Tourism has been a key sector to the Armenian economy since the 1990s as half a million people visit the country ever year, mostly ethnic Armenians from the Diaspora. Tourism has been growing gradually in Armenia since 2000. The Republic of Armenia Ministry of Economy declared that 575,281 tourists visited Armenia in 2009, 3% more than the estimated index for 2008. 5% growth was predicted for 2010 as the world economy stabilizes. Armenia is an intriguing tourist destination. Numerous monuments and masterpieces of the Ancient era and Middle Ages can be found throughout the country. Tourism in Armenia is rooted in the country’s historical landmarks and natural attractions.
Outdoor activities and scenery are the primary attractions. Lake Sevan, the world’s largest mountain lake, is a popular summer tourist spot. Biblical Mount Ararat, upon which Noah’s Ark landed after the flood, has mystical influence on Armenians and is worshipped and made part of the legends. Tsakhkadzor ski resort is open year round for skiing in the winter and hiking and picnicking the rest of the year. Yerevan, Armenia’s capital, also boasts opera, theaters and other cultural attractions. The casinos in Argavand, on the way to Zvartnots Airport, are also popular with tourists. Yerevan has a thriving nightlife with variety of national and international restaurants, bars, cafes and night clubs. With all the activities going on until early morning hours it is safe to be in the streets of Yerevan at any time of the day or night.
A traveler can enjoy historical, cultural, religious, archeological, eco, adventure tours in Armenia. You may think, so many places worth to see, where you should start from. Depending on your interests and preferences you can choose from historical monuments, museums and galleries, cultural centers, churches and monasteries, khachkars, caves and canyons, rivers and mountains, parks and forests, and of course, UNESCO World Heritage sites.
The countless mountains, hills, gorges and valleys of Armenia proffer a myriad of prospects for the hiking enthusiast. Whether you are a veteran hiker, or simply enjoy losing yourself to the wonders of nature on occasion, you will be fascinated by the wild beauty and rugged countryside of Armenia. Imagine you can see the unique historical sites, monasteries, fortresses and caves, which are far from the motorways and only overcoming the difficulties of the long way you can admire them. If you are a restless seeker of adventure, if you are interested in flora, fauna and geology, if you want to feel the odour of the ancient history of Armenia, join for hiking, climbing and camping on the way of excitement and discovery.
You can go hiking to Garni Gorge, Mount Aragats, Lastiver in North-Eastern Armenia (forests, waterfalls, caves), Dilijan National Park, Gndevank, Karahunj, Kobayr Monastery, and why not Nagorno-Karabakh (Artsakh), including Stepanakert, Shushi, Martuni and Hadrut.
Sevan and Alagyaz Lakes, Hrazdan and Araks Rivers, Mantash, Spandaryan, Jrapi and Shamb Reservoirs are extraordinary places for fishing, given the natural wonder of the idyllic surroundings. These are favorite destinations for fishermen determined to catch the famed trout (Salmon Trout – Ishkhan), karas, carp, siga, crucian, bakhtak, crayfish, as well as koghak and karmrakhayt, abounding in these chilly waters.
Armenia offers numerous opportunities for those who enjoy horse-riding, ranging from riding clubs to journeys on horseback through some of Armenia’s most colorful scenery. Horse-riding offers travelers a perfect way to traverse the countryside viewing flora and fauna, as well as archaeological sites and monuments. During Armenia’s spring season, travelers can enjoy horse-riding tours of Mount Aragats, Armenia’s tallest mountain, or several other destinations.
Travelers can also enjoy bird-watching in Armenia as it is rich in birds. 350 Species of birds inhabit in Armenia. A large variety of domestic and migratory birds make Armenia a must for birdwatchers.
Choose one of our tours to Armenia to enjoy beauty of Armenia with your own eyes.