Visa information
USA, The UK, Australia, UAE, and EU member countries citizens are exempt from visas to Armenia and Georgia. For the visa information for other countries citizens please check Visa section.
Walking the Transcaucasian Trail in Armenia is another interesting and active training tour designed by Cascade Travel Agency. Due to its mountainous terrain and high altitude above sea level, Armenia offers an amazing opportunity for those keen on long-distance walking to have fun and discover the landlocked country with all its beauty and serenity.
This 10-day hiking tour program will take you through some of the most essential and eye-catching areas of Armenia. Rushing through thick forests, walking along the red-coloured gorges, camping near crystal lakes, and discovering spring waters are just a few examples of the trail routes. The hidden historical artefacts and monuments also train our brain and memory muscles. So, what are you waiting for? Grab your suits, we are climbing the Armenian highlands.
The best time to hike Armenia’s section of the Transcaucasian Trail is late May through early October. Spring brings wildflowers and flowing water, while early fall brings cooler days and colorful leaves. July and August often reach over 30°C, especially in lower valleys, so staying hydrated and protecting yourself from the sun is important. Snow can stick around at higher elevations until mid-June, so plan carefully if you’re hiking early in the season.
Southbound (SOBO) hikers often adjust more easily since the northern sections are less strenuous. Northbound (NOBO) hikers start with the tougher Syunik mountains, which some prefer for a more challenging beginning. You don’t need permits for most Armenian trails, but a few protected areas, such as Arevik National Park, require a ranger check-in.
Hello on board, hikers! Welcome to the capital of Armenia and one of the oldest cities of the world – Yerevan. To start our tour right, we need to visit the symbolic statue of Mother Armenia, which in addition to its symbolic history also provides an outstanding view over the city and Biblical Mount Ararat. Later by taking the 572 steps of Cascade Complex we will find ourselves surrounded by local modern cafes and shops. What about having a city walk. Yerevan’s round plan permits us to enjoy it on foot without the fear of being lost. Just by turning right from Cascade we will find ourselves on Marshal Baghramyan avenue where the majority of embassies, National Assembly of Armenia, President’s Palace, some of the local and international universities, and lots of other notable buildings are located. Later on by the heartbeat of the Pink City, Republic Square cannot be left outside of the list.
Included Activities:
Hotel in Yerevan
Not included
8 hours
The 13th century Noravank Monastery with its unbelievably beautiful surroundings and canyons, gives a grand opening to our hiking program. The 2.8 km medium difficulty trail starts from the surreally beautiful monastery which architecture and cultural engravings do not leave anyone unamazed. While surrounding red rocks and gorges hide the cultural jewel far away from the human eye. Starting from the monastery the trail winds through Gnishik River Canyon which high deep gorges filled with red rocks will give the impression of walking on the lava. The home to 900 species of plants and 525 species of animals – we have a unique opportunity to meet with endemic species of the country. After hiking, transfer to Yeghegadzor town for rest and overnight. Vayots Dzor region is well known for its wine production; make sure to buy some good wines from wineries nearby.
Included Activities:
Hotel in Yeghegnadzor
Not included
Length – 2.8 km, Elevation – 1560 m, Route type – Loop
Starting from a semi-abandoned village Old Martiros, our 6.5 km long trail takes us around mountains, lakes and brings us back to the same village. The village dates back to 1283, where a khachkar stands recording the date of village establishment. During the trail we are rewarded with running spring water, right next to which Holy Mother of Cave Church is located. The monastery is engraved into the cave under the peak of Mount Nazar. Finally after passing the two giant mountains we will reach a cosy lake called Chumov, which is admirable for its island inside of the lake. The lake is especially beautiful during summer when all the flora surrounding the lake is blooming while the 2000m elevation gives an amazing view over the highlands. However, this is not the end yet. On the edge of rounding up the trail we will find ourselves in front of another church. The semi-abandoned village welcomes us by declaring the end of the trail.
Included Activities:
Hotel in Yeghegnadzor
Breakfast, Lunch Box
Length – 6.5 km, Elevation – 2052 m, Route type – Loop
What about taking Stairways to Heaven? This is how our next trail is named. Filled with natural and man-made monuments trail approves the existence of harmony between human and nature. Starting from a mountainous small village, Kapuyt, we will find ourselves on the routes of the old Silk Road. The trail has two versions for us to follow: the trail up to the canyon or side trip on the Arch Trail. The latest version rewards us with mediaeval khachkars, some of which are engraved into the large walls. While the version of following the canyon takes us along the routes, dating back to the 12th century, which have been part of the historical Silk Road. Due to its rocky terrain, the route is steep enough, so get ready for a good workout. The land of Water will reward us with natural spring waters so we cannot miss to try out refreshing water. At the end of the canyon we get an exclusive chance to admire stunning views over the highlands, as much as we may like. The return of both trails is led by directional signs.
Included Activities:
Hotel in Yeghegnadzor
Breakfast, Lunch Box
Length – 14.2 km, Elevation – 2531 m, Route type – Loop
The previous day was a stairway to heaven, today is the turn to Old Bandit road. No worries we will not meet any bandits there, since they have long gone. We will explore many interesting themes related to those historic figures along our journey through lush forests and scenic cliff-ledge pathways. The 15.9 km long route may seem to overlap with the previous day’s route. However, a strict turnoff takes us from the village of Gomk to Artavan and vice versa. The trail connecting two villages is full of sky-reaching rocks, endemic flora over the mountains, and man-made stone steps that switch back the mountains. And finally, near Artavan in a forest, we will find the abandoned camps of the bandits.
Arevik National Park is one of the most remote and rugged sections of Armenia’s trekking tours. It challenges hikers with high elevation and limited water sources. Located at the southern end of the trail, this protected area requires full self-sufficiency. It is best for advanced hikers or those on a well-supported guided hiking tour. The steep ascents, lack of resupply points for over 50 kilometers, and wide wilderness views make it a standout feature of Armenia’s wild terrain.
Included Activities:
Hotel in Yeghegnadzor
Breakfast, Lunch Box
Length – 15.9 km, Elevation – 2532 m, Route type – Loop
Let’s take a short break from hiking and transfer to the Northeastern part of the country where nature plays its game in diverse ways. On the road to Dilijan, we cannot miss the chance to explore some of the Armenian cultural sights and historical monuments. Here we will have a stop at the 13th century Selim Caravanserai, which hosted lots of traders from China, India and Europe. The top of the mountain pass provides a miracle view over the cascading mountains gradually disappearing in the horizon. We cannot stop just in one place, so our ride will take us to a village carrying the largest khachkar collection in the entire world. Here we will visit a family cheese farm to taste local and unique technology cheeses aged in wine and brandy. While the 9-12th century Monastery of Hayravank, located on the shores of the Armenian blue queen, Lake Sevan will take us closer to the roots of Christianity. Our final destination, Dilijan, is the so-called Armenian version of Switzerland, which is famous for its mind-blowing nature, national park, monasteries and spa centres.
Midway along the trail, the Gegham Mountains feature a volcanic landscape with crater lakes and wide plateaus. This area is known for violent summer storms and colorful wildflower blooms. It is also a common grazing ground for nomadic herders. Although it is one of the highest parts of the Armenian trail, it offers some of the best panoramic views. Flash floods and sudden weather changes are common, so be cautious when traveling through this region.
Included Activities:
Hotel in Dilijan
Breakfast, Lunch Box
Finally, we are here to discover one of the most popular tourist destinations of Armenia – Dilijan National Park with all its marvels and jewels. Our 14 km long winds us through the lush forests of the national park and ends right in the centre of the charming vacation centre. By having two location options to start our hike, either from Parz Lake or Dilijan city, in any case we will discover the best of the Park. By following the trail we have a unique chance to discover an unbelievably beautiful display of wildflowers- locally famous as Gyolot. Important to note though the flowers bloom in the late spring and early summer, the ground is likely to be wet. While the other sections of the trail pass through heavily wooded areas and flat spots – good for camping as well. We will again get back to Dilijan for the overnight stay and rest.
Included Activities:
Hotel in Dilijan
Breakfast, Lunch Box
Length – 14.1 km, Elevation – 1749 m, Route type – Loop
Starting from a small village of Khachardzan, our trail continues to wind through Dilijan national park and explore its marvels. Today is the turn of Gosh Lake. Presumably very similar to Parz Lake, this lake is surrounded on all sides with thick forests. Looking from the mountains upon the river it may seem to be a colourful palette with all the possible colours in it especially in the autumn. The place gives a great chance to have a camping trip here. This day will differ from the others. We are finally having a camp overnight!
Included Activities:
Camp at Lake Gosh
Breakfast, Lunch Box
Length – 12.4 km, Elevation – 1612 m, Route type – Loop
The final and conclusive trail takes us from Gosh Lake to Goshavank Monastery. What else to call this tour if not “Oh My Gosh!”? This was a joke which actually has roots of truth in it. Gosh or Mkhitar Gosh was a 12th century scholar, statesman and priest who founded that very Goshavank monastery. By being an important cultural and educational centre, the surrounding area and lake were named after Gosh as well. During the short and conclusive route we will encounter lots of khachkars on some of which there is already a tree growing. Whereas trees covered with handkerchiefs is a common custom of the region which make the particular destination a holy place. Our trail ends at the legendary Goshavank monastery, from where we will be forwarded to Yerevan.
If you’re short on time, consider hiking either the Gegham Mountains or the Dilijan National Park section. Both areas offer beautiful scenery and simple logistics, making them great for a one-week trip.
Included Activities:
Hotel in Yerevan
Breakfast, Lunch Box
Length – 4.2 km, Elevation – 1430 m, Route type – Loop
Transfer to the airport, departure. Armenia was happy to have you here and keep in mind Armenia will continue to amaze you despite how many times you have been here.
Breakfast
The Transcaucasian Trail (TCT) is a long-distance hiking route that runs through the Caucasus region, connecting Armenia, Georgia, and eventually Azerbaijan. The trail stretches over 800 kilometers in Armenia, passing through highlands, dense forests, volcanic plateaus, and ancient cultural landmarks. Built with help from local trail associations, the TCT aims to create a continuous and sustainable network that highlights the natural and historical richness of the South Caucasus.
This map shows the exact route of our tour along Armenia’s section of the Transcaucasian Trail. You’ll hike through ancient monasteries, hidden villages, and dramatic landscapes. This is the path we know best, and the one we’ll take together.
Armenia’s part of the Transcaucasian Trail (TCT) provides a more remote and immersive experience than the Georgian side. The trail has little infrastructure, which pushes hikers to be self-sufficient. In return, it rewards them with solitude, cliff-carved monasteries, and volcanic highlands such as the Gegham Mountains.
Unlike Georgia’s busier trails, Armenia’s routes can let you walk for days without seeing anyone. Its diverse terrain and rich history, including medieval churches and ancient caravanserais, make Armenia a great choice for serious hikers.
This makes it a great choice for seasoned hikers or anyone looking for a fully supported guided trekking tour. Whether you’re booking a weeklong escape or one of our guided hiking tour packages, Armenia offers rich cultural and scenic experiences.
Armenia Transcaucasian Trail hiking tour is calculated based on comfortable, centrally located 3-star hotels. Upgrade to 4* is available upon request.
Wild camping is usually accepted in Armenia, but hikers should ask permission before setting up tents near homes or farmland. Much of the land is shared by local communities, so showing courtesy helps protect access for future travelers. Villagers often go out of their way to share food or offer shelter. Minor signs of respect and kindness go a long way, even when you don’t speak the same language.
Select your convenient date below and click “Book now”. Pop up contact form opens to send your contact deatails. We receive email & respond you answering all your questionstions. When every detail is confirmed, we send a prepayment link. Read more detailed on booking terms.
You may cancel your tour without penalty up to 10 days before the tour start date with fully refundable prepayment. Although we guarantee a full refund of the prepayment, we will not cover any bank transaction fees which will be deducted from the refunded amount.
| Dates | Status | Price per person | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 9 Jun - 18 Jun | Guaranteed from 2 p. | €1,540 | |
| 14 Jul - 23 July | Guaranteed from 2 p. | €1,540 | |
| 18 Aug- 27 Aug | Guaranteed from 2 p. | €1,540 | |
| 08 Sep- 17 Sep | Guaranteed from 2 p. | €1,540 |
Before embarking on your unforgettable journey through Azerbaijan, Georgia, and Armenia, a little preparation can ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience. Whether you’re immersing yourself in the rich history of Armenia, experiencing the vibrant culture of Georgia, exploring the diverse landscapes of Azerbaijan, or combining these captivating destinations, you’re in for an unforgettable adventure. Each country offers a unique blend of ancient sites, stunning landscapes, and cultural treasures that will leave you with lasting memories.
Let’s dive into the essentials to consider before you pack your bags!
Your health and well-being are important during your travels in Azerbaijan, Georgia, and Armenia. Here are a few health-related tips to help you prepare for your journey:
While general international travel advice always applies, we pride ourselves on having up-to-date knowledge of roads, borders, and local conditions. We never take risks with routes that could compromise safety. This commitment protects our reputation and ensures we provide reliable, responsible travel experiences.
At Cascade Travel, we are dedicated to growing our business sustainably, creating meaningful economic impacts, and contributing positively to the region we love.
Despite the exceptionally low levels of crime and theft we recommend using a neck wallet or money belt to securely store your passport, tickets, cash, and other important items. Many hotels offer safety deposit boxes for your valuables, and we advise locking your luggage for extra security.
Taxis are generally safe and widely available in cities, often found on nearly every corner. For added convenience and safety, we recommend downloading the Yandex Taxi application, which is available in all three countries. This app allows you to book rides without bargaining, ensuring transparent pricing and reliable service.
The Transcaucasian Trail in Armenia offers impressive views and varied terrain, but it is still under development. Many parts of the trail are not fully marked. Hikers often run into overgrown areas, animal tracks, or thick vegetation that hides the path. These unfinished sections make it hard to follow the trail without digital help.
To hike it safely, you need more than physical endurance. You also need reliable navigation tools. Paper maps are hard to find and often out of date. Use a GPS device or a smartphone with offline GPX tracks instead. You can download GPX files from the official Transcaucasian Trail website and use them with apps like Gaia GPS or Organic Maps. These apps work offline, which is important in remote areas with little or no signage. Don’t rely only on trail markers.
When you join one of our guided hiking tours, experienced trail experts handle all navigation. If you’re trekking solo, you need to be fully equipped and ready to rely on yourself.
Although travel insurance is not required by law in these countries, it’s always better to be safe and prepared for any unexpected situations during your trip.
Card payment is available in major cities, In all three countries, Visa, Mastercard & AMEX are acceptable. The bank may charge a fee for overseas withdrawals. ATMs are accessible in most of the regional towns, however, when traveling to regions and rural areas it is recommended to have cash in local currency. A balanced mix of cards and cash is the ideal approach. Exchange points with good rates are available in the capital cities.
For any emergency issue, feel free to call the numbers listed below: If you do not receive an immediate answer (due to nighttime), please try several times, we inquire you will receive an answer within 15 minutes.
Ms. Nune Tatunts +18054105107 / +374 93814102 / +374 9558189
We warmly welcome solo travelers on all our tours! Please note that if you are traveling solo, a single supplement (single room and shared double room per person price difference) is mandatory, and an additional fee will apply. However, if there is another solo traveler of the same gender in your group, we will ask if they are open to sharing a twin room. If both parties agree, we’ll book a twin room, thus you’ll avoid paying for a single supplement.
The Transcaucasian Trail in Armenia is not a good choice for young children or seniors without hiking experience. The trail includes steep climbs, rough terrain, and unmarked sections that demand confident navigation and good physical strength. There are no facilities, safety rails, or easy exits. This is a rugged backcountry trail. If you’re traveling with kids or older family members, it’s better to visit cultural sites or take shorter local hikes.
For accommodations in cities, we carefully select tried-and-tested hotels that are centrally located, ensuring you’re near the city’s heart and its main attractions.
In regional areas, we choose the best options within the price segment, providing a comfortable stay that blends relaxation with a unique local experience. Each property is selected to balance quality, convenience, and memorable hospitality.
We ensure comfortable and efficient transportation tailored to the size of your group:
All vehicles are well-maintained and air-conditioned to ensure a smooth and enjoyable travel experience.
Airport Transfers
In all our tours we include airport transfers:
We will meet you with the Cascade Travel sign if nothing additional is communicated to you. Alternatively, find your name printed on A4 paper. If you cannot find the company of your name sign within 15 minutes after entering the airport arrival hall, call the emergency contact number listed above.
Your arrival transfer is arranged based on the flight information provided to us. If your flight schedule changes or is canceled within 48 hours of arrival, provide the info via email. If you don’t inform us, we will not be able to arrange the transfer, and you’ll need to make your way to the starting hotel at your own expense.
During your trip, meals are carefully selected to offer a taste of the local cuisine. You’ll enjoy a variety of traditional dishes that showcase the rich culinary heritage of Armenia, Georgia, and Azerbaijan.
Some meals are included in your tour package, typically breakfast and a selection of local lunches or dinners. For meals not included in the tour price.
These countries are also vegetarian-friendly, with many delicious plant-based options available throughout your journey.
Please let us know in advance if you have any dietary restrictions or special requests, and we will do our best to accommodate them.
We value your feedback and want to thank you!
After your travels, we want to hear from you! Your feedback is incredibly important to us, as we use it to improve our services and add/remove specific services for future tours.
We are happy to provide a 10% discount to your friends or family if they book with us with your referral. Thus we inspire you to give feedback, which is great first-hand information for us and a small pleasant present to your friends traveling with us.
Tipping is appreciated for good service, though it is not mandatory. Here are some general guidelines to help you. Tipping is usually done at the end of the tour, in cash, directly to the guide and driver.
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We’ve spent years hiking the Transcaucasian Trail and refining each stage of the Armenian route. Delivering a great trekking experience begins with first-hand knowledge. Our team works with local communities, tests every trail section, and focuses on your safety and comfort along the way.
When you hike with us, you’re not only seeing Armenia. You’re walking a trail we helped create, supported by experience you can rely on. Let’s make your trip one to remember. Contact us to save your spot or ask questions. We’re here to help plan every step.
I recently went on the ‘Walking The Transcaucasian Trail Armenia’ tour and it was truly an unforgettable experience. The amazing landscapes and rich culture of Armenia were highlighted in this hiking adventure. Our guide Vahag, was knowledgeable and passionate about the country, which made the tour even more enjoyable. I took this tour with my friends and by the help of Vahag we shortened the tour duration into 5 days trying not to miss the most important places for hiking. The hikes were challenging but cool, offering stunning views of the mountains and valleys. I highly recommend this tour for anyone who loves hiking and wants to explore Armenia.
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