One-Day Hike from Yerevan: Climb Mount Aragats with a Guide

This comprehensive Mount Aragats hiking tour itinerary invites you to climb all 4 summits of Armenia's highest mountain, Mount Aragats. We offer flexible options, allowing you to choose which Aragats summit to climb based on your physical fitness and desired challenge.

Within this Armenia trekking guide, you'll find detailed technical information and trekking details for each of the four Aragats peaks presented separately. For the ultimate Aragats climbing adventure, including a 2 day hike with camping at night to conquer all four peaks of Mount Aragats at once, I am are ready to create a customized itinerary for you!

Mount Aragats is located in the central part of Armenia, northwest of Yerevan and north of the Ararat Plain at the border of Aragatsotn and Shirak regions! Rising proudly amidst the rugged landscapes of Armenia, Mount Aragats with its 4 summits stands as a majestic symbol of natural beauty and cultural significance. Its majestic snow-capped summits, vast alpine meadows, and striking volcanic landscapes make it an unforgettable trekking experience for outdoor enthusiasts seeking adventure activities in Armenia. Whether you seek rugged hiking trails, panoramic views, or the challenge of conquering its peaks, climbing Mount Aragats is a must for those exploring Armenia’s wild beauty.

Aragats has four summits, which are named according to their relative geographic position:

Northern—4,090 m (13,420 ft) Highest summit in Armenia
Western—3,995 m (13,107 ft)
Eastern—3,908 m (12,822 ft)
Southern—3,888 m (12,756 ft)

Western, Northern and Eastern summits of mount Aragats as seen from Southern Summit...

While all four summits of Mount Aragats are generally accessible for hikers and do not typically require advanced technical rock climbing skills, proper preparation is crucial. I highly recommend maintaining good physical condition, carrying sufficient water and food, and having professional hiking gear for Aragats to ensure a safe and enjoyable mountain climbing experience.

Snapped this shot of my Mitsubishi Pajero in mid-May near Lake Kari, at around 3,200 meters elevation. Just look at the snow still clinging to the ground—Mother Nature clearly isn’t done with winter up here.

Understanding the characteristics of each Aragats peak is key to planning your Armenian mountain adventure:

Northern Summit — 4,090 m (13,420 ft): This is the highest summit in Armenia and presents the most challenging Aragats climb, requiring excellent physical fitness.
Eastern Summit — 3,908 m (12,822 ft): Another demanding Aragats hiking trail, known for its rugged beauty.

There are two usual starting points for the Northern and Eastern summits: Lake Kari (3,200 meters) and Gegharot Waterfall (3000 meters).

From Lake Kari, the distance to the Northern summit is 14 km (one way), while from Gegharot Waterfall, it is only 6 km. However, the Gegharot route requires an off-road car, while for lake Kari you can even grab a taxi.

Western Summit — 3,995 m (13,107 ft): A popular Aragats trekking route, offering a challenging yet rewarding ascent. Unlike the Southern summit, the slopes of the Western summit are steeper, and there are many loose stones.
Southern Summit — 3,888 m (12,756 ft): Considered the most accessible Aragats peak, ideal for moderate Aragats hikes and those new to high-altitude trekking in Armenia.
You can choose the classic route, which goes up toward the summit with a slight turn to the west, or hike along the ridge. The ridge is harder but gives amazing views of the crater and the North and East summits. It's best for experienced hikers.

Northern Aragats, mount Aragats, Armenia

Northern Aragats as seen by me from the top of Southern Summit

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Northern Aragats — 4,090 m (13,420 ft)

Treck details:

Distance: 6km (One way)

Altitude Gain: 1090 meters

Duration: 4,5 hours (Ascent)! Descent takes around 3,5 hours

Start point: Gegharot Waterfall (3000m)

End point: Gegharot Waterfall (3000m)

Difficulty: Difficult

Trail Type: Out-and-Back

Transportation: Off-road car

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Tour Price to the Summit of Mount Aragats (Northern)!

1-4 Participants: 110.000 AMD

For larger groups, please consider contacting for more details!

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The price includes:

Pick up & drop off (In Yerevan)

Transportation

Service of a guide

Eastern Aragats as seen by me from the top of Southern Summit

Eastern Aragats — 3,908 m (12,822 ft)

Treck details:

Distance: 4.5km (One way)

Altitude Gain: 1200 meters

Duration: 3.5 - 4 hours (Ascent)! Descent takes around 3 hours

Start point: 10 km up from Aragats village, towards Gegharot waterfall

End point: 10 km up from Aragats village, towards Gegharot waterfall

Difficulty: Difficult

Trail Type: Out-and-Back

Transportation: Off-road car

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Tour Price to the Summit of Mount Aragats (Eastern)!

1-4 participants: 110.000 AMD

For larger groups, please consider contacting for more details!

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The price includes:

Pick up & drop off (In Yerevan)

Transportation

Service of a guide

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Western Aragats from the top of Southern Summit

Western Aragats — 3,995 m (13,107 ft)

Treck details:

Distance: 6.5km (One way)

Altitude Gain: 800 meters

Duration: 3.5-4 hours (Ascent)! Descent takes around 3 hours

Start point: Stone Lake

End point: Stone Lake

Difficulty: Difficult

Trail Type: Out-and-Back

Transportation: Sedan

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Tour Price to the Summit of Mount Aragats (Western)!

1-4 participants: 90.000 AMD

For larger groups, please consider contacting for more details!

----------------

The price includes:

Pick up & drop off (In Yerevan)

Transportation in air conditioned vehicle

Service of a guide

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The Price Does Not Include:

Airport transfers

Insurance

Lunch (Lunchboxes can be added in case of an extra payment)

Lake Kari, Stone Lake, Mount Aragats, Southern Aragats

Southern Aragats as seen by me from the shore of lake Kari

Southern Aragats — 3,888 m (12,756 ft)

Treck details:

Distance: 5.5km (One way)

Altitude Gain: 688 meters

Duration: 2.5-3 hours (Ascent)! Descent takes around 2 hours

Start point: Stone Lake

End point: Stone Lake

Difficulty: Moderate

Trail Type: Out-and-Back

Transportation: Sedan

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Tour Price to the Summit of Mount Aragats (Southern)!

1-4 participants: 90.000 AMD

For larger groups, please consider contacting for more details!

---------

The price includes:

Pick up & drop off (In Yerevan)

Transportation in air conditioned vehicle

Service of a guide

---------

The Price Does Not Include:

Airport transfers

Insurance

Lunch (Lunchboxes can be added in case of an extra payment)

-----------

List of things you should consider taking for climbing mount Aragats:

1. Backpack: A sturdy backpack to carry all your essentials.

2. Water: Sufficient water to stay hydrated throughout the hike. At least 1.5 liters…

3. Food: Pack lightweight, high-energy snacks or meals to keep your energy levels up.

4. Clothing: Dress in layers, including a waterproof/windproof outer layer, and choose moisture-wicking materials. Having extra socks and boots always welcomed…

5. Hiking Shoes/Boots: Wear comfortable and supportive footwear suitable for the terrain.

6. First Aid Kit: I have mine but in case you are using specific medicaments take with you!

7. Sun Protection: Sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat to protect yourself from harmful UV rays.

9. Headlamp/Flashlight: Essential for hiking in low light conditions or during overnight trips.

10. Whistle: A loud whistle for attracting attention in case of emergencies.

11. Trekking Poles: Optional but helpful for stability, especially on challenging terrains.

12. Rain Gear: A lightweight, waterproof jacket or poncho to stay dry during rain showers.

13. Trash Bag: Carry a small bag to pack out your trash and keep the trail clean.

Remember, this list may vary depending on the length and difficulty of the hike, weather conditions, and personal needs. But this were the basic things I decided to emphasize!