2-Day Tour to Syunik Region - Armenia's Hidden South

 

🗓 Day 1: Khor Virap, Jermuk, Old Khndzoresk

📍 Pick-up in Yerevan (Morning)

🛑 Khor Virap Monastery (1 hour)
• Visit the iconic site where Gregory the Illuminator was imprisoned in a deep underground pit for 13 years.
• Descend into the ancient dungeon to feel the spiritual history.
• Enjoy unmatched views of Mount Ararat (weather permitting).

🚗 Drive through Vayots Dzor →

🛑 Jermuk Resort Town (1.5–2 hours)
• Visit the Mineral Water Gallery, where you can sample waters of different temperatures and healing properties.
• See the stunning Mermaid’s Hair Waterfall, a natural wonder tucked in a scenic gorge.

🚗 Continue toward Syunik →

🛑 Old Khndzoresk Cave Village (1.5 hours)
• Explore the abandoned cave dwellings of a village once home to 8,000 people.
• Cross the 160-meter swinging bridge over a gorge for stunning views.
• A unique blend of history, adventure, and untouched nature.

📍 Overnight stay in Goris
Enjoy a cozy night in a hotel in this charming mountain town.

📍Regions Covered: Ararat, Vayots Dzor, Syunik
📏 Distance from Yerevan: ~300 km

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🗓 Day 2: Tatev Monastery, Shaki Waterfall, Noravank, Areni

🚗 Morning drive to Halidzor →

🛑 Wings of Tatev Aerial Tramway (10 minutes)
• Ride the world’s longest reversible cable car, soaring over the Vorotan Gorge with dramatic views.

🛑 Tatev Monastery (1 hour)
• Visit a 9th-century monastic complex built on a cliff edge.
• Learn about its namesake, Saint Eustathius, and the monastery’s role in medieval education.

🚗 Short drive →

🛑 Shaki Waterfall (30–40 min)
• Admire one of Armenia’s most beautiful waterfalls, framed by lush cliffs and greenery.

🚗 Return journey through Vayots Dzor →

🛑 Noravank Monastery (1 hour)
• Marvel at this "Red Monastery", nestled among dramatic crimson cliffs.
• Unique for its intricate bas-reliefs, including one of God the Father, rare in Armenian art.

🛑 Areni Village – Wine Tasting (Optional)
• Discover Armenia’s ancient winemaking heritage in the birthplace of one of the oldest wineries.
• Taste local wines and explore traditional techniques passed down through generations.

🚗 Return to Yerevan (Evening)

📍Regions Covered: Syunik, Vayots Dzor
📏 Distance from Yerevan: ~317 km