Hiking Trail: Tatev to Khustup
This new trail encourages visitors to Armenia to look beyond the popular tourist destinations and explore its relatively unknown and untouched treasures. The trail starts from the famous monastery of Tatev, travels through magical forests and open fields, diverse animal and plant habitats, ancient villages and important historical sites, before finishing at the sacred Mount Khustup. Hence the motto of the trail: From Father in Heaven to Mother Nature.
Total Distance: 80.3 km Total Time: 6-8 days Difficulty: Low-Medium |
Ethos of the Trail |
This trail is designed to turn the Syunik region of Southern Armenia into a new hub for ethical ecotourism. It will open a gateway for people to explore the unique natural beauty of the south, placing an emphasis on a reconnection with nature and a holistic lifestyle. Hikers are encouraged to forage for food and engage with recently established ecoprojects on the trail, such as innovative permaculture sites.
The ecological NGO that has overseen completion of the trail, ARK Armenia, hopes that it will create a belt of sustainable, environmentally-friendly economy in the region, that is an alternative to the mining industry, which has been detrimental to the Armenian landscape. In doing so, it will generate new jobs in local communities in an effort the curb the rapid mass migration in Armenia from villages to cities. |
The Route |
The general difficulty of the trail is relatively easy, opening it up to visitors of all types. For the more adventurous trekkers, it is possible to complete two or more of the above sections in one day (see the individual section guides for information on distances and walking times). Many sections of the path have long periods of climbing uphill, however the incline is gradual and forgiving. Only the final segment, Mount Khustup, presents a moderate challenge in terms of fitness, although there are no sections of serious climbing.
The trail is accessible for most of the year, but it is recommended to come between March and November. Note that snow can remain on the peak of Khustup until the middle of May. In spring and autumn, the weather can be quite changeable and unpredictable so keep an eye on weather forecasts. |
The terrain is varied throughout the trail, but mainly consists of leafy pathways under a canopy of lush forest. There are some sections that are exposed to the sun and therefore suitable headgear is recommended.
Parts of the path become muddy following rainfall and walkers are required to hop across stepping stones to traverse some minor steams. However, the footing is very secure throughout. There are several sections where the trail narrows and it is necessary to walk through thorny vegetation. Many walkers will prefer full-length pants/trousers to avoid cuts, but shorts are still appropriate if you do not mind some minor scratches and having your legs tickled. The trail has been blazed by white and red paint markings, and all meaningful turns or crossroads are accompanied by metal signposts, which also display the distance to the final location of the segment. For clarification, some areas also have painted X crosses so as to not stray off the trail. |
On the trail you will come across many local people, who, as is the case throughout Armenia, are extremely friendly and happy to assist you, potential language barrier permitting. It is also common to be gifted seasonal fruit from their gardens or even invited into their house for a drink, so it is always worth saying ‘barev’ (hello) to anyone you encounter.
There are regular water points on the trail, as indicated in the individual sections guides, however do not be afraid to ask local people to fill your flasks from the taps in their houses – they will happily oblige in most instances.
There are regular water points on the trail, as indicated in the individual sections guides, however do not be afraid to ask local people to fill your flasks from the taps in their houses – they will happily oblige in most instances.
Accommodation & Food |
There are several places along the trail that are able to accommodate hikers, from individuals to large groups. Ark Armenia operates two newly-established camps – in Tandzaver and Baghaburj – which have microcabins and space for tents. Both locations have hot showers, toilets, fresh water, electricity from solar panels and a fireplace where it is possible to make a bonfire or cook. The Baghaburj site also functions as a permaculture garden. Ark also has a volunteer base in Arajadzor, where they are able to host groups of tourists (6+).
A recommended guest house has recently opened in Antarashat that has space for up to fifteen guests. The same host is able to offer other services, including catering. At the time of writing, there are currently no shops in the villages on the route. Before the trail becomes more developed, Ark Armenia has made arrangements with local villagers who will sell essential items from their homes. For larger groups, Ark can arrange to deliver food and drink from Kapan. It is also possible to walk into Kapan from the Bahgaburj site. Wild camping is legal in Armenia and there is plenty of space on the trail for this. The best spots are indicated below. |