2 Days and 1 Night Private Tour to Khor Virap, Areni, Noravank, Goris, Tatev.

Set out on a captivating two-day, one-night private tour through the heart of Armenia. Enjoy the country’s rich cultural and historical tapestry, from the breathtaking vistas of Mount Ararat to the ancient winemaking heritage of the Areni region. Discover the architectural marvels of Noravank Monastery, the natural splendor of cascading waterfalls, and the intriguing history of a bygone era preserved in the cave village. This journey promises to unveil the diverse wonders that make Armenia a truly unique and fascinating destination.

This experience made our list of the 3 Best 2 Day Tours In Yerevan.

Key Points

• A 2-day, 1-night private tour exploring cultural and historical attractions around Yerevan, Armenia, including Khor Virap, Areni, Noravank, Goris, and Tatev.
• Visitors will have the opportunity to experience 6,000 years of Armenian winemaking, visit the world’s earliest known winery, and explore the Noravank Monastery.
• The tour includes visits to Jermuk and Shaki Waterfalls, as well as the ancient megalithic complex of Karahundj, known as the "Armenian Stonehenge."
• Highlights of the second day include crossing the Khndzoresk Swinging Bridge, exploring the historic cave village of Old Khndzoresk, and taking the Wings of Tatev cableway to the Tatev Monastery.
• Transportation is provided by a private, air-conditioned vehicle, and meal recommendations are given, with expenses covered by the travelers.

Tour Overview

This private 2-day, 1-night tour explores the rich cultural and historical attractions in the region around Yerevan, Armenia.

It covers over 10 major sites, including Khor Virap, Areni, Noravank, Goris, and Tatev. Travelers will be transported in a private, air-conditioned vehicle and have opportunities for photography at the best spots.

The tour provides recommendations for lunch and dinner, though meals are at the traveler’s own expense.

With a duration of 2 days and 1 night, this tour offers an immersive look into Armenia’s history, architecture, and natural wonders.

Day 1 Itinerary

Commencing the tour, visitors are first driven to the historic site of Khor Virap, located just an hour’s drive from Yerevan. This former prison of Gregory the Illuminator holds immense historical significance.

Next, they’ll visit the Areni Wine Factory, renowned for its over 6,000 years of winemaking tradition, where a wine tasting is included.

Afterward, they’ll explore the Areni-1 Cave, the site of the earliest known winery and shoe.

Continuing the journey, the group will reach the Noravank Monastery, featuring the captivating two-storey Surb Astvatsatsin church.

The day concludes with visits to the Jermuk and Shaki Waterfalls, as well as the Karahundj – Armenia’s answer to Stonehenge.

Khor Virap

Khor Virap is a historic site located just an hour’s drive from Yerevan, the capital of Armenia. This ancient monastery was once the site of a deep pit where Gregory the Illuminator, the patron saint of Armenia, was imprisoned for 13 years. Today, visitors can explore the monastery complex and descend into the pit, gaining a deeper understanding of the site’s rich history.

Feature	Description
Location	1 hour from Yerevan
Historical Significance	Former prison of Gregory the Illuminator
Admission	Free

The stunning views of the nearby Mount Ararat, a sacred mountain for Armenians, add to the site’s allure, making Khor Virap a must-visit destination on any Armenian adventure.

Areni Wine Factory and Cave

After visiting the historic Khor Virap, the tour moves on to the Areni Wine Factory, where visitors can explore Armenia’s rich winemaking tradition spanning over 6,000 years.

This stop offers a unique opportunity to:

1. Learn about the long-standing heritage of Armenian viticulture.
2. Participate in a wine tasting session to sample the region’s renowned vintages.
3. Explore the Areni-1 Cave, which houses the world’s earliest known winery and shoe.
4. Appreciate the dedication and craftsmanship that go into producing the country’s celebrated wines.

The tour then continues to the Noravank Monastery, where travelers can admire the architectural beauty of the two-storey Surb Astvatsatsin church.

Noravank Monastery

From the Areni Wine Factory and Cave, the tour continues onward to the Noravank Monastery, situated 122 km from Yerevan.

This 13th-century monastery features the stunning two-story Surb Astvatsatsin church, known for its intricate Armenian architecture. Visitors can admire the monastery’s striking red rock backdrop and ornate khatchkars (Armenian cross-stones).

The site was a significant center of religious and cultural activity in medieval Armenia. Travelers will have around 30 minutes to explore the grounds and take in the serene atmosphere before moving on to the next destination, the Jermuk Waterfall.

Waterfalls

Departing from the historic Noravank Monastery, the tour continues its journey to the picturesque mountain town of Jermuk, home to the stunning Jermuk Waterfall.

Cascading down from a height of 70 meters, the waterfall’s powerful flow creates a mesmerizing display of nature’s grandeur.

Next, the tour visits the Shaki Waterfall, nestled in the Syunik Province. Standing at 18 meters tall, this waterfall is a popular spot for hikers and photographers alike.

The tour also includes stops at:

1. Karahundj, Armenia’s ancient "Stonehenge" site.
2. Khndzoresk Swinging Bridge, a 160-meter suspended footbridge built by local villagers.
3. The historic cave village of Old Khndzoresk.
4. The record-breaking Wings of Tatev cableway, the world’s longest reversible aerial tramway.

Karahundj

Beyond the picturesque Jermuk Waterfall and Shaki Waterfall, the tour visits Karahundj, Armenia’s ancient "Stonehenge" site.

This megalithic complex, dating back thousands of years, features rows of vertical stones arranged in a seemingly astronomical pattern. Historians believe Karahundj may have served as an ancient observatory, with the stones aligned to track the movements of celestial bodies.

Wandering amidst the towering monoliths, visitors can imagine the mysteries and rituals that unfolded here centuries ago. The 30-minute stop provides a glimpse into Armenia’s captivating pre-historic past, complementing the tour’s exploration of the country’s rich cultural and natural heritage.

Day 2 Itinerary

The second day of the private tour begins with a visit to the Khndzoresk Swinging Bridge. This 160-meter-long bridge, built by the villagers without modern machinery, provides a thrilling experience as visitors cross the chasm.

Next, the tour explores the historic cave village of Old Khndzoresk, with its natural and man-made caves that once housed a population of around 15,000 people.

The tour then takes the famous "Wings of Tatev" cableway, the longest reversible aerial tramway in the world, to reach the Tatev Monastery.

This 9th-century spiritual and cultural center is the final stop of the day, allowing visitors to enjoy the rich history and architecture of this remarkable site.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the Maximum Group Size for This Tour?

The maximum group size for this private tour is up to 3 people. The tour price is $600.00 per group, making it suitable for small groups or families.

Are Any Meals Included During the Tour?

The tour doesn’t include any meals, as the dining recommendations for lunch and dinner are at the traveler’s own expense. However, a wine tasting is provided during the visit to the Areni Wine Factory.

Is the Tour Available in Languages Other Than English?

The tour is available in several languages, including English, Russian, and Armenian. Customers can select their preferred language when booking the tour to ensure they receive a personalized experience.

Can the Tour Itinerary Be Customized to Include Additional Sites?

The tour itinerary can be customized to include additional sites, as it’s a private tour. Travelers can discuss their preferences with the tour provider and create a personalized itinerary that meets their interests and needs.

What Type of Vehicle Is Used for Transportation During the Tour?

The tour uses a private, air-conditioned vehicle for transportation. This comfortable mode of transport allows guests to travel between the various sites on the itinerary in a convenient and enjoyable manner.

Recap

This private 2-day, 1-night tour through Armenia provides a comprehensive exploration of the country’s rich cultural and natural wonders. Visitors will marvel at the breathtaking views of Mount Ararat, enjoy Armenia’s winemaking heritage, and discover the stunning architecture of historic monasteries. The tour also showcases the country’s natural beauty, from the cascading waterfalls to the thrilling Khndzoresk Swinging Bridge. It’s an unforgettable journey through Armenia’s captivating landscapes and centuries-old legacy.