Best Hiking Routes in Armenia to Explore

The Armenian Highlands offer diverse hiking routes for both beginners and professional climbers. Here are the top destinations categorized by difficulty and unique attractions.

1. Mount Aragats (The Highest Peak)

Aragats has four peaks offering different levels of challenges:

• South Peak (3,888m): The most popular and accessible route. The hike starts from Lake Kari (3,200m) and takes about 3-5 hours.

• North Peak (4,090m): The highest and technically most difficult peak requiring good physical condition and specialized gear.

2. Dilijan National Park ("Armenian Switzerland")

Trails here pass through dense forests and medieval monasteries:

• Lake Parz to Goshavank: A moderate 8km trail through beech and oak forests leading to the 13th-century Goshavank complex.

• Mount Dimats: Famous for its vertical cliffs and stunning views of the Ijevan mountain range. It is considered one of the most photogenic spots in Armenia.

3. Mount Azhdahak (Geghama Range)

Azhdahak (3,597m) is an extinct volcano with a crystal-clear crater lake. The route features "Martian" landscapes and ancient petroglyphs. It is a moderate hike typically done during the summer months.

4. Mount Khustup (Syunik)

A symbol of the Syunik region Mount Khustup (3,206m) offers a challenging but spiritually rich hike. The summit provides impressive views of Kapan and the Artsakh mountain ranges.

5. Lastiver (Tavush)

The best choice for adventure lovers. The trail passes through the Khachaghbyur River gorge leading to caves waterfalls and wooden huts hidden in the forest.

6. Mount Artanish (Lake Sevan)

The only point from which you can see the entire Lake Sevan at once. It is a relatively light hike (2,460m) ideal for a one-day trip.