OCTOBER 19-20, 2023
There will be two groups of up to 20 people, that will have a two-day journey, experiencing the same attractions but in a different order. The sequence has been designed this way due to the ecolodges' limited hosting capacity. On Day 1, while Group 1 heads to the Ranger Campus after our shared activities, Group 2 will move towards Gnishik Ecolodge. The activities of Day 2 are a mirror reflection, ensuring both groups enjoy every attraction without overcrowding any single location.
On Thursday, October 19, all participants are invited to a free visit to Khor Virap, a hike in Angel’s Canyon, and a guided tour with an optional hike in the Urtsadzor region of the Caucasus Wildlife Refuge (CWR). The day will conclude with a dinner reception in Urtsadzor before returning to Yerevan. Transportation will be arranged. This is all made possible thanks to the generous funding from IUCN Netherlands.
Staying overnight at the CWR ecolodges and the second-day trip costs 75 EUR per person. If you wish to include alcoholic beverages, there's an additional charge of 25 EUR. Accommodation is in shared rooms. Registration operates on a first-come, first-served basis and will close once all spots are taken.
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OCTOBER 19, Thursday |
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Group 1 |
Group 2 |
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Visit to Khor Virap Monastery |
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Walking/horseback riding/bike tour to Ranger Campus, CWR |
Jeeping to Gnishik Ecolodge, CWR |
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Evening snacks and overnight at the Ranger Campus, CWR |
Evening snacks and overnight stay at the Gnishik Ecolodge, CWR |
| OCTOBER 20, Friday | |
| Group 1 | Group 2 |
| Visit to Areni-1 Cave | Mammal watching in Yeghegis Canyon or Arates |
| Visit to Noravank Monastery | Lunch at Areni Wineyards |
| Lunch at Harsnasar Restaurant | Visit to Areni-1 Cave |
| Mammal watching in Yeghegis Canyon or Arates | Visit to Noravank Monastery |
| Dinner at Areni Wineyards | Dinner at Harsnasar Restaurant |
| Return to Yerevan Overnight stay in the Gnishik Ecolodge possible |
Overnight stay in the Ranger Campus possible |
The Ararat region, cradled in the foothills of the biblical Ararat Mountain, presents a geographical tapestry that intertwines plains and mountains. Surrounded by the Geghama, Yeranos, and Urts mountains, this region reveals a distinctive division where only about 30% of its expanse lies as plains, while the vast majority unfolds as a dynamic blend of steppe and mountainous terrain. This rugged landscape serves as a sprawling canvas for hosting an extensive spectrum of Armenia's cherished natural heritage.
On our way to the Caucasus Wildlife Refuge, we will make a stop at the Khor Virap Monastery, situated amidst lush pastures and vineyards, with a captivating view of Mount Ararat. Khor Virap holds significant historical and spiritual importance as a monastery and pilgrimage site. This eminence stems from the fact that Gregory the Illuminator, who was not only the founder but also the inaugural leader of the Armenian Apostolic Church, was imprisoned here for a span of 13 years by King Tiridates III of Armenia. Saint Gregory subsequently became the king's religious mentor, and they led the proselytizing activity in the country. In the year 301, Armenia was the first country in the world to be declared a Christian nation.
Adjacent to the Monastery, in the ancient Araks riverbed, lies the Khor Virap Ramsar Site—a freshwater marshland of semi-artificial origin. It primarily comprises reed beds nourished by an irrigation canal, encircled by drainage channels. Notably, the area holds importance for the conservation of more than 100 species of migratory waterbirds, among which are the globally threatened Marbled Teal (Marmaronetta angustirostris) and the endangered White-headed Duck (Oxyura leucocephala). Moreover, the site supports various mammal species, including the Jungle Cat (Felis chaus), the Eurasian Otter (Lutra lutra), and the non-native wild mammal, Coypu (Myocastor coypus). Adding to its biodiversity, the Khor Virap Ramsar Site is also home to a rich population of dragonfly species, including the nationally endangered Hemianax ephippiger.
An approximately 3.3 km hiking trail winds through captivating rocky outcrops and sediments, creating an ideal habitat for numerous birds of prey. This scenic trail meanders through hilly gorges and rocky "canyons," formed by the presence of the river and mineral springs that nurture the local ecosystem's biodiversity. While trekking along this route, we hold the hopeful anticipation of encountering some of the fascinating residents that call Angle's canyon home.
The hiking trail is designed to be easily navigable, requiring no special skills. It offers an opportunity to explore the natural wonders of the area without demanding any advanced expertise.
Founded by FPWC in 2010, the Caucasus Wildlife Refuge (CWR) holds the distinction of being the first Privately Protected Area in the South Caucasus. Encompassing an expansive 30,000 hectares, CWR has a dual mission: the preservation of the region's distinctive biodiversity and the empowerment of local communities. Its establishment aims to address the unsustainable management of buffer zones and essential wildlife migration corridors, all while enhancing the socio-economic well-being of the communities intertwined with this environment.
CWR functions as a nucleus of various conservation endeavors, seamlessly weaving together the threads of biodiversity and habitat preservation, wildlife rescue, sustainable development, environmental education, and the promotion of ecotourism. This comprehensive approach is underlined by its strong community engagement, creating a synergy between nature and society within the refuge's realm.
CWR is home to rare and iconic wildlife species such as Persian leopard, Armenian Mouflon, Syrian Brown Bear, Bezoar Goat, Caucasian lynx, Black Eurasian Vulture, Bearded Vulture, it hosts many rare and endemic pear species, as well as some of the oldest Juniperus forests in the country.
In the early morning, we will drive up to the mountains to observe large mammals and birds in the CWR area.
Enveloped by picturesque mountains and lush valleys, Vayots Dzor boasts a rich diversity of flora and fauna, making it an ecological paradise. The region is home to rare and endangered species, making conservation efforts crucial for preserving its delicate ecosystem. Beyond its natural splendors, Vayots Dzor is steeped in history and culture, boasting ancient monasteries, churches, and archaeological sites that bear witness to its rich heritage. Ancient monasteries and historic landmarks dot the landscape, narrating stories of the region's vibrant past. Whether you are drawn to the serenity of nature, the allure of archaeological discoveries, or the warmth of Armenian hospitality, Vayots Dzor promises an unforgettable journey filled with beauty, charm, and exploration.
The Areni Cave, located in Vayots Dzor region, is a remarkable multicomponent cave site, displaying artifacts dating from the Chalcolithic to the Bronze Age. Locally known as the "Birds' Cave," it resides near the village of Areni, nestled close to the Arpa River and the Gnishik River. This cave complex holds a treasure trove of historical wonders. Archaeologists have unearthed fascinating discoveries, including the world's oldest winery, an ancient human brain, a 5,000-year-old straw skirt, and the world's oldest leather shoe. These findings provide invaluable insights into ancient cultures and human history. Distinguished by its "karstic" classification, the Areni Cave stands out among the few caves in the Caucasus with a thick sediment sequence. Its geological significance adds to the allure of exploring its depths. As you venture into the Areni Cave, you will be transported back in time, surrounded by artifacts that bear witness to the ingenuity and creativity of our ancestors. This site is not only a testament to Armenia's rich cultural heritage but also a window into the fascinating tapestry of human civilization.
Noravank, a 13th-century Armenian monastery, situated within a narrow gorge carved by the Amaghu River. The gorge is distinguished by its towering, sheer, brick-red cliffs that stand directly opposite the monastery. Founded in 1105 by Bishop Hovhannes, a former abbot of Vahanavank near the present-day city of Kapan in Syunik, the monastic complex comprises the Church of S. Karapet, the S. Grigor chapel featuring a vaulted hall, and the Church of S. Astvatsatsin (Holy Mother of God). Within and outside the compound walls, you can find remnants of various civil structures and khachkars. Noravank served as the residence of the Orbelian princes. Notably, the architect Siranes, along with the miniature painter and sculptor Momik, contributed to the site during the latter part of the thirteenth and early fourteenth centuries.
Vayots Dzor region with its rocky mountains, deep gorges and golden valleys is home to rare and endangered wildlife species including flagship species such as Persian leopard, Bezoar goat, Syrian Brown bear, Eurasian otter, Bearded vulture and many more. We will spend our morning looking for the Syrian brown bears and Bezoar ibex in the Yeghegis Gorge, which is a gene pool not for the large mammals, but also globally threatened wild Pear ssp.
