Group Tour: Khor Virap, Noravank, Tatev Monasteries (Wayback on Ropeway)

Explore the rich history and breathtaking landscapes of South Armenia on this full-day group tour. Visit iconic sites like Khor Virap, Noravank, and the stunning Tatev Monastery. Experience the thrilling "Wings of Tatev" cableway for panoramic views. With a professional guide providing insights, comfortable transportation, and included refreshments, this tour promises a memorable journey through Armenia’s cultural treasures. But what makes these destinations so captivating, and why are they considered must-see sites in the region?

Key Points

• A full-day tour from Yerevan to South Armenia’s historical sites, including Khor Virap, Noravank, and Tatev Monastery.
• Features the "Wings of Tatev," the longest reversible cableway, allowing visitors to experience the scenic views.
• Includes professional English and Russian-speaking guides, air-conditioned vehicles with WiFi, and refreshments.
• Offers hotel pickup and drop-off, as well as admission tickets to all sites and the Tatev ropeway.
• Maintains a high traveler recommendation rate of 99% and a 4.9 rating from 376 reviews.

Tour Overview

This full-day tour from Yerevan takes visitors to explore South Armenia’s remarkable historical sites, including the iconic Khor Virap, the picturesque Noravank, and the impressive Tatev Monastery.

Highlights include a ride on the "Wings of Tatev," the world’s longest reversible cableway without stops. The tour is recommended by 99% of travelers, with 376 reviews and a 4.9 rating.

Lasting around 15 hours, the tour includes entrance fees, snacks, beverages, and a knowledgeable guide who provides insights in English and Russian.

Hotel pickup and drop-off, as well as air-conditioned transportation, make for a convenient and comfortable experience.

Inclusions

The tour includes a professional guide who provides commentary in both English and Russian, ensuring travelers receive detailed insights throughout the day.

Air-conditioned vehicles equipped with WiFi keep passengers comfortable during the long journey. Bottled water and pastries are provided as refreshments.

Admission tickets, including the renowned Tatev ropeway, are included, eliminating the need for visitors to wait in lines or purchase tickets separately.

The tour also covers vehicle and passenger insurance, offering peace of mind.

Lunch can be purchased separately, with a range of 3,500 to 4,500 AMD (9-11 USD) per person.

Meeting and Pickup

The meeting point for the tour is Hyur Service, located at 96 Nalbandyan poxoc in Yerevan 0010, Armenia. From there, the group will be transported to the various historical sites throughout the day. At the end of the tour, the group will return to the original meeting location.

Customer Feedback

Travelers have largely appreciated the group tour, with overwhelmingly positive reviews highlighting the knowledgeable guides, safe driving, and well-planned itinerary.

Guests were particularly impressed by the scenic views, especially of Mount Ararat and during the cableway ride on the "Wings of Tatev".

While some feedback noted the large group size and duration of the trip as potential downsides, the tour maintains a 4.9 rating based on 376 reviews, with 99% of travelers recommending it.

The tour’s combination of historical sites, stunning landscapes, and convenient inclusions make it a popular choice for visitors to South Armenia.

Additional Information

Confirmation is received at the time of booking for this group tour.

The tour operates in all weather conditions, so it’s recommended to dress appropriately.

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

Lastly, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the tour.

The key additional details are:

1. Confirmation received at booking
2. Appropriate dress recommended for all weather
3. Not wheelchair accessible; infants must sit on laps
4. Free cancellation up to 24 hours before tour

This comprehensive group tour to Khor Virap, Noravank, and Tatev Monasteries provides an immersive historical experience in South Armenia.

Khor Virap Monastery

Situated at the base of Mount Ararat, Khor Virap is a revered Armenian Apostolic Church monastery that holds immense historical and spiritual significance.

It’s known as the site where Gregory the Illuminator was imprisoned for 13 years before converting King Tiridates III to Christianity in the 4th century.

Visitors can descend into the deep pit where Gregory was held captive and explore the chapel, church, and hilltop views overlooking the striking silhouette of Mount Ararat.

The monastery’s picturesque setting and role in Armenia’s Christian heritage make it a highlight of the day trip from Yerevan.

Noravank Monastery

Nestled within a narrow gorge in southern Armenia, Noravank Monastery is a breathtaking 13th-century architectural gem. The monastery features distinctive reddish-pink tufa stone and ornate carvings, showcasing the finest examples of Armenian medieval architecture.

Visitors can explore:

1. The two-story St. Astvatsatsin Church, with its intricate khatchkars (cross-stones) and frescoes.
2. The small St. Stepanos Chapel, renowned for its exquisite bas-reliefs.
3. The winding path leading to the monastery, offering panoramic views of the surrounding mountains.
4. The on-site museum, displaying historical artifacts and manuscripts.

Noravank’s serene setting and architectural splendor make it a must-see destination on any Armenia tour.

Tatev Monastery and the ‘Wings of Tatev’

The tour continues to the majestic Tatev Monastery, a medieval Armenian cathedral perched atop a towering plateau in the Syunik region.

Visitors can experience the world’s longest reversible aerial tramway, the "Wings of Tatev," which whisks them across a dramatic gorge. The 12-minute ride offers breathtaking vistas of the surrounding mountains and Vorotan River below.

At the monastery, guests can explore the impressive complex, including the 9th-century St. Gregory the Illuminator Cathedral, bookstores, and cafes.

The guided tour provides insights into Tatev’s rich history as a center of Armenian spirituality and learning.

Since You Asked

What Is the Cancellation Policy for This Tour?

This tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours before the scheduled departure. Customers can cancel their booking without penalty if they provide notice within this time frame.

Can I Bring My Own Lunch or Snacks?

Yes, you can bring your own lunch or snacks on the tour. The tour includes bottled water and pastries, but you’re welcome to supplement with your own food if you prefer. This can help save money on the optional lunch.

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

You don’t need any special equipment for this tour. The tour provides bottled water and pastries, and the cableway ride is included. Just wear comfortable clothing and shoes, and bring any personal items you might need for the day.

Is There an Option to Extend the Tour Duration?

The tour duration is fixed at approximately 15 hours, but travelers can request an extension for an additional cost. It’s best to inquire about this option when booking the tour.

Can I Customize the Tour Itinerary to My Preferences?

Yes, the tour itinerary can be customized to your preferences. The tour operator offers flexibility to adjust the schedule and activities based on your interests and needs. They’ll work with you to create a personalized experience.

The Sum Up

This group tour offers a chance to explore South Armenia’s rich cultural heritage and breathtaking landscapes. Visitors can experience the historic Khor Virap, Noravank, and Tatev Monasteries, as well as the thrilling "Wings of Tatev" ropeway, providing panoramic views. With a professional guide, comfortable transportation, and included refreshments, this tour ensures a memorable journey through Armenia’s treasures.