Are you looking for the perfect hiking trails in Armenia? You’d better plan a trip to go hiking in Armenia’s national parks. With diverse landscapes and rich biodiversity, these parks are a paradise for hiking lovers.
Although many tourists visiting are more focused on its historical sites, the ecotourism concept has been getting popular over recent years. Armenia offers a blend of stunning landscapes, historical sites, and exceptional cuisine. Mountains, lush forest pathways, and shores of high-altitude lakes – you can find this when hiking in the national parks.
Besides, the national parks are home to many species and rich flora and are a perfect place to watch wildlife. Don’t forget your camera to spot some rare birds or flowers growing in the mountains. Let’s see what 4 national parks can offer.
Dilijan National Park
Located in the northeastern Tavush Province of Armenia the picturesque Dilijan National Park spans over 240 square kilometers. It is one of the most famous resort areas in Armenia. Its biodiversity, lush forest landscapes, and fresh air make it a haven for eco-tourists.
The best time for hiking in the park is during the spring and summer months when the weather is mild, and the mountains have vibrant colors and blooming wildflowers. There are many popular trails in the park winding through valleys, past crystal-clear mountain streams, alongside serene lakes․
Moreover, the park has rich flora and fauna, with over 900 species of vascular plants, including rare and endangered varieties. It’s also home to an array of wildlife, from majestic brown bears to red deer. Moreover, there is a breeding center where you can feed the red deer.
Visitors can explore cultural landmarks such as the medieval Haghartsin Monastery, Goshavank, and Jukhtak Vank. The park offers various activities such as jeeping and horseback riding. One of the pros of traveling to Dilijan is that the resort town has a great infrastructure.
Sevan National Park
This national park in Armenia’s Gegharkunik region encompasses the majestic Lake Sevan and spans 150,100 hectares. It is known as a destination with rapidly changing weather. It may be too cold near the lake in winter so you have to check the weather first.
At an elevation of 1900 meters above sea level, Lake Sevan is flanked by mountains, offering a breathtaking backdrop for various outdoor activities. Swimming, boating, paragliding, and birdwatching are available in the park. The park is a haven for wildlife, with over 250 bird species, including the endemic Armenian gull, thriving in the surrounding area.
Hiking enthusiasts often choose destinations like Mt. Artanish where they can enjoy panoramic views of the lake. Unique cliffs in Noratus and a sprawling pine forest are in the south of the lake.
Cultural sites also dot the landscape and emerge on the way of hikers.
Lake Arpi National Park
One of the new national parks established only in 2009 is Lake Arpi National Park in the Gegharkunik region. It covers an expansive area of 250 square kilometers and is situated around Lake Arpi at an elevation of 2000 meters above sea level.
The park’s diverse ecosystem is home to over 140 bird species, including the iconic Armenian gull and the elusive Dalmatian pelican. Additionally, the park harbors 30 species of mammals and over 670 species of plants recorded.
Accessible within an hour from Gyumri, the park offers great outdoor activities for nature enthusiasts. The best time to visit Lake Arpi National Park is during the warmer months. It’s rather cold in Shirak province so the summer is a perfect time when the landscape is alive with vibrant flora and fauna. In winter, the lake freezes, transforming into a picturesque ice-skating destination. It’s an ideal place for birdwatching, fishing, horseback riding, and picnicking.
Hiking enthusiasts can take the scenic 25-kilometer trail encircling Lake Arpi, offering breathtaking views.
Arevik National Park
This park in Syunik province is a sanctuary of biodiversity and natural beauty. Spanning over 344 square kilometers, it’s a haven for wildlife.
The park’s terrain is varied with forests, alpine meadows, and semi-desert landscapes. It can be entered by offroading vehicle from the city of Meghri.
Arevik National Park is renowned for its rich insect life, with over 150 species of butterflies. Several of these species are listed in the Red Book of Armenia. Visitors should be aware of the presence of snakes, particularly during the warmer months.
In addition to its vibrant butterfly population, Arevik is a birdwatcher’s paradise, with over 180 species of birds, including Egyptian vultures, recorded within its boundaries. The park is also home to a diverse range of mammals, including the elusive Caucasian leopard, lynx, Bezoar goat, Armenian mouflon, and brown bear.
Hiking in Khosrov Natural Reserve
This is one of the oldest protected areas in the world with a history spanning nearly 1,700 years. It covers a big area of more than 23 hectares in the Ararat province. The reserve is located very close to Yerevan and is the most visited one as it stretches from the famous Garni temple.
Guided tours are recommended to fully experience the reserve’s wonders, including its four enchanting waterfalls, notably Astghik and Vahagn. Hiking in the reserve is a pure joy as you will watch wildlife, waterfalls, and natural wonders like the Symphony of Stones. While hiking you can stumble upon an old bridge or ruins of churches, caves, and cross stones.
Levon Travel specializes in crafting custom-made hiking tours in Armenia. With a focus on personalized group and solo tours, our staff will make your visit unforgettable.