Private tour: Natural adventures through Armenia in 2 days with rafting on the Debed river
Family-friendly favorites
Armenian Alphabet Alley, Stepanavan Dendropark, Lori Berd Fortress, Haghpat Monastery
1. Armenian Alphabet Alley
10-20 min
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 whisper ancient tales. Created in 2005 to honor the 1600th anniversary of the Armenian script, the site has since become a magnet for those seeking to immerse themselves in the nation's cultural spirit. On that occasion, on the Independence Day of the Republic of Armenia, May 28, Armenians formed an unprecedented circle dance around Mount Aragats, and the kochari became an intangible cultural heritage.
Designed by architect Jim Torosyan, this masterpiece is more than a memorial – it is a stone poem, where every letter feels like a living fragment of national history. Thirty‑nine massive characters stand against the mountain backdrop, glowing in warm tones and adorned with traditional Armenian motifs.
The Armenian alphabet, created in 405 AD through the genius of Mesrop Mashtots, changed the destiny of the nation by opening the path to translating sacred texts and strengthening Christianity. The original 36 letters were later joined by three more and this graceful row of symbols has served the Armenian people for over fifteen centuries.
Walking among these monumental letters, visitors feel the breath of history and the power this script represents. Travelers come for rare photographs, sweeping landscapes and the chance to touch the cultural roots of an ancient people. Perfectly blending with the rugged surroundings, the memorial feels like an extension of nature itself, a reminder that language and culture are eternal guardians of memory.
Designed by architect Jim Torosyan, this masterpiece is more than a memorial – it is a stone poem, where every letter feels like a living fragment of national history. Thirty‑nine massive characters stand against the mountain backdrop, glowing in warm tones and adorned with traditional Armenian motifs.
The Armenian alphabet, created in 405 AD through the genius of Mesrop Mashtots, changed the destiny of the nation by opening the path to translating sacred texts and strengthening Christianity. The original 36 letters were later joined by three more and this graceful row of symbols has served the Armenian people for over fifteen centuries.
Walking among these monumental letters, visitors feel the breath of history and the power this script represents. Travelers come for rare photographs, sweeping landscapes and the chance to touch the cultural roots of an ancient people. Perfectly blending with the rugged surroundings, the memorial feels like an extension of nature itself, a reminder that language and culture are eternal guardians of memory.
2. Stepanavan Dendropark
30-40 min
Stepanavan Dendropark is the only garden in Southern Caucasus, that was transformed from a forest into an arboretum. The majority of the territory of Dendropark is still covered by the verdurous forest, while the rest is surrounded by exotic and unique plants and trees. The air is saturated with fragrant and healthful pine oil and, therefore, is recommended to all the people with breathing problems. There are approximately 500 plant types in Dendropark, among which California Sequoias and the Fir Greenhouse are the most peculiar ones.
There is a tradition connected with the beautiful wooden bridge, located in Dendropark. The wish made when passing the bridge for the first time, is believed to come true.
There is a tradition connected with the beautiful wooden bridge, located in Dendropark. The wish made when passing the bridge for the first time, is believed to come true.
3. Lori Fortress
30-40 min
The medieval city-fortress of Lori, also known as Lori Berd, was founded in the 11th century and for a long time stood as one of the most powerful strongholds in Northern Armenia. Behind its massive walls life unfolded in many forms – not only battles and defense, but also the daily rhythm of craftsmen, merchants and families. Archaeological discoveries – from weapons and household tools to delicate ornaments – seem to breathe life into the distant past, letting us glimpse the atmosphere of those centuries.
Although much of the fortress has been destroyed, unique remnants still testify to its grandeur: ancient bathhouses, modest chapel-tombs and residential houses decorated with rare everyday frescoes. Unlike the usual medieval themes of kings and wars, these images portray simple scenes of daily existence, making Lori Fortress truly unique.
Perched dramatically at the crossing of deep gorges, the fortress blends seamlessly into the landscape, becoming part of nature itself. In old times it was connected to the outside world by two bridges: one remains only in fragments, while the other has been fully restored.
To walk through Lori Fortress today is not just to see ruins, but to embark on a journey into history, where every stone whispers the breath of a once-thriving medieval city.
Although much of the fortress has been destroyed, unique remnants still testify to its grandeur: ancient bathhouses, modest chapel-tombs and residential houses decorated with rare everyday frescoes. Unlike the usual medieval themes of kings and wars, these images portray simple scenes of daily existence, making Lori Fortress truly unique.
Perched dramatically at the crossing of deep gorges, the fortress blends seamlessly into the landscape, becoming part of nature itself. In old times it was connected to the outside world by two bridges: one remains only in fragments, while the other has been fully restored.
To walk through Lori Fortress today is not just to see ruins, but to embark on a journey into history, where every stone whispers the breath of a once-thriving medieval city.
4. Haghpat Monastery
50-60 min
To the northeast of Sanahin, cradled by the lofty peaks of Lori, stretches the monastery of Haghpat – a masterpiece of Armenian medieval art, where stone speaks the language of centuries. Founded in the 10th century under King Ashot III of the Bagratuni dynasty, it rose at a time when Armenia blossomed in culture and spirit. The weathered walls of Haghpat still carry the resonance of that golden age, bearing silent witness to the passage of time.
Within its sacred grounds stand the Church of the Holy Mother of God, erected in 1025, the Church of Surb Nshan, the library and many other edifices that together shape the monastery into a miniature city of faith. In the late 18th century, the great troubadour Sayat-Nova lived and created here, weaving verses and songs that captured the soul of the Caucasus. Even now, one feels his echo within these walls, as if the strings of his instrument still tremble in the air.
But Haghpat was never just a monastery. It was a haven of thought and learning: manuscripts were penned, books safeguarded and ideas exchanged that nourished both faith and intellect. Today, inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List, Haghpat continues to remind the world of Armenia's golden spiritual era.
Standing at the foot of its ancient walls, one senses how time folds upon itself – the silence of the monastery filled with an eternal chant, where prayer and song weave into a single, timeless harmony.
Within its sacred grounds stand the Church of the Holy Mother of God, erected in 1025, the Church of Surb Nshan, the library and many other edifices that together shape the monastery into a miniature city of faith. In the late 18th century, the great troubadour Sayat-Nova lived and created here, weaving verses and songs that captured the soul of the Caucasus. Even now, one feels his echo within these walls, as if the strings of his instrument still tremble in the air.
But Haghpat was never just a monastery. It was a haven of thought and learning: manuscripts were penned, books safeguarded and ideas exchanged that nourished both faith and intellect. Today, inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List, Haghpat continues to remind the world of Armenia's golden spiritual era.
Standing at the foot of its ancient walls, one senses how time folds upon itself – the silence of the monastery filled with an eternal chant, where prayer and song weave into a single, timeless harmony.
Overnight stay
Rafting on Debed River, Zarni-Parni Cave Castle Complex, Yerevan
1. Rafting on Debed River
110-120 min
Rafting is gradually becoming one of the most popular activities of extreme tourism in Armenia. It may seem, that such an extreme sport can be handled by professionals only, however Debed River welcomes everyone, even with little or no experience at all. During rafting on Debed, besides full of adrenaline and unforgettable experience, one can also discover some historical and cultural monuments of Armenia, located along the river, such as Haghpat and Sanahin monasteries, included in UNESCO World Cultural Heritage List.
The reservations should be made in advance.
The reservations should be made in advance.
2. Zarni-Parni Cave Castle Complex
15-20 min
Zarni-Parni is a cave castle complex in Lori region. It is located in a forest canyon with a magnificent view of the Kayan fortress, which is close to the village of Haghpat, famous for its monastery. The complex consists of the "Zarni er" and "Parni er" castles, as well as the "Tsak er" cave. Some historical records note, that renowned scholar and philosopher Hovhannes Imastaser used to live and work in this cave. Currently the area is turned into a historical museum, where one can find number of rare ancient agricultural tools and household items.
Near the cave there is a tavern and winery to enjoy local drinks and dishes of Armenian cuisine.
Evening time can be well "spiced" with a splendid view from the observation deck over a bonfire (at an additional cost of 27.01 USD).
Near the cave there is a tavern and winery to enjoy local drinks and dishes of Armenian cuisine.
Evening time can be well "spiced" with a splendid view from the observation deck over a bonfire (at an additional cost of 27.01 USD).
Inclusions
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Professional drivers
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Air-conditioned vehicles
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Bottled water
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Free pick-up & drop-off within Yerevan
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Vehicle & passengers insurance
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Extra stops on the route upon request
Exclusions
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Significant deviations from the route
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Alcoholic beverages if lunch option selected
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Audio guides
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Wi-Fi in the vehicles
What to expect
- Explore the history of creation of the Armenian alphabet
- Take wonderphotos with Armenian letters
- Marvel at peculiar ~500 plant types at the arboretum
- Observe the 11th century architecture
*The possibility of arranging rafting depends on weather conditions
*~150 steps to climb to the complex
Booking conditions
Cancellation & modification
Meet our Guides
Armine Julhakyan
RU
HY
Hello! I'm Armine, your guide in Armenia. With me, you'll discover not only the famous landmarks but also the hidden gems of my country.
Arpine Khalatyan
RU
HY
EN
My name is Arpi. With experience in guiding since 2015, fluency in English and Russian, and a wealth of knowledge in history and culture, I offer engaging and informative tours during which you'll explore Armenia and feel the greatest vibes ever.
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!
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