Private tour: Lake Sevan, Hayravank, Noratus, Selim Caravanserai, Areni, Jermuk, Jermuk Waterfall

Itinerary

Lake Sevan, Hayravank Monastery, Noratus Cross-Stones, Orbelyan's (Selim) Caravanserai, Hin Areni Wine Factory, Jermuk, Jermuk Waterfall

1. Lake Sevan

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High in the embrace of Armenia's mountains lies Lake Sevan – the blue heart of the land, beating in harmony with the winds and the sun. Legend tells that once a green valley stretched here, until the heavens shed their tears, filling it with shimmering water as a priceless gift to humankind.

2. Hayravank Monastery

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Perched on a steep cliff with a boundless view of Lake Sevan, Hayravank Church stands humble yet majestic in its simplicity. Its exact date of construction has been lost to time, but architectural features suggest it was built in the 9th century. Composed of roughly hewn stone, it bears no elaborate decoration, yet its stark austerity gives it a striking power and quiet charm. The stones seem to hold not only the imprint of ancient craftsmen's hands, but also the breath of winds carrying the scents of the lake and mountain herbs.

3. Noratus Cross-Stones

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In the heart of Gegharkunik, not far from the serene shores of Lake Sevan, lies Noratus – a vast khachkar (cross-stone) cemetery where stone has become an eternal manuscript, written by the hands of ancient masters. Beneath the open sky stand hundreds of khachkars, each one a chapter of history, each a silent prayer carved toward the heavens. The most treasured are the finely chiseled monuments of the 13th-14th centuries, where delicate lines intertwine with deep symbolism, carrying the unmistakable signature of the craftsman. Walking among them, one feels time dissolve: some stones radiate stern majesty, others display fragile lacework, as if the carvings come alive beneath the sun's touch.

4. Orbelyan's (Selim) Caravanserai

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For centuries, the Selim Pass served as a vital link of the Great Silk Road, connecting the bustling markets of Vayots Dzor and Gegharkunik. Along its winding mountain trails, long caravans of camels once moved slowly, loaded with silks, spices and other precious goods bound for the West. Exhausted travelers and their animals desperately needed rest and in 1332 Prince Chesar Orbelyan ordered the construction of a spacious caravanserai at the top of the pass.

5. Hin Areni Wine Factory

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Vayots Dzor is a land where sun and stone have guarded the secret of wine for centuries and the village of Areni became the ancient key to that mystery. Deep within its caves, archaeologists uncovered the world's oldest winemaking complex, proof that grape and man were bound together on this land thousands of years ago. Since then, every vine of Areni seems to carry the memory of the ages, offering berries filled with the fragrance of ancient Armenia.

6. Jermuk

50-60 min Details: Jermuk
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In the northeastern part of Vayots Dzor, cradled by mountain ridges and thick forests, lies Jermuk, a resort town whose name has long been synonymous with well-being and serenity. Here, in the hush of the highlands, springs emerge – each with its own taste and character, ranging from crystal-clear fresh water to mineral-rich flows that for centuries have been used to heal and restore strength.

7. Jermuk Waterfall

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In the spa town of Jermuk, nestled in the picturesque valley of Vayots Dzor, one of Armenia's most enchanting waterfalls plunges into the gorge with sparkling streams. From a height of 68 meters it cascades in foamy whiteness, filling the air with mist and thunder, turning the landscape into a living symphony of water, rock and light.

Inclusions

  • Professional drivers

  • Air-conditioned vehicles

  • Bottled water

  • Free pick-up & drop-off within Yerevan

  • Vehicle & passengers insurance

  • Extra stops on the route upon request

Exclusions

  • Significant deviations from the route

  • Alcoholic beverages if lunch option selected

  • Audio guides

  • Wi-Fi in the vehicles

Booking conditions

Cancellation & modification

Meet our Guides

Arev Makhsudyan

Arev Makhsudyan

HY EN

My name is Arev (which means "Sun"). I am an English-speaking tour guide in Armenia, working since 2018. If you choose me as your guide, you will learn a lot about Armenian history, nature, culture, and traditions – and as a bonus, I'll perform Armenian traditional folk songs for you.

Melania Hakobyan

Melania Hakobyan

FR HY

I am Melania Hakobyan, a member of the Armenian Association of Professional Guides and the Armenian Tourism Federation. Since 2017, I have had the honor of accompanying tourists and official delegations, presenting not only Armenia's ancient history but also the warmth and legendary hospitality of my people. Guiding is not just a profession for me; it is a mission to represent my homeland with pride and love. If you wish to discover Armenia not through the eyes of a tourist but through the soul of an Armenian, it would be a great honor for me to accompany you.

Arevik Avetisyan

Arevik Avetisyan

HY DE

I'm Arevik Avetisyan, German-speaking tour guide. Why choose me? My deep knowledge of Armenia’s heritage, combined with fluent German communication and sense of humour, ensures an engaging and fun experience for every guest. With me as your guide, the guests will discover Armenia not just through sights, but through authentic stories, local connections, and unforgettable moments.

Tigran Balyan

Tigran Balyan

RU HY EN

Hello, I am Tigran a guide in my wonderful and lovely Armenia ❤️ I am guiding in my country and with this passion I can share kindness, joy and smiles to my tourists. My experience is already 7 plus years and I enjoy architecture, wine and mountains in amazing Armenia.

Reviews

Irene Zatserklianna

Ukraine

13.05.2024

Огромная благодарность за экскурсию! Были на Севан, масса впечатлений от природных красот. Все вовремя, без опозданий, точно и четко! Водитель Марк-отдельное спасибо!

Наталья Королева

Russia

31.07.2022

Сегодня была незабываемая поездка на озеро Севан. Великолепно организованные экскурсии с посещением древнейших монастырей, увлекательный, просто захватывающий рассказ гида Ерванда, прекрасный водитель Армен, фантастическая красота самого озера Севан - одним словом, одна из лучших, запоминающихся экскурсий (довелось посетить много городов и стран). Огромное спасибо туристической компании, Ерванду и Армену! Необыкновенно внимательные люди, прекрасная организация, истинная забота о туристах (о гостях, как нас здесь заботливо называют)