ARMENIA – A JOURNEY INTO THE HEART OF THE CAUCASUS WITH WOMEN
A VALUE-BASED ROUND TRIP IN ARMENIA – CULTURE, LANDSCAPES AND MEANINGFUL ENCOUNTERS
The journey starts in Yerevan, from where we explore Armenia’s most beautiful landscapes and historic sites. We get to know the atmosphere of the city, visit the Matenadaran manuscript library and the Opera House, then head to the Ararat Valley, where we enjoy views of Mount Ararat from the Khor Virap Monastery. Along the way, we visit the Areni wine region, Noravank Monastery, Lake Sevan and Sevanavank, as well as Dilijan, Fioletovo, and Gyumri, nestled among green mountains.
Throughout the journey, we meet local women and artisans on several occasions, who share stories about their work and everyday lives. These encounters offer a unique insight into Armenian culture and the life of local communities. The program also includes visits to the Garni Temple, the Symphony of Stones (Basalt Organ), the rock-carved Geghard Monastery, and the Lusik Aguletsi Museum. At the end of the trip, we return to Yerevan, where we say farewell to Armenia.
DETAILS
Travel
Arrival day: 31 May 2026
Departure day: 7 June 2026
Travel to the destination is self-arranged and not included in the price, but from the moment you decide to join, we walk beside you, helping you choose the gentlest way to reach your destination. We calculate your footprint and guide you toward options that honor both your adventure and the Earth. Because the way you arrive is already part of the journey.
Participation fee
1550 EUR
Deposit: 40% = 620 EUR upon registration.
Second installment: 60% = 930 EUR 60 days before departure.
Travel to the destination is not included in the price.
The participation fee also includes a 50 EUR donation, of which half will go to a local Georgian women’s organization and the other half to a Hungarian women’s advocacy organization.
Accomodation
7 nights’ accommodation in 4-star, Armenian-style hotel with a historic atmosphere, including breakfast.
Half board is available for an additional fee: 250 EUR.
Accommodation is in twin rooms with separate beds.
Single room supplement: 400 EUR.
Dates
Spring departure: May 31 – June 7, 2026
(8 days / 7 nights)
Available spots: 14/14
Maximum group size: 14 participants.
The trip requires a minimum of 8 participants to operate. If this number is not reached, the trip will not run, and the paid amount will be refunded or can be transferred to another trip, in accordance with the terms and conditions stated in the contract.
Plan B. B for Belonging
Day 1 – Arrival in Armenia
- Arrival at Zvartnots International Airport, followed by a transfer to the hotel.
Day 2 – Yerevan’s Cultural Treasures
- Set out on a full-day city tour of Yerevan, exploring the Armenian capital’s most important sights at a comfortable pace. Yerevan is one of the world’s oldest continuously inhabited cities, with a history dating back to the 8th century BC. Its atmosphere is youthful and vibrant, with open-air cafés, charming restaurants, and local markets making it an especially pleasant destination.
- During the program, enjoy panoramic views of the Opera House, the snow-capped peaks of the biblical Mount Ararat, Swan Lake, the elegant Northern Avenue, and Republic Square, one of Yerevan’s most iconic and popular meeting points.
- Visit the Matenadaran, home to one of the world’s most significant collections of ancient manuscripts. Here, you can see the largest book in the world (weighing 28 kg), as well as the smallest manuscript, weighing just 19 grams. The collection includes more than 18,000 manuscripts, offering not only a cultural but also a visually unique experience.
- Exclusive visit to the Armenian National Opera House. One of the highlights of the day is a private tour of the Armenian National Opera House. During the guided visit, you will explore different parts of the auditorium, backstage areas, balconies with panoramic city views, and the workshops. There will also be an opportunity to meet artists and staff of the theatre. The tour is led by a local expert.
Day 3 – Discover the secrets of the Ararat Valley, its historic monasteries, and ancient wine regions
- The excursion begins with a comfortable drive from Yerevan through the Ararat Valley, one of Armenia’s most beautiful and fertile regions. The valley is famous for its vineyards, agriculture, and iconic views of Mount Ararat. Along the way, we pass through picturesque landscapes while gaining insight into the region’s daily life and traditions.
- Visit the Khor Virap Monastery (“deep dungeon”), dating back to the 4th century AD, located at the foot of Mount Ararat. The site has a unique atmosphere and offers excellent photo opportunities of the biblical Mount Ararat, where, according to tradition, Noah’s Ark came to rest.
Note: visibility of the mountain depends on weather conditions. (Photo stop) - Continue to Areni, one of Armenia’s most renowned wine regions. Here, there is an opportunity to taste local wines made from the indigenous Areni grape variety, known for its distinctive character.
- Visit the Areni-1 Cave, also known as the Birds’ Cave, a roughly 6,100-year-old archaeological wine site considered the world’s oldest winery. During the guided visit, we gain fascinating insights into its history. Excavations here uncovered the world’s oldest known leather shoe (around 5,500 years old), now preserved in the History Museum of Armenia.
- To conclude the program, visit Noravank Monastery, set in a breathtaking location above a deep gorge, surrounded by striking red cliffs. Built in the 13th century, the monastery is one of the finest examples of richly decorated Armenian architecture of its time and is an especially photogenic site.
Day 4 – Lake Sevan and the World of Khachkars
- Depart for Noratus village near Lake Sevan, famous for its ancient cemetery and its remarkable collection of khachkars (“cross-stones”). Spread over 7 hectares, the site contains nearly a thousand uniquely carved cross-stones.
- Visit a local family-run farm to learn about traditional cheese-making processes. Enjoy a tasting of cheeses aged in wine baskets and brandy (a total of 9 types), accompanied by nuts, smoked meats, jam, crackers, fruit, and wine.
- Scenic drive along the shores of Lake Sevan, one of Armenia’s most iconic sites. The lake is not only the largest in the region but also one of the world’s largest high-altitude freshwater lakes.
- Visit Sevanavank Monastery, a 9th-century medieval Armenian monastery comprising two churches. The monastery offers panoramic views of the lake and surrounding area, making it an excellent spot for photography.
- Continue to Dilijan, the “Jewel of Armenia,” where the town’s natural surroundings and historic architecture are equally captivating. In the “Old Town,” you can admire 19th-century balconies and terraces, reflecting the region’s traditional woodcraft.
Day 5 – The Story of Women Artists in Gyumri
- Visit Fioletovo village to meet the local Molokan minority. Learn about their traditions and take part in a tea ceremony around the samovar—a unique opportunity to gain insight into minority life in Armenia.
- Continue to Gyumri, Armenia’s second-largest city, known for its rich history, charming architecture, and welcoming locals. During the city tour, explore architectural gems from the 18th and 19th centuries and discover the city’s cultural heritage and vibrant atmosphere.
- Visit a local artisan, Narine Poladian’s studio. Narine is Armenia’s first female khachkar master, creating unique decorative elements and cross-stones from local tufa stone.
- Visit the gallery of sisters Mariam and Eranuhi Aslamazyan, the only museum in Armenia dedicated exclusively to women artists. The gallery houses over 620 original paintings, ceramics, and graphic works.
Day 6 – In the Footsteps of Armenian Faith and Heritage
- The day begins at the Karin Nursery, where we explore tree and shrub species grown under modern conditions, as well as exotic plants, while gaining practical insight into plant care.
- Continue to Echmiadzin, the spiritual center of Armenian Christianity, often referred to as the “Vatican of Armenia”. Visit the Echmiadzin Cathedral, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the world’s first state-built Christian church.
- Experience an authentic local visit at the Machanents Tourism and Art Center, where art, gastronomy, and community initiatives come together. The center actively supports disadvantaged groups, making the visit socially meaningful as well.
- Visit the 7th-century ruins of Zvartnots Cathedral, an architectural masterpiece and one of the most important monuments of medieval Armenia. Conclude the day at the Armenian Genocide Memorial and Museum, followed by a walk through the Tsitsernakaberd memorial complex.
Day 7 – Ancient Sanctuaries, Natural Wonders, and Living Traditions
- Visit Garni village to see the 1st-century Hellenistic pagan temple, the only structure of its kind to survive after Armenia’s conversion to Christianity. The site offers stunning panoramic views of the gorge and surrounding mountains.
- Learn the traditional art of making lavash, a staple of Armenian cuisine and part of UNESCO’s Intangible Cultural Heritage.
- Descend into the Azat River Gorge to witness the famous “Symphony of Stones,” where nature has formed remarkable basalt columns.
- Visit Geghard Monastery (UNESCO World Heritage Site), where rock-cut churches represent the pinnacle of medieval Armenian architecture. Here, you may also experience living traditions, such as baptisms and weddings.
- A special highlight is the Lusik Aguletsi Museum, followed by a stroll through the Gumi Shuka covered market, featuring local crafts and gastronomic products.
Day 8 – Yerevan – Transfer to the Airport
- Transfer to Zvartnots International Airport. Bid farewell to the Armenian women’s communities and to Armenia, and begin the journey home.
Utazási ajánlat tartalma
Price includes
Airport reception after luggage collection.
Arrival and departure airport transfers.
7 nights’ accommodation in 4-star, Armenian-style hotels with a historic atmosphere, including breakfast.
Meals as indicated in the itinerary.
Modern buses for excursions (sized according to group numbers).
Use of a 4×4 vehicle or minibus if needed to access the “Symphony of Stones.”
Entrance fees to attractions listed in the itinerary. Local taxes.
The price does not include
Airfare
Baggage fees
Travel insurance
Trip cancellation insurance
Tips in line with local customs, required: 50 EUR per person. This amount is given in cash to drivers and local guides and will be collected by the tour leader at the start of the trip.
Some dinners (where specifically indicated)
Optional personal expenses
Shopping and souvenirs
Single room supplement: +250 EUR (if requested)
Half-board supplement: +400 EUR
Cancellation Policy
Cancellation more than 90 days before the trip: 50% of the paid amount will be refunded.
Cancellation 60 days before the trip: 30% of the paid amount will be refunded.
Cancellation within 30 days of the trip: the paid amount is non-refundable; however, the booking can be transferred to another person.
Are you ready for a
Fill out the form and sign up for our current offer!
Not a fan of forms? Just send us an email at:
hello@noplanetbtravelwithb.com
