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Northern Armenia’s Canyon Journey: From Monasteries to MiGs

By Wonderful Travel
Free cancellation available
Price is $280 per adult* *Get a lower price by selecting multiple adult tickets
See tickets
Features
  • Free cancellation available
  • 9h
  • Mobile voucher
  • Instant confirmation
  • Selective hotel pickup
Overview

This tour goes far beyond the usual monastery route — it’s a real journey through time and contrast. You’ll explore the UNESCO-listed monastery of Haghpat, symbol of Armenia’s spiritual and cultural heritage, and then dive into the country’s more recent history with a Soviet MiG-21 jet and an abandoned cable car station perched above the canyon.

Adding to that, you’ll enjoy a guided hike to Kayan Fortress, a hidden medieval stronghold offering breathtaking views over the Debed Canyon and Alaverdi. The combination of ancient architecture, Soviet relics, untouched nature, and light adventure makes this experience one of the most diverse and memorable ways to discover Northern Armenia.

Activity location

  • Haghpat Monastery
    • next to Saint Nshan Church
    • 1722, Haghpat, Armenia

Meeting/Redemption Point

  • Haghpat Monastery
    • next to Saint Nshan Church
    • 1722, Haghpat, Armenia

Check availability

Northern Armenia’s Canyon Journey: From Monasteries to MiGs
  • Activity duration is 9 hours9h
    9h
  • English

Pickup included

Language options: English
Starting time: 9:00am
Price details
$280.00 x 1 Adult$280.00
Total
Price is $280.00

What's included, what's not

  • What's includedWhat's included
    Private transportation
  • What's includedWhat's included
    Bottled water
  • What's includedWhat's included
    Lunch
  • What's includedWhat's included
    Air-conditioned vehicle

Know before you book

  • Wheelchair accessible
  • Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
  • Service animals allowed
  • Public transportation options are available nearby
  • Specialized infant seats are available
  • Transportation options are wheelchair accessible
  • All areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible
  • Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Activity itinerary

Haghpat Monastery
  • 1h
At Haghpat, travelers will explore one of Armenia’s most impressive UNESCO World Heritage Sites, a masterpiece of medieval architecture surrounded by dramatic canyon scenery. Your guide will share the stories behind its ancient stone carvings, cross-stones (khachkars), and secret passages once used by monks. You’ll walk through peaceful courtyards where time feels frozen, enjoy panoramic views of the Debed Canyon, and discover how faith, education, and art came together in this 10th-century spiritual center. It’s not just a church visit — it’s a journey through Armenia’s Golden Age of culture and craftsmanship.
Kayan Fortress
  • 2h
Your adventure continues with a scenic hike to Kayan Fortress, a medieval stronghold perched high above the Debed Canyon. The trail winds through peaceful forests and open ridges, offering breathtaking views of Alaverdi and the surrounding mountains. At the top, the ruins of Kayan Fortress reveal centuries of history — once a defensive post guarding the trade routes of Northern Armenia. It’s a quiet, photogenic spot where travelers can rest, take in the panorama, and feel the spirit of ancient Armenia far away from crowds.
Sanahin
  • 1h
In Sanahin, instead of visiting the monastery, we explore the Soviet-era side of the village — a fascinating contrast to the ancient sites nearby. Here you’ll see a real MiG-21 fighter jet, proudly displayed as a reminder of Armenia’s Cold War history, and an abandoned cable car station overlooking the canyon. The spot offers an unforgettable glimpse into the Soviet past, mixed with incredible panoramic views of the Debed Valley. It’s a place where travelers can enjoy a touch of urban exploration, photography, and storytelling that connects Armenia’s modern history with its dramatic landscape.

Location

Activity location

  • LOB_ACTIVITIESLOB_ACTIVITIES
    Haghpat Monastery
    • next to Saint Nshan Church
    • 1722, Haghpat, Armenia

Meeting/Redemption Point

  • PEOPLEPEOPLE
    Haghpat Monastery
    • next to Saint Nshan Church
    • 1722, Haghpat, Armenia

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