The hiking journey will take us to the southern part of the country, near the border with Iran. This region is known for its breathtaking natural beauty and diverse cultural influences.

Armenia’s geopolitical position is uniquely complex, located at the crossroads of Eastern Europe and Western Asia, sharing borders with Turkey, Azerbaijan, Georgia, and Iran. This strategic location has historically made Armenia a focal point of regional power struggles and tensions. The relationship between Armenia and Turkey is particularly fraught, shaped by a tragic history, including the Armenian Genocide during the Ottoman era, which continues to impact diplomatic relations and remains a source of unresolved grievances. Moreover, the ongoing conflict over Nagorno-Karabakh, a disputed region largely inhabited by ethnic Armenians but internationally recognized as part of Azerbaijan, has further complicated Armenia’s geopolitical standing. Although a ceasefire was brokered in 2020, the tensions persist, and in 2023, Azerbaijan launched a large-scale military offensive, resulting in the forced displacement of thousands of ethnic Armenians. 

However, Armenia is not defined solely by its challenges. The country boasts a rich cultural heritage, including literature, music, a unique alphabet, and a delicious national cuisine. Furthermore, Armenia’s stunning natural landscapes, particularly in the south, are truly remarkable.

On our trip, we will explore southern Armenia through a series of day hikes. With expansive mountain panoramas, crystal-clear lakes, and a deeply rich history that unfolds between monastery walls and small as well as large towns, we will have the opportunity to experience many different facets of the region. We will hike to the highest peaks and the most beautiful waterfalls, and delve into the region’s history, which has been shaped by Persian rule and the proximity of Iran, influences that are still evident in the local architecture. In addition to the region’s fantastic cuisine, we will enjoy seasonal summer fruits during our journey.

The hikes vary in difficulty: some will be more challenging, with distances of up to 15 km and significant elevation gains. On other days, we will take more leisurely city walks to explore the towns in the south and gain a deeper understanding of the region’s history.