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Amberd, Aragats, Lake Kari, Dried Fruit Tasting, Saghmosavank, Alphabet Alley

Group tour: Amberd, Aragats, Lake Kari, Dried Fruit Tasting, Saghmosavank, Alphabet Alley

Full-day

Duration: 9-10 hours

Start time: 09:00

Tour language: English, Russian

Start & end point: 96, Nalbandyan str.

380 reviews

99% recommended

Set high on the slopes of Mount Aragats, this full-day tour from Yerevan unfolds through mountain scenery, medieval monuments and the flavors of Armenian tradition. Over 9-10 hours, it leads from the stone walls of Amberd Fortress and the windswept shores of Lake Kari to Saghmosavank above the Kasakh Gorge and, finally, to the Armenian Alphabet Monument – one of the country's most distinctive cultural symbols.

The day begins at Amberd Fortress, a 7th-century stronghold rising on the southern slope of Mount Aragats, before climbing higher into the mountains to Lake Kari at 3250 meters. A stop for traditional Armenian dried fruit production and tasting, along with an optional lunch break, adds a local touch to the route. The journey then continues to Saghmosavank, a 13th-century monastery complex overlooking the Kasakh Gorge, and concludes at the Armenian Alphabet Monument, created to mark the 1600th anniversary of the Armenian alphabet.

Deposit

To secure the booking, full payment is required.

Cancellation

In case of cancellation at least 24 hours before the start time, the paid amount is refunded. In case of later cancellation or no-show, no amount is refunded.

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Number of people

Adult (age 8+)
Child (age 3-8) 50% discount
Infant (age 0-3) free of charge

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Price per person

0 USD

36 USD

Total price

36 USD

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Itinerary

Amberd Fortress, Mount Aragats, Lake Kari, Armenian Dried Fruit production and tasting, Lunch stop, Saghmosavank Monastery, Armenian Alphabet Monument

1. Meeting point: Hyur Service (Head Office) – 96, Nalbandyan str., Yerevan

Departure time: 09:00

If hotel pick-up is not required, please let us know and be at the meeting point at least 30 min before departure.

2. Amberd Fortress

50-60 min Details: Amberd Fortress

Like a silent stone sentinel, Amberd Fortress has watched over the slopes of Mount Aragats for centuries. Here, clouds drift along the cliffs and the wind carries echoes of an ancient past. Built at an altitude of over 2300 meters, the fortress seems to hover above the gorges, merging seamlessly with the rugged mountain landscape. It is no coincidence, that the name of the castle is translated as "fortress above the clouds" from Armenian.

3. Mount Aragats

5-10 min Details: Mount Aragats

Rising 4090 meters above sea level, Mount Aragats claims the title of Armenia's highest peak and stands among the country's most awe-inspiring natural landmarks. This extinct volcano is known for the unusual shape of its crater, surrounded by four distinct summits like the petals of a massive stone flower: the northern peak (4090 m), western (3995 m), eastern (3908 m) and southern (3888 m).

4. Lake Kari

20-25 min Details: Lake Kari

High in the mountains, at 3250 meters above sea level, cradled by the stony ridges of Mount Aragats, lies Lake Kari – a small yet captivating alpine gem. Its name means "Stone Lake" and the title could not be more fitting: its waters mirror the rugged grandeur of the surrounding cliffs as if nature itself carved a crystal mirror into the rock. Born thousands of years ago from the melting of ancient glaciers, its waters remain icy even in midsummer, preserving the eternal freshness of the peaks. From here, a breathtaking panorama unfolds the vast Ararat Valley stretching to the horizon and the distant silhouette of legendary Mount Ararat.

Armenian Dried Fruit production and tasting, Lunch stop

60-80 min

There are more than 300 sunny days yearly in Armenia, making the country a perfect place to grow huge variety of fruits. Visitors will find many taste surprises full of incredible combinations of fruits and vegetables. Here one can try a variety of dried fruits, participate in the harvest process, walk through the gardens.

5. Saghmosavank Monastery

30-40 min Details: Saghmosavank Monastery

On the edge of the scenic Kasakh Gorge, just north of Mughni, rises Saghmosavank, the Monastery of Psalms, a name that itself sounds like a prayer. Founded in the 12th-13th centuries by the noble Vachutyan family, it became not only a spiritual haven but also a sanctuary where priceless manuscripts were copied and preserved. The complex is composed of four structures: the grand main Church of Saint Zion, a narthex, a spacious library and the modest Chapel of the Holy Mother of God. Perched above the abyss of the gorge, Saghmosavank's stone walls have witnessed the passage of centuries, holding within them the strength of countless prayers and the quiet rhythm of nature's voice.

6. Armenian Alphabet Monument

10-20 min Details: Armenian Alphabet Monument

At the foot of the majestic Mount Aragats, in the quiet village of Artashavan, the Armenian Alphabet Monument rises where the mountain winds seem to carry ancient tales. Created in 2005 to mark the 1600th anniversary of the Armenian script, the site has since become a magnet for those wishing to feel the nation's cultural spirit. During the celebrations, on May 28, Armenia's Republic Day, which marks the proclamation of the First Republic, Armenians joined hands in an unprecedented kochari circle dance around Mount Aragats. This beloved national dance was later inscribed on UNESCO's Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity in 2017.

7. Arrival point: Hyur Service (Head Office)

Expected return: 18:00 – 19:00

Inclusions

Professional guide: ENG + RUS consecutively
Air-conditioned vehicles
Bottled water & pastries
Admission tickets
Wi-Fi in the vehicles
Vehicle & passengers insurance

Exclusions

Lunch cost (10.88 USD – 13.67 USD)
Hotel drop-off (final stop: our office)

Highlights

Walk through Amberd Fortress, where medieval stone walls meet mountain silence
See Mount Aragats and Lake Kari in one of Armenia's highest mountain landscapes
Taste traditional Armenian dried fruits and sweets
Look over the Kasakh Gorge from Saghmosavank Monastery
Stop at the Armenian Alphabet Monument, a favorite symbol of national culture

Video Gallery

Practical Info

Is the visit of Amberd Fortress guaranteed?

Access to the interior of Amberd Fortress is not always guaranteed, as the gates may occasionally be closed due to restoration works. However, guests can still enjoy a spectacular panoramic view of the fortress and the adjacent church from outside, offering excellent photo opportunities. In case the gates are closed, additionally, we will include a visit to Tegher Monastery, which provides an equally enriching cultural experience.

Are there any restrictions for this tour?

Yes, this tour is NOT recommended for people with high blood pressure.

Is any walking required?

Prepare for ~200 m walk to Amberd to fully experience the beauty and history of the place.

Will I have the chance to experience the famous gravitational anomaly in Aragats?

Yes, during the tour you will have the chance to experience the subtle gravitational anomaly of Aragats, caused by the volcanic structure, high altitude, and unique geological composition of the mountain.

Is it possible to swim in Lake Kari?

Swimming in Lake Kari is not included in the itinerary, as the water is typically too cold.

Can I pay for the lunch in the restaurant by card?

Make sure to carry Armenian Dram in cash: card usage for lunch may be limited.

What is the group size for this tour?

The group size varies, but typically ranges up to 18 participants each.

Are there any clothing requirements or recommendations for this tour?

Wear comfortable sport footwear and layer your clothing to match the weather: a jacket or coat is advisable, as the temperature in the regions is often cooler than in Yerevan. Women are expected to wear modest attire at religious sites, avoiding clothing that is too revealing.

Meet our Guides

Davit Hasratyan

RU HY

I'm Davit, a history teacher, amateur actor, and since 2010, a guide at "Hyur Service"! I love my country and strive to make every tour I conduct leave an unforgettable impression on our guests, making them want to come back again and again!

Karen Khachatryan

RU HY EN

Dear friends, my name is Karen, and I am your guide through the amazing Armenia. My many years of experience allow me to conduct fascinating tours to the most popular and interesting places in the country. I bring history to life, sing psalms in ancient churches, and tell captivating legends, making your journey unforgettable. With me, you can expect a safe, informative, and vibrant trip!

Khachatur Mirzoyan

HY EN

My name is Khachatur, which is the Armenian variation of Chris (Christopher), and I'm comfortable with that as well. I have been working as a tour guide since 2012. I'm a sociable person, love interacting with people, and always do my best to make sure the tour lives up to our guests' expectations.

Marina Mirumyan

RU HY EN

Hi, my name is Marina Mirumyan, and I am a tour guide at "Hyur Service" company. Haven't traveled to Armenia yet? Then plan a visit and be our guest! Join my tours with "Hyur Service" to discover the endless hospitality of our people, the breathtaking views of our mountainous country, the ancient culture, traditions, delicious cuisine, and much more! Travel with "Hyur Service" to create lasting memories!

Reviews

Швецова Ирина

Russia

11.06.2025

Еще одна потрясающая экскурсия с с Манейи водителем Хачиком. . Такое впечатление что с нами были близкие друзья . Экскурсия была очень содержательной и на любой вопрос мы получали подробный и -содержательный ответ! Браво! Счастья всем кто проживает в этой прекрасной стране.

Ayaka Sayuri

Philippines

07.04.2025

There's this tour guide named Manya, and she's a really helpful guide! She knows a lot about the places we visit and whenever we ask her questions she always has the best answers, 10/10! Will use this service again if all the guides are as helpful as her!

Susanna Antonian

Ukraine

02.08.2024

Хочу поблагодарить ваш сервис за возможность посетить такие родные и прекрасные места на моей родине.
Была на групповой экскурсии 2 августа 2024 г. - Амберд, Гора Арагац, Оз. Кари, Производство сухофруктов, Сагмосаванк, Аллея Алфавита.
Хочу отдельно поблагодарить водителя Хачатура за безопасность и профессионализм, а также нашего гида Маню (если правильно запомнила имя 😊).
Экскурсия была очень познавательная, очень насыщенный и интересный получился у нас день.
Также хочу и отметить некоторые моменты для усовершенствования сервиса.
При продаже билетов, добавьте, пожалуйста, выбор места в автобусе, так как, не совсем правильно выбирать места на месте из оставшихся, хороших мест, как правило уже нет, если ты ещё и немного позже приезжаешь на место отправления.
Также хотела добавить про место, где был предоставлен обед. В этот раз мне не понравилась ни кухня, ни качество продуктов, ни сервис.
При посещение места, где производятся сухофрукты, не было того восторга, который я ожидала получить.
Я считаю, что есть места получше.
Можно данное замечание взять на заметку и усовершенствовать вашу экскурсию заменив эту локацию.
Надеюсь на понимание.

Юлия Платонова

Armenia

15.05.2024

Побывали с группой на крепости Амберд . Какая же тут красота и мощь . Экскурсовод Маня очень много рассказала информацию, есть достаточно времени пройти прогуляться по территории. Побывали на производстве сухофруктов , вот тут я ожидала большего особенно от дегустации , но когда на стол положили тарелку с частями фруктов на 9 человек где абрикос порезанный на 3 или 4 части и все остальные фрукты так же .ну такое конечно.
Водителю огромное спасибо , он виртуозно спускался по серпантинам

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