armenia safe to travel 2022

Security Alert May 17, 2024

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Armenia Travel Advisory

Travel advisory april 9, 2024, armenia - level 2: exercise increased caution.

Updated to reflect changes in the Do Not Travel section.

Exercise increased caution in Armenia due to areas of armed conflict. Some areas have increased risk. Read the entire Travel Advisory.

Do Not Travel To:

• The border region with Azerbaijan.

U.S. Embassy Employees and their families remain prohibited from any non-essential travel to the following areas:

• Gegharkunik region east of Vardenis.
• Syunik region east of Goris;
• Syunik region south of Kapan;
• Travel through Yeraskh village in Ararat region is allowed, stopping is not.

Country Summary: U.S. citizens should exercise increased caution in Armenia. Further military activity could occur in the region.  

Read the  country information page  for additional information on travel to Armenia.

If you decide to travel to Armenia:

• Enroll in the  Smart Traveler Enrollment Program  ( STEP ) to receive Alerts and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.
• Follow the Department of State on Facebook  and  Twitter .
• Review the  Country Security Report  for Armenia.
• Prepare a contingency plan for emergency situations. Review the  Traveler’s Checklist .

Border with Azerbaijan – Level 4: Do Not Travel

There is the potential for armed conflict near the Armenia-Azerbaijan border. U.S. citizens should avoid the area. Exercise caution on roads near Armenia’s border with Azerbaijan. Be aware that some portions of the road may cross international boundaries without notice. Roads may be controlled by checkpoints or closed to travelers without notice.  The U.S. embassy has prohibited embassy employees and their families from non-essential travel to the border region, as well as other areas of Armenia listed above.

Visit our website for Travel to High-Risk Areas .

Travel Advisory Levels

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COVID-19 Travel restrictions

Changes in the procedure of the entry to the Republic of Armenia

According to the amendments of the Government Decree: № 1514-N of September 11, 2020, which entered into force on May 1, 2022: The passengers are NO LONGER REQUIRED to present a COVID-19 PCR test or a Certificate of complete vaccination against COVID-19 to enter the Republic of Armenia. For foreigners, the entry to the Republic of Armenia continues to remain open both via air and land borders. The quarantine on the territory of the Republic of Armenia due to COVID-19 has been extended till June 20, 2022.

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COVID-19: travel health notice for all travellers

Armenia travel advice

Latest updates: The Need help? section was updated.

Last updated: May 21, 2024 10:52 ET

On this page

Safety and security, entry and exit requirements, laws and culture, natural disasters and climate, armenia - take normal security precautions.

Take normal security precautions in Armenia

Eastern border with Azerbaijan - Avoid all travel

• within 5 km of the eastern border with Azerbaijan
• the M16/H26 road between the cities of Ijevan and Noyemberyan

Border with the Azerbaijani Autonomous Republic of Nakchivan - Avoid non-essential travel

Avoid non-essential travel to within 1 km of the border with the Azerbaijani Autonomous Republic of Nakhchivan due to the risk of armed clashes.

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Border areas

The Government of Canada’s ability to provide consular services in areas along the international borders with Azerbaijan is extremely limited.

The security environment remains highly volatile at the eastern border between Armenia and Azerbaijan.

There have been periodic outbreaks of violence in these areas for several decades and, while there have been no major incidents since Azerbaijan’s military operations in September 2023, tensions remain heightened. As part of the ongoing tensions between Azerbaijan and Armenia, there are also occasional ceasefire violations and clashes on the Nakhchivan border.

All border crossings into Azerbaijan are closed and the border is heavily militarized.

Armed clashes occur occasionally at multiple points along the international border, including near the following Armenian cities:

Border areas with Azerbaijan are subject to extremely dangerous military activities, such as:

• mortar and artillery shelling
• rocket fire
• drone attacks
• heavy gunfire

If you choose to travel near the border with Azerbaijan despite this advisory:

• exercise caution at all times
• avoid travelling at night
• monitor local and international media to stay informed on current clashes
• follow instructions from local authorities and security forces

Türkiye

The land border between Türkiye and Armenia is closed.

The border crossing near the Armenian town of Meghri is the only official access to Iran from Armenia.

Russian border guards are present along the border and have set up several checkpoints to deter smuggling and other illegal activities into Armenia from Iran. 

Iran’s military occasionally conducts operations in the area.

• Only cross at official border crossings
• Follow the instructions of security forces
• Avoid travelling at night
• Avoid travelling alone

Petty crime

Pickpocketing, mugging, purse snatching and theft from cars and homes occur.

During your stay:

• keep your car and home doors locked and windows closed at all times
• don’t leave personal items and documents in plain sight in a vehicle
• make sure that your personal belongings, including your passport and other travel documents are secure at all times
• don’t show signs of affluence

Police officers don’t regularly patrol streets and response may take longer than expected.

There is a low threat of terrorism in Armenia, but attacks could occur at any time.

In 2022, there have been bomb alerts in Yerevan targeting:

• Zvartnots International Airport
• metro stations
• shopping malls
• the city hall
• the national assembly

Targets could also include:

• places of worship
• public areas such as tourist attractions, restaurants, bars, coffee shops, markets, hotels and other sites frequented by foreigners

In the event of a bomb alert:

• expect heightened presence of security forces and disruptions to air traffic and public transportation
• monitor local media to stay informed on the evolving situation
• follow instructions of local authorities and security forces, including evacuation orders
• don’t go near the targeted areas

Always be aware of your surroundings when in public places. Be particularly vigilant if attending:

• sporting events
• religious holidays
• other public celebrations

Demonstrations

Demonstrations take place regularly, particularly in Yerevan and the vicinity of institutional buildings, and are mostly peaceful.

In 2022, large-scale demonstrations took place in several cities across Armenia over the government’s posture toward Azerbaijan after the Nagorno-Karabakh war. They have led to acts of vandalism and violent clashes amongst demonstrators and with security forces in certain places.

Further demonstrations are likely.

Even peaceful demonstrations can turn violent at any time. They can also lead to disruptions to traffic and public transportation.

• Avoid areas where demonstrations and large gatherings are taking place
• Follow the instructions of local authorities
• Monitor local media for information on ongoing demonstrations

Mass gatherings (large-scale events)

Road safety

Road conditions.

Road conditions have improved in recent years in Yerevan and on main roads. Roads in rural areas are poorly maintained and dangerous due to:

• insufficient lighting
• bad road markings and signage
• large potholes
• unpaved sections
• lack of road shoulders
• poor snow clearing during winter

Emergency services may take a long time to reach you if you’re involved in an accident outside of urban areas. You must have a warning triangle in your car at all times in case of an emergency.

Roads in Armenia – Ministry of Emergency Situations of the Republic of Armenia

Driving habits

Drivers are often distracted, frequently break traffic regulations, drive at excessive speeds and lack driving skills.

Pedestrians often cross in the middle of the road and drivers don’t always give pedestrians the right of way.

Driving under the influence of alcohol is common, especially on weekends.

U-turns and lane changes without warning occur frequently.

If you’re driving in Armenia:

• always drive defensively
• avoid driving at night
• use main roads and highways as much as possible
• don’t stop in isolated areas
• always carry a cellphone and a charger

Women’s safety

Women travelling alone may be subject to some forms of harassment and verbal abuse.

Advice for women travellers

Credit card and ATM fraud occurs.

Be careful when using debit or credit cards:

• pay careful attention when your cards are being handled by others
• use ATMs located in well-lit public areas or inside a bank or business
• avoid using card readers with an irregular or unusual feature
• cover the keypad with one hand when entering your PIN

Tourist scams

There have been reports of foreigners being pickpocketed or forced to pay the bill by friendly strangers who:

• offer to help, especially near ATMs
• ask you to take a photo
• invite you for drinks at a bar

While travelling:

• avoid showing signs of affluence, carrying large sums of cash or unnecessary valuables
• pay attention to your surroundings, particularly in crowded and tourist areas
• be extra cautious when withdrawing cash from ATMs

Overseas fraud

Adventure tourism

Adventure tourism, such as zip-lining, kayaking, rock climbing or trekking, can be dangerous, especially if they are not well-organized. Trails are not always marked and weather conditions can change rapidly.

Tour operators may not meet international standards.

If you are participating in adventure tourism:

• never do so alone, and do not part with your tour companions  consider hiring an experienced guide from a reputable company 
• buy travel insurance that includes helicopter rescue and medical evacuation  
• ensure that your physical condition is good enough to tackle the challenges of your activity  
• avoid venturing off marked trails  
• refrain from using equipment if you have doubts on their safety  
• always wear a lifejacket during water activities.

Public transportation

Taxis are widely available in Yerevan, but vehicles are often in poor condition and don't always have standard security features like seatbelts.

Most taxi drivers:

• smoke and talk on the phone while driving
• don’t accept credit cards
• can’t make change for large bills

There are several mobile applications on which you can order taxis with safer vehicles and fixed fares.

If you choose to take a taxi:

• confirm the driver's identity and license plate before getting into the car
• never share a cab with strangers
• make sure the driver does not pick up other passengers on the way to your destination
• negotiate the fare in advance
• have small bills available for payment.

Trains operate in Armenia, but mainly serve destinations in the north of the country. Be careful when travelling by train as wagons are often overcrowded and not always well-maintained.

• Make sure that your personal belongings, including your passport and other travel documents, are secure at all times
• Don’t leave the compartment unattended
• Keep the door locked from the inside

When travelling outside of Yerevan, avoid using minibuses called "Marshrutka".

Drivers are reckless and are often involved in accidents. The vehicles are overcrowded and not always equipped with seatbelts.

Petty crimes such as theft occur, and drivers may overcharge you.

We do not make assessments on the compliance of foreign domestic airlines with international safety standards.

Information about foreign domestic airlines

Every country or territory decides who can enter or exit through its borders. The Government of Canada cannot intervene on your behalf if you do not meet your destination’s entry or exit requirements.

We have obtained the information on this page from the Armenian authorities. It can, however, change at any time.

Verify this information with the  Foreign Representatives in Canada .

Entry requirements vary depending on the type of passport you use for travel.

Before you travel, check with your transportation company about passport requirements. Its rules on passport validity may be more stringent than the country’s entry rules.

Regular Canadian passport

Your passport must be valid for at least 6 months beyond the date you expect to leave Armenia.

Passport for official travel

Different entry rules may apply.

Official travel

Passport with “X” gender identifier

While the Government of Canada issues passports with an “X” gender identifier, it cannot guarantee your entry or transit through other countries. You might face entry restrictions in countries that do not recognize the “X” gender identifier. Before you leave, check with the closest foreign representative for your destination.

Other travel documents

Different entry rules may apply when travelling with a temporary passport or an emergency travel document. Before you leave, check with the closest foreign representative for your destination.

Useful links

• Foreign Representatives in Canada
• Canadian passports

Tourist visa: required Transit visa: required Business visa: required

You must obtain a visa before departure either from:

• Armenia’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs’ website or
• the closest Embassy of Armenia

Apply for an e-visa - Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Armenia

Dual citizenship

If you are a Canadian citizen, but also a citizen of Armenia, you might be required to enter and exit Armenia on an Armenian passport. Contact the nearest Armenian diplomatic office to confirm this information.

Yellow fever

Learn about potential entry requirements related to yellow fever (vaccines section).

Children and travel

Learn more about travelling with children .

Relevant Travel Health Notices

• Global Measles Notice - 13 March, 2024
• COVID-19 and International Travel - 13 March, 2024

This section contains information on possible health risks and restrictions regularly found or ongoing in the destination. Follow this advice to lower your risk of becoming ill while travelling. Not all risks are listed below.

Consult a health care professional or visit a travel health clinic preferably 6 weeks before you travel to get personalized health advice and recommendations.

Routine vaccines

Be sure that your  routine vaccinations , as per your province or territory , are up-to-date before travelling, regardless of your destination.

Some of these vaccinations include measles-mumps-rubella (MMR), diphtheria, tetanus, pertussis, polio, varicella (chickenpox), influenza and others.

Pre-travel vaccines and medications

You may be at risk for preventable diseases while travelling in this destination. Talk to a travel health professional about which medications or vaccines may be right for you, based on your destination and itinerary. 

Yellow fever is a disease caused by a flavivirus from the bite of an infected mosquito.

Travellers get vaccinated either because it is required to enter a country or because it is recommended for their protection.

• There is no risk of yellow fever in this country.

Country Entry Requirement*

• Proof of vaccination is not required to enter this country.

Recommendation

• Vaccination is not recommended.

* It is important to note that country entry requirements may not reflect your risk of yellow fever at your destination. It is recommended that you contact the nearest diplomatic or consular office of the destination(s) you will be visiting to verify any additional entry requirements.

About Yellow Fever

Yellow Fever Vaccination Centres in Canada

There is a risk of hepatitis A in this destination. It is a disease of the liver. People can get hepatitis A if they ingest contaminated food or water, eat foods prepared by an infectious person, or if they have close physical contact (such as oral-anal sex) with an infectious person, although casual contact among people does not spread the virus.

Practise  safe food and water precautions and wash your hands often. Vaccination is recommended for all travellers to areas where hepatitis A is present.

  Hepatitis B is a risk in every destination. It is a viral liver disease that is easily transmitted from one person to another through exposure to blood and body fluids containing the hepatitis B virus.  Travellers who may be exposed to blood or other bodily fluids (e.g., through sexual contact, medical treatment, sharing needles, tattooing, acupuncture or occupational exposure) are at higher risk of getting hepatitis B.

Hepatitis B vaccination is recommended for all travellers. Prevent hepatitis B infection by practicing safe sex, only using new and sterile drug equipment, and only getting tattoos and piercings in settings that follow public health regulations and standards.

In this destination, rabies is commonly carried by dogs and some wildlife, including bats. Rabies is a deadly disease that spreads to humans primarily through bites or scratches from an infected animal. While travelling, take precautions , including keeping your distance from animals (including free-roaming dogs), and closely supervising children.

If you are bitten or scratched by a dog or other animal while travelling, immediately wash the wound with soap and clean water and see a health care professional. In this destination, rabies treatment may be limited or may not be available, therefore you may need to return to Canada for treatment.  

Before travel, discuss rabies vaccination with a health care professional. It may be recommended for travellers who are at high risk of exposure (e.g., occupational risk such as veterinarians and wildlife workers, children, adventure travellers and spelunkers, and others in close contact with animals). 

Measles is a highly contagious viral disease. It can spread quickly from person to person by direct contact and through droplets in the air.

Anyone who is not protected against measles is at risk of being infected with it when travelling internationally.

Regardless of where you are going, talk to a health care professional before travelling to make sure you are fully protected against measles.

Coronavirus disease (COVID-19) is an infectious viral disease. It can spread from person to person by direct contact and through droplets in the air.

It is recommended that all eligible travellers complete a COVID-19 vaccine series along with any additional recommended doses in Canada before travelling. Evidence shows that vaccines are very effective at preventing severe illness, hospitalization and death from COVID-19. While vaccination provides better protection against serious illness, you may still be at risk of infection from the virus that causes COVID-19. Anyone who has not completed a vaccine series is at increased risk of being infected with the virus that causes COVID-19 and is at greater risk for severe disease when travelling internationally.

Before travelling, verify your destination’s COVID-19 vaccination entry/exit requirements. Regardless of where you are going, talk to a health care professional before travelling to make sure you are adequately protected against COVID-19.

 The best way to protect yourself from seasonal influenza (flu) is to get vaccinated every year. Get the flu shot at least 2 weeks before travelling.  

 The flu occurs worldwide. 

•  In the Northern Hemisphere, the flu season usually runs from November to   April.
•  In the Southern Hemisphere, the flu season usually runs between April and   October.
•  In the tropics, there is flu activity year round. 

The flu vaccine available in one hemisphere may only offer partial protection against the flu in the other hemisphere.

The flu virus spreads from person to person when they cough or sneeze or by touching objects and surfaces that have been contaminated with the virus. Clean your hands often and wear a mask if you have a fever or respiratory symptoms.

Safe food and water precautions

Many illnesses can be caused by eating food or drinking beverages contaminated by bacteria, parasites, toxins, or viruses, or by swimming or bathing in contaminated water.

• Learn more about food and water precautions to take to avoid getting sick by visiting our eat and drink safely abroad page. Remember: Boil it, cook it, peel it, or leave it!
• Avoid getting water into your eyes, mouth or nose when swimming or participating in activities in freshwater (streams, canals, lakes), particularly after flooding or heavy rain. Water may look clean but could still be polluted or contaminated.
• Avoid inhaling or swallowing water while bathing, showering, or swimming in pools or hot tubs. 

Travellers' diarrhea is the most common illness affecting travellers. It is spread from eating or drinking contaminated food or water.

Risk of developing travellers' diarrhea increases when travelling in regions with poor standards of hygiene and sanitation. Practise safe food and water precautions.

The most important treatment for travellers' diarrhea is rehydration (drinking lots of fluids). Carry oral rehydration salts when travelling.

Typhoid   is a bacterial infection spread by contaminated food or water. Risk is higher among children, travellers going to rural areas, travellers visiting friends and relatives or those travelling for a long period of time.

Travellers visiting regions with a risk of typhoid, especially those exposed to places with poor sanitation, should speak to a health care professional about vaccination.  

Insect bite prevention

Many diseases are spread by the bites of infected insects such as mosquitoes, ticks, fleas or flies. When travelling to areas where infected insects may be present:

• Use insect repellent (bug spray) on exposed skin
• Cover up with light-coloured, loose clothes made of tightly woven materials such as nylon or polyester
• Minimize exposure to insects
• Use mosquito netting when sleeping outdoors or in buildings that are not fully enclosed

To learn more about how you can reduce your risk of infection and disease caused by bites, both at home and abroad, visit our insect bite prevention page.

Find out what types of insects are present where you’re travelling, when they’re most active, and the symptoms of the diseases they spread.

Animal precautions

Some infections, such as rabies and influenza, can be shared between humans and animals. Certain types of activities may increase your chance of contact with animals, such as travelling in rural or forested areas, camping, hiking, and visiting wet markets (places where live animals are slaughtered and sold) or caves.

Travellers are cautioned to avoid contact with animals, including dogs, livestock (pigs, cows), monkeys, snakes, rodents, birds, and bats, and to avoid eating undercooked wild game.

Closely supervise children, as they are more likely to come in contact with animals.

Person-to-person infections

Stay home if you’re sick and practise proper cough and sneeze etiquette , which includes coughing or sneezing into a tissue or the bend of your arm, not your hand. Reduce your risk of colds, the flu and other illnesses by:

•   washing your hands often
• avoiding or limiting the amount of time spent in closed spaces, crowded places, or at large-scale events (concerts, sporting events, rallies)
• avoiding close physical contact with people who may be showing symptoms of illness 

Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) , HIV , and mpox are spread through blood and bodily fluids; use condoms, practise safe sex, and limit your number of sexual partners. Check with your local public health authority pre-travel to determine your eligibility for mpox vaccine.  

Tuberculosis is an infection caused by bacteria and usually affects the lungs.

For most travellers the risk of tuberculosis is low.

Travellers who may be at high risk while travelling in regions with risk of tuberculosis should discuss pre- and post-travel options with a health care professional.

High-risk travellers include those visiting or working in prisons, refugee camps, homeless shelters, or hospitals, or travellers visiting friends and relatives.

Medical services and facilities

Adequate medical services and facilities are available in Yerevan. Outside Yerevan, medical personnel, services and facilities are limited and may not offer the level of care you may be used to in Canada.

Medical professionals may require cash payments before providing care, even if you have travel insurance that covers hospital stays.

Serious medical cases may require evacuation to a country equipped with adequate facilities.

Make sure you get travel insurance that includes coverage for medical evacuation and hospital stays.

Travel health and safety

Some prescription medication may not be available in Armenia.

If you are taking prescription medication, you must verify its legality.

• Bring a sufficient supply of your medication
• Always leave your medication in its original packaging
• Keep your medication in your hand luggage
• Keep a copy of your prescription with you

Keep in Mind...

The decision to travel is the sole responsibility of the traveller. The traveller is also responsible for his or her own personal safety.

Be prepared. Do not expect medical services to be the same as in Canada. Pack a   travel health kit , especially if you will be travelling away from major city centres.

You must abide by local laws.

Learn about what you should do and how we can help if you are arrested or detained abroad .

Transfer to a Canadian prison

Canada and Armenia are signatories to the Convention on the Transfer of Sentenced Persons. This enables a Canadian imprisoned in Armenia to request a transfer to a Canadian prison to complete a sentence. The transfer requires the agreement of both Canadian and Armenia authorities.

This process can take a long time, and there is no guarantee that the transfer will be approved by either or both sides.

There are severe penalties for the possession, use or trafficking of illegal drugs, including cannabis.

You could face:

• heavy fines
• lengthy jail sentences

Drinking and driving

There is zero tolerance and severe penalties for drinking and driving in Armenia.

The legal blood alcohol limit is 0.0%.

If you’re convicted of drunk driving, you could face jail sentences.

Drugs, alcohol and travel

Photography

It is illegal to takes photographs or videos near sensitive areas along the border of Armenia, including:

• military installations
• engineering facilities
• surveillance towers
• transportation equipment

This prohibition also applies to drones.

You need an international driving permit or an Armenian driver’s license to drive in Armenia.

Car insurance is mandatory in Armenia.

International Driving Permit

Imports and exports

You must obtain permission from Armenian authorities prior to importing certain goods and products, including:

• pharmaceuticals
• weapons and components of weapons
• communication equipment

The import and export of cultural and historical items is also regulated. This includes:

• archaeological objects
• sculptures and paintings
• ancient books and documents
• musical instruments
• furniture and carpets
• Foreign Representatives in Canada
• Information for tourists, importers and exporters – Customs service of the Republic of Armenia

2SLGBTQI+ persons

Armenian law doesn’t criminalize sexual acts or relationships between persons of the same sex. 

However, 2SLGBTQI+ persons could be discriminated against based on their sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, or sex characteristics. 

Travel and your sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression and sex characteristics

Dual citizenship is legally recognized in Armenia.

If you are a Canadian citizen, but also a citizen of Armenia, our ability to offer you consular services may be limited while you're there. You may also be subject to different entry/exit requirements .

Travellers with dual citizenship

National obligations

Canadian-Armenian citizens may also be subject to national obligations, such as taxes and military service. Check your status with the Embassy of the Republic of Armenia in Canada. Authorities may detain dual nationals who try to avoid military service and face large fines or imprisonment.

International Child Abduction

The Hague Convention on the Civil Aspects of International Child Abduction is an international treaty. It can help parents with the return of children who have been removed to or retained in certain countries in violation of custody rights. It does not apply between Canada and Armenia.

If your child was wrongfully taken to, or is being held in Armenia by an abducting parent:

• act as quickly as you can
• consult a lawyer in Canada and in Armenia to explore all the legal options for the return of your child
• report the situation to the nearest Canadian government office abroad or to the Vulnerable Children’s Consular Unit at Global Affairs Canada by calling the Emergency Watch and Response Centre.

If your child was removed from a country other than Canada, consult a lawyer to determine if The Hague Convention applies.

Be aware that Canadian consular officials cannot interfere in private legal matters or in another country’s judicial affairs.

• International Child Abduction: A Guidebook for Left-Behind Parents
• Travelling with children
• Canadian embassies and consulates by destination
• Emergency Watch and Response Centre

The currency is the Armenian dram (AMD).

Some ATMs may not accept foreign bank cards. You can make withdrawals at bank counters using your passport as identification. Most banks do not accept traveler's cheques and treasury bills. 

You must declare all foreign currency in your possession exceeding 10,000 USD or its equivalent:

• upon arrival
• upon departure

Foreign currency declarations apply to:

• traveller's cheques
• treasury bills

If you’re travelling with bearer securities in your possession, you must declare it to customs officials regardless of its value.

Armenia’s climate is continental, and temperatures vary geographically. In Yerevan, summers are hot and winters are mild.

A vast portion of the territory is at an altitude of 1000m above sea level where temperatures are lower than in the capital and rainfall more frequent.

Earthquakes

Armenia is located in an active seismic zone. Although no major events have occurred in recent years, an earthquake could strike at any time.

Earthquakes - What to Do?

The rainy season generally extends from March to June and from October to November.

Seasonal flooding can affect overland travel and the provision of essential services, especially in the Ararat and Shirak valleys. Landslides could occur, roads may become impassable and bridges damaged.

• Monitor local media for updates, including road conditions
• Stay away from flooded areas
• Monitor weather reports
• Follow the instructions of local authorities, including evacuation orders

Local services

In case of emergency, dial:

• police: 102
• medical assistance: 103
• firefighters: 101
• Emergency services: 112

Consular assistance

On October 25, 2023, the Government of Canada inaugurated the Embassy of Canada to the Republic of Armenia in Yerevan. At this time, consular services continue to be provided by the Honorary Consul of Canada in Yerevan and the Embassy of Canada to Russia.

Armenia (Consular and Trade Commissioner services)

For emergency consular assistance, call the Embassy of Canada to Russia, in Moscow and follow the instructions. At any time, you may also contact the Emergency Watch and Response Centre in Ottawa.

The decision to travel is your choice and you are responsible for your personal safety abroad. We take the safety and security of Canadians abroad very seriously and provide credible and timely information in our Travel Advice to enable you to make well-informed decisions regarding your travel abroad.

The content on this page is provided for information only. While we make every effort to give you correct information, it is provided on an "as is" basis without warranty of any kind, expressed or implied. The Government of Canada does not assume responsibility and will not be liable for any damages in connection to the information provided.

If you need consular assistance while abroad, we will make every effort to help you. However, there may be constraints that will limit the ability of the Government of Canada to provide services.

Learn more about consular services .

Risk Levels

  take normal security precautions.

Take similar precautions to those you would take in Canada.

  Exercise a high degree of caution

There are certain safety and security concerns or the situation could change quickly. Be very cautious at all times, monitor local media and follow the instructions of local authorities.

IMPORTANT: The two levels below are official Government of Canada Travel Advisories and are issued when the safety and security of Canadians travelling or living in the country or region may be at risk.

  Avoid non-essential travel

Your safety and security could be at risk. You should think about your need to travel to this country, territory or region based on family or business requirements, knowledge of or familiarity with the region, and other factors. If you are already there, think about whether you really need to be there. If you do not need to be there, you should think about leaving.

  Avoid all travel

You should not travel to this country, territory or region. Your personal safety and security are at great risk. If you are already there, you should think about leaving if it is safe to do so.

Search Smartraveller

Latest update

Exercise normal safety precautions in Armenia overall.

Higher levels apply in some areas.

Armenia (PDF 715.54 KB)

Europe (PDF 2.62 MB)

Local emergency contacts

Fire and rescue, medical emergencies.

Call 102 or contact the nearest police station.

Call 112 or 911 for the emergency hotline.

Advice levels

Exercise normal safety precautions  in Armenia.

Do not travel to within 5kms of Armenia's border with Azerbaijan.

Do not travel  to within 5kms of Armenia's border with Azerbaijan due to the risk of armed clashes.

See  Safety

• Do not travel within 5km of Armenia's border with Azerbaijan due to the risk of regular armed clashes, volatile security environment and unmarked landmines. Monitor the media for developments and follow the advice of local authorities.
• Protests occur in Yerevan, Gyumri and other major cities. These can turn violent. Avoid large public gatherings.

Petty crime, such as pickpocketing and theft from cars, is common. Be careful on trains to and from Georgia.

Full travel advice:  Safety

• Some medications are illegal in Armenia, such as some sleeping tablets and medications containing codeine. Check your medication is legal before you travel.
• Common foodborne, waterborne, and other infectious diseases include typhoid, hepatitis and tuberculosis. Drink only boiled or bottled water. Avoid raw or undercooked food.
• Standards in public hospitals are basic, especially outside Yerevan. If you're seriously ill or injured, you'll need medical evacuation. Ensure your travel insurance covers this.

Full travel advice:  Health

• Don't use or carry illegal drugs. Penalties include long prison sentences.
• Always carry a copy of your passport. Show it to the police if asked.
• Be careful when taking photos. Photographing government or military sites, monuments or officers in uniform is illegal.
• Law enforcement agencies in Armenia cooperate closely with agencies in Commonwealth of Independent States (CIS) countries. If you commit an offence in a CIS country, you may be detained in another and extradited for prosecution.
• Armenia recognises dual nationality. You must travel on your Armenian passport if you're a dual national. Australian officials may only be able to give you limited consular help. You may need to do military service if you're male and aged between 18 and 28. Check with your nearest  Armenian embassy or consulate  before you travel.
• Same-sex relationships are legal but aren't widely accepted. Discrimination against LGBTI people is common. Avoid public displays of affection.

Full travel advice:  Local laws

You don't need a visa for Armenia if you're staying for up to 180 days per year.

• Entry and exit conditions can change at short notice. Contact the nearest embassy or consulate of Armenia for the latest details.
• Armenia has strict import and export rules. These include antiques, firearms, pornographic material, communication equipment and cash amounts of USD 10,000 and over or equivalent in other currency. Get approval from the Armenian Ministry of Culture to export antiques or other items that could have historical value. 
• Use registered taxis. Get your hotel to arrange one. Don't hail taxis in the street. Sit in the back seat. 

Full travel advice:  Travel

Local contacts

• The  Consular Services Charter  details what we can and can't do to help you overseas.
• Australia doesn't have an embassy or consulate in Armenia. For consular help, contact the  Australian Embassy in Russia .
• To stay up to date with local information, follow the Embassy's social media accounts.

Full travel advice: Local contacts

Full advice

Civil unrest and political tension, demonstrations and protests.

Public protests and events that draw large groups of people can turn violent.

Protests and demonstrations can occur in Yerevan, Gyumri and other major cities. They're generally peaceful but can escalate.

To stay safe during periods of unrest:

• avoid the affected areas
• monitor local media and other sources
• follow the advice of local authorities

More information:

• Demonstrations and civil unrest

Conflict zones

Due to the risk of armed clashes, do not travel  to within 5kms of Armenia's border with Azerbaijan.

The border areas between Armenia and Azerbaijan contains mines and unexploded ordnance. The police or the military will likely stop anyone venturing within 5km of these borders. Some parts of the Armenia and Azerbaijan border haven't been agreed between the states.

Cars and other vehicles on the roads from Kayan and Ijevan to Noyemberyan could be attacked. 

Terrorism is a threat worldwide.

Travellers have reported harassment, mistreatment and extortion by police or other local officials.

To protect yourself from petty crime:

• look after your belongings, particularly in crowded places
• always lock your car doors
• park your car in a secure facility if possible
• monitor local media for crime news

Cyber security 

You may be at risk of cyber-based threats during overseas travel to any country. Digital identity theft is a growing concern. Your devices and personal data can be compromised, especially if you’re connecting to Wi-Fi, using or connecting to shared or public computers, or to Bluetooth. 

Social media can also be risky in destinations where there are social or political tensions or laws that may seem unreasonable by Australian standards. Travellers have been arrested for things they have said on social media. Don't comment on local or political events on your social media. 

More information:  

• Cyber security when travelling overseas  

Climate and natural disasters

Armenia is in an active  earthquake  zone. Landslides may occur.

To protect yourself if there's a  natural disaster  or  severe weather :

• secure your passport in a safe, waterproof location
• keep in contact with your friends and family

Register with the  Global Disaster Alert and Coordination System  to receive alerts on major disasters.

Travel insurance

Get comprehensive  travel insurance  before you leave. 

Your policy needs to cover all medical costs, including medical evacuation. The Australian Government won't pay for these costs.

If you can't afford travel insurance, you can't afford to travel. This applies to everyone, no matter how healthy and fit you are.

If you're not insured, you may have to pay thousands of dollars up-front for medical care.

• what activities and care your policy covers
• that your insurance covers you for the whole time you'll be away

Physical and mental health

Consider your physical and mental health before travelling, especially if you have an existing medical condition. 

See your doctor or travel clinic to:

• have a basic health check-up
• ask if your travel plans may affect your health
• plan any vaccinations you need

Do this at least 8 weeks before you leave.

If you have immediate concerns for your welfare or the welfare of another Australian, call the 24-hour Consular Emergency Centre on +61 2 6261 3305 or contact your  nearest Australian Embassy, High Commission or Consulate  to discuss counselling hotlines and services available in your location.

• General health advice
• Healthy holiday tips  (Healthdirect Australia)

Not all medication available over the counter or by prescription in Australia is available in other countries. Some may even be considered illegal or a controlled substance, even if prescribed by an Australian doctor.

Some sleeping tablets and medications containing codeine are controlled in Armenia.

If you plan to bring medication, check if it's legal in Armenia. Take enough legal medication for your trip.

You may be fined or jailed if you have restricted medication. 

Carry a letter from your doctor stating:

• what the medication is
• your required dosage 
• that it's for personal use

Health risks

Foodborne, waterborne and other infectious diseases are common, including these listed by the World Health Organization:

• tuberculosis

Serious outbreaks sometimes occur.

To protect yourself from illness:

• drink boiled water or bottled water with sealed lids
• avoid ice cubes
• avoid raw and undercooked food, such as salads

Get medical advice if you have a fever or diarrhoea.

• Infectious diseases

HIV/AIDS  (World Health Organization) is a risk in Armenia. Take precautions if you engage in activities that may expose you to the virus.

Medical care

Medical facilities.

Standards in public hospitals are basic, especially outside Yerevan.

If you become ill or injured, you may need to be evacuated. Medical evacuation can be very expensive.

You're subject to all local laws and penalties, including those that may appear harsh by Australian standards. Research local laws before travelling.

Law enforcement agencies in Armenia cooperate closely with agencies in Commonwealth of Independent States (CIS) countries. If you commit an offence in one of these countries, you may be detained in another (including at the border) and extradited for prosecution.

If you're arrested or jailed, the Australian Government will do what it can to help you under our  Consular Services Charter . But we can't get you out of trouble or out of jail.

Penalties for drug offences are severe. They include long prison sentences.

• Carrying or using drugs

Always carry a copy of your passport. Police can stop you to check your documents.

It's illegal to take photos of:

• government or military sites
• officers in uniform

Australian laws

Some Australian criminal laws still apply when you're overseas. If you break these laws, you may face prosecution in Australia.

• Staying within the law and respecting customs

Dual nationality

Armenia recognises dual nationality.

Ask the  Armenian Ministry of Foreign Affairs  about citizenship laws.

You must enter and exit the country using your Armenian passport if you're a dual national. This limits the  consular services  we can give if you're arrested or detained.

You could be subject to military service in Armenia if you're a male dual citizen aged 18 to 28. Check with the nearest  embassy or consulate of Armenia  well before you travel.

Local customs

Same-sex relationships are legal, but aren't widely accepted.

Discrimination against the LGBTI community is widespread. Avoid public displays of affection.

• Advice for LGBTI travellers

Visas and border measures

Every country or territory decides who can enter or leave through its borders. For specific information about the evidence you'll need to enter a foreign destination, check with the nearest embassy, consulate or immigration department of the destination you're entering. 

If you're staying longer than 180 days per year, you must register with the police.

Visa and other entry and exit conditions, such as currency, customs and quarantine regulations, can change at short notice. To get the latest details, contact either:

• the nearest  embassy or consulate of Armenia
• the  Armenian Ministry of Foreign Affairs

Import and export regulations

Strict rules apply to the import and export of:

• pornographic material
• communication equipment
• cash amounts of USD10,000 and over or equivalent in other currency

You need approval from the Armenian Ministry of Culture to export antiques or other items that could have historical value, including paintings, old books and carpets.

Keep receipts for all items. You may need to show them to customs officials when you leave.

• State Revenue Committee of Armenia

Some countries won't let you enter unless your passport is valid for six months after you plan to leave that country. This can apply even if you're just transiting or stopping over.

Some foreign governments and airlines apply the rule inconsistently. Travellers can receive conflicting advice from different sources.

You can end up stranded if your passport is not valid for more than 6 months.

The Australian Government does not set these rules. Check your passport's expiry date before you travel. If you're not sure it'll be valid for long enough, consider getting  a new passport .

Lost or stolen passport

Your passport is a valuable document. It's attractive to people who may try to use your identity to commit crimes.

Some people may try to trick you into giving them your passport. Always keep it in a safe place.

If your passport is lost or stolen, tell the Australian Government as soon as possible:

• In Australia, contact the  Australian Passport Information Service .
• If you're overseas, contact the nearest  Australian embassy or consulate .

Passport with X gender identifier 

Although Australian passports comply with international standards for sex and gender, we can’t guarantee that a passport showing 'X' in the sex field will be accepted for entry or transit by another country. Contact the nearest  embassy, high commission or consulate of your destination  before you arrive at the border to confirm if authorities will accept passports with 'X' gender markers. 

• LGBTI travellers  

The local currency is the Armenian Dram (AMD).

Strict rules apply to importing and exporting cash amounts of USD 10,000 or over (or equivalent).

US dollars and euros can be exchanged at banks.

ATMs and credit card facilities are available in Yerevan but are less common outside major towns.

Local travel

Armenia's land borders with Azerbaijan and Turkiye are closed. Don't attempt to cross the border with Azerbaijan. Travelling in the region can be difficult. You'll need to plan ahead.

Driving permit

To drive in Armenia, you need both:

• a valid International Driving Permit (IDP)
• a valid Australian driver's licence

Get your IDP before you leave Australia.

Driving without an IDP could void your travel and vehicle insurance.

Road travel

Driving in Armenia can be dangerous. Common dangers include:

• roads and vehicles in poor condition
• few road signs
• drivers who ignore traffic signals and rules
• drivers who don't give way to pedestrians
• pedestrians who cross roads without warning

Check if your travel insurance will cover you for driving.

Make sure you understand local road rules.

Roads and land crossing points can close at short notice. Get local advice on different routes.

• Driving or riding

Use registered taxis and authorised limousines.

Ask your hotel to arrange a taxi for you. Don't hail taxis in the street. 

Sit in the back seat.

In April 2022, the EU announced that 21 Russian-owned airlines were banned from flying in EU airspace due to safety concerns. 

DFAT doesn't provide information on the safety of individual commercial airlines or flight paths. You should research your aviation provider if you're flying domestically or internationally.

Check  Armenia's air safety profile  with the Aviation Safety Network.

Emergencies

Depending on what you need, contact your:

• family and friends
• travel agent
• insurance provider
• tour operator

Armenian emergency services may take a long time to reach remote regions.

Always get a police report when you report a crime.

Your insurer should have a 24-hour emergency number.

Consular contacts

Read the  Consular Services Charter  for what the Australian Government can and can't do to help you overseas.

Australia doesn't have an embassy or consulate in Armenia.

Contact the Australian Embassy in Russia for consular assistance.

Australian Embassy, Moscow

13 Kropotkinsky Pereulok Moscow 119034 Russia Phone: (+7 495) 956-6070 Website:  russia.embassy.gov.au X :  @PosolAustralia

Check the Embassy website for details about opening hours and any temporary closures.

24-hour Consular Emergency Centre

In a consular emergency, if you can't contact an embassy, call the 24-hour Consular Emergency Centre on:

• +61 2 6261 3305 from overseas
• 1300 555 135 in Australia

Travelling to Armenia?

Sign up to get the latest travel advice updates..

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Rules of Entry to Armenia from Different countries in 2022

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Vaccination in Armenia 

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• COVID-19 travel restrictions: Armenia
• < Travel restrictions

Travel restrictions

By Kiwi.com June 28, 2022

By Kiwi.com | June 28, 2022

This article was published on June 28, 2022, and all the information in the article is correct as of this time. Before you book your trip, we highly recommend that you also check official sources for the most up-to-date travel requirements, as they are subject to constant change.

Can I enter Armenia? 

You can enter Armenia . However, please note that a number of COVID-19 restrictions are still in place.

Can I enter Armenia if I am vaccinated? 

You can enter Armenia if you are vaccinated. You are considered fully vaccinated if you have completed your vaccination course at least 14 days (or 28 days if you had a single-dose vaccination) before arriving in Armenia.

As of April 2022, six vaccines are approved in Armenia:

• Oxford / AstraZeneca
• Sputnik Light

Travel documents if I am vaccinated 

• A document confirming your vaccination status

This requirement does not apply to children up to six years, 11 months and 29 days old.

Can I enter Armenia if I am unvaccinated? 

You can enter Armenia if you are unvaccinated.

Travel documents if I am unvaccinated 

• The negative result of a PCR test taken no more than 72 hours before arrival

This requirement  does not apply to children up to six years, 11 months and 29 days old.

Can I leave Armenia?

You can leave Armenia regardless of your vaccination status. Please be aware of the testing requirements at your destination in advance. Some countries require testing of travelers even if they are fully vaccinated.

Can I leave Armenia if I am vaccinated?

Vaccinated travelers can leave Armenia.

Travel documents if I am vaccinated

• A certificate of complete vaccination against COVID-19 in paper or electronic format

Can I leave Armenia if I am unvaccinated?

Unvaccinated travelers can leave Armenia.

Travel documents if I am unvaccinated

• A certificate of recovery from COVID-19 (no more than 180 days old before the day of crossing the border of a particular country)
• A negative COVID-19 test result (the relevant period and kind of test may vary, please check the requirements of the destination country )

COVID-19 situation in Armenia currently

You can travel to Armenia as of April 2022. Please be aware of the regulations in order to minimize the risk of contracting COVID-19.

Is it safe to travel to Armenia right now?

As of April 2022, international travelers will be safe in Armenia if they adhere to the following basic COVID-19 measures:  

• Wearing masks indoors
• Maintaining a social distance

Is Yerevan open for travel?

Yerevan is open to international travelers. All visitors are welcome in the capital providing they follow the nationwide COVID-19 regulations.

Do I have to go into quarantine if I go to Armenia?

Travelers that can present all the necessary COVID-19 documents are exempt from quarantine.

Please be aware that if you fail to present the relevant certificates, you are obliged to self-isolate for 14 days. This rule is valid at least until June 20, 2022.

How do I get a health pass to travel to Armenia?

Foreign travelers can use their digital health passes issued by the country of origin. In addition, it is recommended that you carry a number of paper copies.

Useful link:

• COVID-19 travel restrictions to Armenia

Visit our   Travel Restrictions section at Kiwi.com Stories   to read   more travel restrictions articles

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• Passports, travel and living abroad
• Travel abroad
• Foreign travel advice

Entry requirements

This advice reflects the UK government’s understanding of current rules for people travelling on a full ‘British citizen’ passport from the UK, for the most common types of travel. 

The authorities in Armenia set and enforce entry rules. If you’re not sure how these requirements apply to you, contact the Armenian Embassy in the UK. 

COVID-19 rules 

There are no COVID-19 testing or vaccination requirements for travellers entering Armenia. 

Passport validity requirements 

If you are visiting Armenia, your passport must be valid for the duration of your stay.

Check with your travel provider that your passport and other travel documents meet requirements. Renew your passport if you need to. 

You will be denied entry if you do not have a valid travel document or try to use a passport that has been reported lost or stolen.  

Visa requirements 

You can visit Armenia without a visa up to 180 days per year. 

To stay longer (to work or study, for business travel or for other reasons), you must register with the Administration Department for Passports and Visas (OVIR).

Address: Davtashen, 4th District, 31/2 Building, Yerevan, Armenia 0054 

Telephone: +374 11 36 1394, +374 11 36 9140 

Applying for a visa

Apply for an e-visa from the Armenian Embassy in the UK. 

Vaccination requirements  

At least 8 weeks before your trip, check the vaccinations and certificates you need in TravelHealthPro’s Armenia guide . 

Customs rules 

There are strict rules about goods you can take into or out of Armenia. You must declare anything that may be prohibited or subject to tax or duty. 

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Is Armenia Safe? Crime Rates & Safety Report

• Armenia : Safety by City

Armenia, officially known as the Republic of Armenia is a country located in the South Caucasus region of Eurasia.

This landlocked country shares its borders with Turkey to the west, Georgia to the north, Iran to the south, Azerbaijan to the east, and Azerbaijan’s Naxcivan exclave to the southwest.

Geographically, an interesting fact about this country is that – as high as 5% of Armenia’s territory consists of Lake Sevan (Sevana Lich), which is the largest lake in the Lesser Caucasus mountain range.

Apart from this, Armenia flaunts remarkable natural landscapes: due to its mountains and mountain valleys, Armenia’s climate varies a great deal, and it’s not just climate that varies from region to region: Armenia’s scenery is gorgeous, with dry areas to a lush forest at the top of mountain ridges.

As for attractions in this country – you can choose from medieval monasteries all over the country (known as the number-one attraction), gorgeous landscapes perfect for hiking and climbing (if you’re the nature-loving type), and the wonderful experience of visiting Yerevan – which many say is the most endearing landmark to visit while here.

• Warnings & Dangers in Armenia

OVERALL RISK: LOW

Armenia is overall safe to travel to, with considerably low crime rates and even pickpockets not being that much of an issue. However, it is advised that you remain vigilant at all times, especially when crossing the streets.

TRANSPORT & TAXIS RISK: MEDIUM

Transport is generally safe in Armenia, but be careful when taking a taxi, especially at Zvartnots International Airport. There might be taxi drivers trying to overcharge you ridiculously for a drive to town.

PICKPOCKETS RISK: MEDIUM

Pickpocketing exists in Armenia and you should remain vigilant and make sure not to flash your belongings in crowded places such as bus or train stations, or public transport. Be careful and keep your valuables close by your side.

NATURAL DISASTERS RISK: MEDIUM

Floods are the biggest natural threat in Armenia: there was a flooding in 2010 that caused an estimated US$ 10 million in damage. Armenia also faces droughts, hail storms and landslides.

MUGGING RISK: LOW

It is not likely you will get mugged or kidnapped in Armenia. Crime rates are generally not too high and violent crime against tourists is unlikely. Still, don't let your guard down and stay away from dark and deserted areas of bigger cities.

TERRORISM RISK: LOW

Even though there haven't been any terrorist attacks in Armenia's recent history, they shouldn't be ruled out, so be aware of your surroundings at all times.

SCAMS RISK: MEDIUM

There is the issue of scams in Armenia, just like in any other country, and the most common ones are credit card and ATM scams. Be careful when picking up your many from ATMs, especially those that accept VISA credit cards: they might withdraw money from your account but not deliver it to you! Always negotiate everything in advance, double check your change and never pay anything upfront. Never accept drinks from strange people or leave your drink unattended.

WOMEN TRAVELERS RISK: LOW

Armenia is definitely safe for solitary female. Just use your common sense and have your wits with you. Avoid poorly lit and deserted areas at night and finding yourself in places filled with drunken people.

• So... How Safe Is Armenia Really?

Generally, Armenia is safe to travel to and Yerevan is really not a dangerous city to be in.

However, even though crime rates in Armenia are not through the roof, it is still recommended that you remain vigilant at all times, especially at night.

Use common sense if you’re going out at night, especially if you plan on drinking because you might encounter people willing to start a fight.

As for scams, there are some well-known scams related to ATM machines, particularly ATMs that accept VISA cards, where the machine withdraws cash from your account, but you receive no money!

Another known scam happens on Zvartnots International Airport, with people asking tourists if they need a taxi, and when they find people who do, they take them to a taxi that costs two or three times more than a regular taxi.

Whatever they say, do not trust those people, even if they’ve already packed up all your luggage in the trunk: taxi rides from the airports usually cost around 2,000-3,000 dram instead of the 10,000 drams they are asking.

They can be very convincing saying that the ride really costs that much, and that’s how many tourists have been tricked.

Generally, be careful when using taxis and other means of transport: if you want to check if a car is a real taxi, look at the number plate: if it is yellow or the first are 3 digit numbers (and NOT 2 digit), then it is a taxi you can use and not worry about getting scammed.

• How Does Armenia Compare?
• Useful Information

Many nationals, such as EU and US nationals do not need an entry visa for Armenia and can stay usually a maximum of 90 days per visit. If you are not sure about your visa status, visit www.doyouneedvisa.com which will let you know whether or not you need visa based on your nationality and the country you want to visit.

Armenia dram is the official currency in Armenia. ATMs are widely used throughout the country, but credit cards aren't accepted as much as in other parts of Europe: you can use them in better hotels, restaurants and some shops in the capitals.

Climate in Armenia varies from dry subtropical to the mountain tundra climate. In Yerevan, July is the hottest month with average temperatures reaching as high as 27°C and the coldest month is January with temperatures of -3°C.

Zvartnots International Airport is the main international airport in Armenia. It is located near Zvartnots, about 12 km west of Yerevan, the capital city of Armenia.

Travel Insurance

Just like anywhere else, we recommend getting travel insurance when traveling to Armenia since it covers not only the costs of medical problems, but also theft and loss of valuables.

Armenia Weather Averages (Temperatures)

• Average High/Low Temperature

Armenia - Safety by City

Explore armenia.

• 10 Most Dangerous Cities In Armenia
• 10 Safest Cities in Armenia
• 16 Pros and Cons of Living in Armenia
• Where to Next?

43 Reviews on Armenia

Young people are moving to Europe due to economic crisis and unemployment in Armenia made the country to have just older Soviet brain people. Expect they have amazing natural places to visit but still so boring country with its unrich culture.

Respect for women is lovely but you still should be careful with taki driver.

So boring country with its uncultured people and poor culture. Poverty rate is so high. Robbery and rude behavior by local people are also extreme level. Don’t reccomend

Armenia is Awesome!

Uncultured? How stupid are you! 4,000 years plus history. Yerevan crawling with gorgeous women. Best wines and brandy in the world. Opera, music, open air cafes everywhere. Friendliest people I’ve ever met in any country. Get real. GO back to Baku or whatever shit hole city you’re from.

I love Armenia it’s such a beautiful country my husband is Armenian and I’m English I have been going to Yerevan in Armenia 🇦🇲 for 20 years to visit all my friends and family hope to move there one day such friendly people xxx🇦🇲🇦🇲🇦🇲🇦🇲🇦🇲🇦🇲🇦🇲🇦🇲

Brilliant 🙂

You’re not very bright, are you? As a matter of fact, you’re not bright at all? Please do us a favor and don’t use a computer’s keyboard to display your utter stupidity!

Just because they Are homeless and poor does not mean anything you know you should not judge till you are walking in their shoes. Think about what I Just said. do not judge

Okay mr Azeri

Amazing country!

Armenia is amazing! The people, the food, the ambience, the nature, opera park… Everything is great! I love to visit Yerevan in the summer when all restaurants outside are open.

Lol “irakli” he is georgian, such nationality with such unrich culture will come here to have envy on Armenia and lower rating

I thought the same. Backwards Georgians.

Will visit next year again

The best Caucasian country. Highly recommended to visit. The country overall is pretty safe and I did not encounter any scam in Armenia. People were very hospitable. I did not have a language problem in the capital city but you may consider taking a local guide for visiting other cities like I did but it is up to you. See you in the next year Armenia

So dangerous , people wants to steal your money . Always looking weird , looking our pockets and bags

are u Indian

indians are nice people like all other people in the entire world. please dont misjudge indians. as human beings, if we treat, other people and or living creatures in a loving and affectionate manner, then we too get the same …. god bless every one …..

Were you the one stealing money?

Great people ,beautiful country,amazing food.

Fantastic allrounder

Great hospitality, wonderful natural beauty and a unique culture to learn about!

Should visit at least once

Amazing country to visit, extremely safe with a night life like no other. People extremely humble and kind

ARMENIA IS VERY SAFE SO YOU ARE WRONG!!!!!

Best place for tourists

The best place I have ever visited. You can walk in the middle of the night and not be scared even a little. Rich culture , so rich that in 1 week I have only explored 20% of it. Love Armenia 🇦🇲 coming next year P. S. The people were so nice and polite , they were ready to help❤️

Would love to visit Armenia with my kids!!

Best life experience

The best place 🇦🇲❤️ Recommend for everyone

Best Country Ever!

Best Country Ever! Recommend for everyone. Very safe place.

Isn’t there a war going on right now in that country? How is that safe 11/8/20

I agree with all the five star reviews. Good tours. Safe. Super friendly. Yerevan has plenty of great places to eat and visit. Armenians love their children! For me it’s an amazing place.

Well, somebody answer him. Is it safe due to civil unrest?

Nobody responded to you. That’s interesting. We are planning to go there in April 2021. But should we? Armenia lost the war and now they are angry. Will there be “civil unrest”?

Armenia is definitely safe.

There were protests after the war and people broke into the parliament building (sound familiar). Things are quiet now in Yerevan. Although there will be an election later in June, so there may be more protests depending on the results. Overall, Yerevan is still one of the safest cities in the world.

It is safe now.

As of late June 2020, Armenia is quite safe and the unrest has died down, with the elections being over.

There is no civil unrest, people do protest for pow’s to bring our boys back but there are peaceful people. I M going this summer, can’t wait.

Love to come visit

IT IS AWSOME!!!!!!!!!

i love it and i love them it is a nice colter and amazing fun

Excelent cpuntry with excellent modals. Recommended.

God's nation

I’ve been all over the world by far the most welcoming people! And I’m not talking about the food and the culture! Will go Again in August!

Ordinary local taxi not safe

Avoid using local taxis, we got hooked up by a bad taxi driver, since he cant speak english, he fooled us with the price, the price was 5760 amd from genocide memorial park till republic square. Normally, it is 1000amd only via yandex go taxi. So i hand over 5000 amd to him, since i dont have loose coins, i decided to just give him 20, 000 amd and he grabbed immediately the 20000 amd and threw in the cupholder near the gear, and doesn’t want to give me the 5000 amd which i gave first. He said i had only given 6,000amd to him. And forced us to leave the car quickly. Lesson learned for tourist like me, never ever use local taxis, even in airport, they are so greedy of money. It is much safer to download yandex go taxi app. It is cheaper, very safe and convenient for tourists to roam around yerevan city. Because of this bad taxi driver, my good impression to this country was ruined instantly. Definitely i will not come to visit here again.

It’s cheaper to higher a Man with his air- conditioning car all your stay in Armenia , so you can make the most of it .It’s a Beautiful Country if I had the chance I would spend a month each year there .people are so so friendly & generous . Everything is so cheap there you can live like a king. There food is all organic.specially there fruits I would die for . 99 per cent are University graduates

Armenia - Awesome Country

Armenia is a very safe country (top 10 safest countries in the world). The bad reviews on this site are primarily from our racist neighbors from azerbaijan whom we are not in good terms with. Do not listen to them and watch all of the videos on YouTube from foreigners about how wonderful Armenia and Armenians are. Also, the data on this page describing Armenia are worded negatively. I will not trust this site for reviews or opinions.

Definitely a safe country, but boring overall

Armenia is an incredibly safe country, and as an Armenian myself, I can safely say that this article isn’t overall very useful. This place is very safe, so safe that parents send their kids (7+ years old) to go get groceries from the market. Yes, every once in a while, there might be some incident where some person got mugged, but this is incredibly rare. I would recommend going on vacation to Armenia if you like road trips and sight seeing, because that’s just about everything there is. I am a kid, and my visit was very boring. We stayed in our Airbnb in Armenia for 2 weeks, and all we did was go around to monasteries and statues. It sounds fun, but 11 year-old children like me don’t like sight seeing. Not that the sights were bad, it’s just that the 2+ hour drive to most of them wasn’t worth it. Overall, 2/5 stars because there’s just not much to do. Yerevan Park is probably a good place to visit, but I wouldn’t know, since I didn’t really have the chance to do so.

Love the country and it’s people

It’s a beautiful country, intelligent people who are trying to overcome their poverty. I have been their 4 times, spend time in classrooms, interacted with teachers, worked on a Habitat house and helped with major renovations to two schools. I’ve kept contact with our interpreters.

Cars are prioritized over pedestrians in Yerevan. Be careful. They are always backing up and walkers beware. Walking on narrow streets and back alleys is particularly stressful. Cars drive very close to you if you don’t get out of their way quickly. I live her and I decided one day to stop dodging them and make them watch out for me.

Exceptional

Armenia, a hidden treasure in the Caucasus, mesmerized me with its rich history, warm hospitality, and stunning landscapes. From ancient monasteries to mouthwatering cuisine, this country exceeded my expectations. The friendly locals and breathtaking scenery, including Mount Aragats and Lake Sevan, make Armenia a must-visit destination.

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Travel to Armenia – Tips and Information Guide (2024)

• Last Updated: February 5, 2024

From enjoying the world’s longest cable car ride through the mesmerising landscapes of Vorotan canyon to admiring some of the oldest monasteries on record, these are just some of the reasons you should travel to Armenia .

When you travel in Armenia you will often wonder, how come more people aren’t placing Armenia higher on their bucket list?

Not a lot of nations can boast to have preserved their rich cultural heritage dating far back as the ancient times. The perfect examples being the town Yerevan, that is 28 years older then Rome or, their 6,000 year old wine making tradition!

This small country will draw you in with it’s capturing landscapes, ancient monuments and unparalleled hospitality. If you’re up for discovering one of Europe’s best kept secrets travel to Armenia!

Table of Contents

Things To Do In Yerevan

Accommodation in yerevan, restaurants in yerevan, nightlife in yerevan, things to do in tatev, accommodation in tatev, restaurants in tatev, accommodation in garni, accommodation in dilijan, an introduction on travel to armenia.

Armenia is not a country that often rings a bell with tourists, which is actually surprising given that it is such an interesting country with an incredibly old, rich and eventful history, fascinating culture and beautiful nature.

The hospitable inhabitants, delicious food and cheap prices, together with a lack of (western) tourists make it a wonderful destination.

The history of Armenia has been nothing short of eventful. It has seen countless invasion as its strategic position was the reason for constant fights over this territory, especially during the Ottoman-Persian wars (from the 16 th century).

Over the course of history numerous major conflicts afflicted the country. Already centuries ago Armenia was battling the Roman Empire (62), invading the Byzantine empire (1145) and losing west Armenia to Turkey while the rest of the country was being Sovietized (1920) to name a few.

Armenia has also been the subject of many mythical stories, like the stranding of the ark of Noach on Mt Ararat, the holy mountain of Armenia, or the conversion to Christianity.

Nowadays the country is mostly known for the horrors of the Armenian genocide and as the first country in the world that adopted Christianity as its state religion.

More presently, the current poor relations with Turkey stem from their role in the genocide and there is a still unresolved conflict with Azerbaijan over Nagorno-Karabakh, a disputed territory operating as a de facto state that is an unrecognized ethnic Armenian enclave within Azerbaijan.

So over the centuries much has happened in Armenia, which is why it is so interesting in a cultural sense. Not only for culture buffs though, as the small country packs a great variety in magnificent landscapes that will surely satisfy nature lovers.

General Advice For Travelling In Armenia

If you’re thinking about travelling to Armenia, here are the general things you need to know before you go.

Outside of the capital you can easily assume that nobody speaks English. The language that is spoken is Armenian with its own alphabet.

You can get by fairly well with Russian though as it is the most common foreign language in the country and many Armenians understand it. Road signs are usually in English and in Armenian.

Try to learn a few words like hello (barev) and thank you (mersi), which is much appreciated by the locals. Most accommodation and tour providers speak just enough English to be able to sort things out (if not, try some self-invented sign language which usually works. Or not).

Armenians are very friendly and will try their hardest to help you out, even when they don’t speak a word of English. It’s not uncommon to attract a group of about 10 Armenians when asking for directions, everyone weighing in with one or two words in English and their take on the directions you should have.

Armenia has an interesting, varied and delicious cuisine, with some dishes being well known even beyond Armenia like Shashlick and Dolma.

A lot of the dishes are meat based and they throw everything on grills and barbecue, including vegetables. Soon you’ll notice that the delicious barbecue smell is present basically everywhere you go.

You will eat a lot of Lavish, thin flatbread that is made in a traditional ‘tonir’ oven and is complimentary with almost every dish but doesn’t bore easily.

Common ingredients in Armenian dishes are lamb, eggplant, yoghurt, cottage cheese, grape leaves and many fragrant spices.

There are too many dishes to list and specify if they are delicious or not. I recommended to just try out a lot of different dishes and ask the person who is selling the food what they like.

Armenians appreciate tourists taking an interest in their culture, including food, and asking questions about it usually gets you an excited Armenian and something tasty to eat.

In that way you get to try some new things and there aren’t any exceptionally weird dishes anyway so it is rather safe to do.

Most of the local beer is nothing special, except in Yerevan where there is a very new craft brewery called Dargett. They make absolutely delicious craft beer and the place is packed with young locals on the weekend.

But in terms of drinks the real speciality lies in wine and cognac. Armenian cognac is world famous, thus the Yerevan Brandy Company is proudly presented as a major attraction of the city with tasting tours and a museum (Ararat Museum).

Armenia and Georgia are one of the oldest wine producing countries in the world, with grape cultivation going back to ancient times. Well recognised within the wine world and producing some of the best quality wines there are, make sure to try out a few.

There are a lot of vineyards and factories throughout the country, the most famous one that is open to visitors is the Areni factory. I wouldn’t say it is really worth a visit unless you are passing by anyways, you can take a tour and taste some wines here.

Tap water is generally safe to drink, but as you’re in a different country there can always be different bacteria’s than that you are used to that upset your stomach.

In mountain areas (like Tatev) there are often many tap fountains in streets etc. providing delicious water from the mountains.

The currency is the Armenian Dram. It is very well possible to have a low budget holiday, whilst it is also tempting to splurge on food and stuff because it is all quite cheap.

For accommodation we paid on average 15 dollars per person a day which gets you rather nice accommodation. Food is inexpensive as well, in restaurants we paid around 6-8 dollar for a meal plus drinks.

Gas is around 0.86 dollar per litre.

Travelling in Armenia is completely safe. Never once did we feel unsafe somewhere. The only area prone to unrest is the Nagorno Karabakh border due to the before mentioned conflict.

The border between Azerbaijan and Armenia is closed and it is best to avoid the border area all together. Other than that the border with Turkey is closed (due to conflicts between the two countries) so you can’t cross it anyway.

Use your common sense and general precautions for petty crime etc. like you would anywhere.

Buses and share taxis (marshrutkas) get you to most of the major places for cheap but I always prefer to have my own car.

The landscape is just really nice to drive through with enough interesting stops along the way that you’ll want to decide yourselves when you get out.

We rented our car with Sixt and picked it up in Yerevan and dropped off in Tblisi, Georgia (other way around is not possible due to regulations).

If you rent with international companies like Sixt, Hertz e.g. the cheapest car would be around 40 dollar a day. Often you can get cheaper deals with local companies.

Make sure you get the full insurance as the roads can be in quite a bad shape. Unless you really want to go far up in the mountains there isn’t necessarily the need for a 4WD in Armenia as you can get to most places, albeit a bit bumpy sometimes.

The Best Places To Visit In Armenia

Now that you know the basics of the country, it’s time to check out the best places to visit in Armenia.

The capital is a great place to start you trip and spend a day or 2. Contradictory to what you might expect from a Soviet era city, it is quite metropolitan.

It has a lively nightlife scene with clubs, hip restaurants and European style bars. Mixed with the many remains of older days, like the typical pink colored soviet buildings and monuments or the 17 th century neighborhood Kond,

Yerevan has its very own appearance. You won’t find any grand landmarks here, rather it is just a nice place to absorb the atmosphere and familiarize yourself a bit with the country you are in.

The Armenian genocide museum is well worth the visit if you want to learn and understand a bit more about Armenians, their history and relations with neighboring countries like Turkey.

There are a few other museums, like the History museum of Armenia and the National Gallery that are interesting as well.

Yerevan is incredibly old, 2800 years to be exact, which is 28 years older than Rome. Thus, it is drenched in interesting history.

A good way to learn more about this is one of the mentioned museum or a (free) walking tour.

A prominent feature of the city centre are the cascade stairs. It is a large stairwell that leads to the grim Soviet monument (not one for extravagant decorating those soviets) erected for celebrating 50 years of Soviet Armenia.

It provides great views over the city and to the massive statue mother of Armenia, supposedly placed defiantly in the direction of Turkey.

Underneath the stairwell is a contemporary art museum which you can enter for free and that you’ll pass through if you decide to take the escalator instead of the stairs to the monument.

You can wander around in the 17 th century neighborhood ‘Kond’, that really feels like a separate part of the city where incredibly old and derelict houses sit on the narrow streets and alleys.

Lover’s park is a small park that is excellent for a bit of relaxing and watching the locals going about their day, grabbing coffee or playing chess and other board games, a favourite pastime activity of many.

There are enough hostels and guesthouses in the city. The Envoy Hostel is a highly recommended hostel and is small but good, the staff is helpful and the location is perfect. Homestays like Anahit Stepayan ’s are quite popular as well if you’d choose for a more local experience.

The restaurant called ‘ The Club ’ is my favourite place. It is a bit hidden in a basement underneath a clothing store. The atmosphere, absolutely delicious (and cheap) food and the fact that there was not another tourist to be seen make it a great place.

In the evening the city comes a bit more alive around the square, where there are many (trendy) bars and restaurants and well-dressed locals making their way for an evening of dining and drinking, a seemingly favourite activity of Armenians.

There are plenty of Western style bars, like an Irish, Beatles and 90’s bars. Most of the bars have a very unobtrusive entrance and are in the basement of the residency buildings.

Around the big square there a few more, but rather tacky looking, bars. I can absolutely recommend the Calumet Bar .

A small, warm bar filled with very lively locals. We spent two nights in a row there and had a great time.

On one occasion we met a group of guys who looked equally bewildered, out of place and fascinated as us. They turned out to be pretty much the only western people we’ve seen on our trip and together we enjoyed looking at the Armenians getting their groove on that night.

The bar goers were very friendly and interested in our country like we were in theirs. The level of English is notably better with young people in the capital.

Like mentioned before, if you like craft beer head over to Dargett to taste some great homemade craft beer and have a meal. It is quite western but rather popular with (young) locals.

Tatev has become known mostly for the longest cable cart in the world, the wings of Tatev, that lead to the Tatev monastery.

Most people arrive in Tatev by cable cart, have a look at the monastery and return. However, there is plenty to see and the drive alone through the Vorotan canyon is worth it.

If you leave from Yerevan it is a 4 to 5 hour drive, that takes you through an incredible varied landscape, starting with arid, desert like surroundings when you leave the capital.

It’s not too long before some thin pasture appears and many fruit and vegetable stalls alongside the road.

After a while the road climbs up into the mountains, 2 hours or so later you’ll cross a mountain pass and suddenly the landscape has changed to green hills and endless fields with blooming wildflowers, while the air is substantially colder due to the elevation.

The vendors have changed as well, now there are people selling honey on the side of the road. The road eventually leads to a junction where the main road continues to Goris (another destination worth checking out) and the secondary road to Tatev.

This road goes through a few old and derelict villages. Some of them look like a war has struck with streets full of rumble and scrap metal. Rusty old decaying cars, trucks and tractors are parked everywhere.

A man is sweeping up big pick piles of rocks, with a broom (probably still working on that I assume). The side streets are unpaved, rocky and full of holes. People stared at us unabashed, I don’t think they have seen many western tourists passing through here.

Granted, our shiny red Nissan Micra didn’t do a good job in hiding the fact that we were tourists either, as old Lada’s really are the only cars locals drive.

After passing through those villages, a zigzag road takes you along the edge of the canyon, providing magnificent views from several nice viewpoints, like the medieval bell chapel.

The road winds all the way down to the canyon to cross the river, only to go right back up the mountains again on a gravel road to reach the village of Tatev.

It is a very small village and pretty quiet, with most tourists concentrating in the area around the cable cart and the monastery.

There are a number of short and longer hikes in the area. We hiked to Mount Petroskhach, which takes you through the old part of the village up into the hills, providing magnificent views across a large part of the steep canyon, which seems to have an almost straight drop from the plateau.

The trail is sometimes a bit difficult to follow as there are a number of trails leaving from the area. We asked a few locals for directions, ignored their advice anyway and went the wrong way (obviously).

Down in the canyon where you crossed the river by car, there is a small parking spot. From here you can follow the footpath alongside the river which takes you through bushy, shrubs and across the river.

In summer the area around the river is teeming with life, lots of butterflies, dragonflies, other insects, fish, birds and many flowers. Be aware that there are snakes as well, take caution when walking into thick grass.

The path leads to the Tatevi Anapat monastery, a complex dating from the 17 th century, which was abandoned by the monks due to an earthquake in 1658 resulting in the ruins that you see here today.

It has this amazing Indiana Jones feeling to it, as an ancient complex slowly taken back by nature, barely visible from the road. Upon entering the main building, which is still quite intact, a soft voice filled the room.

Near the altar there was a monk praying, dressed in his long black robe. Apparently he is still living here all by himself.

The path continues along the river, we didn’t take it due to lack of time but it looks very promising. Following your way back to the parking lot there are a number of viewing platforms over the river.

They call this area Devil’s bridge (Satani Kamurj), named like that because the formation of it seemed improbable, therefore it must be the Devil’s work.

From the viewing platforms you can’t really see that much of it, however you can get down in the river and explore the incredible caves alongside it.

Down in the river it really looks like a scene coming straight out of a fairy tale.

Moss and plants gracefully decorate the walls, while stalactites in all kind of shapes and colours hang from the cave ceilings and form weird terraces around pools, the water containing (supposedly) healing minerals. It gives the impression that you’re walking in a movie set or a themepark attraction.

From down in the river you can also see the Devil’s bridge much better. To get down there you follow the footpath from the viewing platforms all the way to the end, where there is a small hanging rope to get you down onto a wobbly ladder and finally in the river. This rope is a bit hidden between the bushes.

Be aware that it is all a little bit treacherous and one could easily fall and slip and you also have to wade through the river.

At some points the river flows quite fast, we decided to plunge in and let the river takes us somewhere, which landed us at another amazing spot.

Getting back upstream proved a bit more difficult, but also guarantees some hilarious videos of your travelmates struggling to return while the river keeps pushing you back.

It is not a very big or deep river so nothing too dangerous. It is absolutely worth it to get down in the river, this really made us feel like true explorers.

Back in Tatev the monastery is well worth a visit of course. If you continue down the road for a bit there is a nice viewpoint that looks out over the monastery and canyon. The monastery is perched beautifully on a rock overlooking the whole canyon.

We stayed for 2 days but it is an area that begs to be explored. The beautiful canyon has walking paths following the river that you just want to follow and see where it ends up or take one of the small unpaved roads and just see where it goes.

At this point we turned back in the direction of Yerevan, if you continue the road it will take you to even higher mountains and eventually to the border crossing with Iran.

I highly recommend Saro’s Bed and Breakfast .  We were welcomed by Saro’s sister Maro, who is very friendly and hospitable and made sure we were provided with everything we needed, like homemade lemonade, cakes, coffee and she even brought us some lunch to take on a hike at no charge.

Most of the dinner is prepared on the big barbecue and delicious as well. Dolma, rabbit stew and a bottle of homemade red wine make for a great meal.

Maro’s dad also takes guests on a little excursion into the mountain in his old jeep. There are a number of options for guesthouses and bed and breakfasts in Tatev though.

On the drive from Yerevan you’ll pass the Areni Wine Factory. There are also people selling wine everywhere at the side of the road in plastic cola bottles, apparently for Irani truck drivers (as they are not allowed to drink alcohol in Iran thus have to hide it).

There are no supermarkets in Tatev. Stock up on some items and make sure your accommodation can provide all your required meals. There is however a small information centre with a small café. They can also provide with you with hiking routes, maps etc. Saro’s bed and breakfast is also a restaurant for non-guests.

Garni is a town close to Yerevan and for a rather big settlement the road leading to it from the capital is quite strange (or we took a wrong route).

Leaving Yerevan the road suddenly consists of more dirt and holes than actual tarmac. The landscape is incredibly dry for a bit, although it still is a habitat for quite some birds.

Garni itself is a small town with the major attractions being the Garni temple, the only pagan temple in Armenia, the Geghard monastery and the beautiful Garni gorge with the adjacent Khosov nature reserve.

You can enter the Garni gorge from both side of town by car or on foot. Inside the Garni gorge you’ll find this incredible miracle of nature called the Symphony of Stones, a rather fitting name for stone walls that are carved out in perfect cube like pillars.

You can drive the dirt road all the way to the other entrance but after a while we were afraid our Nissan Micra couldn’t take it anymore with all the massive bumps and holes in the road.

There are many hiking trails in the Khosov nature reserve. If you come from Garni the entrance is quite unclear. I drove to the entrance on google maps, a dirt road climbing up the hill.

Eventually a guarded gate signed the entrance and that you could not go further with car, however there was no real parking place either. Thus from Garni it is best to walk to the entrance or enter from the other side.

The Geghard monastery is amazing, but very touristic. Like tour buses touristic, so be there early to avoid crowds and marvel at this dark coloured, ancient complex without too many tourists.

The Garni temple is beautifully perched on top of the ridge overlooking the gorge, best to visit it at the end of the day for nice lighting.

The nearby restaurant is excellent, and also has one of the best terraces I have ever seen, overlooking the gorge and the temple.

We had rented a whole house (called ‘ Dinadav House ’) for ourselves for around 50 dollar in total. There are a number of options on booking.com and It is quite nice to stay in a residents house back in a neighbourhood to get a more local feeling.

Moving up north, Dilijan presents a completely different landscape again. Also commonly referred to as the Switzerland of Armenia, this is a small town in between lush green forests and hills.

There is not much to do other than hike the beautiful surroundings and visit some monasteries like Haghartsin, which can keep you busy for a few days though.

A bit further there is also a zipline but we stuck with the hiking. We hiked near the Haghartsin monastery, which can be reached by a road with twists and turns that begs to be driven with an old school convertible and a hot girl next to you, unfortunately we had to do it with a Nissan Micra and two dudes.

The forests are just like how I expect a real forest to be: lush, plenty of variation in the vegetation and full of blooming flowers.

It is a forest where you just expect to see a bear, or some creature from a fairytale pop up from behind a tree any minute.

We stayed in the Belvedere Eco Rest Zone , located 10 minutes out of town, and beautifully situated near the river. The food is nice, staff is friendly and the rooms are perfectly fine and very cheap. There are a few hotel/hostel options in town as well.

Monasteries In Dilijan

Armenia was the first country in the world to adopt Christianity as its state religion. The story goes that after a Christian (Gregory the Illuminator) cured the Armenian king of a grave illness, he agreed to convert to Christianity, which happened in 301 AD.

Around 95% of the population nowadays is Christian, while Armenia is surrounded by Muslim countries except for Georgia.

As the country had such a major role in establishing Christianity, you will encounter a lot of monasteries and other religious sites.

All these incredibly old buildings and associated tales and myths instil a mysterious and ancient atmosphere to many of the sites that we visited.

You’ll notice one common denominator among the monasteries and that is they sure knew how to pick spectacular locations to build them, usually perched on some cliff surrounded by a dramatic landscape. A few noteworthy monasteries that I visited are listed below:

This 13 th century monastery is located on the way from Yerevan to Tatev, close to Areni, which is a nice little detour. It is beautifully situated in a landscape that most closely resembles the Grand Canyon; hot, dry, and with red dirt mountains.

The complex has a few different churches and chapels and it was the residency of Syunik’s bishops in the 13 th century. It is however, very busy with tourists.

A 9 th century monastery in Tatev (obviously). It is located on the edge of a plateau overlooking the gorge set in a spectacular landscape.

You can go inside the complex, but if you follow the road for a little bit there is a great viewpoint of the monastery. If you venture a bit through the bushes you can see a waterfall coming down as well.

The monastery played an important role as an spiritual centre and medieval university in Armenia.

Founded in the 4 th century in Garni, this dark coloured monastery complex is surrounded by cliffs and located next to a gorge.

The inside, and especially the cave chambers, feels so old (well they are, 4 th century!) and it has a bit of mysterious vibe to it, like you are stepping back in time.

The vendors and tour buses at the entrance detract the atmosphere a bit, but it is definitely worthwhile.

We did not visit one of the most famous monasteries, as there were thick clouds that day and it is famous for having the snow-capped peak of Ararat in the background.

We were also out of time and guessed it would be another busy monastery as well, as this is one of the most popular landmarks in Armenia.

Gregory the Illuminator was 13 years imprisoned here by the king before he cured him of an illness after which the king and country converted to Christianity.

The construction of a chapel already began in 642, the current church was however finished in the 17 th century. It is located a few kilometres of the main highway around Yerevan.

A 13 th century monastery in Dilijan beautifully located in the lush green forests. It is small and not completely intact anymore but worth a visit. It is quite nice and the main building (church) is still intact.

Also the starting point from a number of trails in the forests so perfect for combining those activities.

There are many more monasteries, churches and other religious site of interest. Many can be done in a day tour from Yerevan (hostels organise these).

Note:  When I say busy with tourists, these are almost exclusively domestic Armenian and Georgian tourists. No tour buses with Asians or Europeans here. Best to get there early to avoid crowds. There are no entrance fees to the monasteries. The more popular ones will charge you a very small fee for parking.

These places will take you around the country, which we did in 8 days. It is not very big but there is plenty to see, I’d recommend to take at least 8 days to explore Armenia.

It is still a rather underrated destination, apparent by the low number of tourists that visit the country. It should however receive much more attention, as I have never been to a country before that made me feel like a true explorer without the discomfort of one.

The history is endlessly interesting and the landscapes fascinating. I’d say the country is the perfect introduction to one of the most interesting corners of the world, standing at the crossroads of Eastern Europe and Western Asia.

[box] That’s it for my travel to Armenia guide. Leave a comment below if this has helped you, or if you have something to add.[/box]

Thijs Broekkamp

Hi, We’re Alesha and Jarryd!

We’ve been traveling the world together since 2008, searching for the planet’s best destinations and adventures.

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I highly recommend a visit to Yerevan. The city is filled with beautiful architecture and rich history, and the people are incredibly friendly and welcoming. I had a wonderful time exploring the city’s vibrant culture through its delicious food, unique museums, and lively nightlife

Hi, thank you for your great article! We’ll be going to Armenia tomorrow and I was wondering about the car rental. Where did you rent the car and do you think it is possible to do a similar trip with local buses? Thanks for your help 🙂

Hi Lauriane, sorry for the late reply. We hope you had a great time in Armenia. Happy travels

My daughter and I are going on our first trip to Armenia in the summer of 2020. I read your blog and look forward to my trip! Thank you, now I know more about Armenia! Great photos!

Hi Tori, I hope your trip is still on. Have a wonderful time. Happy travels

Hey, Thank you for this beautiful article. We are planning a trip a to Armenia and wanted to know if we rent a car can we do, Garni, Geghard, Dilijan and Lake Sevan on the way in an entire day if we leave early morning? We do not want to stay anywhere as we will be based in Yerevan. A Nissan Micra would be enough for this journey? We are traveling in October. Do google maps work here accurately? Thank you so much for your help!

Hi, thank you so much. About all the destinations with a car rental, we are not too sure sorry. Maybe contact the car rental company. They may be able to help. All the best. Happy travels

Thanks a lot for telling about your adventurous trip. Leaving for Armenia in a few days, liked your writing, hope to love this country ss you did.

Glad the article helped. All the best with your trip.

Thanks. I’m in Georgia now, then Turkey.Bulgaria, Romania . I’m going to Armenia end Sept.. Looking forward to it especially after reading your intensive tipsxx

Have a great trip. 🙂

According to you Armenia looking awesome to see.

It is a great place. We can not wait to go back and explore more.

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Armenia Travel Guide

Last Updated: May 4, 2023

Straddling the divide between Asia and Europe , Armenia might be one of the final travel frontiers left on the planet for adventurous backpackers. Visiting Armenia isn’t often on a traveler’s to-do list, despite its beautiful snowy mountain peaks and many perfectly preserved medieval monasteries.

But their loss is your gain as the country is virtually untouched by mass tourism.

Armenia’s history is complicated and often tragic, marked with countless years of warfare and the infamous Armenian Genocide in which the Ottoman government murdered 1.5 million Armenians in the early 1900s.

Learn more about the country’s past by visiting the many historical monuments and religious structures scattered around the country, including the 4th-century Etchmiadzin Cathedral and the Greco-Roman Temple of Garni.

Armenia’s dramatic landscape of jagged mountains and deep, rugged valleys — especially in the Geghama mountain range — is perfect for trekking, biking, and off-roading.

Moreover, Armenians love chatting with visitors. You don’t have to try hard to meet the locals here as they’re going to want to know why you are visiting since so few people do!

This travel guide to Armenia will help you plan your trip, save money, and make the most of your time in this underrated gem!

Table of Contents

• Things to See and Do
• Typical Costs
• Suggested Budget
• Money-Saving Tips
• Where to Stay
• How to Get Around
• How to Stay Safe
• Best Places to Book Your Trip
• Related Blogs on Armenia

Top 5 Things to See and Do in Armenia

1. See Mount Ararat

This dormant volcano is technically a part of Turkish territory and is believed to be the final resting spot of Noah’s Ark. While you can’t hike the mountain from Armenia, you can certainly admire it up close from the Khor Virap monastery, located just 50 kilometers (31 miles) from Yerevan!

2. Visit Yerevan

Known as Armenia’s “Pink City” for the rose-colored volcanic material used for much of the city’s buildings, Yerevan is home to wide tree-lined boulevards, busy town squares, and a thriving cafe culture. Try the city’s famous dark coffee; it’s rich, sweet, and packed with caffeine.

3. Go Skiing in Tsaghkadzor

Thanks to its mountainous terrain, Armenia has become a hit with extreme sports lovers. During the winter, Armenia is transformed into a ski and snowboarding haven. Tsaghkadzor ski resort in the Marmarik river valley is the most popular place to go. A day ticket costs 12,000 AMD.

4. Visit Dilijan National Park

Dilijan National Park is easily one of the most scenic destinations to visit in Armenia, boasting wide swatches of forested hills and green meadows home to thousands of plant species. Hike the well-marked trails to springs and monasteries or spend some time at scenic Parz Lake.

5. Visit the Genocide Museum

The Armenian Genocide Memorial & Museum stands as a powerful reminder of the genocide that took place in Armenia between 1915-1922 at the hands of the Ottoman Empire. Inside is a collection of photographs, documents, newspaper reports, and films curated to tell the story of this tragic event in Armenian history. Admission is free but donations are welcomed.

Other Things to See and Do in Armenia

1. take the cable car to tatev monastery.

This medieval monastery was built between the 9th-13th centuries and is unique thanks to its position on the edge of a deep gorge. The inside is covered in 10th-century frescoes and vaulted stone ceilings, while the exterior has many pointed domes and is surrounded by tall stone fortress walls that drop off immediately into the gorge below. There are stunning views and photography spots all around the complex as well. The only way to visit the monastery is by taking the cable car across a 5,752-meter cableway (the longest in the world) suspended 320 meters (1,049 feet) above the River Vorotan. The cable car ride takes around 15 minutes, and a round-trip ticket is 5,000 AMD. Tatev is about 3.5 hours from Yerevan.

2. Visit Shikahogh State Reserve

Shikahogh State Reserve is the second largest forest in Armenia and is home to some diverse wildlife including leopards, bears, wild goats, and vipers. There are lush mountain hiking trails (although they are not always well maintained) that lead you to Iron Age tombs, medieval churches and monasteries, waterfalls, crystal-clear springs, and even abandoned towns. The 11-kilometer (7-mile) route from Mount Khustup to Shishkert village is tough but incredibly scenic.

3. Swim in Lake Sevan

Also known as the “Armenian Sea,” Lake Sevan is a massive lake (it covers 5% of the country) located high in the Caucasus mountains. Known for its incredible biodiversity and stunningly stark landscapes, Lake Sevan is a popular destination for domestic and foreign travelers alike. Come here to relax in one of the lakeside villages, visit medieval monasteries, and swim in the lake (if it’s warm enough or you’re brave enough!). The lake is so high in altitude (1,900 meters above sea level) that if you sit on the riverbank, it almost looks like the river is running into the sky. You can wild camp here for free as well. Lake Sevan is around 65 kilometers (40 miles) from Yerevan. The most common way to get here is by marshrutka (minibus), which takes around an hour.

4. See Geghard Monastery

Geghard Monastery is a World Heritage-listed complex named from the lance that pierced Christ’s side at the crucifixion. The buildings are partially carved out of the mountains and surrounded by cliffs along the Azat River Gorge. Inside the 13th-century Avazan Chapel is a sacred spring that runs through the monastery, and the original reason for the founding of the area as a religious site back in the 4th century. Today, visitors fill up bottles to take the holy water home. Admission is free.

5. Visit the Echmiadzin Cathedral

Located only 20 kilometers (12 miles) from Yerevan, no visit to Armenia would be complete without seeing the Echmiadzin Cathedral. The cathedral was built following the country’s adoption of Christianity in 301 CE, making it the first country in the world to do so. The cathedral is the oldest in Armenia and is often cited as the oldest cathedral in the world. The cathedral’s museum has some fascinating artifacts, including a supposed piece of the cross on which Jesus was crucified, the spear that pierced Jesus’ side, and a piece of Noah’s Ark. Admission to the museum is 1,500 AMD.

6. Explore Gyumri

The city of Gyumri is one of Armenia’s most ancient settlements, dating back nearly 3,000 years. Starting from the busy Vardanants Square at the center of town, walk to the Kumayri Historic District, a sort of open-air museum filled with historic buildings like the Sev Ghul fortress and the Paris Hotel (used as a maternity hospital during Soviet times). Be sure to visit the Dzitoghtsyan Museum of Social Life (1,000 AMD entry), which showcases life in the area from the 19th century to the 1920s, or the Aslamazyan Sisters House-Museum (300 AMD entry), with works from two sisters who helped bring equality to Armenian women through their art.

7. Experience the healing waters of Jermuk

With over 40 natural thermal springs, Jermuk is the most popular spa town in Armenia, with a variety of resort hotels and spas (rooms start at 15,000 AMD). Get a free sample of healing mineral water from the Gallery of Water, where natural mineral water flows into 5 different stone urns, each with different healing properties and temperatures (be careful as some are very hot). While you’re there, make sure you venture to the Jermuk waterfall, which, at 70 meters tall (230 feet), is Armenia’s second-largest waterfall. Jermuk is about 3 hours from Yerevan.

8. Visit the Army of Stones

Karahunj, otherwise known as Zorats Karer (or Army of Stones in English), is Armenia’s oldest and most popular megalithic site. Located at an altitude of 1,770 meters (5,800 feet) on a rocky plateau, no one knows how these 200 stones got here. Even stranger is the fact that each stone has 5-centimeter holes in it. There are many different theories on how and why the stones are here, but the most popular theory is that the site was constructed in the 6th century BCE for stargazing.

9. Take a wine tasting tour

With over 500 unique and native varieties almost unknown to the world outside Armenia, taking a wine tour is a must for any wine lover. In fact, the oldest wine cave in the world (it’s 6,000 years old!) is near Areni. Sadly, during Soviet rule, many of the wineries were shut down. It is only in the last decade that Armenia has begun to reconnect with its winemaking roots. Wine tours from Yerevan start from 37,000 AMD for a tour of one winery and go up to around 75,000 AMD for a full-day tour.

10. Go to the Erebuni Historical & Archaeological Museum-Reserve

This archaeological site encapsulates the ancient Erebuni Fortress, which dates to 782 BCE, a whole three decades before Rome was even established, and after which the city of Yerevan was named. The entire complex is now an outdoor museum, with an indoor component as well. The museum contains more than 12,000 artifacts offering insights into Armenia’s ancient history and the establishment of the city of Yerevan. You’ll also learn about what daily life was like in the palace of Argishti I, one of the greatest kings of ancient Urartu. Admission is 1,000 AMD or 2,500 AMD with a guide.

11. See Noravank

Built in the 13th century, legend has it that when the Mongols conquered Armenia hundreds of years ago, it was God himself that saved the Noravank monastery. Delicately carved stonework and religious reliefs (including depictions of God) decorate the three churches here. Unlike the many other Armenian monasteries that are located on top of mountains and gorges, Noravank is set on the floor of a deep valley, with towering red cliffs rising up on either side of the complex. Visiting the site is free, though the museum is 500 AMD. The monastery is around 122 kilometers (76 miles) from Yerevan.

Armenia Travel Costs

Accommodation – There are a limited number of hostels in Armenia and most of them are in the capital, Yerevan. A bed in a 4-6-bed dorm costs 5,000-7,500 AMD, while a bed in an 8-bed-dorm costs 3,000-4,000 AMD. A private double room in a hostel is around 10,000-15,000 AMD with a shared bathroom. Standard amenities include Wi-Fi and bedding. Free breakfast and shared kitchens are common as well (though not all hostels have them).

Camping is available around the country. For those not traveling with a tent, you can often rent them at the Tourist Information Centers. Wild camping is free, but if you prefer camping on a campsite, prices start at around 4,000 AMD per night for two people and a tent.

Budget hotels average around 8,000-9,850 AMD per night. Free Wi-Fi is standard and free breakfast is usually included.

Airbnb is available though the options are limited. Private rooms start around 10,000 AMD per night while entire homes/apartments average closer to 25,000 AMD.

Food – Armenia is a landlocked country with a long history of trade, meaning that Mediterranean, Middle Eastern, and Eastern European countries have all left their mark on the country’s cuisine.

Fresh and dried herbs create flavorful dishes, and common spices include black pepper, sumac, cumin, mint, and cinnamon. Staple vegetables include eggplant, cucumber, bell pepper, tomato, and onion. Legumes, especially chickpeas and lentils, are also used as central ingredients in many dishes. Pork, lamb, and beef are the most common meats. Though meat is predominant in the cuisine, because of the fasting periods in the Armenian Apostolic religion, there are many traditional dishes that are entirely plant-based as well.

Common dishes include a variety of cold salads, yogurt soups, boereg (filled pastry pies), bozbash (lamb stew), khorovats (grilled meat skewers), tolma (stuffed grape leaves), kyufta (a type of meatball), and harissa (a porridge that’s considered Armenia’s national dish). Traditional lavash bread, a flatbread made from wheat and baked in a clay oven, is integral to Armenian cuisine and is served with most meals.

Street food like shawarma or lahmajun (Armenian pizza) costs less than 1,000 AMD, and a glass of tan (a salty yogurt drink) shouldn’t be more than 300 AMD.

For an inexpensive meal at an Armenian restaurant, expect to pay around 1,250-2,750 AMD for traditional food like spa (an extra creamy soup), kyufta (meatballs), or Armenian cheese with basturma (dried meat with spices) wrapped in a piece of Armenian pita bread.

Higher-end or Western restaurants cost about 6,000-8,500 AMD per meal. Even Chinese takeout restaurants, normally a mainstay of the budget traveler, are more expensive than Armenian meals, costing at least 3,800 AMD for a dish.

In terms of drinks, expect to pay 600 AMD for a beer, 700 AMD for a glass of Armenian wine, 1,000-1,500 AMD for a cocktail, 800 AMD for a cup of Armenian coffee, and 1,200 AMD for a cappuccino.

If you plan on cooking your own meals, a week’s worth of groceries should cost around 12,000-16,000 AMD but, with food prices being so low, it’s better to eat street food and enjoy the food the country has to offer!

Backpacking Armenia Suggested Budgets

On a backpacking budget of about 17,500 AMD per day, you can stay in a hostel dorm (or camp), eat street food or at inexpensive restaurants, cook some of your meals, use local transportation (including some intercity buses), limit your drinking, and stick to mostly free or cheap activities like hiking and museum visits.

On a mid-range budget of about 43,000 AMD, you can stay in a private hostel or Airbnb, eat any budget restaurant meal you want, enjoy a few drinks, take some taxis to get around, take intercity trains, and do more paid activities like ride the cable car to Tatev Monastery and do a winery tour.

On a “luxury” budget of about 77,000 AMD per day, you can stay in a hotel, eat anywhere you want, drink more, rent a car to get around, and do whatever tours and activities you want. This is just the ground floor for luxury though. The sky is the limit!

Use the chart below to get an idea of how much you need to budget daily, depending on your travel style. Keep in mind these are daily averages – some days you’ll spend more, some days you’ll spend less (you might pay less every day). We want to give you a general idea of how to make your budget. Prices are in AMD.

Armenia Travel Guide: Money-Saving Tips

Armenia isn’t going to break your bank. There are so many free activities here, especially if you’re enjoying the outdoors, that it’s hard to spend a lot. Throw in cheap food, beer, and accommodation, and you can really stretch your budget here. However, if you’re looking to lower your expenses even more, here are some ways to save money in Armenia:

• Take a free walking tour – Yerevan Free Walking Tour is a great way to get familiar with the city and the culture. Just be sure to tip your guide at the end!
• Hitchhike and wild camp – If you really want to save money in Armenia, it is one of the easiest countries in the world to hitchhike. You will likely never wait long. Wild camping is also legal, and it is very common for friendly Armenians to invite you to their home for food so bring a tent when you visit.
• Cook your own meals – Some hostels here don’t include kitchen facilities, so if you want to save money, make sure you book accommodation that does so you can buy cheap groceries and cook some meals.
• Stay with a local – If you plan ahead, you can usually find a Couchsurfing host that can provide free accommodation and share their insider tips with you. It’s the best way to save money and meet locals.
• Enjoy the free spaces – There are plenty of free parks as well as many free hiking trails around the country. Save your budget and enjoy the outdoors!
• Pack a water bottle – The tap water here isn’t really safe to drink so bring a reusable water bottle with a filter to save money and reduce your reliance on plastic bottles. My preferred bottle is LifeStraw because it has a built-in filter to ensure your water is always clean and safe.

Where to Stay in Armenia

There are very few hostels in Armenia, and the few they have are in Yerevan and Tsaghkadzor. My suggested places to stay are:

• Envoy Hostel (Yerevan)
• MGA Hostel and Tours (Yerevan)
• Kantar Hostel (Yerevan)
• Hostel Tsaghkadzor (Tsaghkadzor)

How to Get Around Armenia

Public transportation – Public transportation isn’t the best in Armenia. The public transport websites aren’t translated into English, so it is much better to ask at your hostels for guidance to help you use the local and intercity buses. In the cities, it is easy to walk from place to place.

Yerevan has five trolley bus routes with a ride costing around 50 AMD. There’s also a subway with one line and ten stations, and public buses. A one-way fare on the bus and subway is around 100 AMD.

If you’re flying into Zvartnots International Airport, you can reach the center of Yerevan by bus or taxi. Aerotaxi is the official airport taxi but be aware drivers often won’t turn on the meter, so you need to negotiate a price, which should be around 3,000 AMD. A bus is around 300 AMD.

Bus – Intercity transport in Armenia is best done by bus and minibus (marshrutka). Intercity buses are relatively inexpensive but navigating the bus stations can be tricky as English isn’t widely spoken. Ask in your hostel the day before for someone to help you work out which bus you need and then you will just have to look for that bus when you arrive at the station.

Bus fares average about 716 AMD per hour of travel, but even a short route can end up taking quite a while with lots of stops.

Trains – There are daily trains connecting Yerevan to Gyumri (3 hours), Yeraskh (1.5 hours), Araks (1 hour), Ararat (1 hour), and Hrazdan (1.5 hours). In the summer months, the Hrazdan line gets extended to Lake Sevan. One-way tickets cost between 3,500-12,500 AMD.

Train tickets to nearby cities outside of Armenia, such as Tbilisi, cost around 9,800-12,000 AMD for a one-way ticket. You can purchase tickets online at the official railway website, Railway.am .

The trains that run most regularly are slow trains that are Soviet-era relics, meaning they are uncomfortable and lack the usual amenities you might expect from trains. The express trains, however, are modern and air-conditioned. Unfortunately, these cost more and run less frequently.

Flying – There are only two international airports in Armenia so although air travel is possible, it is far from cost-effective. Often you don’t save much time due to layovers. A flight from Gyumri to Yerevan starts at 95,000 AMD. Only fly if you are short on time and flush with cash.

Car Rental – Driving is definitely the most convenient way to get around Armenia. Car rentals can sometimes be as low as 12,000 AMD per day, and the more days you book, the better the price. If you’re driving, make sure to get an International Driving Permit (IDP) in advance as you’ll need one for any vehicle rental.

When to Go to Armenia

The best time to visit Armenia is at the beginning or end of summer (May-June or September-October). During these months, the weather is mild, making it perfect for outdoor explorations. The temperature hovers around 20°C (68°F) but be aware that it can be very rainy throughout May and thunderstorms are common.

Summers are hot, with temperatures soaring as high as 35°C (95°F). Things tend to cool down in the evenings, however, with a gentle mountain breeze providing some welcomed relief after a long, hot day.

If you are visiting for skiing, December is the best winter month for hitting the slopes. Temperatures drop below freezing, and the northern regions receive a lot of snowfall. Cities like Yerevan get a lot quieter during these months as everyone hides from the cold.

You don’t have to worry about inflated prices or crowds even during the summer peak season. Armenia isn’t a very touristy destination, and you often have whole sites all to yourself.

How to Stay Safe in Armenia

Armenia is a very safe country to travel around — even if you’re traveling solo, and even as a solo female traveler. Violent crime here is rare.

There aren’t any specific scams to look out for either, though sometimes taxi drivers will try to overcharge you. You can avoid this by agreeing on a price before entering the taxi (ask your hotel/hostel staff for a price estimate if you’re not sure what to pay).

If you’re worried about getting ripped off you can read about common travel scams to avoid here .

Petty theft and pickpocketing are rare but can occur so always keep your valuables (specifically your wallet and phone) secure and out of reach. This is especially important in crowds or on busy public transportation.

Solo female travelers should feel safe here, though the standard precautions apply (never accept drinks from strangers, don’t leave your drink unattended at the bar, don’t walk around intoxicated at night, etc.).

If you rent a vehicle, don’t leave any valuables in it overnight. Break-ins are rare, but it’s always better to be safe than sorry.

There’s often political turmoil with neighbors so keep an eye out on that and avoid protests or demonstrations while in Armenia. Avoid the Nagorno-Karabakh region on the border with Azerbaijan due to armed conflict.

If you do experience an emergency, dial 112 for assistance.

Always trust your gut instinct. Make copies of your personal documents, including your passport and ID. Forward your itinerary along to loved ones so they’ll know where you are.

The most important piece of advice I can offer is to purchase good travel insurance. Travel insurance will protect you against illness, injury, theft, and cancellations. It’s comprehensive protection in case anything goes wrong. I never go on a trip without it as I’ve had to use it many times in the past. You can use the widget below to find the policy right for you:

Armenia Travel Guide: The Best Booking Resources

These are my favorite companies to use when I travel. They consistently have the best deals, offer world-class customer service and great value, and overall, are better than their competitors. They are the companies I use the most and are always the starting point in my search for travel deals.

• Skyscanner – Skyscanner is my favorite flight search engine. They search small websites and budget airlines that larger search sites tend to miss. They are hands down the number one place to start.
• Hostelworld – This is the best hostel accommodation site out there with the largest inventory, best search interface, and widest availability.
• Booking.com – The best all around booking site that constantly provides the cheapest and lowest rates. They have the widest selection of budget accommodation. In all my tests, they’ve always had the cheapest rates out of all the booking websites.
• HostelPass – This new card gives you up to 20% off hostels throughout Europe. It’s a great way to save money. They’re constantly adding new hostels too. I’ve always wanted something like this and glad it finallt exists.
• Get Your Guide – Get Your Guide is a huge online marketplace for tours and excursions. They have tons of tour options available in cities all around the world, including everything from cooking classes, walking tours, street art lessons, and more!
• The Man in Seat 61 – This website is the ultimate guide to train travel anywhere in the world. They have the most comprehensive information on routes, times, prices, and train conditions. If you are planning a long train journey or some epic train trip, consult this site.
• Rome2Rio – This website allows you to see how to get from point A to point B the best and cheapest way possible. It will give you all the bus, train, plane, or boat routes that can get you there as well as how much they cost.
• FlixBus – Flixbus has routes between 20 European countries with prices starting as low 5 EUR! Their buses include WiFi, electrical outlets, a free checked bag.
• SafetyWing – Safety Wing offers convenient and affordable plans tailored to digital nomads and long-term travelers. They have cheap monthly plans, great customer service, and an easy-to-use claims process that makes it perfect for those on the road.
• LifeStraw – My go-to company for reusable water bottles with built-in filters so you can ensure your drinking water is always clean and safe.
• Unbound Merino – They make lightweight, durable, easy-to-clean travel clothing.
• Top Travel Credit Cards – Points are the best way to cut down travel expenses. Here’s my favorite point earning credit cards so you can get free travel!

Armenia Travel Guide: Related Articles

Want more info? Check out all the articles I’ve written on backpacking/traveling Armenia and continue planning your trip:

19 Easy Ways to Save Money in Armenia

Get my best stuff sent straight to you, pin it on pinterest.

• Where To Stay
• Transportation
• Booking Resources
• Related Blogs

• Caucasus Tours
• Armenia Tours
• Georgia Tours
• Adventure Tours
• Cultural Tours
• Wine & Food Tours

Is Armenia Safe to Travel in 2023?

As travelers seek to conquer new horizons, safety precautions become more and more vital to follow. To understand the safety of traveling to Armenia, it’s crucial to delve into its geopolitical landscape, local customs, and the overall experience for tourists. Located in the South Caucasus region, Armenia boasts a unique blend of historical heritage, from majestic monuments nestled in the picturesque hillsides to modern tourist destinations. Although Armenia has made significant strides in overcoming challenges, it’s crucial to conduct in-depth research for the most current information on regional stability. By examining the historical facts and present realities, this article can serve as a complete guide with good insights to understand how safe Armenia is to visit.

Key Takeaways

From personal security and border regions to political stability, natural disasters, road safety, local laws, and health precautions, a comprehensive understanding of these facets is essential for a secure and enjoyable visit.

• Crime and Personal Safety: Overall, Armenia is safe to travel, with considerably low levels of crime and terrorism. However, it’s still advisable to be vigilant while strolling alone the deserted areas of the streets, especially the dimly lit ones after midnight. 
• Border Regions: Avoid traveling within a distance of fewer than 5 kilometers along the Armenia-Azerbaijan border due to the ongoing territorial conflict and potential military activities. Stay updated on the latest developments by consistently monitoring media news.
• Political Stability: Armenia puts a lot of effort into becoming a politically stable country, but following the ongoing developments and local protests before making a travel decision is preferred.
• Natural Disasters: Armenia experiences occasional earthquakes and landslides. So, familiarize yourself with safety rules and procedures in case of such situations.
• Road Safety: Some roads are not equipped according to international standards. Follow the traffic rules and opt for reliable transportation options. Yerevan now offers updated and improved public transportation options for your use. If you prefer using taxi services, it’s recommended to install the “GG” app.
• Local laws: Familiarize yourself with Armenian laws to avoid severe penalties.
• Health precautions: Stay updated on health advisories, and vaccinations, and carry necessary medication with you. The healthcare system is improving, but you can still have medical insurance for emergencies.

Travel Insurance: A Must or a Maybe?

While Armenia is generally safe, unforeseen circumstances can disrupt your trip. Travel insurance offers vital financial protection and peace of mind, ensuring you are prepared for any unexpected events that may arise during your journey. Many insurance companies offer travel insurance policies. You can contact well-known insurance providers in your home country, either online or through a local agent, to purchase a policy tailored to your needs. Alternatively, many travel agencies offer travel insurance as part of your tour package. Also, some credit cards offer complimentary travel insurance if you use the card while purchasing the tour package or paying for certain expenses.

Emergency Contacts and Resources

  In Armenia, you can reach out to the following emergency contacts:

• For emergency medical, police, fire and rescue, or anti-terror assistance, dial 108 or 911
• Ambulance 103
• Gas Emergency 104

In tourist areas, you can often find tourist police who can provide assistance and information specific to tourists. The numbers are accessible both from landlines and mobile phones. For non-emergency medical issues, you can visit local hospitals and clinics, or health care centers. In Yerevan, some prominent hospitals include Astghik, Erebouni, and Shengavit Medical Centers. 

Armenia as a travel destination

Armenia is rapidly becoming a top travel destination, making its way onto many tourists’ bucket lists. For some people, this ancient land is associated with majestic monasteries and historical places, while others visit Armenia to explore its undiscovered yet captivating natural marvels. Not only have tourists been captivated by it, but popular media outlets have been engaged in the discussion about Armenia as the top touristic destination. A recent feature by Forbes highlighted the 10 best countries to visit in 2023 positioning Armenia in the first place. 

“So why is Armenia so famous?” you might ask. Well, it is renowned for its UNESCO-listed places, breathtakingly beautiful mountain ranges ideal for year-round hiking, pure natural springs, delicious food, and the welcoming embrace of warm-hearted locals. 

With the growing flow of tourists from all points of the globe, Armenia pays a lot of attention to making it safe to travel to. The safety index according to “Travel safe – Abroad” is 60 the biggest concern being its unstable political relations with Azerbaijan.

In order to get more insights into tourists’ overall perception of Armenia and their experience we conducted thorough research on the net and found out that the majority of tourists are satisfied with their visit, highlighting the exceptional hospitality, delicious cuisine, and inviting atmosphere.

Crime in Armenia. Is it a real thing?

Based on the data sourced from the World Population Review Independent International Organization Armenia is among the top 10 countries boasting the lowest crime rate. While instances of violent crimes remain rare within the nation, there are occasional reports of more minor incidents, including pickpocketing, bag snatching, and theft from vehicles. Although there have been no events of tourists being specifically targeted, it remains of utmost importance to be vigilant not to be caught up in such events.

Is Amenia safe for solo female travelers?

Armenia stands out as a widely acknowledged generally and safe destination for solo female travelers. The country has relatively low criminal accidents, people are warm and nice, and there is a hospitable culture. However, like traveling to any destination, it is advised to adhere to common-sense precautions to avoid unpleasant situations and smooth and enjoyable exploration of this remarkable destination.

The Nagorno-Karabakh conflict

One of the biggest concerns that tourists might have regarding the safety of the country is the ethnic and territorial conflict over Nagorno-Karabakh. But let us give you a brief historical overview to better understand the situation.

Back in 1923, the Soviet Union established the Nagorno-Karabakh Autonomous Region with an ethnically Armenian population of over 95%, under the control of the Azerbaijan Soviet Socialist Republic. In 1988, Nagorno-Karabakh declared its intention to join The Republic of Armenia, despite being officially controlled by Azerbaijan. A war erupted between Armenia and Azerbaijan and after years of military activities, a ceasefire was reached by the intervention of Russia. Karabakh became a de-facto-independent region with its self-declared government. 

However, the tensions escalated further, which eventually led to another war in September 2020. The ceasefire was reached on November 9, and Azerbaijan reclaimed its control over the majority of Nagorno-Karabakh leaving only a small portion. The agreement also established the Lachin corridor, monitored by Russian peacekeepers, a transit route connecting Armenia to Nagorno-Karabakh. In December 2022, Azerbaijan occupied the corridor leaving Karabakh under full blockade till now. International organizations are trying to achieve an agreement with Azerbaijan to take food, medication, and other necessities to the population, but positive outcomes have not been achieved in this process.

So, once a tourist destination, Nagorno-Karabakh is currently unsafe due to the ongoing tension and the possibility of another war.

International embassies in Yerevan consistently issue announcements advising their citizens not to visit the region and to follow these instructions:

• Stay at least 5 kilometers away from the Armenia-Azerbaijan border because of ongoing territorial disputes and possible military actions.
• Avoid visiting Nagorno-Karabakh and surrounding areas.
• The U.S. Embassy suggests enrolling in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP)  to receive emergency alerts and assistance. 
• We recommend regularly checking your embassy’s website for the latest updates.

7 Tips for a Safe Trip to Armenia

Here are our comprehensive editorial recommendations aimed at guaranteeing you a safe and sound visit to Armenia.

• Prior to your trip to Armenia, craft your routes in advance or opt for a prearranged tour package to ensure a secure journey. In case you intend to go hiking or camping, check if the chosen location is near the border with Azerbaijan or Turkey. Additionally, considering guide services might also be an option. 
• Use your common sense and take precautions to avoid petty crimes like pickpocketing. 
• Be careful before taking a taxi, especially at Zvartonts International Airport. Some taxi drivers might attempt to overcharge threefold or more. Always inquire about the cost beforehand.
• As previously mentioned, avoid visiting conflict zones and borders with Azerbaijan and Turkey.
• Avoid carrying or using illegal drugs as Armenia enforces severe penalties for such actions.
• Verify the legality of medications in Armenia. For instance, certain sleeping tablets are considered prohibited.
• Exercise caution while taking photos; capturing images of government or military sites, monuments, or uniformed officers is prohibited.

What to Pack for Safety

When packing for safety during travel, prioritize essentials like travel insurance, identification copies, a mix of cash and cards, essential medications and a basic first-aid kit, emergency contact information, appropriate clothing, safety gear, maps, and navigation tools, a travel-sized flashlight, reusable water bottle, language guides, and local emergency numbers. Consider personal alarms or self-defense items if necessary and tailor your packing list to your destination’s specific safety concerns. Ensure you stay vigilant, use common sense, and stay informed about local conditions to have a safe and enjoyable trip.

So, is Armenia safe to travel? In essence, grasping Armenia’s safety to travel is understanding its geopolitics, customs, and experiences. With the increasing number of tourists, Armenia pays a lot of attention to making it a safe country to visit. People are very hospitable and warm-hearted ready to help. It boasts a commendable record of low crime rates and enforces strong laws against the import and export of illegal drugs and medication, which of course, are top priorities for tourists seeking a safe travel experience.  Despite the existing geopolitical challenges, Armenia is committed to travel safety. Therefore, you are wholeheartedly welcomed to captivating Armenia, where you can gaze at enchanting landscapes, savor delectable cuisine, explore UNESCO-listed sites, and enjoy the best and safest experience. As you are already well-versed in all the ins and outs of the safety precautions in Armenia, it’s high time to go ahead and book one of our enticing Armenia tour s. 

• Is Armenia safe for LGBTQ+ travelers? Armenia is a conservative country, and attitudes towards LGBTQ+ individuals can be less accepting than in some Western countries.  It’s advisable to exercise discretion, choose LGBTQ+-friendly accommodations, and be cautious about discussing your sexual orientation or gender identity with strangers. Traveling with a supportive group of friends can also enhance safety and comfort, especially in more rural areas of the country.
• What is the local currency, and how safe is it to use credit cards? The local currency in Armenia is Armenia Dram, abbreviated as AMD. Regarding the use of credit cards in Armenia, it is generally safe to use in larger cities and tourist areas, as many businesses, hotels, and restaurants accept credit and debit cards, including VISA and MasterCard. Note that many places in Armenia use chip and PIN technology for cards, so make sure your card has a chip and you know your PIN.
• Are there any regions other than border areas that should be avoided? Some remote and mountainous areas may have limited infrastructure and services. Before visiting these areas, ensure you are prepared with the necessary supplies and have taken all the precautions.
• How safe is it for children and elderly travelers? Armenia is generally safe for both children and elderly travelers, but careful planning is essential. Ensure access to healthcare and medications, be cautious about food and water quality, and educate children about local customs. For elderly travelers, consider mobility challenges, weather conditions, and language barriers. With the right preparations, Armenia can be a rewarding destination for travelers of all ages.
• What are the common scams that tourists should be aware of ? Tourists in Armenia should stay vigilant against common scams like currency exchange fraud, overcharging, taxi scams, pickpocketing, encounters with overly friendly strangers, and unofficial tour guides. To avoid falling victim to these scams, travelers should research their destination, confirm prices before purchases, use reputable taxi services, secure their belongings, be cautious of unsolicited offers, and seek assistance from trustworthy sources like hotels or local authorities when uncertain. By staying informed and alert, tourists can have a safe and enjoyable experience in Armenia.

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How does overseas travel work in 2022?

Remember international travel?

There's the anticipation of waiting in queues at the airport, the joy of a mid-air choccie, the intense sport that is trying to stay awake in a new time zone.

But these days, there's more than jet lag to consider when travelling overseas — so what you can you expect from a 2022 trip?

For ABC Everyday's Travel Q&A, I chatted to Claudia Lavakula, who recently went with her sister to Fiji.

The pair, both from Kalkallo north of Melbourne, headed off on New Year's Eve and returned ten days later. Claudia shared what it's like to travel overseas during a global pandemic.

What did you need to do before you left?

We had to make sure we had our travel insurance, our vaccination certificate, our itinerary, our accommodation, and our car hire. We took hard copies of everything.

There were probably like two or three extra steps that we had to take this time round [compared to pre-COVID travel], like COVID tests and making sure we had the right paperwork, but it wasn't too bad.

How did the COVID tests work?

We had to book our PCR tests within three days of departure from Melbourne, or on the day.

We chose to do it on the day of departure because it was cheaper, so that was at Melbourne airport and took 90 minutes for the results to come in. I think it was $70 or $80.

Then when we got to Fiji, we had to tell them when we were departing so they could organise our departure test there, which was also three days before we had to leave.

Our hotel had the nurses come directly to your room to do the swab, so it was pretty fast and easy. That test was $150 or $200.

How did vaccination certificates work?

When we arrived in Fiji the person at the counter asked us about our international COVID certificate .

We didn't know anything about that. When we were researching we didn't see anything about it, but they still let us through [with our Australian certificate].

But I think for next time we would take it, just to be on the safe side.

Did you have any issues?

When we went it was cyclone season and we did get stuck there for an extra day. A cyclone came in on the Friday and lasted for three days, so we had to re-book our flight.

Then because our flight was delayed, our departure PCR test results fell just outside of the applicable hours. [The Fijian officials] weren't sure about it, but luckily they had a guy there from the Australian embassy and he said it was alright, so we could go home.

Was it more expensive than usual?

I actually think it was pretty cheap. Flights were just over $500 return each, and accommodation was pretty standard too. I was expecting it to be more expensive, but it was also a good exchange rate.

What did your travel insurance cover?

In the case that one of us had COVID, they covered about $2,000 per person that would cover our [isolation] accommodation.

Our insurance would have covered us if we had to go to hospital for COVID too.

For just over 10 days, it was around $160 for the both of us, so $80 each.

Did any other travellers you met run into issues?

When we arrived from Australia to the Fiji airport, we went to the bathroom and there was this girl, I think she was from Europe, and she had just found out that her hotel wasn't a CFC hotel .

So in order to come here, you have to book accommodation at one of their CFC hotels which are recognised as being COVID safe.

But she had booked somewhere else, so she was hiding in the bathroom trying to figure out what to do before she went through customs.

Was the hassle of the extra COVID precautions worth it?

Oh definitely. I came back and I'm now infected with the travel bug. I can't stop.

I want to go to Europe next. I've been looking at some travel sites for all the paperwork we need, and I think it's kind of the same.

But we want to stopover in quite a few different countries, which will all have different requirements. So I think we'll go through a travel agent to help us organise it.

Do you have any advice for other travellers?

Do your research on the country and on the culture.

Keep your eyes and ears on the news, both local news and what's happening back home.

We weren't too sure when we saw all the cases going up in Sydney and Melbourne if they were going to close the borders and we'd have 24 hours to get home or something like that.

So just do your research and be prepared.

Overseas travel restrictions and experiences will differ between countries, and the time you're travelling. For up to date information, head to SmartTraveller .

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• Beach Travel

National Beach Safety Week launches in Volusia

A s summer beach season approaches in Volusia County , officials are participating in National Beach Safety Week by sharing tips about staying safe on the coast.

Several lifeguards and the Volusia County Beach Safety division at its headquarters in Daytona Beach on Monday took some time to recognize the event. County Council Chairman Jeff Brower read the county's proclamation, talked with lifeguards and asked them about their needs.

"Thank you to all of you. This is one of the most important ... first responder divisions that we have because tourism drives Volusia County," Brower said.

The United States Lifesaving Association, which sponsors the event, encourages lifeguarding agencies around the country to participate to help remind beachgoers to stay safe, according to the association. The event is from the Monday before Memorial Day to Memorial Day.

Volusia County Beach Safety completed 2,189 rescues in 2022, according to the United States Lifesaving Association.

As part of National Beach Safety Week, Volusia County Beach Safety will post safety tips on the agency's Facebook page .

Beach Safety officials always urge people to swim near a staffed lifeguard tower and to download the Volusia Beaches app for real-time information on beach conditions, beach ramps, lifeguard locations and more.

Interim Beach Safety Director Tammy Malphurs also offered a few tips on Monday:

• People with small children should set up their supplies on the water side of the beach driving lane. "It kind of limits them from coming back and forth. … If they cross a traffic lane, hold their hand at all times," she said.
• Non-driving portions of the beach are good options for people with small children.
• Don't dive into the water. Always go feet first.
• Take extra caution in storms to avoid a lightning strike. "If you hear thunder, it's not safe to be out here," she said. "We do ask that you seek shelter in a building or vehicle, not under a tent."
• Don't swim alone.
• If a lifeguard isn't around, don't swim.

As part of protecting the public, the county is looking to hire more lifeguards . People who are interested in joining the team still have time to try out.

Tryouts will be held from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. on May 25 at the Port Orange YMCA and June 1 at the Edgewater YMCA.

People don't need to register. For information go to volusia.org/beach or email [email protected].

This article originally appeared on The Daytona Beach News-Journal: National Beach Safety Week launches in Volusia

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Help! Our Cruise Operator Went Bankrupt and We Are Out $17,905.

A couple purchased an Arabian Sea voyage, but Vantage, the cruise company, went under. Their travel insurance was supposed to cover financial default, but the claim was repeatedly denied.

By Seth Kugel

Dear Tripped Up,

In September 2022, I booked a 17-day Arabian Sea cruise through Vantage Travel Services to celebrate my 80th birthday with my wife. The cruise was to set sail in October 2023. I used my credit card to leave a $2,000 deposit and paid the remaining $17,905 shortly afterward by bank transfer. I also bought the Worldwide Trip Protector plan from Travel Insured International (for $1,954), in part because it covered financial default and bankruptcy of cruise lines. Vantage then canceled the cruise and offered me an alternative date I could not make; I also declined their offer of credit and asked for a refund, which they agreed to. But no refund ever came, and they stopped answering the phone. My credit card returned the $2,000, and I filed an insurance claim for $17,905. It was denied, as was my first appeal. Then Vantage filed for bankruptcy, and my second appeal was denied too. The reasons given by the insurer were outrageous. They cited a vague parenthetical phrase in the policy’s bankruptcy clause, claiming I wasn’t covered because I purchased the cruise directly from the cruise line (rather than, say, through a travel adviser). Then they said my policy lapsed when I canceled the trip. But I did not cancel; Vantage did. I also filed a complaint with the New York State Department of Financial Services, which was rejected. Can you help? Michael, Smithtown, N.Y.

Dear Michael,

When Boston-based Vantage filed for bankruptcy last year, it owed thousands of customers a total of $108 million for cruises and other travel products they had paid for but never received. The company’s former owner is facing lawsuits in New York and Pennsylvania. But you had purchased an insurance policy to cover just such a risk, a smart move. Or so you thought until the insurance company, Travel Insured International, denied your claim and then used exasperating logic to fend off your two appeals, first interpreting the policy’s financial default and bankruptcy clause in a maddening way and then twisting the meaning of the word “cancel.”

You made a few mistakes as well — most notably, by making a claim based on a financial default that had not yet happened. But after speaking with law professors, insurance experts and competing insurance companies, I believe Travel Insured International was wrong, at least by the time of your second appeal, and should pay up.

What does it have to say for itself? For nearly five months, Travel Insured International and its parent company, Crum & Forster, did not respond to my detailed inquiries. Days before publication, however, a spokeswoman, Amy Whilldin, sent the following statement:

“The claim was properly considered, and the correct determination was made based on the facts of this claim, which was to the satisfaction of both the New York Department of Financial Services and the New York State attorney general.”

Ms. Whilldin is correct about the state’s financial services department . An examiner with the department, which regulates the insurance industry, rejected your complaint. “After a review of the policy language," he wrote, “we do not find they are acting in an arbitrary or capricious manner,” referring to Travel Insured International. I disagree with that determination, as we are about to get into.

But the attorney general’s office was not satisfied. You had complained to its Department of Consumer Frauds and Protection, and they did not receive a response from the company. “Despite our repeated efforts,” an employee wrote, “they have failed to respond.” The letter goes on to recommend you consider suing the company.

I have a better idea. You should file a formal grievance with Travel Insured International, which under your policy allows you to submit new evidence, and if that fails even argue your case in person. (You told me you are not interested in a third option, to accept travel credits under the conditions offered by the Australian company that bought Vantage’s assets.)

In the meantime, your story provides great lessons on how travelers should choose the appropriate travel insurance policy, and what can go wrong even when they do.

In your initial claim to Travel Insured International, filed in late 2022, you cited Vantage’s “very poor record” in refunding its customers and your “assumption that the company is in default in making payments.”

This was an error: Your policy defines financial default as “the total cessation of operations,” and Vantage at the time was running at least some cruises. Travel Insured International’s response simply said that “your travel supplier canceling your trip is not a covered reason.” True.

When you first appealed in April, Vantage was two months short of declaring bankruptcy outright, and was not yet in financial default as defined by the policy. But it was teetering. (That one of its cruises left at all made headlines in The Boston Globe .) This time, Travel Insured International denied your claim, citing the bankruptcy clause, which protects policy holders in case of “Bankruptcy or default of an airline, cruise line, tour operator or other travel provider (other than the Travel Supplier, tour operator, travel agency, organization or firm from whom you purchased your travel arrangements).”

That parenthetical says you are not covered if the organization that sold you the cruise goes bankrupt. You purchased the cruise directly from Vantage, so you are not covered, according to the claims adjuster’s reasoning. (Why the company even cited this clause, if the cruise line was not yet in default, remains a mystery.)

Similar clauses appear in many travel policies, but that’s not what they’re supposed to mean, said Loretta Worters, vice president for media relations at the Insurance Information Institute , an industry group.

Such provisions, she explained, are intended to exclude coverage for an unscrupulous or financially flailing middleman that goes belly-up after collecting your money but before passing it along to the actual travel provider.

“Some of these are fly-by-night, travel-agencies-in-their-kitchen kinds of things,” Ms. Worters said. ( We encountered one such agency in a previous Tripped Up column .)

Guess who agreed with Ms. Worters: The agent who answered the phone when I called Travel Insured International’s customer care line as a potential customer. I asked about the clause and she agreed it was ambiguous, checking with a supervisor before saying: “If you are booking directly with the company and the company itself goes under default or bankruptcy, you would be able to file a claim for the nonrefundable portion of your trip.”

Ms. Whilldin, the spokeswoman for Travel Insured International, did not specifically answer my question about this apparent conflict. But it seems their claims adjuster made a mistake, aided by the ambiguous language of the underwriter who wrote the policy. (That’s United States Fire Insurance, another Crum & Forster company.)

Now, let’s discuss the second appeal. “Once you cancel your trip, the coverage under the plan ends,” Travel Insured International said. Your argument is that you did not cancel; Vantage did.

I think almost anyone who isn’t a lawyer would agree with you. But Oren Bar-Gill , a professor at Harvard Law School and the author of “Seduction by Contract: Law, Economics and Psychology in Consumer Markets,” explained to me the opposing argument. Vantage was contractually allowed to change the dates or offer credit, and you refused, the equivalent of canceling.

But, he added, when Vantage agreed to refund your cruise, it could be “considered a waiver of their contractual rights,” weakening the argument that you canceled your contract.

In a lawsuit New York State filed against the now-defunct Vantage and its former owner, Henry Lewis, the issue also comes up: The suit says Vantage “deceptively” mislabeled cancellations as “postponements.”

Even Travel Insured International admitted that Vantage had canceled, in its original letter rejecting your claim. “It is our understanding that your travel supplier, Vantage, canceled your cruise,” the claims adjuster wrote. Somehow, however, by the third response you had gone from cancelee to canceler.

You also missed a red flag when you chose your policy. Suzanne Morrow, the chief executive of InsureMyTrip , where you found your plan, told me you called the company within minutes of your purchase and asked an agent to point you to the bankruptcy clause. (You confirmed this to me.)

That means you’re not the typical insurance customer blindsided by small print you never read. If you were so concerned about the cruise line’s solvency, you could have canceled your plan during the insurer’s “free look” period and chosen one with more straightforward language — I found several on the InsureMyTrip website.

What lessons can we take away from your debacle?

To begin with, pay for everything with a credit card when your credit limit allows. Because of an odd quirk in a 1974 law , card issuers are required to reimburse you if the company you interacted with goes bankrupt.

Beyond that, the basic advice for travel insurance remains unchanged: Shop for a plan separately through a provider you trust or an aggregator like InsureMyTrip, rather than adding trip protection by checking a box just before you purchase a big-ticket item. Read the policy summaries fully and click through to the actual policy document to read fine print on issues that concern you most (say, bankruptcy protection or medical coverage for pre-existing conditions).

If you don’t understand anything, call the company. If it cannot answer satisfactorily and follow up in writing, choose another provider.

If you need advice about a best-laid travel plan that went awry, send an email to [email protected] .

Follow New York Times Travel on Instagram and sign up for our weekly Travel Dispatch newsletter to get expert tips on traveling smarter and inspiration for your next vacation. Dreaming up a future getaway or just armchair traveling? Check out our 52 Places to Go in 2024 .

Seth Kugel is the columnist for “ Tripped Up ,” an advice column that helps readers navigate the often confusing world of travel. More about Seth Kugel

Come Sail Away

Love them or hate them, cruises can provide a unique perspective on travel..

 Cruise Ship Surprises: Here are five unexpected features on ships , some of which you hopefully won’t discover on your own.

 Icon of the Seas: Our reporter joined thousands of passengers on the inaugural sailing of Royal Caribbean’s Icon of the Seas . The most surprising thing she found? Some actual peace and quiet .

Th ree-Year Cruise, Unraveled:  The Life at Sea cruise was supposed to be the ultimate bucket-list experience : 382 port calls over 1,095 days. Here’s why  those who signed up are seeking fraud charges  instead.

TikTok’s Favorite New ‘Reality Show’:  People on social media have turned the unwitting passengers of a nine-month world cruise  into  “cast members”  overnight.

Dipping Their Toes: Younger generations of travelers are venturing onto ships for the first time . Many are saving money.

Cult Cruisers: These devoted cruise fanatics, most of them retirees, have one main goal: to almost never touch dry land .

Auto Tour Loop temporarily closed to vehicles

Recent high-water flow in the Green River caused a portion of the Auto Tour Loop in Sheppard Bottom to erode making a portion unsafe for vehicle travel. The road will be open to pedestrians, but gates are locked to prevent vehicle access.  We are evaluating repair options to reopen as soon as we can make the road safe for vehicle travel. The fishing pier and Leota Bottom remain open for use. 

Please see the attached map indicating the road closed area in red. 

Thank you for your patience and understanding.  

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