Group Tour: Amberd, Aragats, Lake Kari, Saghmosavank, Alphabet

This group tour offers an immersive exploration of Armenia’s rich cultural heritage and stunning natural landscapes. Visitors will discover the historic Amberd Fortress, admire the breathtaking alpine views at Lake Kari, and marvel at the exquisite stone architecture of Saghmosavank Monastery. The tour also includes a visit to the Alphabet Monument, celebrating the Armenian script. With a comprehensive itinerary, this experience promises an unforgettable journey through Armenia’s captivating sights and stories.

Key Points

• Full-day group tour from Yerevan to explore Amberd Fortress, Lake Kari, Saghmosavank Monastery, and the Alphabet Monument, providing a glimpse into Armenia’s cultural heritage.

• Knowledgeable English and Russian-speaking guides lead the tour, which includes transportation, admission tickets, bottled water, and pastries.

• Highlights include stunning mountain landscapes, historical significance of the sites, and an opportunity to experience authentic Armenian village life.

• Tour not wheelchair accessible; warm clothing recommended for the high-altitude visit to Lake Kari due to cold temperatures.

• Positive reviews from previous travelers emphasize the tour’s organization, breathtaking scenery, and tranquil atmosphere, though lunch quality received mixed feedback.

Tour Overview and Highlights

This full-day tour from Yerevan takes travelers on an enchanting journey to discover the historical and natural wonders of Amberd and its surroundings.

Visitors will explore the impressive Amberd Fortress, marvel at the serene beauty of Lake Kari, and visit the stunning Saghmosavank Monastery.

They’ll also experience authentic Armenian village life and indulge in a tasting of classic dried fruits.

The tour is conducted in air-conditioned vehicles with WiFi, ensuring a comfortable and seamless experience.

Highly recommended by previous travelers, this tour offers a comprehensive and unforgettable glimpse into Armenia’s rich cultural heritage.

Inclusions and Pricing

The tour includes a professional guide who speaks both English and Russian, providing travelers with bottled water and pastries throughout the day.

Admission tickets to all sites are included in the tour price. Travelers are responsible for the cost of lunch, which ranges from 3,500 to 4,500 Armenian Drams ($9 to $11 USD).

Free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the experience. Travel insurance for the vehicle and passengers is also covered.

The tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, and infants must sit on laps during the journey.

Meeting and Pickup Details

The tour departs from Hyur Service, located at 96 Nalbandyan poxoc in Yerevan, with a start time of 9:00 AM.

Travelers will return to the same meeting point at the end of the tour.

The tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, and infants must sit on laps.

It’s recommended to wear warm clothes, as the tour includes a visit to the high-altitude Lake Kari.

The tour’s maximum group size is 49 travelers.

Children must be accompanied by an adult, and strollers are allowed.

Confirmation is received at the time of booking, though the exact seating arrangement isn’t known in advance.

Tour Experience and Feedback

The maximum group size for this tour is 49 travelers.

Positive reviews highlight the stunning views, knowledgeable guides, and well-organized tours.

However, some feedback notes the need for warm clothing due to cold temperatures at Lake Kari.

The lunch quality received mixed reviews, with suggestions for improvement.

Amberd Fortress

Amberd Fortress stands as a remarkable architectural marvel, perched atop a rocky outcrop at an elevation of 2,300 meters above sea level.

This 7th-century fortress was once a stronghold for the Armenian nobility, boasting impressive defensive walls, a church, and residential structures.

Visitors can explore the impressive ruins and take in the sweeping views of the surrounding Aragats mountain range.

The fortress offers a glimpse into Armenia’s rich history and the strategic importance of this location.

Exploring Amberd Fortress is a highlight of the group tour, providing a powerful connection to Armenia’s past.

Lake Kari

After exploring the impressive Amberd Fortress, the tour moves on to the stunning Lake Kari.

Situated at an altitude of 3,250 meters, this alpine lake offers breathtaking views of the surrounding Aragats mountain range. Visitors are advised to dress warmly, as the temperatures can be quite cold, even during the summer months.

While the journey to the lake can be challenging due to the high altitude, the spectacular scenery and tranquil atmosphere make it a highlight of the tour. Travelers often report the need for warm clothing, though the lake’s beauty is well worth the effort.

Saghmosavank Monastery

Next, the tour group arrives at the Saghmosavank Monastery, a historic religious site nestled in the scenic Aragatsotn province.

The monastery dates back to the 13th century and features striking stone architecture, including a domed church and impressive khatchkars (Armenian cross-stones).

Visitors can explore the monastery’s well-preserved interiors, admire the intricate carvings, and take in the breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains.

The guide provides informative commentary on the monastery’s history and significance.

The tour group has the opportunity to wander the grounds and capture memorable photos before continuing on to the next destination.

Alphabet Monument

The tour group then travels to the Alphabet Monument, a unique and captivating landmark dedicated to the Armenian alphabet.

This impressive monument features 39 giant stone letters, representing the 39 characters of the Armenian alphabet. Visitors can stroll among the towering letters, marveling at the intricate carvings and the stunning mountain backdrop.

The Alphabet Monument serves as a testament to the rich cultural heritage of Armenia, honoring the significance of the written language in the country’s history and identity.

It’s a fascinating stop that provides insight into the deep roots of Armenian civilization.

Since You Asked

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drink on the Tour?

Travelers are welcome to bring their own food and drink on the tour. However, bottled water and light pastries are provided as part of the tour inclusions. Travelers should avoid bringing large coolers or disruptive amounts of personal provisions.

Is There a Bathroom Available During the Tour Stops?

The tour includes stops at various historical sites and natural landmarks. While there may be facilities available at some locations, the availability and quality of bathrooms during the tour stops is not explicitly mentioned in the tour details provided.

Can I Take Photos at the Tour Sites?

Yes, taking photos at the tour sites is allowed and encouraged. Travelers can capture the stunning landscapes, historical landmarks, and cultural experiences throughout the tour. However, visitors should be mindful of any photography restrictions at specific sites.

Do I Need to Bring Any Special Equipment for the Hike?

The tour doesn’t require any special hiking equipment, but visitors should dress warmly and wear sturdy walking shoes or boots due to the high altitude and potentially cold temperatures, especially around Lake Kari.

Is There an Option to Customize the Tour Itinerary?

The tour itinerary can’t be customized, but travelers can request additional stops or modifications prior to booking. The tour company aims to accommodate reasonable requests if feasible and within the tour duration.

The Sum Up

The group tour to Amberd, Aragats, Lake Kari, Saghmosavank, and the Alphabet Monument offers a comprehensive exploration of Armenia’s rich cultural heritage and stunning natural landscapes. Participants can expect to be enchanted by the historic Amberd Fortress, the serene alpine views of Lake Kari, the exquisite stone architecture of Saghmosavank Monastery, and the captivating Alphabet Monument. This tour provides an unforgettable opportunity to take in the beauty and history of Armenia.