3-Day Tour to Western Armenia | Ani, Mush, Kars, Van

We’ll reach the Akhalkalaki–Ardahan checkpoint via Bavra. Armenian driver to Akhalkalaki, then continue with a Kurdish driver and vehicle.

Our first stop in Western Armenia. Known for its freshwater, we’ll have breakfast by the lake. Bring food and water in advance.

Walking tour (~3 hours): Ani Cathedral, Church of the Redeemer, St. Gregory the Illuminator Church, Church of the Holy Apostles, Abughamrents St. Gregory, Tigran Honents Church, city walls.

Visit Kars Fortress, Church of the Apostles, Vardan Bridge, site of poet Charents’ former home, old Armenian quarter.

Bridge at the junction of Araks and Murts Rivers, near the Erzrum–Mush road. Not in use now.

Overnight stay in Mush.

After breakfast: distant view of old Armenian district, grave of Gevorg Chaush, ruins of St. Marine Church.

Near the Mush–Khnus road, where national hero Gevorg Chaush was killed.

Visit the Church of the Holy Cross, a masterpiece of Armenian architecture.

Formed by lava flows from Mounts Sipan and Nemrut. After the ride, enjoy lunch and taste Van's famous tarekh fish.

Overnight stay in Van.

Urartian fortress (9th–7th c. BC) in ancient Tushpa. 30-minute uphill walk. See royal tombs and the old city of Van.

See endemic cats through glass. For petting/feeding, small entrance fee or purchase of cat food is required.

According to the epic Sasna Tsrer, hero Mher retreated here out of disillusionment with the world.

An active volcanic cone marking the watershed between Aratsani, Euphrates, and Araks rivers.

About 15 meters high, located on the river of the same name.

Short stop for a scenic view of biblical Mount Ararat.

The only river flowing entirely through the Armenian Highlands. Length: 1,072 km.