Blog > Hiking in Armenia

Armenia offers a wide range of hiking trails, from easy walks to challenging treks. Although I’ve always been an active person, it was here that I truly began my hiking journey, inspired by the country’s diverse natural landscapes.

My first hike was to Lastiver, with a group of guys who quickly became my first—and dearest—Armenian friends. The trail was relatively easy but incredibly beautiful, winding through a variety of settings: from canyons to waterfalls, caves to villages.

To me, hiking is more than just a sport—it gradually frees you from the mental patterns of city life and plants seeds of motivation and freedom. Since that first hike, I haven’t stopped. I consider it one of the truly meaningful things in my life.

Now, I’d like to share a list—certainly not exhaustive—of hikes in Armenia that are absolutely worth doing.

My favourite: Khustup

Elevation: 3.200m, region: Syunik province, difficulty: hard

Khustup is definitely not an easy hike, but once completed, it leaves you with a dreamlike vision that stays with you forever. The mountain is impressively high, and as you approach the summit, the view becomes almost surreal—magical and alive. Its sheer size and striking shape seem to overwhelm you.

If you’re looking for a challenging route, this one is for you. We usually camp the night before and begin the ascent at dawn.

Reaching the peak is an unforgettable moment: you find yourself surrounded by clouds, with a sea of softer, green hills stretching beneath you, partially hidden by mist. It's as if you're walking above the world.

Azhdahak

According to Armenian mythology, the name Azhdahak comes from a dragon-man who once lived in these mountains. He symbolized power and wealth.

And indeed, beyond the legend, this hike offers a real sense of vitality and well-being. It’s not too demanding, but it will still make you break a sweat.

The goal of the excursion is to reach a beautiful lake nestled within the caldera of the Azhdahak volcano—an unforgettable destination.

Highly recommended for those who want a rewarding adventure without pushing themselves to the extreme.

Khosrov state reserve

This reserve—yes, this very one—just happens to be one of the oldest protected areas in the world, founded by King Khosrov of Armenia between 334 and 338 AD.

Covering 232.13 square kilometers, it offers a wide variety of routes, ranging from easy strolls to demanding treks. I personally explored two trails: one of them was particularly long and challenging—over 10 hours, with some technically difficult sections.

The area is rich in natural and historical wonders: waterfalls, ancient monasteries (such as Aghjots Monastery), and mysterious caves.

The most iconic starting point is the Temple of Garni, from which you can also admire the stunning basalt columns known as the "Symphony of Stones."

It may sound cliché, but this is truly a must-visit destination.

Aragats, the sacred roof of Armenia

Maximum elevation 4090m, Aragatston province, 80km from Yerevan. Difficulty: easy/medium/hard

Mount Aragats is often regarded as the sacred mountain of Armenia. It has four distinct peaks, with the northern one being the highest in both Armenia and the entire Lesser Caucasus range.

The origin of its name remains uncertain. Some say it refers to the legendary Ara the Beautiful, while others, following the medieval historian Movses Khorenatsi, believe it may derive from Aramaneak, the son of Hayk—the legendary forefather of the Armenian people.

Whatever its origin, for hiking enthusiasts, this is the one mountain you simply cannot miss. If your time is limited and you can only choose one hike in Armenia, let it be this one.