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6-7 hours
Daily Tour
Armenian, English, Russian
If you are an adventurous ecotourism and adrenaline lover, the private tour to Khosrov Forest State Reserve is for you. Founded in the 4th century AD, the reserve is one of the oldest protected areas in the world. It was established between 334–338 by King Khosrov Kotak, who, as you might have already guessed, gave it his name. The site is situated near the city of Artashat, in the Ararat region, about an hour’s drive from Yerevan.
1. First, we will be in the Azat Gorge, where we will see the Symphony of Stones.
2. From the entrance of the reserve, special vehicles will take you deep into the area, but be prepared for some hiking as well. Wear comfortable sportswear and bring a hat and sunglasses.
The hiking tour will take you to the Vahagn and Astghik waterfalls. In ancient Armenian mythology, Vahagn was the god of war and was in love with Astghik, the goddess of beauty and fertility. There are many legends about their love, and these two waterfalls are named after the pagan god and goddess.
3. The hike will continue to the ruins of the Havuts Tar Monastic Complex (Հավուց Թառ), built in the 11th century. The complex was not only a medieval spiritual center but also a significant site for the creation and copying of manuscripts.
Khosrov Forest State Reserve offers a rare chance to connect with nature, breathe fresh air, and see Armenia’s wildlife in a pristine setting. This private tour lets you explore at a comfortable pace with an expert guide.
All private tours can be changed upon request.
Your private driver and guide meet you at your hotel in Yerevan. The drive to Khosrov Forest takes approximately 45 minutes through the Azat River canyon — a landscape of dramatic gorges and juniper-covered slopes.
Arrive at the entrance of one of the world's oldest protected natural areas, designated as a royal hunting reserve by Armenian King Khosrov Kotak in the 4th century AD. Today it covers 80,000 hectares and is home to over 1,850 plant species — more than 50% of all flora in Armenia — as well as wolves, bezoar goats, black vultures and the extremely rare Caucasian leopard.
Begin a 6-kilometer medium-difficulty hike through the reserve led by your guide. The trail winds through ancient forests and rocky canyons to two spectacular waterfalls named after the pagan Armenian gods Vahagn, the god of fire and war, and Astghik, the goddess of beauty and fertility. Non-slip shoes and comfortable clothing are essential. Bring at least one liter of water.
Continue by jeep along mountain paths to the hauntingly beautiful ruins of Havuts Tar Monastery, a 10th to 13th century complex that was one of medieval Armenia's most important religious and cultural centers. Destroyed by earthquake in the 17th century, it sits in near-complete solitude above the valley with panoramic mountain views.
Picnic lunch in the reserve or optional restaurant stop depending on your preference.
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