Horse Riding Holidays in Armenia

Planning Your Trip to Armenia

Here's what you need to know before booking a horse riding trip to Armenia — from getting there to what to pack.

Getting There 

International flights arrive into Zvartnots Airport in Yerevan (EVN). Most current riding tours are based in the Lori region in the north of the country, with the nearest town being Alaverdi — approximately 2.5 hours from Yerevan by road. Alaverdi can be reached from Yerevan by shared taxi, private transfer, or train. Your tour provider will arrange a transfer to the stables from Alaverdi — contact them a couple of days before arrival to confirm the pickup.

Visa

Many nationalities can enter Armenia without a visa for stays of up to 180 days, though requirements vary by country. Always check the latest entry rules before booking your trip.

Riding Season

 Tours run from April 1 through October–November depending on the route. Late spring (May–June) brings wildflowers and full green foliage to the canyon forests. July and August are warm with long riding days. September and October offer reliable weather, dry trails, and the colors of early autumn — a particularly good time to ride. For a full month-by-month breakdown, see the Armenia climate and weather page.

What to Pack

 Long-sleeve shirts and pants, sturdy hiking or riding shoes, and a rain jacket are essential. The canyon terrain can be muddy after rain, and temperatures drop noticeably in the evenings even in summer. All riding and camping equipment is provided by the tour operator.

Currency and Practical Notes

 Armenia uses the Armenian dram (AMD). Cards are accepted in Yerevan but cash is more practical in rural areas. The international dialing code is +374.

Highlights Along the Route 

The riding routes in the Lori region pass through some of Armenia's most dramatic natural and historical landmarks — many of them rarely visited by anyone not on horseback. 

Debed Canyon 

One of the most scenic river valleys in Armenia, the Debed Canyon runs through the heart of the Lori region and forms the backbone of several riding routes. The canyon walls are dotted with medieval monasteries, and the riverside trails pass through orchards, villages, and forest trails that rarely see tourists on foot.

Dzoraget Canyon 

Carved by the Dzoraget River as it cuts through the Bazum Mountains from west to east, this deep and narrow canyon opens into a wide forested valley downstream. Riding routes cross the canyon and follow its rim, with glass lodges overlooking the forested valley.

Qobayr Monastery 

A 12th-century monastic complex built into the cliffs above the Debed Valley, Qobayr served as an important cultural and manuscript center under the Zakarid dynasty. It's the final destination on one of the longer riding routes, approached on horseback via the canyon trail.

Horomayr Monastery 

Built along the cliffs above the Debed Canyon, Horomayr Monastery has overlooked the valley since the 7th century. The location is as dramatic as the history — birds of prey circle the canyon below, and the views from the monastery terrace stretch across the forested valley.

Sedvi Gorge and Monastery 

A quieter and less visited part of the region, the Sedvi Gorge is a favorite among locals for its natural beauty. The 13th-century Sedvi monastery and a medieval watchtower sit on the upper hillside above the gorge. From late summer, the trail passes through wild raspberry patches and berry fields.

Lake Tsover 

A scenic hillside lake surrounded by pine forest in the Gugarats Range, Tsover is a starting point and resting place on several routes. Between riding days, visitors can go boating, fishing, or practice archery around the lake, and the forested trails around it climb to panoramic viewpoints above 1,600 meters.