Southern Armenia Travel Guide

Explore the beauty of Southern Armenia with this comprehensive travel guide, covering everything from cultural attractions to outdoor adventures, from where to stay to what to eat and souvenirs to buy.


Introduction to Southern Armenia

Southern Armenia is a breathtaking region located in the Caucasus mountain range in Asia. The area boasts an abundance of ancient history, warm hospitality, and stunning natural landscapes. With its stunning mountains, colorful canyons, and fertile valleys, Southern Armenia has quickly become a must-visit destination for travelers seeking to experience the best of the Armenian culture.

List of Places to Visit in Southern Armenia

There is no shortage of places to visit in Southern Armenia, from culturally significant museums and historical sites to marvelous natural wonders, outdoor activities, and more. Here are just a few top recommendations:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • The Tatev Monastery: Considered as one of the oldest monasteries in Armenia, the Tatev Monastery is located on a mountaintop, which provides breathtaking views of the Armenian highlands.
  • Goris: This ancient town is full of surprises, from its winding streets and stone houses to its museums, art galleries, and stunning waterfalls.
  • Khndzoresk: This historic village is famous for its cliff cave dwellings and suspension bridge, which stands at a height of about 160 meters above the Vorotan River.

Natural Attractions of Southern Armenia: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • The Jermuk Waterfall: This stunning waterfall is located amidst the picturesque mountains and forests, and is surrounded by the Jermuk Canyon, which offers hiking, bird-watching, and other activities.
  • The Zorats Karer (Karahunj) Observatory: This ancient observatory dates back to the Bronze Age and is located in the Syunik Province, offering a glimpse into the scientific and engineering advances of the early human civilizations.
  • Kapan: Nestled amidst the picturesque Zangezur Mountains, the Kapan region offers an abundance of activities, from trekking, rock climbing, to canyoning and more.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Southern Armenia

Southern Armenia offers a plethora of hiking and biking routes, which traverse the rugged mountains, valleys, and forests of the region. Some of the most popular routes include:

  • The Transcaucasian Trail: This historic trail spans across the Caucasus region of Armenia, Georgia, and Azerbaijan, offering breathtaking views of the varied highland landscapes.
  • The Tatev Trail: This breathtaking hiking trail traverses through the dense forests and mountains of Southern Armenia and offers a glimpse into the vast natural beauty of the region.
  • The Shikahogh Reserve: This reserve is a haven for trekkers, hikers, and nature enthusiasts, with its pristine forests, rivers, and mountains.

Best Things to Do in Southern Armenia: Activities and Tours

Apart from hiking, exploring the natural beauty and cultural heritage of Southern Armenia, there are plenty of other activities and tours to enjoy, including:

  • Discover the local wine culture with wine tasting tours in the Areni village, which is renowned for its ancient vineyards and wine caves.
  • Explore the local cuisine with cooking classes and culinary tours, which offer a chance to learn traditional Armenian dishes such as dolma, lavash, and khorovats.
  • Visit the local markets, bazaars, and handicraft workshops to buy some of the most exquisite traditional souvenirs and locally handcrafted jewelry, bags, and textiles.

Week-Long Itinerary for Southern Armenia

A week-long itinerary in Southern Armenia might look something like this:

  • Day 1-2: Explore the historic city of Yerevan and visit the Matenadaran Museum, which houses an extensive collection of Armenian manuscripts and other artifacts.
  • Day 3: Visit the Noravank Monastery and hike the nearby cliffs and mountains.
  • Day 4-5: Take a tour of the Areni wine country and visit the Noravank Vineyards to sample some of Armenia’s finest wines.
  • Day 6-7: Visit the ancient town of Goris, and explore the stunning rock formations, caves, and canyons in the area.

Food and Drink Scene of Southern Armenia

Southern Armenia is a culinary paradise, with its unique blend of traditional and modern dishes that reflect the diverse cultural influences of the region.

Must-Try Dishes

  • Khorovats: a grilled meat dish, typically made with lamb, beef, or chicken, and served with local vegetables and bread.
  • Harisa: a hearty porridge made of boiled cracked wheat and meat, served with caramelized onions and butter.
  • Lavash: a paper-thin flatbread, baked using a traditional clay oven, and served with cheese, herbs, and other toppings.

Local Beverages

  • Ararat Brandy: a world-famous Armenian brandy, distilled from local grapes, and aged in oak barrels.
  • Tarkhun: a sweet carbonated beverage made with tarragon herb and sugar.
  • Matzoon: a tangy, fermented milk beverage that has a consistency similar to yogurt.

Where to Stay in Southern Armenia: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Southern Armenia has a wide range of accommodation options to suit every budget and preference, from luxury hotels to budget-friendly hostels and guesthouses. Some top recommendations include:

  • The Caucasus Wildlife Refuge, which offers luxurious glamping-style tents and cabins, surrounded by stunning natural landscapes.
  • The Sisian Hotel, which provides comfortable rooms, a fitness center, and a restaurant serving delicious local cuisine.
  • The Goris Guesthouse, a cozy, family-run guesthouse offering comfortable rooms and homemade breakfasts.

What to Buy in Southern Armenia: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Southern Armenia is renowned for its handicrafts such as handmade jewelry, textiles, rugs, embroidery, and pottery. Other popular souvenirs include:

  • Local Brandies: Armenian brandies are among the finest in the world and are available for purchase in most supermarkets and liquor stores.
  • Traditional Ceramicware: Armenian ceramics are famous for their intricate designs, vibrant colors, and traditional motifs and are available in most markets and handicraft shops.

Local Culture and Customs of Southern Armenia

Armenia has a rich cultural heritage, resulting from its unique blend of diverse ethnic and linguistic influences. Some of the key customs and traditions of Southern Armenia include:

  • Hospitality: Armenians are known for their warm hospitality and generosity towards guests, and it is customary to offer guests food and drinks during their visit.
  • Religious Customs: The Armenian Apostolic Church plays a significant role in Armenian culture, and visitors should respect religious customs and practices.
  • Social Norms: In Armenia, it is customary to dress modestly, and visitors should avoid wearing shorts, tank tops, or revealing clothing in public places.

Best Time to Visit Southern Armenia

The best time to visit Southern Armenia is from late spring (May) to early fall (September), when the weather is pleasant, and the landscapes are at their most picturesque. However, the winter months (December-March) offer a unique and magical experience, with opportunities for skiing, snowboarding, and winter hikes.

Do’s and Don’ts of Southern Armenia

Here are some do’s and don’ts to keep in mind during your visit to Southern Armenia:

Do:

  • Respect local customs and traditions, including religious practices and dress codes.
  • Try local cuisine, wine, and other traditional products.
  • Tip at restaurants and cafes, as tipping is customary and expected in Armenia.

Don’t:

  • Smoke in public areas or designated non-smoking zones.
  • Photograph locals without their permission.
  • Touch cultural artifacts in museums or historical sites.

Safety and Health

Southern Armenia is generally a safe destination, with low crime rates and a friendly population. However, it is advisable to take some precautions and follow the usual safety guidelines while traveling to foreign countries.

Safety in Southern Armenia

  • Avoid traveling alone at night, especially in remote areas.
  • Be aware of pickpockets, especially in crowded areas or public transport.
  • Follow the advice of local authorities during times of unrest or natural disasters.

Health in Southern Armenia

It is advisable to take the necessary precautions to ensure good health while traveling to Southern Armenia.

  • Drink bottled water or boiled water to avoid stomach problems.
  • Carry a first-aid kit with any necessary medications.
  • Get a travel insurance policy that covers medical emergencies.

Getting to Southern Armenia: Transportation Options and Logistics

Southern Armenia is accessible via air, road, and rail networks. However, the most convenient way to reach Southern Armenia is by air, with several airlines offering direct flights from major cities around the world.

Airports Near Southern Armenia

  • Yerevan Zvartnots International Airport: The largest airport in Armenia, with direct flights to major cities in Europe, Asia, and North America.

Bus Stations Near Southern Armenia

  • Yerevan Central Bus Station - This is the primary bus station that services Southern Armenia with several bus companies plying the route.

Other Options

  • Train: Armenia has limited rail connections, with most trains running between Yerevan and other cities.
  • Car: It is possible to rent a car or hire a private driver to explore Southern Armenia.

How to Get Around in Southern Armenia

The best way to get around Southern Armenia is by car, but public transport is also available, such as buses and mini-buses. Taxis are also widespread and relatively affordable, but it’s advisable to negotiate the price before starting the ride.

Where to Go Next from Southern Armenia: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Southern Armenia is located in a region known for its diverse cultures, landscapes, and vibrant cities. Here are some nearby destinations and excursion options:

  • Tbilisi, Georgia: A vibrant and dynamic city, famous for its tradition of wine making, cultural heritage, and warm hospitality.
  • Lake Sevan: This stunning freshwater lake is one of the world’s largest high-altitude lakes and offers an array of outdoor activities, from fishing, kayaking, to windsurfing.
  • The Karabakh region: This disputed territory is located adjacent to Southern Armenia and offers an intriguing mix of history, culture, and natural beauty.

Conclusion

Southern Armenia is a region of unrivaled natural beauty, warm hospitality, and a rich cultural heritage, which offers something for every traveler. From its ancient monasteries and museums to its stunning natural landscapes, from its hiking trails to its wine tours, Southern Armenia guarantees an unforgettable experience.

Tatev Monastery Tatev Monastery Noravank Noravank Ughtasar Ughtasar Old Khndzoresk Old Khndzoresk Tsakhats Kar Tsakhats Kar Smbataberd Smbataberd Gnishik or Noravank Gorge, Vayots Dzor Province Gnishik or Noravank Gorge, Vayots Dzor Province


    Areni
    Meghri
    Sisian
    Tandzaver
    Tatev
    Yeghegnadzor