About this experience
The millennia-old Armenian land is a home to architectural masterpieces and pristine nature. You will learn about the history of construction, erected in the image of ancient Greek temples, understand why Geghard Monastery is so important for world Christianity, talk to local residents, and, of course, taste Armenia by trying the best lavash in the country. The roots of the country and its modern life, national cuisine, and the habits of local residents - on the tour, I will reveal to you the most colorful sides of my millennia-old homeland.
What to expect
Return to antiquity
In the ancient settlement of Garni, on the edge of a cliff, stands the eponymous temple dedicated to the Sun God Mihr for two thousand years. You will admire a monument of Hellenistic culture with Armenian elements, and I will reveal its secrets - for example, how this witness of paganism was destined to 'survive' to our days. Time travel will be complemented by meeting other sights of Garni. You will see a 7th-century church, the ruins of royal palaces, and an ancient bathhouse. I will tell you about the history of these structures, and then you will enjoy the view of the Azat River Gorge.
If desired, you can descend into the gorge by off-road vehicle, where a natural wonder awaits you - giant basalt columns of volcanic origin with the poetic name 'Symphony of Stones'.
Meeting with a Christian sanctuary
Geghard Monastery is a medieval heritage that will amaze you with its rock-carved chambers. You will trace the fate of this legendary building: I will tell you how even in the era of paganism, Christians lived here and where the monastery got its name from. Let's also talk about interesting details from Geghard's life: why it attracts pilgrims from all over the world and who has chosen the monastery today.
Armenian landscapes, poetry, and national cuisine
Not far from ancient Garni, you will taste the most delicious lavash in the whole country, and if desired, you can even bake it yourself. Here you will also communicate with local residents and learn about their habits and customs. Another pride of Armenia is its natural beauty. We will drive in the upper reaches of the Azat River, along the Gegama Mountain range, and on the way to this picturesque area, we will stop at the Eghishe Charents Arch - talk about the life and work of the poet-patriot and admire the biblical Mount Ararat and ancient Yerevan.
Organizational details
- On the website, you make an advance payment, the remainder to the guide in local currency on the spot
- Additional expenses: for all entrance tickets and descent into the 'Symphony of Stones' canyon - 6000 dram/person
- If desired: lunch (about 8,000 dram/person), lavash baking workshop for a group of up to 10 people - 15,000 dram, masterclass of playing the duduk in the Garni temple - 20,000 dram/group
- The tour can be conducted for a larger number of travelers. The cost for each additional person is 20,000 dram
- It is possible to order services of a professional photographer and videographer: take nice photos for memory or social media, shoot a trendy short video, or even have a creative photoshoot. You can discuss all the details with our photographer before the trip and ask questions. From each location, you will receive about 5 photos and a small video. The service cost is 60,000 dram
- The tour will be conducted by me or another guide from our team
