summer months when snow recedes. The site’s archaeological significance makes it a must-see for history buffs.

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Craft Workshops Inspired by Petroglyphs and Ancient Designs

As part of the experience, travelers can participate in craft workshops at Sisian Ceramics or Gevorgyan Ceramics. These sessions explore how ancient designs influence Armenian art today, inspired by the petroglyphs seen at Ughtasar. It provides hands-on engagement that connects ancient symbols with modern artistic expression.

This activity adds a cultural dimension, emphasizing Armenia’s artistic traditions rooted in its history.

Visiting Tatev Monastery and The Longest Cable Car

After exploring the petroglyphs, the tour continues to Tatev Monastery, a UNESCO World Heritage site dating back to the 9th century. The visit includes a ride on the Tatev aerial tramway, which is the longest non-stop reversible cable car globally. The ride offers spectacular views of the Vorotan River Gorge and surrounding mountains.

Once at Tatev, the site’s ancient monastic complex provides a glimpse into medieval Armenia’s spiritual life. Guides lead visitors through the monastery’s structures, and the scenery from the cliff-top location is breathtaking.

Exploring Khdzoresk Village and its Caves

The tour also visits Khdzoresk, a village famous for its rock formations and caves. Walking across a suspension bridge leads to the Old Khndzoresk Cave Village, inhabited until the 1950s. Visitors learn about the lifestyle of villagers who lived in caves and see panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.

This stop offers insight into Armenia’s rural architecture and traditional ways of life, adding a rustic charm to the day.

Practical Details and Booking Flexibility

This tour includes guiding services and private transportation, ensuring a comfortable, tailored experience. The full-day format allows ample time at each stop, and the flexible booking options include free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance. Pricing is $390 per group for up to 3 people, making it an accessible way to see Armenia’s key sites with personalized attention.

The tour operates in multiple languages, including English, Armenian, Russian, French, and Arabic, catering to diverse travelers. While the itinerary covers a lot in 11 hours, early starts and efficient pacing ensure a comprehensive experience.

Final Thoughts on the Khor Virap, Noravank, and Ughtasar Wonders Tour

This private Armenian adventure offers a balanced mix of natural beauty, archaeological marvels, and cultural experiences in a single day. The stunning views of Mt. Ararat from Khor Virap and the ancient petroglyphs at Ughtasar stand out as major highlights. The inclusion of wine tasting, craft workshops, and a visit to Tatev Monastery adds depth and variety to the tour.

While the jeep ride to Ughtasar involves rugged roads, the overall itinerary is well-paced for those interested in history, nature, and Armenian traditions. The private group setup makes it suitable for couples, small families, or friends seeking an intimate exploration of Armenia’s treasures.

This tour suits travelers who want a comprehensive, flexible experience that combines cultural sites with outdoor adventures. It’s especially ideal for those who appreciate stunning vistas and archaeological sites, and who enjoy learning about local traditions and history in an immersive way.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is included in the tour?
The tour includes guiding services and private transportation for the entire 11-hour day trip.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

What is the price for the group?
The price is $390 for the entire group, which can be up to 3 guests.

Are meals included?
Lunch can be included in the package, especially during the visit to Ughtasar Lake, but it is not automatically part of the standard package.

Is the tour suitable for children or people with mobility issues?
The jeep ride involves rugged terrain, and some walking at the sites, so it may not be ideal for everyone with limited mobility.

What languages are guides available in?
Guides speak English, Armenian, Russian, French, and Arabic.

This private trip offers a rich, flexible way to experience Armenia’s iconic sites, blending history, nature, and local culture into one memorable day.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby