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Khor Virap, Noravank, Areni, Birds Cave
Explore Khor Virap, Noravank, Areni and Birds Cave on a group tour through Armenia’s history, landscapes and ancient heritage.
About this tour
Discover Armenia’s rich history, stunning landscapes, and ancient heritage on a journey through the Ararat and Vayots Dzor regions. Begin at Khor Virap Monastery, famous for its breathtaking views of Mount Ararat and its connection to the adoption of Christianity in Armenia. Continue to Noravank Monastery, a masterpiece of medieval Armenian architecture surrounded by dramatic red cliffs, and learn about its fascinating history and intricate stone carvings. The tour concludes with a visit to Birds’ Cave (Areni-1 Cave), an important archaeological site where remarkable discoveries, including the world’s oldest known leather shoe, have been made.
Itinerary
1 09:45 Khor Virap Monastery
Located in Armenia’s Ararat region, it is one of the country’s most iconic religious and historical landmarks. Famous for its breathtaking views of Mount Ararat, the monastery holds great significance in Armenian Christianity. It is believed to be the site where Saint Gregory the Illuminator was imprisoned for 13 years before Armenia adopted Christianity as its state religion in 301 AD. With its rich history, remarkable architecture, and picturesque surroundings, Khor Virap is a must-visit destination in Armenia.
2 11:50 Noravank Monastery
Located in Armenia’s Vayots Dzor region, it is one of the country’s most impressive medieval religious and architectural landmarks. Built between the 12th and 14th centuries, the monastery is famous for its stunning location among towering red cliffs, intricate stone carvings, and unique two-story Surb Astvatsatsin Church. Closely associated with the renowned medieval architect and sculptor Momik, Noravank offers visitors a fascinating combination of Armenian history, remarkable architecture, and breathtaking natural scenery.
3 13:20 Lunch Stop
Address Yeghegnadzor, Armenia
Enjoy a relaxing lunch break at a local food court in Yeghegnadzor, where you can choose from a variety of dishes and refreshments. Take some time to rest and recharge before continuing your journey through the beautiful Vayots Dzor region. Lunch is not included in the tour price.
4 15:05 Birds Cave
Birds’ Cave (Areni-1 Cave), located in Armenia’s Vayots Dzor region near Areni village, is one of the country’s most significant archaeological sites. Dating back thousands of years, the cave is famous for remarkable discoveries, including the world’s oldest known leather shoe and evidence of one of the earliest known winemaking facilities. Visitors can explore this ancient site, learn about prehistoric life, and discover Armenia’s rich archaeological heritage.
5 15:55 Areni Winery
Located in Armenia’s famous Vayots Dzor wine region, it offers visitors an opportunity to discover the country’s centuries-old winemaking traditions. Learn about the wine production process, explore the unique characteristics of local grape varieties, and enjoy a tasting of Armenian wines. Surrounded by picturesque vineyards and mountain landscapes, the winery provides an authentic introduction to Armenia’s rich wine culture.
What’s included
Included
- Guide service (if there are foreign participants, the tour may be conducted in two languages)
- Transport
- Wine Tasting
- Bottled water
Not included
- Meal
- Birds Cave entrance fee - 1500 AMD
Pickup & Important information
- Radisson BLU Hotel Yerevan
- Double Tree by Hilton Yerevan
- Holiday Inn Express Yerevan
- Median Hotel, Yerevan
+7
- Best Western Plus Congress Hotel Yerevan
- Kantar Hotel Yerevan
- Kantar Hostel, Yerevan
- 14 Floor Hotel, Yerevan
- Ramada Hotel & Suites by Wyndham Yerevan
- Golden Palace Hotel Yerevan
- Holiday Inn Yerevan
FAQ
What will we see on this tour?
First you visit Khor Virap Monastery, where Grigor Lusavorich, the first Catholicos of the Armenians, was imprisoned, and then Noravank, a medieval monastery complex surrounded by high reddish rocks. In the second part of the day you visit the Birds Cave in Areni, and the tour ends with a tasting of Armenian wines at the Areni winery.
When and where does the tour start?
The tour starts at 09:00 at 1a Sayat-Nova Ave in Yerevan and ends at the same place at 17:00.
How much is this tour for one adult?
The price for one adult is 6,000 AMD with an Armenian-speaking guide and 10,000 AMD with a Russian- or English-speaking guide.
On which days does the tour run?
The tour runs every Saturday until 2027-05-01.
Is hotel pickup available?
Yes, pickup is available from these hotels in Yerevan: Radisson BLU at 07:40; Double Tree by Hilton, Holiday Inn Express and Median Hotel at 07:55; and Best Western Plus Congress Hotel, Kantar Hotel, Kantar Hostel, 14 Floor Hotel, Ramada Hotel & Suites by Wyndham, Golden Palace Hotel and Holiday Inn at 08:00.
What does the price include?
The price includes guide service, transport, the wine tasting and bottled water. Meals are not included, so you can bring your own food or pay for it on site.
Is the Birds Cave entrance fee included?
No, the Birds Cave entrance fee of 1500 AMD is paid separately, usually in cash on site. If you prefer to skip it, you can wait for the group outside.
In which languages is the tour guided?
The tour is conducted in Armenian, English or Russian, and if there are foreign participants, it may be held in two languages. Our guides are local experts familiar with the history, culture and the sites visited.
What kind of vehicle is used?
The tour runs on a comfortable minivan or bus, depending on the group size. The vehicle is fully heated in winter; there is usually no Wi-Fi on board, but mobile internet works on most of the route.
Can children join the tour?
Yes, there are no age restrictions. Children aged 0-3 travel free, children aged 3-6 get a 50% discount, and from age 7 the full price applies.
Is there a discount for groups?
Yes, groups of 5 or more people get 500 AMD off per person.
When should I arrive, and what if I am late?
Please arrive 15 minutes before the start time; seats are not pre-assigned. If you are late, the group does not wait, but you may catch up with the tour by your own means if possible.
Have questions?
