ARMENIA
Armenia - Crossroads of the Caucasus
“Being an Armenian is a merciless task and a heroic enterprise. It is a commandment, a mission, and a destiny that history has imposed on us from the depths of centuries.”
― Keri Topouzian, A Perfect Armenian
Armenia, bordered by Turkey, Georgia, Iran and Azerbaijan, is justly famed for its churches, mountains, music, and unique alphabet. The first nation to adopt Christianity, in 301 A.D, its summits and valleys host an array of medieval monasteries, from the black volcanic halls of Geghard, to the lonely spire of Khor Virap.
For a small, landlocked country, Armenia contains an astonishing variety of ecosystems, including alpine meadows, semi-arid steppes, high mountains and humid forests. More than 360 bird species have been recorded here, as well as 83 mammals, among them a handful of Caucasian leopards.
Armenia is sadly also known for the 1915 genocide, during which more than a million Armenians were killed by the Ottoman Turks. Yet despite this, and centuries of invasion and occupation, the country has preserved an extraordinary heritage, from Mesrop Mashtots’ 5th century alphabet, to the haunting melodies of the duduk.
Armenian group tours offered by many companies do little more than bus people from church to church - but there is so much more to do here! Hike through the herb-scented hills of Vayots Dzor. Visit Gyumri’s museum of the remarkable Aslamazyan sisters. Gaze across the cerulean waters of Lake Sevan. Feel the weight of history at Yerevan’s Genocide Monument. Drink tea with Yazidi nomads in the Geghama mountains. Look for Syrian Brown Bear in the Caucasus Wildlife Refuge, and sample fine Armenian wines in one of Yerevan’s many excellent restaurants.
Of the Armenians, Lord Byron wrote: “their country must be among the most interesting on the globe.” How right he was.
Some of our Armenia highlights
Tailor-Made Armenia Tours
With our background in journalism and television production, and more than a decade’s experience of planning bespoke trips for individuals, families and small groups, tailor-made journeys are what we do best.
Armenia is often overlooked by travellers in favour of its northern neighbour Georgia, but the more we travel here, the more we love it. Perhaps you want to do a deep dive into Silk Road history, or are an expert on early Christianity? Or maybe you have a hankering to hike the Trans-Caucasian Trail, or learn about the country’s fantastic food and wine? Whatever your interests, and however you’d like to travel, we can make it happen. And with direct Wizz Air flights from the UK to Yerevan launching in June 2026, travelling to Armenia has never been easier.
Our friend Tom Allen started work on the Trans-Caucasian Trail in 2015, and since then the team have made astonishing progress mapping, marking and clearing this long distance hiking trail across Georgia, Armenia and Azerbaijan. When it’s completed, the Trail will stretch 3000 km across the Caucasus - no mean feat!
In Armenia, the Trail cuts through some of the country’s most beautiful landscapes, from the lush forests of Lori province, in the north, to the abandoned villages, mythical mountains and wineries of southern Syunik province. To hike the TCT, or even a small section of it, is to experience the real Armenia - homestays, hospitality and fabulous food and wine.
To hike a section of the Trans-Caucasian Trail as part of a tailor-made tour to Armenia, contact us below.
Spotlight on: Hiking Armenia’s Trans-Caucasian Trail
Frequently Asked Questions - Expert Answers from Silk Road Adventures
Planning Your Trip
When is the best time to visit Armenia?
Like much of the Caucasus, the best season to visit is generally from mid-April to early October, but there is still plenty to do and enjoy in any season. It can be very hot at lower altitudes in summer, whilst winters can be very cold, with regular snowfall and low temperatures - especially in the Ararat, Arpi and Gegham areas. The peak season for hiking (including along sections of the Trans-Caucasian Trail) runs from April to October, although some regions (such as Syunik and Vayots Dzor in the south) being extremely hot between June and late August. Visit between mid-April to late May for wonderful wild flowers and generally good weather. September and October provide plenty of delicious local fruit harvests and gorgeous autumn colours, and the climate is usually dry and warm.
How much does one of your Armenia tours cost?
We don’t currently offer small-group Armenia tours, focusing instead on private tailor-made tours which start from around £450 per person per day for a 2 person trip.
Is Armenia safe for travelers?
Yes, Armenia is very safe for tourists. As specialists who have run dozens of tours since 2015, we can confirm:
This is a country with an outstandingly low crime rate against tourists.
It’s very safe for solo female travelers;
We have an 100% safety record, with no serious incidents in 10 years. We provide 24/7 emergency support, satellite phones or Starlink access in remote areas, and have years of experience living and working across the region, meaning we create our trips using first-hand knowledge.
Do I need a visa for Armenia?
Travellers from the US, much of the EU, NZ and Australia and some others are visa-free for up to 180 days. Citizens of Canada, Singapore, Malaysia and many other countries will require an Evisa before arrival.
What is the best way to fly to Armenia?
Armenia is getting better connected than ever before, with Wizz Air direct flights from the UK starting in summer 2026 and the existing options via Vienna with Austrian Airlines, Berlin with Eurowings or Lufthansa and Paris with Air France. There are numerous options via the Gulf too. Finally, Turkish Airlines also commences a service from Istanbul in early 2026.
What's included in your Armenia trips?
Every Silk Road Adventures Armenia tailor-made trip includes:
Pre-trip planning consultation with Marley or Antonia
Brilliant, experienced English-speaking guides, personally chosen by us
Comfortable accommodation in quality hotels and authentic guesthouses
Ground transportation in high-quality 4WD vehicles
Most meals, featuring plenty of local cuisine
All activity, historical site and national park fees
Emergency support where required
Comprehensive pre-departure information in the Vamoos app format, with regular updates, articles, playlists, films and all of our personal recommendations along your route
NOT included: International flights, visa fees (if required), travel insurance, some lunches, drinks, tips.
How fit do I need to be for travel in Armenia?
This very much depends on the type of trip you are seeking! You will generally need to have good mobility, and be able to walk in cities and on rough ground at a reasonable pace. In remote areas, roads and footpaths can be rough. For your tailor-made trip, we will of course design this around your interests, wishes and abilities.