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Mount Masis: 5165 or 5137?

armeniangeographic — Sat, 14 Feb 2026 12:09:28 +0000

Mount Ararat is not just the highest peak of the Armenian Highland; it is a profound symbol whose elevation is etched into the memory of every Armenian since their school days. However, you may have recently noticed a different figure circulating: 5137 meters.

Ararat 5165

5165: The Classic and Immutable Figure

For decades, global cartographic sources have cited the height of Mount Ararat as 5165 meters. This is the definitive figure used in Armenian maps, scientific literature, and textbooks alike. To any Armenian, seeing these four digits 5165 instantly evokes the majesty of the highest peak in the Armenian Highland. However, the recent appearance of the 5137 meter figure in international databases has sparked questions. Here is a look at why these numbers differ and what they represent. This elevation is also firmly established in Soviet topographic maps, which specialists to this day consider among the most accurate in the world.

Even prominent modern platforms, such as opentopomap.org, continue to uphold the 5165-meter figure. Today, Turkey uses the number 5137 in its official sources. Because the mountain currently falls within their administrative borders, many new international databases have begun adopting this data. However, this shift does not imply that the previous figure was incorrect.

Why do the figures differ?

There are several methods for measuring a mountain’s height:

Satellite Navigation Systems
Triangulation (Trigonometric) Method
Barometric and Laser Measurements

Ararat 5165

Since the Earth’s crust is in constant motion, mountains can physically change their elevation either rising or sinking due to tectonic processes. Furthermore, different measurement techniques can naturally result in a discrepancy of several meters.

Right or Wrong?

In reality there is no definitive “wrong” answer here. A difference of 28 meters is not significant and does not change the status of Mount Ararat.

While the difference is negligible in the case of Masis, the situation with Mount Sipan is quite different. Older sources cited its elevation as 4434 meters, but modern measurements have recorded it at 4058 meters. This 376-meter discrepancy changed everything: Sipan is no longer considered the second-highest peak of the Armenian Highland.

More Than Just a Number

For us, Ararat is more than just a set of geographic coordinates. Throughout our ascents, a mantra was born: “When your life changes by 5165.” Climbing Ararat is not your typical mountaineering expedition; it is a journey of self-discovery through history. After such an experience, your life truly changes regardless of the elevation marked on a map.

Ararat 5165

HIKING MEMOIRS

Climbing Mount Ararat this summer

From a dream to reality on the summit of Ararat

My life changing experience

Climbing Ararat was my one true dream

Called by a Dream to Mount Ararat

Every journey to Ararat starts with a dream.

Mount Sis

armeniangeographic — Fri, 11 Jul 2025 09:31:11 +0000

Mount Sis, also known as “Little Ararat” is located in the Armenian Highland within the “Haykakan Par” mountain range. It has an elevation of 3,925 meters.
Mount Sis is the smaller, cone-shaped peak of the Ararat mountain massif, situated on the southern edge of the Ararat Plain, on the right bank of the Araks River.

According to H. Gabrielyan, the Great and Little Ararat share a pedestal up to 2,400 meters, above which they become separate cones, connected by the “Saddle of the Patriarch”․

Mount Sis

Since 2014, we have been organizing ascents to Mount Ararat. However, Mount Sis was inaccessible for mountaineering for many years. Now it has finally become available for ascents, offering a rare opportunity for us to organize hiking tours to it’s summit. You can become one of the lucky ones to be part of this unique experience.

Join our hike to Mount Sis

Hiking and Trekking in Armenia

Mount Sis

Armenian Highland / General characteristics

Scientific Research of the Armenian Highland

Armenia on ancient maps

What and where is Anatolia?

Cartographic war

Climbing Mount Sis and Bardogh

armeniangeographic — Sat, 12 Oct 2024 14:01:04 +0000

From September 20-22, 2025, we will climb to Mount Sis (3925 m) and Bardogh (2562 m) .

Day 1: Yerevan – Bayazet.

Our trip starts еarly in the morning from Yerevan. We will drive to the Armenian – Georgian border, after crossing the Bavra checkpoint we’ll continue to the Georgian – Turkish border.. The road to Kars passes by the picturesque Tsovak Hyusiso. We will make a stop in Kars, where we will visit the Cathedral of Kars and the Kars Fortress.

Kars

In the evening, we will arrive in Bayazet. Overnight in a hotel.

Day 2: Ascent to Mount Sis (3925 m)

Early in the morning, we will depart from Bayazet towards Mount Sis. We will drive as close to the mountain as possible. The ascent will begin from an altitude of around 2500 meters. The hike is of moderate difficulty.

Mount Sis

The altitude gain is 1500 meters.

In the evening, we will return to Bayazet. Overnight in a hotel.

Day 3: Bayazet – Bardogh – Yerevan

Mount Bardogh is one of the most distinctive mountains of Haykakan par mountain range, with the height of 2562 m. Mount Bardokh is also known as Mount Koghb or Koghbasar. Early in the morning, we will head to the foothills of Mount Bardogh and ascend the mountain with an off-road vehicle. From there, we will hike the final rocky section on foot. From the village to the top of the mountain there is only 300 m relative altitude. However, these 300 meters are the cliff, which everyone admires from afar.

Mount Bardogh

All participants are required to have helmets.

Afterward, we will head back to Yerevan.

Mount Ararat Trekking Tour 2026 / 7 Days

Climbing Mount Sis and Bardogh

Climbing Mount Ararat / 5-Day Program

Damavand trekking tour / 6 days

Kilimanjaro trekking tour 2026 / 9 days

Climbing Kazbek 2026 / 5 days

Everest Base Camp Treck 2026

Climbing Elbrus 2026 / 6 days

The Volcanic Seven Summits Project

Մոռացումից դեպի ոգեշնչում ու իրականացում

armeniangeographic — Wed, 31 Jul 2024 09:02:27 +0000

Արարատ բարձրանալ երազել եմ դպրոցական տարիքում, բայց այն ժամանակ անհասանելի էր թվում: Հետո երազանքս մոռացվել էր ու 2023-ի մարտին, ոգեշնչվելով արշավականներից, որոշեցի ուժերս փորձել ու բարձրանալ: Պատրաստվել եմ 4 ամիս ու օգոստոսին բարձրացել: Վերելքի առաջին երկու օրերն ավելի բարդ էի պատկերացնում, սակայն միակ բարդությունն արևն էր ու Արարատի փոշին )): Վերելքի գիշերն անկանխատեսելի էր, թթվածնային քաղցից ուժեղ գլխապտույտ ունեի, ինչը շատ էր խանգարում:

Արարատի գագաթը՝ որպես ուժ գտնելու խորհրդանիշ

Մինչև վերելքն Արարատն ասոցացնում էի սփյուռքահայերի, կորցրած հայրենիքի հետ: Վերելքից հետո ամեն անգամ տեսնելիս, հիշում եմ, որ գագաթին եմ եղել ու լիքը ուժ եմ ստանում:

4600 մետրն ու Ռոմանի խոսքերը

Ամենամեծ դժվարությունը 4600 մետր բարձրությունից հետո անտանելի գլխապտույտս էր ու ձեռքերիս սառելը: Սակայն Ռոմանի (ուղեկցորդի) խոսքերն օգնում էին երևի, «Ես ուժեղ եմ, հաստատ կարող եմ հասնել գագաթ»։ Այնտեղ հասնելու պահին հենց “We are the champions, my friend” խոսքերն էին հնչում ականջներումս:

Արարատվածներ / Քրիստինա Գաբրիելյան

Փոթորկից հետո ամեն բան խաղաղվեց

Ճանապարհի սկզբում ներսումս դեռ սառն էր, անորոշ զգացում ունեի, դրսում կիզիչ արև էր, քարքարոտ, փոշոտ ճանապարհ: Հետո աստիճանաբար ներսս եռռում էր, իսկ դրսում սառում, քամին ուժեղանում: Ամենաբարենպաստ եղանակն իջնելուց հետո 3200-ի ճամբարում էր, երբ մասնակիցներով քննարկում էինք, կիսվում էմոցիաներով: Ներսումս էլ, դրսում էլ շատ ջերմ, տաքուկ զգացում ունեի, ոնց որ ամեն բան խաղաղված լիներ փոթորկից հետո:

Արարատն ինձ տվեց սիրելի մարդկանց ու ինքս ինձ հաղթելու կարողություն

Ինձ Արարատի գագաթին կբնութագրեի ինքնահաղթ բառով (չգիտեմ սենց բառ կա, թե չէ )։ Արարատը ռեստարտի պես մի բան էր մարմնիս ու հոգուս համար, բոլոր բջիջներս պայքարում էին վերելքի վերջին ժամերին: Վերելքը հնարավորություն տվեց ինքս ինձ հաղթել ու բնության քմահաճույքներին ավելի մոտ գտնվել: Բայց Արարատն ինձ տվեց նաև սիրելի մարդկանց: Նրանց հետ դժվարությունները թեթև էին անցնում, իսկ ուրախությունը հարյուրապատկվում էր: Better together.

Արարատվածներ / Քրիստինա Գաբրիելյան

Մեծ աշխարհն, ու դրանում մի փոքր մասնիկ լինելու զգացումը

Արարատի էմոցիաները նկարագրելիս միշտ անզորություն եմ զգում: Բառերով դժվար եմ արտահայտում, բայց մի մեծ աշխարհ լինելու ու միաժամանակ այդ աշխարհի մի փոքր մասնիկը լինելու զգացումն ունեցա, որը մնաց ինձ հետ: Շատ կուզեի նույն կազմով վերադառնալ ու ուժերս կրկին փորձել, համեմատել հին Քրիստինայի հետ: Կյանքս միանշանակ փոխվեց 5165-ով, ու էլ երբեք առաջվանը չի լինի, ինչի համար ուրախ ու շնորհակալ եմ:

Արարատի վերելքի մանրամասներն այստեղ:

Առաջիկա արշավներ

Dilijan

armeniangeographic — Fri, 24 Nov 2023 09:56:52 +0000

Dilijan is a favorite holiday destination for all those who want to escape the hustle and bustle of big cities and enjoy walking in nature. No wonder Dilijan is called “the little Switzerland of Armenia”, and besides, it’s easy to get to this resort town from Yerevan.

50 Years Of Soviet Armenia Monument

How to get to Dilijan from Yerevan?

Dilijan is located about 95 km from the capital, the trip takes about two hours. There are different ways to get there.

The most budget option (1,000 AMD per person) is traveling by minibus No. 651, which will take you to the bus station in the center of Dilijan. Minibus No. 651 departs from the Northern Bus Station of Yerevan.

North Bus Station

Another option is ordering a taxi (approximately 15,000 AMD one way). If you choose to travel by a private taxi, you have the opportunity to make a stop along the way and visit Lake Sevan, where the Sevanavank Monastery is located. Another travel option is by a GG taxi service shuttle (cost 1,500 AMD). You can book your place using the GG mobile app.

In addition, you can choose a sightseeing tour from ArmGeo from Yerevan to Dilijan. The tour includes visiting Lake Sevan. The price includes a guide service.

One-Day Tour to Dilijan

Click on the photo for more details

The tour registration is available every day.

What to do in Dilijan?

Dilijan is a small and cozy town that is perfect for outdoor recreation.

One of the popular types of recreation is walking. There are many beautiful routes in Dilijan and its surroundings, which you may find out about by contacting the Tourist Information Center (M. Gorky Street, 15/2). In the center you may receive a tourist map on which over 20 routes of varying length and complexity are marked. Some of the walking routes start right in the city, others – outdoors.

Mount Dimac

If you don’t have much time, you may consider the following hiking destinations:

In the vicinity of Dilijan there are several monasteries that are popular among tourists. The most famous monasteries are Goshavank and Haghartsin.

Goshavank

The Jukhtakvank Monastery is a landmark located just 7 km from Dilijan. Near Jukhtakvank there is another monastery Matosavank.

Where to eat in Dilijan: cafes and restaurants

After a day full of impressions, you are hungry. The local cuisine is famous for its dishes. We recommend these establishments in Dilijan:

Café #2 – is a cafe with an original design, located in the very center of Dilijan. A cozy place where you may have a delicious lunch and a cup of coffee and dessert.
Cafe #2
Kchuch is a restaurant of Armenian cuisine, which is considered the best in the city. Residents of Dilijan recommend “Kchuch” as an establishment with a warm homely atmosphere, where they serve delicious food at reasonable prices. Clients of the restaurant may choose tables both in the hall and in the outdoor gazebos. The choice of dishes is rich, the menu is ideal for lunch and dinner.
Restaurant Haykanush is located on the historical Sharambeyan street and is part of the Tufenkian Old Dilijan complex. The building in which the restaurant is located is designed so that you have a breathtaking view of the nature of Dilijan throughout the splendor.

Restaurant Haykanush

The menu includes national dishes like apricot soup with mushrooms and stew with pomegranate, which are considered symbols of Armenia. Traditional side dishes (eg. “‘plav”) served along with a variety of appetizers and various types of Armenian cheeses.
Restaurant Karahunj is a cozy establishment in an old Dilijan style, in the design of which elements of stone and wood were used. Restaurant clients may enjoy the unique atmosphere of this place, delicious dishes, hospitable service and a picturesque view from the balcony.

Where to stay: hotels and guest houses

There is a wide choice of temporary accommodation in Dilijan: from B&B guest houses to a variety of hotels. Here are the most interesting and stylish of them:

Toon Armeni Guest House is famous for its truly unique atmosphere. It is located in the very center of the city, but at the same time a small pine forest is planted around it. Don’t hesitate, staying at the Toon Armeni Guest House will give you an unforgettable experience.
Toon Armeni Guest House
Green Dilijan B&B guest house is an ideal choice for travelers on a budget. This family-run guest house has several different types of rooms with a shared bathroom and balcony. The Green Dilijan B&B guest house is located close to local attractions – the Soviet Government Rest House (2.7 km) and the Matosavank Monastery (4.4 km).
CHALET DILIJAN is your kind of hotel, if you prefer to stay in a refined hotel with a restaurant, bar and garden. There is a wide selection of rooms. A transfer service from the airport to the hotel is available for an additional fee.
Cozy House Dilijan is perhaps the most unusual hotel in Dilijan.
Cozy House Dilijan

Cozy House Dilijan is a fairy tale that has become reality. Hotel guests check into cozy houses, which are stylized as the homes of hobbits from “Lord of the Rings”.
Dilijazz Hotel is a green island in the city center. This is an ideal holiday destination for those who want to admire the beauty of nature around. The hotel provides rooms with all amenities suitable for everyone: groups of friends,couples in love and families, as well as for those who travel for work.

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Cultural Tours

One-Day Tour to Garni and Geghard

One-Day Tour to Tatev

One-Day Cultural Tour to Noravank

One-Day Tour to Haghpat and Sanahin

One-Day Tour to Lake Sevan

One-Day Tour to Dilijan

List of equipment for technical ascents

armeniangeographic — Fri, 24 Nov 2023 09:45:06 +0000

According to experienced hikers, it is extremely difficult and almost impossible to complete a technical ascent without serious training and reliable equipment. A person feels uncomfortable even at an altitude of 5000 m. The weather conditions at the top of a mountain above 5000 m may be truly unfavorable to people. You will need special equipment for technical altitude climbs +5000 m (for example, to the peaks of Kazbek or Elbrus).

This is a list of equipment for technical ascents:

Clothes

Jacket

When in the mountains it is extremely important to wear pieces of clothing that retain body heat. It is recommended to wear two special jackets at once. First jacket with fleece lining makes up the middle layer of a hiker’s clothing, which should generally conform to the shape of the body and provide comfort during the ascent. The second jacket is worn over the rest of the clothing and serves as protection from cold wind, rain and snow. Wearing a jacket with a hood is advised.

Winter jacket

The second jacket is worn over the rest of the clothing and serves as protection from cold wind, rain and snow. Wearing a jacket with a hood is advised.

Fleece

Fleece (artificial wool) is lighter and softer than natural wool.

Fleece

Fleece outerwear retains warmth even after getting wet.

Thermal underwear

Thermal underwear is a piece of clothing necessary for every lover of outdoor activities and sports. Among the three layers of warm clothing, thermal underwear is considered the very first layer that is worn directly on the body.

The principle of layering in clothing: How to dress in layers correctly

Thermal underwear is made of a special material that removes excess moisture (sweat) from the skin surface and retains body heat.

Trousers

When choosing trousers, it is recommended to take into account the presence of a membrane layer, which provides both warmth, dryness and breathability. The choice of material is up to you. It can be natural or synthetic.

Hiking Trousers

Natural material (for example, goose down) retains heat better and is lighter in weight. Synthetics are usually heavier, but clothing made from this material is more affordable.

Socks

Hiking socks are made from both synthetic wool and merino sheep wool. It is recommended to give preference to a product made from natural material, since merino wool is light in weight, retains heat for a long time, quickly absorbs sweat and dries.

Hiking Socks

In addition, for mountain climbing you need to have several pairs of socks of different thicknesses.

Equipment

Hiking boots

Mountain hiking shoes have special durability, since they are made for movement on rocky and icy terrain to protect the legs from sudden impacts. Typically, such shoes have thick soles. When choosing hiking boots, make sure they fit your legs comfortably.

Hiking boots

Please note that during the ascent you put on thick woolen socks, so it is recommended to purchase shoes one or two sizes larger. It is especially important that such shoes have special fastenings for climbing crampons.

Crampons

Crampons are made of aluminum and steel. The advantages of crampons made of aluminum are lightness and comfort when walking. However, models made of this material are not as durable as similar products made of steel.

Crampons

For technical ascents, it is recommended to give preference to crampons made of steel. Make sure the crampons are securely attached to your shoes.

Ice axe

When buying an ice axe you should pay attention to its length.

To choose the ice axe that suits you, place it on your ankle: it should be about 10 cm above your foot.

Climbing ropes

Climbing ropes are of various lengths and diameters. So, when climbing a glacier, it is recommended to choose ropes that have undergone dry processing.

Climbing ropes

Climbing ropes of this type quickly absorb moisture, which makes them indispensable in snowy conditions.

Mountaineering helmet

A mountaineering helmet is probably the first thing you should pay attention to when choosing equipment for a technical ascent. There are plenty of different models on the market. There are two types of mountaineering helmets: made of lightweight foam and of hard ABS plastic.

Mountaineering helmet

The perfect mountaineering helmet fits your head tightly, covering your forehead, back of the head and temples and providing maximum comfort. The only way to choose it right is to try it on. Make sure that your mountaineering helmet covers as much of your head as possible. This way you will be well protected from overhead and side impacts.

If you want to protect your head from falling objects and other types of impact, you should pay attention to helmets with Hardshell technology. Durable ABS plastic fuses with foam for durable protection. The weight of this type of mountaineering helmets may be higher, but their price is usually more affordable compared to top-end models.
If you prefer a classic style and are looking for a lightweight helmet, consider the In-mold design. Thin polycarbonate replaces heavy plastic, and there are no gaps between the layers.
For the optimal combination of protection and weight, it is recommended to consider hybrid versions of helmets. An example of such helmets are models from the Berns brand with a polycarbonate shell glued with durable Zip Mold foam.

It is important to understand that foam helmets generally do not regain their shape and will lose their protective properties after one hard impact. If a crack or dent appears, the helmet should be replaced.

Mountaineering carabiners

Carabiners are used for secure fastening, connecting the ends of ropes and weaving knots during mountain hikes.

Mountaineering carabiners

Thus, mountaineering carabiners are indispensable during technical ascents.

Hiking Backpack (volume 40-50 liters)

When choosing a backpack, you should consider the duration of the ascent. Typically, backpacks with a capacity of 40-50 liters are used. When choosing a backpack for a technical ascent, you should pay attention not so much to its stylish design, but to its functionality.

Hiking Backpack

First of all, it is important to make sure that the size and shape of the backpack matches the curve of your back, ensuring a proper fit and contour to your hips. In addition, you need to make sure that the backpack is waterproof and has special mounts for an ice axe, protective helmet and other equipment. The perfect backpack ensures not only your comfort, but also safety.

Trekking poles

Trekking poles significantly reduce the load on your legs during mountain climbs. Special attention should be paid to the strength tip, which is designed to move around tight layer of snow.

Trekking poles

Sleeping bag

The packaging of a sleeping bag indicates its temperature regime: the upper and lower limits of a comfortable temperature for a person, as well as the extreme temperature at which the sleeping bag loses its effectiveness and its owner is at risk of severe frostbite.

Sleeping Bag

Accessorize

Warm hat

It is better to give preference to a fleece hat, since this material retains heat longer and provides protection from the wind.

Warm hat

Sun protection glasses

Sunglasses for mountain ascents above 5000 meters must have sufficient protection, otherwise there is a risk of snow blindness.

Glasses with lenses of the first and second categories made for the city and light hikes are not suitable. It is necessary to purchase sunglasses of the third or fourth category (they have a tint of 82-91 and 92-97% respectively).

Buff

The buff is a multifunctional scarf that provides protection from wind, dust, snow and cold.

Buff

In strong winds, you may pull up the buff and cover your face with it, providing additional protection.

Gloves

During the ascent, you need to have 2 sets of fleece gloves: regular five-fingered ones and mittens.

Hiking Gloves

You can take special ski gloves that have a waterproof layer on the outside and a soft, insulated layer on the inside.

Headlamp

As mountain ascents often begin at night, you need a headlamp. Before the ascent, it is important to check that the batteries are working properly. Also, don’t forget to take spare batteries with you.

Headlamp

First aid kit

In the article at the link, we tried to list all the medications necessary for a mountain ascent. Of course, this list is not exhaustive.

It is important to note that some people may be allergic to certain chemicals. Please make sure that you and other people in your group are not allergic to the medicine you are going to take or offer to a friend.

Other

A thermos
Drinking water bottle
Warm slippers
Change of underwear
Personal hygiene items (hygienic lipstick, toothbrush and toothpaste, wet wipes, etc.)
Sunscreen or spray with a protection level of at least 50 spf.
Telephone
Power bank
Passport and other personal documents, wallet. Documents can be placed in a zip bag to protect them from dirt and moisture.
A protective cover for a backpack or plastic bags for packing things.

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One Day Hiking in Armenia

Vahagn and Astghik waterfalls

Hike to Mount Mets Parakhadem

Three Hawks Trail

Hike to Mount Dimats

Climbing Mountain Aragats

One-day hike to the Lakes of Aragats

Ascent to the Northern summit of Mt Aragats

Climbing Volcano Azhdahak

Yeranos Mountains

New Year hike in Armenia (6 days)

armeniangeographic — Mon, 06 Nov 2023 08:02:46 +0000

As the climate of Armenia is quite mild, our country is ideal for winter hiking. However, many guests of Armenia do not know what they can do here in wintertime besides skiing. That’s why we have developed a special New Year hike in Armenia for you to imagine a wealth of choice you have.

Admire the landscapes of Armenia, decorated with dazzling white snow.

Travel dates:

02/01/2026 – 07/01/2026

Day 1: Yerevan

Our staff will meet you at the airport and help you check into a hotel. Next step is a walking tour along Yerevan, during which you will see the sights of the Armenian capital.

Yerevan

Day 2: Garni Pagan Temple and Symphony of Stones

You will first visit the Geghard monastery complex, carved right into the rock. Then – the pagan temple of Garni, which is dedicated to Mithra, the God of Sun. After visiting the temple the group will descend into the gorge of the Azat River, where the natural monument “Symphony of Stones” is located. It consists of many hexagonal basalt columns of volcanic origin.

Garni Pagan Temple

A visit to the Khosrov State Reserve is next . From the Symphony of Stones the group will go to the monastery complex of Havuts Tar (XI century). You will definitely enjoy a stunning view of the Azat River gorge from the top on which the monastery is located.

Azat Reservoir in winter

Details of the day:

Location – Kotayk region
Distance by car – 90 km
Altitude gain — 400 м
The length of the route — 8 km
Difficulty level – easy
Overnight — Yerevan

Day 3: High mountain fortress

On the third day we will go to the south of Armenia to see the legendary Khor Virap temple (IV century). The name of Saint Gregory the Illuminator is closely connected with it. Legend has it that Saint Gregory was imprisoned in an underground prison for 13 years by decree of the pagan king. In addition, the Khor Virap temple is located on a hill from where Mount Ararat is visible.

Khor Virap Monastery

After leaving this holy place and reaching the village of Artabuink, the group will hike to the high mountain fortress. This fortress of the 5th century is one of the best preserved architectural monuments of Armenia. It is surrounded on three sides by steep cliffs. The height of its powerful walls with semicircular towers is 8-10 meters, and the width is 3-4 meters. There are many legends and stories about this fortress associated with the name of one of the great Armenian kings.

We will go to the Syunik region in the evening.

Smbataberd

Details of the day:

Location – Ararat and Vayots Dzor regions
Distance by car – 300 km
Altitude gain — 250 m
The length of the route – 9 km
Difficulty level – medium
Overnight — Goris

Day 4: Vorotan Gorge

We will go down to the Vorotan Gorge to see a number of abandoned villages with the houses carved into the rock.

Vorotan canyon

Let’s continue our journey to one of the most visited places in Syunik – the village of Old Khndzoresk,which is known with its cave houses and a 160 meter long suspension bridge.This is a mountain settlement, whose inhabitants literally carved out their houses in solid stone. In the 1950s, the bulk of the population was resettled to a new location, and the village itself gradually became an object of tourist attention.

Khndzoresk

Details of the day:

Location — Syunik region
Distance by car – 60 km
Altitude gain — 400 m
The length of the route – 10 km
Difficulty level – medium
Overnight — Goris

Day 5: Wings of Tatev and Noravank Monastery

We will pass the deep Vorotan Gorge by the world’s longest cableway that will take us to the famous Tatev Monastery.

The Wings of Tatev cableway is registered in the Guinness World Records. It was not only the length of the road that was record-breaking (5,752 meters), but also construction time (only 10 months). It passes over the Vorotan River gorge and connects two villages – Halidzor and Tatev. The highest point of the cable car lift is 320 meters from the ground above the Vorotan River.

Tatev monastery

After visiting the Tatev Monastery – one of the XIV-XV centuries Armenia’s centers of culture, science and education – we will descend into the Vorotan Gorge again. Let’s see the Great Hermitage of Tatev where about 700 monks lived. Our group’s next stop is the Devil‘s Bridge.

Then you will have the opportunity to see the ancient stone complex of Carahunge (Zorats Karer), which purpose of construction is still being discussed among scientists. Some say Carahunge is the oldest observatory in the world, others call it a place of worship where sacrifices were made.

Noravank Monastery

We will also visit the Noravank Monastery, known also as the Red Monastery. Its name origins from the color of the mountain the monastery is located on. In addition, the monastery is famous for its unique bas-relief depicting God.

Details of the day:

Location — Syunik region
Distance by car – 307 km
The length of the route – 6 km
Difficulty level – easy
Overnight — Yerevan

Day 6: Sunny Yerevan

You still have time to walk around Yerevan on the last day of the tour. The Vernissage market is two steps far from the Republic Square. You can find everything that you want there.

Yerevan

Finally, it’s time to say goodbye to your new friends, exchange contacts and go to the airport.

For the booking and all questions, please contact us.

The price includes:

the service of the guide
transfer from the airport and back
transportation within Armenia
accommodation
food service during the whole tour
admission tickets to Wings of Tatev

The price does not include:

Alcoholic beverages

Gear list:

hiking boots
spare shoes to change (sneakers, sandals, flip flops)
backpack 30L – 40L
warm clothes
fleece jacket
fleece hat
gloves
personal first aid kit
trekking poles
raincoat
cap
buff
sunglasses
forehead flashlight
sunscreen
lip balm.

Hiking and trekking tours in Armenia

Vahagn and Astghik waterfalls

Hike to Mount Mets Parakhadem

Three Hawks Trail

Hike to Mount Dimats

Climbing Mountain Aragats

One-day hike to the Lakes of Aragats

Ascent to the Northern summit of Mt Aragats

Climbing Volcano Azhdahak

Yeranos Mountains

Diving in Armenia

armeniangeographic — Fri, 16 Jun 2023 13:53:38 +0000

We invite you to an unforgettable adventure – diving in Armenia! Embarking on an incredible journey to Armenia, you will not only have the opportunity to enjoy its ancient monasteries but also immerse yourself in the underwater world of Lake Sevan. This magnificent freshwater lake is one of the largest high-altitude lakes in Eurasia.

Armenian Geographic offers you comfort and safety in this unique adventure. Give yourself the opportunity to experience true freedom and delight.

Diving in Armenia

We will begin our journey with a visit to Sevanavank Monastery. Sevanavank Monastery was built in the 9th century and is one of the most significant religious sites in Armenia. It is situated on a hill, offering stunning views of Lake Sevan and the surrounding mountains.

Lake Sevan, Sevanavank Monastery

After familiarizing ourselves with the history of the monastery, we will proceed to diving. Before the diving session, participants will receive a preparatory briefing, and the instructor will answer all your questions. The diving days will be selected based on weather conditions. No special training is required to participate. The diving location is Lake Sevan.

Lake Sevan is an ideal place for diving. The underwater world of Sevan thrives with around 250 species of plants, as well as unique fish species.

We offer a trial dive in Lake Sevan: Scuba Diving.

The Scuba Diving program lasts for 20 minutes. The maximum depth is 12 meters.

Cost:

– For 2 participants: 85,000 drams per person.

– For 3 participants: 68,000 drams per person.

– For 4 participants: 60,000 drams per person.

The price includes:

Transfer
English speaking guide
Diving instructor services
Full set of necessary equipment

After diving, we will have free time of 2 to 3 hours, during which you will have the opportunity to swim in the lake and take a stroll along the shore.

For bookings write us on Facebook or call 043 00 5165.

Hiking and trekking tours in Armenia

Vahagn and Astghik waterfalls

Hike to Mount Mets Parakhadem

Three Hawks Trail

Hike to Mount Dimats

Climbing Mountain Aragats

One-day hike to the Lakes of Aragats

Ascent to the Northern summit of Mt Aragats

Climbing Volcano Azhdahak

Yeranos Mountains

Air balloon flight / Discover Armenia from the sky

armeniangeographic — Tue, 13 Jun 2023 06:41:23 +0000

We invite you to an unforgettable adventure – a hot air balloon flight! Imagine the sensation of floating in the air, observing the world from above, like birds in the sky. We are ready to turn your dream of flying into reality. Allow us to give you unforgettable emotions and breathtaking views that will leave you truly amazed.

Armenian Geographic will ensure your comfort and safety throughout this unique journey. Treat yourself to the opportunity to experience true freedom and delight as you discover new horizons of Armenia.

Air balloon flight

No special preparation is required to participate. The flight location depends on weather conditions, but the main destination is Garni.

We’ll pick you up at the starting point, and participants will receive a 30-minute preparatory briefing, followed by an instructor who will answer all your questions.

The program lasts 4-5 hours, starting 1-2 hours after sunrise, at an altitude of up to 1000 meters. The duration of the actual flight is 1 hour (depending on the direction of the wind, it may last 40-90 minutes).

Both individual and group participation options are available:

Group flights:
89 000 AMD per person
Individual flights:
2 people – 290 000 AMD
3 people – 330 000 AMD
4 people – 420 000 AMD
The heart-shaped hot air balloon for 2 people costs 400,000 AMD.

The price includes:

Flight
Transfer
Video recording
Hospitality

* Minor children must be accompanied by their parents (cost of participation for a child under 12 years old is 44 500 AMD).
* There is a 40 000 AMD surcharge for passengers over 100 kg.

For bookings write us on Facebook or call 043 00 5165.

Additional Information

armeniangeographic — Fri, 26 May 2023 10:18:15 +0000

Booking Conditions

On request, the tour can be organized in other languages; in such a case, prices may vary. The tour programme, included services and costs can be reconsidered according to your individual requests.
The cost of private tours is fixed according to the prices indicated on the website, taking into account the beginning and end of the tour in Yerevan. The cost can be different if you are planning to start or end your tour in another location.
Visiting additional places during a private tour may cause changes in the initial cost: if the trip takes longer than planned, or if there are significant changes in the programme, the company may request additional payment.
On our website you can find the average duration of each private tour, but in reality, it can take up to an hour more or less.
Comfortable shoes and clothing are recommended.
You can take your pet for a private tour only in a special carrier, and you should inform the company about it prior to the trip.
During a private tour, depending on the destination and location, the vehicle may not be able to get close to your destination, and you will have to walk some distance.
The company is not responsible for any items lost or damaged by you during the private tour, either in the vehicle or at the locations visited.

Cancel and Change

Tours are paid for in two parts: advance payment and final payment. The prepayment is 25 % of the total cost, and the private tour is considered confirmed only after the prepayment has been received.
In case of unfavourable weather conditions or force majeure situations (earthquake, flood, war, interruption of communications, etc.), the company has the right to change, reduce or cancel a confirmed tour, considering the safety of its participants. If the tour is canceled by the company, the customer will be fully refunded the prepayment amount without any deduction.
If, due to the aforementioned circumstances, the company replaces the places to be visited or the services to be provided during the tour with equivalent places or services, it is not responsible for any possible differences in the cost of services. If the replacement results in the use of more affordable services, the company will refund the difference between the costs of the original confirmed tour and the completed one. If the replacement results in the use of more expensive services, the company has the right to demand additional payment.