Areni, Noravank, Shaki, Tatev

Immerse yourself in the history and nature of southern Armenia on this comprehensive day tour. The journey begins in Areni, the ancient cradle of viticulture, for an exclusive tour and tasting at a winery with 6,000-year-old roots. Next, you will explore Noravank, a 13th-century architectural masterpiece famous for its two-story church set against fiery red cliffs. We then venture into nature to see the majestic Shaki Waterfall, an 18-meter cascade hidden in a unique gorge. The day concludes at the legendary Tatev Monastery, a medieval spiritual center perched on the edge of a massive canyon, accessible via the world-record-breaking "Wings of Tatev" cable car.

Travel Plan

Start Point: Yerevan

Areni

Areni is celebrated globally as the birthplace of winemaking. With a viticulture history spanning millennia, the village is home to the world's oldest discovered winery. Here, you will discover indigenous grape varieties found nowhere else and experience the rich traditions of Armenian wine crafting.

Noravank

Meaning "New Monastery," Noravank is a gem of medieval Armenian architecture situated in a narrow gorge made by the Amaghu River. The complex is renowned for its intricate stone carvings and the unique two-story Surb Astvatsatsin church, all framed by dramatic, towering red rocks that glow at sunset.

Tatev Monastery

Perched on a basalt plateau overlooking the Vorotan River Gorge, Tatev Monastery was a formidable fortress and the most important scholastic and spiritual center of medieval Armenia. Today, it offers breathtaking views and history, accessible by the "Wings of Tatev," the longest reversible aerial tramway in the world.

Shaki Waterfall

Hidden within the rugged landscapes of the Syunik region, the Shaki Waterfall is a stunning natural monument. The water cascades from a height of 18 meters, creating a refreshing oasis amidst the rocks. The area is also archaeologically significant, with nearby caves showing traces of Paleolithic human habitation.

End Point: Yerevan

What's Included

• Professional guide
• Professional driver
• Transportation
• Bottled water

What's Not Included

• Lunch and dinner
• Personal expenses
• Entrance tickets
• Masterclass/Degustation

Frequently Asked Questions

• How long is the tour and where does it start? It is a full-day private tour starting and ending in Yerevan, covering Areni, Noravank, Shaki Waterfall, and Tatev Monastery in southern Armenia.
• What are the highlights of this tour? A wine tasting in Areni (the 6,000-year-old cradle of winemaking), the two-story church of 13th-century Noravank set against red cliffs, the 18-metre Shaki Waterfall, and Tatev Monastery reached via the "Wings of Tatev" — the longest reversible aerial tramway in the world.
• Is the "Wings of Tatev" cable car included? The cable car ticket is not included — entrance tickets and the cable car are paid separately, along with lunch and any masterclass or degustation.
• What is included in the price? A professional guide, a professional driver, transportation, and bottled water. Lunch, dinner, entrance tickets, and the wine masterclass/degustation are not included.
• Is it a private tour? Yes. This is a private tour run for your group with your own guide and driver.
• Is it suitable for families? Yes. It is a comfortable full-day drive with cultural and natural stops; let us know your group size and any needs when booking.
• What should I bring? Comfortable shoes and layers for changing mountain weather, plus money for entrance tickets, the cable car, lunch, and the wine tasting, which are not included.