15400397572226

Archaeological Tour in Armenia

Armenia
1,682 USD1,614 USD
9 days/8 nights
Small Group (2-13)
Any Date
Age: 15+
Half Board

Description

Archaeological Tour to Armenia will lead you to the most important archaeological sites. You will learn about valuable finds and exhibits, visit the historical places of the country. This tour is created for anyone who is interested in archaeological excavations and wants to learn more about the centuries-old history of the country. Together with AraraTour you will have an unforgettable journey through time!

Highlights

  • Visit the main archeological sites of the country

  • Plunge into the ancient times and learn about the findings of Chalcolithic, Bronze Age and the Middle Ages

  • Have a look at the remains of the oldest winery in the world

  • Explore ancient petroglyphs

  • Have a look at the cuneiform inscription belonging to Urartian kings

  • Explore Echmiadzin Cathedral - the mother church of Armenian Apostolic Church and one of the oldest cathedrals in the world

Route icon
Day 1-Arrival - City tour around Yerevan

After your arrival at Zvartnots airport, we will organize a transfer to the hotel for you. Your unforgettable journey will start from the ancient capital of Armenia – Yerevan. Walking along the city streets, you will enjoy the warm atmosphere, friendly smiles of local people and the unique coloring of this wonderful ancient city. This day you will also visit the Institute of the ancient manuscripts, Matenadaran, which is a repository of both ancient Armenian and world’s manuscripts. It offers the collection of more than 16,000 manuscripts that narrate about the ancient history of Armenian people and belong to the chroniclers of 10-13 centuries. After lunch our tour will continue to the History Museum of Armenia, where you will plunge into the ancient times, walk through the dusty streets of the old city, and get acquainted with the everyday life of the 19th-century inhabitants. The museum contains over 400,000 artifacts representing the history of the country.

Overnight:Hotel in Yerevan
Meals:Lunch
Matenadaran - Republic Square
Day 2-Metsamor - Echmiadzin - Shengavit

The second day prepares lots of interesting things for archeology lovers. After breakfast, you will go to the fortress-city of Metsamor, which is famous for its archaeological finds. Archaeological excavations here started in 1965 and continue till these days. During the excavations different cultural layers were found, which date to the Eneolithic, three periods of the Bronze Age, the period of iron developing and Middle Ages. The most famous finds are: agate frog - plummet and carnelian seal with Egyptian hieroglyphs belonging to the Babylonian kings. There is a Historical and Archaeological Museum in the city, which will introduce you to different archaeological finds. Next, the tour will continue to Holy Echmiadzin (religious center of all Armenians), and after a short lunch a wonderful journey to Shengavit is waiting for you. Shengavit settlement is one of the most important archaeological sites of the early Bronze Age period in Armenia. It consists of four archaeological levels. In this territory, many interesting ancient things were found, including a variety of tools and household.

Overnight:Hotel in Yerevan
Meals:Breakfast, Lunch
Cuneiform of King Argishti I - History Museum of Armenia
Day 3-Geghard - Garni - Erebuni

The third day begins with a tour to Garni and Geghard. Cave monastery of Geghard is an example of medieval Armenian architecture of the 13 th century and is included in the UNESCO World Heritage List. After a trip to the monastery, the tour continues to the village of Garni, where the temple Garni built in the Hellenistic style in 76 AD is located. In the village of Garni we will organize a delicious lunch, after which we are going to visit the Museum of History of Yerevan. Crossing the threshold of the museum, you will begin an exciting and unforgettable journey through time. It offers different exhibits and valuable archaeological finds that were discovered during excavations of the fortress of Erebuni. Leaving the museum, you can buy some copies of various exhibits and take home not only unforgettable memories but also some pieces of cultural peculiarities of Armenia. Near the museum the remains of the Erebuni fortress are located. You’ll see how people lived in 782 BC, as well as walk through the different rooms of the fortress.

Overnight:Hotel in Yerevan
Meals:Breakfast, Lunch
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Geghard - Garni - Erebuni
Day 4-Khor Virap - Artashat - Noravank - Areni

On the fourth day, the excursion will start from the south of Armenia. Here, about 40 km from Yerevan, on the site of the ancient capital of Armenia, stands the monastery of Khor Virap. Near the monastery, there is an underground prison, where St. Gregory the Illuminator was imprisoned for 13 years because of his Christian faith. Nowhere will you find such a beautiful view of the Biblical Mount Ararat. Here you can also see the ruins of the ancient city Artashat. Excavations have discovered amazing things in this area: coins, stamps, the remains of the temple, citadel and markets. Further, the tour continues to the Noravank Monastery and then after delicious dinner, to the Areni Caves. Archeological excavations have started here since 2007, and lots of materials dated to 4200-3500 BC have been found. The greatest interest and popularity have the findings of the oldest shoes and the oldest winery in the world. This winery includes a tub for fermentation, a wine press and vessels for wine storage. It is suggested that the winery is 1,000 years older than the one found in 1963 on the West Bank.

Overnight:hotel in Yerevan
Meals:Breakfast, Lunch
Petroglyphs - Areni Cave
Day 5-Tatev - Karahunj - Hermon

After a small breakfast in Goris we continue our way to Tatev – the gem of Armenian medieval architecture. Here, anyone who wishes can take the longest cable in the world, which extends over the gorge Vorotan (depth – 320 meters). A little later, after a delicious lunch, we will visit an interesting and surprising place – Zorats Karer (Karahunj). Zorats Karer is a prehistoric archaeological site, where at an altitude of 1770 meters above sea level, an ancient megalithic complex is located. Just from the road you will see a series of giant red-brown monoliths that stretch from the south to the north, and form a perfect circle in the center. It has been proven that Karahunj once served as an observatory, built in VI millennium BC. In many stelae, there are holes that correspond to the location of stars in the sky 7.5 thousand years ago. Hence our way lies to Hermon, where you will stay for the night.

Overnight:Hotel in Hermon
Meals:Breakfast, Lunch
Tatev - Karahunj
Day 6-Muradsar - Hermon

The sixth day starts with breakfast at the hotel and then continues to Muradsar Mount. You will have a long and unforgettable journey in off-road cars. Here, on the cliffs of the Mount Muradsar, about a hundred amazing petroglyphs were found. In addition to studying the petroglyphs, we will hold a picnic here and go back to the hotel in Hermon (26 km). In the hotel LucyTour you can have a good rest and a good time. There is a billiard, spa salon, sauna, and various other services for a pleasant and comfortable leisure.

Overnight:Hotel in Hermon
Meals:Breakfast, Lunch
Petroglyphs
Day 7-Selim Pass - Lchashen - Yerevan

On the seventh day, you will visit Selim Pass, which is located at an altitude of 2500m. It offers a beautiful view of the surroundings. In ancient times, the Great Silk Road passed here, and Selim Caravanserai provided caravans with lodging. Next, we continue our way to the village Lchashen, in the eastern part of which there is a historic district – one of the most important archaeological sites in Armenia. Here, a few decades ago, there was a decrease in water level in Lake Sevan, and archaeologists discovered the amazing ancient tombs. Now at this territory, you can see a complex of archaeological sites, which includes a cyclopean fortress, burial grounds, and a big stone with a cuneiform inscription of Urartian king Argishti the First. After studying the monuments, we will return to Yerevan, where you will have a rest at the hotel.

Overnight:Hotel in Yerevan
Meals:Breakfast, Lunch
Selim Pass - Sevanavank
Day 8-Agarak - Oshakan

On the last day, we will go to the historical and cultural reserve Agarak that should not be missed by any archeology lover. This settlement Agarak is located 25 km from Yerevan. Since 2001, archaeological excavations are carried out here, which showed that the area began to be settled in the first quarter of the third millennium. During large-scale studies, different ancient materials were discovered such as remains of ancient streets, miscellaneous goods of Van Kingdom, tombs, pottery of the 8-6 century BC, as well as coins of the Hellenistic and Roman periods. After the tour, a wonderful picnic in the fresh air will be organized for you, and then our way continues to the village Oshakan. Here the tomb of great Armenian enlightener and creator of alphabet Mesrop Mashtots is located. And next to the grave is the church of St. Mesrop Mashtots. After the tour, we will return to the city, where you will have a great opportunity to visit shops and buy different souvenirs for family and friends. And at the end of the day, we will arrange a farewell dinner with live music for you.

Overnight:Hotel in Yerevan
Meals:Breakfast, Lunch
Oshakan - Agarak
Day 9-Departure

Transfer to the airport, departure

The tour price includes

  • Private airport transfers according to your flight information

  • Half board (breakfast + lunch )

  • Accommodation in European class hotels 8 nights (double rooms with free Wi-Fi)

  • All transfers in air-conditioned transport (vaccinated drivers)

  • Service of professional archeologist – guide for 8 days (vaccinated guide)

  • All admission fees

  • 3 bottles (0,5 litre) of water per day per person

The tour price doesn`t include

  • Flights (available upon request)

  • Medical insurance

  • Visa Fee

  • Additional night

    80 USD
  • 3* Single supplement

    138 USD
  • 4* upgrade p/p (dbl/twin room)

    84 USD

Reviews (4)

Guido B.

Good morning Tatev!! I really enjoyed my stay and I am fascinated by your country and culture. Undoubtedly wonderful! I have very much appreciated the service provided by you and Ara: really very good professional service! I have already some friends asking suggestions since would like to visit and will share your contact

Review on Tripadvisor

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Ilona Gajdikova
Dear Liana, thank you, I am back in Iraq fully immersed in work :D
Once more thank you very much for the really perfect organization and your great communication. I was really impressed by your professionalism and as it was just second time in my life I asked somebody else to prepare my holiday, for sure I am happy I made such a good choice with your agency!
I enjoyed my holiday and I really appreciated Levon as a guide because he is a wonderful source of information!
I will do my best to come back to you with more detailed feedback soon, when I will find more time to focus on it.
I wish you many satisfied clients!

Warm regards and all the best,

Ilona
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Janet Rounds Dunn
My nephew, Daniel, my friend, Diane, and I took an amazing archaeological tour of Armenia this Sept 2016. Arara's Liana Levonyan arranged this most perfect private tour for us, providing our multi-talented guide, Armine and dear driver, Andrinak.
Armine is a working archaeologist and college professor (not to mention a singer/songwriter) who personally worked on most of the sites we visited. She explained in meaningful detail what we were seeing and her professional theories - connecting the importance of ancient Armenia to the development of our western world. Andrinak, a former engineer, was so professional; knowing shortcuts, more "comfortable" routes, provided help for us over rocks and up steep hills, and ensured the car was clean and comfortable. These two quickly became our teachers, treasured friends and family to us.
We saw sites and evidence of huge, walled prehistoric cities, many Iron Age civilizations, artifacts in national and local museums, burial sites of beloved warriors and kings, rock pictographs, 11th and 12th century monasteries and early Armenian churches. We spoke with archaeologists who were currently working on the sites and even jumped down into graves and pits for closer, first-hand looks! Truly a once in a lifetime experience for us!
Hotels and staff were great and food was delicious and abundant. We left our trip in love with this beautiful, historic land and its people.
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More Reviews

Trip Maps

Trip map
Trip map

Why book with Arara?

THE BEST PRICE IN THE MARKET FOR HIGH-QUALITY SERVICE
Travelers on the tour mostly from the USA, UK, Australia and Canada
LICENSED AIR CONDITIONED TRANSPORT
CENTRAL LOCATED HOTELS
OWN AGENCY IN ARMENIA, GEORGIA AND UZBEKISTAN
GUIDES WITH 8+ YEAR EXPERIENCE

Accommodation

Packing Checklist

Documents:Passport, flight ticket (printed or electronic), insurance, visa (if required)
First aid kit:bandaids / plasters, special medicine or drugs in permanent use, antibacterial gel/wipes, antiseptic cream, lip balm
Essentials:Moneybelt, laptop/tablet/phone, chargers, camera with extra memory cards and batteries, outlet adapter
Credit cards and cash:Credit cards can be used in all capital/big cities at hotels, restaurants, shopping malls, supermarkets, etc. EUR, USD and GBP can be exchanged into the local currency at exchange places and banks.
Dressing:There are no restrictions regarding clothes; scarf or shawl is advisable for churches (obligatory in Georgia for women)
Spring / Autumn:long pants/jeans, long sleeve blouses, light raincoat, jacket, comfortable waterproof shoes, umbrella
Summer:T-shirts, shorts, long sleeve blouses for evening, sandals, umbrella, sun protection, sun glasses, sunhat, SPF sunscreen cream
Winter:Warm coat, warm wool sweater, long warm trousers, long boots (waterproof), scarf, gloves

FAQ

How do I get from the airport for Archaeological Tour in Armenia?

Your Archaeological Tour in Armenia includes private airport transfers. Upon arrival at the airport, our driver will meet you with a sign displaying your name and take you to your hotel. Transfers are arranged according to your flight schedule, whether you arrive early in the morning or late at night.

Are flights and airport transfers included in the price of Archaeological Tour in Armenia?

Your package includes private airport transfers, but international flights are not included.

Are the tour vehicles air-conditioned?

Yes! All our vehicles are equipped with air conditioning for your comfort.

What time is hotel check-in and check-out?

Hotel check-in usually starts at 2:00 PM, and check-out is between 11:00 AM and 12:00 PM. If you arrive earlier or leave later, you can store your luggage at the hotel.

Can I request an early check-in?

If you arrive early, we can arrange an extra hotel night for you so you can check in right away.

What standard of accommodation should I expect during Archaeological Tour in Armenia?

You’ll stay in comfortable 3-star European-style centrally located hotels, with the option to upgrade to 4-star or 5-star accommodations upon request. In regional areas, accommodations are clean and cozy, offering an authentic experience of local hospitality.

Is Wi-Fi available in hotels during this Archaeological Tour in Armenia?

Yes, all hotels offer free Wi-Fi. Some of our vehicles also have Wi-Fi, though coverage may vary in remote areas.

Can you accommodate dietary restrictions?

Yes! Please let us know in advance about any dietary restrictions, and we’ll do our best to accommodate them.

What currencies do you accept for payment?

We accept payments in USD (U.S. dollars), EUR (euros), GBP (British pounds), AUD (Australian dollars), and CAD (Canadian dollars).

What is the tipping culture on this Archaeological Tour in Armenia?

Tipping is not mandatory but is appreciated. If you are satisfied with the service, a typical tip is €10–15 per day for the tour guide and €5–7 per day for the driver. In restaurants, a 10% service charge is often included, but you may leave an additional tip if the service was excellent.

Can I change my travel dates if needed?

Yes! If your plans change, contact your travel agent via email with your new preferred dates. We’ll check availability and assist with the necessary changes.

What types of electrical plugs are used during the tour?

All three countries use Type C and Type F plugs (Europlug), so make sure to bring a suitable adapter if needed.

Is Archaeological Tour in Armenia safe?

Yes! Your safety is our top priority. We carefully select all destinations and ensure our tours run smoothly and securely!

Essential Information

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