When is this hiking tour available?

This tour runs on demand with a custom date. Please contact the operator to confirm an available day.

What time do we start and when do we return?

The tour starts at 08:00 and ends at 21:00. It is a one-day tour with no overnight stay.

How long is this tour?

The tour lasts 1 day. There is no overnight stay.

How early should I arrive before departure?

Please arrive 15 minutes before the start time. This helps organize boarding smoothly.

What stops are included in this route?

The route includes Smbataberd, Zorats Temple, and Tsakhats Kar. The hike starts from the village of Artabuyk.

Where does the hike begin?

The hike begins from the village of Artabuyk. From there the group heads to Smbataberd and the other stops.

What is the difficulty level of the hike, and is it suitable for beginners?

The hike is about 6 km and of medium difficulty. It may suit you if you are used to walking, but it is best to assess your physical fitness.

What should I wear and bring with me?

Participants are advised to wear hiking boots, warm clothing, and a protective hat. You should also bring enough food and water for the whole day.

What kind of transport is used for the tour?

Tours run on a comfortable minivan or bus depending on group size.

Are seats assigned in advance?

Seats are not pre-assigned; please arrive a bit early to pick your spot.

Is the transport heated in winter?

Yes, the transport is fully heated in winter.

Is there Wi-Fi in the transport?

There is usually no Wi-Fi in the transport, but mobile internet works on most of the route.

In what languages does the guide conduct the tour?

Tours are conducted in Armenian, Russian and English. If there are non-local guests in the group, the guide can speak two languages.

Are your guides local experts?

Our guides are local experts familiar with the history, culture and the sites being visited.

How much is this tour for one local adult?

The price for one local adult is 8000 AMD (Armenian dram). Please ask the operator for the foreign guest price.

Are there child discounts for this day tour?

Yes. For day tours the policy is: 0-3 years free, 3-6 years 50% discount, 7+ full price.

If we come as a group of 5, is there a group discount?

Yes. Groups of 5+ get 500 AMD off per person on day tours.

How can I pay for the tour?

You can pay by card in the office, by bank transfer, or in cash at the office. Payment is made in advance to confirm the booking.

What information is needed for booking?

Booking requires your phone number and full names of all participants. Bookings are accepted until the day before.

If I can’t join at the last moment, can I cancel?

Day tour can be cancelled 1 day before. After mutual confirmation no refund is issued and the date cannot be changed.

Will the tour take place if the weather is bad?

In case of severe weather or road closures the tour may be cancelled or rescheduled. Since this is a hiking tour, we recommend checking conditions in advance.

Are meals and entrance fees included in the price?

Meals are not included; you may bring your own food or pay on site. Entrance fees are also not included and are usually paid in cash on site.

Hiking tour to Smbataberd Fortress and Zorats Temple

special

As part of this tour, we will visit Smbataberd, one of the oldest and largest fortresses in Vayots Dzor. We will start the hike from the village of Artabuyk, we will visit Smbataberd, and the Zorats Temple. P.S. Please note that we will...

08:00 – 21:00 · full day Armenian Pickup Free cancellation up to 24h before. 50% refund within 24h. No refund after tour starts.

About this tour

As part of this tour, we will visit Smbataberd, one of the oldest and largest fortresses in Vayots Dzor.

We will start the hike from the village of Artabuyk, we will visit Smbataberd, and the Zorats Temple.

Itinerary

1 Stop 1 Smbataberd

Historical information about the bloody battle between Armenians and Persians near the fortress in the 5th century (Battle of Avarair) has been preserved. The Vasakians, princes of Syunyat, probably made Smbataberd their military base. And during the reign of the Orbelians, Smbataberd was further strengthened.

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2 Stop 2 Zorats Church

After the hike, we will visit Zorats Church (Holy Mother of God). It is located on a hill and was founded during the time of the Orbelians. The building has a unique architectural structure. Thanks to such a structure, soldiers could ride up to the altar on horseback to receive a blessing before battle.

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3 Stop 3 Stop 3

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What’s included

Guide service (if there are foreign participants, the tour may be conducted in two languages)
Transport

Pickup & Important information

Meeting point: 1a Sayat-Nova Ave, Yerevan 0001, Armenia · Show on the map

Departure time: 08:00

Cancellation policy: Free cancellation up to 24h before. 50% refund within 24h. No refund after tour starts.

Best period: April - November

Next departure Sunday | September 20 Nearest date: Sunday | September 20

Have questions?

+374 41 362 131 Ask on WhatsApp

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Top attractions on this tour

1Smbataberd 2Zorats Church

About this tour

Itinerary

What’s included

Pickup & Important information

Reviews

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Top attractions on this tour