Hiking, Trekking and Camping in Armenia
Discover the best hiking, trekking and camping experiences in Armenia, from Mount Aragats and Lake Sevan to the monasteries of the Caucasus.
Photo: Armenak Margarian · CC BY-SA 4.0 · via Wikimedia Commons
Travelling to Armenia guarantees a wonderful stay. It is also the promise of discovering countless historical monuments and a people renowned for their legendary generosity. Setting off for Armenia is likewise the chance to enjoy remarkable hikes, treks and camping trips that reveal the country’s mysteries. Here are the experiences most highly recommended by the country’s tourism specialists.
Photo: Beko · CC BY-SA 4.0 · via Wikimedia Commons.
Trekking Mount Aragats
Climbing Mount Aragats is the finest trek to undertake in Armenia. Choosing this adventure means being certain to discover a picturesque landscape across the mountain’s three other summits and its enormous crater. After a picnic at the top, don’t forget to descend towards Armenia’s highest point, at 4,090 metres.
You can also discover Lake Sevan, the world’s second-largest freshwater mountain lake. It is the country’s “Blue Pearl”, set at an altitude of 2,000 metres and surrounded by mountains.
After the trek, be sure to explore the region’s cultural and natural heritage, in particular the “Temple of the Sun”, the Temple of Garni, the Repustre monastery and more.
A Walk at the Foot of Mount Ararat
Hiking enthusiasts will love this walk at the foot of Mount Ararat. To make the most of it, there is nothing better than a few short stays with local families to discover the country’s culture.
This hike at the foot of Mount Ararat allows you to discover the landscape of the north of the country, nicknamed “Armenian Switzerland”, along with the majestic fortresses of Amberd and Haghpat. You will no doubt fall under the spell of the peaceful shores of Lake Sevan, one of the country’s emblems, as well as the southern provinces with their cave villages and fairy chimneys. Don’t miss the monasteries of Tatev and Noravank, among the most beautiful sites in Armenia.
A Hike from Lake Sevan
From Lake Sevan, you can set out on a hike to discover the Temple of Garni, made up of a citadel and a pagan temple. Continue your adventure to admire the Garni cave, as well as the Geghard monastery, listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Ski Touring on Armenia’s Volcanoes
Are you a fan of skiing and hiking? Armenia is certainly the finest playground for mountain lovers. Winter sports are admittedly still little known in the country, but many ski tourers come from the four corners of the world to climb Mount Ara, Mount Taghenis, Mount Athis, Mount Sevsar, Mount Teksar and the Lesser Caucasus. You are sure to enjoy this route!
Photo: Մարիամ Տերտերյան · CC BY-SA 4.0 · via Wikimedia Commons.
Lastiver Camping
If you happen to be passing through Lastiver, you can set up on the campsite and stay the night. This region is the most highly recommended spot for rest and photography. And, the icing on the cake, it is home to more than 625 plant species and varieties.
As a reminder, Lastiver is a region in the north-east of the country, in the outskirts of Yenokavan. It is a 100-metre-deep gorge covered in dense forest. The striking sight of the many caves within the gorge will not leave you indifferent! Do note that some caves are not easily accessible.
Trekking at the Gates of the Caucasus
Set at the heart of the Caucasus, Armenia is an ideal playground for hiking fans. Between lakes, mountains, forests and volcanoes, a trek at the gates of the Caucasus is sure to delight you. For this, there is nothing better than setting aside 8 days to explore the whole region.
Over 8 days of walking, you will have the chance to discover several massifs, in particular the Geghama mountain range, as well as the famous Mount Aragats. From Lake Vanki and Mount Vishapasar, with their contrasting green and volcanic landscapes, don’t forget to reach the Lake Sevan region, one of the country’s emblems. To round off the trek in style, there is nothing like climbing the slopes of Mount Aragats to reach the highest peak in Armenia.
A Hike to Kobayr Monastery
If you have planned a visit to the village of Odzun, don’t forget to hike to Kobayr monastery. The round trip takes about five hours, and the frescoes waiting at the end repay every step. Back in Odzun, visit the monastery, the domed basilica and the village’s other points of interest!
From the village of Odzun, you can also reach Sanahin monastery. From there, it is possible to hike to the village of Haghpat. You will certainly fall for the charm of the beautiful landscapes that shelter many major sites.
Camping near Lake Gosh
You can camp in the wilderness near Lake Gosh to relax and take the country at your own pace. A night under the stars beside the lake is hard to beat. To uncover the mysteries of this region, it is advisable to call on a professional trekking guide. That way, you can discover the majestic lakes, namely Lake Parz, Lake Sevan and Lake Gosh, as well as the ancient monasteries of Sevanavank and Goshavank.
Beyond the landscapes and the monuments, your journey to Armenia will bring you face to face with a particularly warm and welcoming people. Tourists are treated as honoured guests. You will therefore have the pleasure of discovering Armenian culture and, above all, tasting a cuisine full of aromatic herbs, all while raising a glass of brandy with a population delighted to welcome you!
As a reminder, the cost of living in Armenia is lower than in Europe. There is every reason, then, to visit this country for hiking, trekking or camping. You are unlikely to be disappointed!
Plan your visit
Ready to lace up your boots? Build your own itinerary or book an all-inclusive tour with local guides who know these trails, and get inspired by the best things to do in Armenia.
