The Gegham Range is a picturesque mountain system in Armenia featuring volcanoes, high-altitude lakes, and breathtaking panoramic views, making it ideal for hiking.

Mount Azhdahak is the highest peak of the Gegham Range, standing at 3,597 meters. This volcano is known for its unusual and scenic landscapes, which makes it a popular destination for tourists and mountaineers. In addition, important archaeological discoveries have been made in this area, including ancient petroglyphs and vishap stones (dragon stones), adding a special atmosphere to the ascent.

As part of the 2-day route, visits are also planned to the volcanoes Karmir Katar, Paytasar, Great Spitakasar, and Nazeli, offering impressive views of the volcanic landscapes of the Gegham Mountains. The area is characterized by vast alpine meadows, rocky ridges, and panoramic views of the surrounding peaks.

Along the way, travelers encounter high-mountain lakes, with an overnight stay organized near Lake Badi, close to Spitakasar. This secluded spot in the wilderness is ideal for camping and resting away from civilization.

A special part of the journey is an overnight stay under the open sky, where on a clear night it is possible to observe a bright starry sky and the Milky Way. Thanks to the absence of light pollution, the night sky here is especially clear and spectacular, making this experience truly unforgettable.
Why should I go on this hike
  • We will ascend Mount Azhdahak (3,597 m), the highest peak of the Geghama Range.
  • We will visit one of the highest mountain lakes in Armenia, where it will be possible to swim.
  • We will ascend the summit of Nazeli volcano, from where beautiful views open up over the other peaks of the Geghama Range.
  • We will spend the night in nature.
  • We will enjoy the beauty of the mountain trails of the Geghama Range.
  • We will rest on the shore of Lake Badi, where it will be possible to swim.
  • We will ride across mountain off-road terrain in a legendary Soviet 4x4 vehicle.
  • We will see herds of cows and sheep grazing in the mountains, as well as the summer camps of nomadic shepherds.
  • We will see ancient petroglyphs depicting animals.
  • We will see Lake Vank and ancient menhirs—vishap stones that have stood on the shores of the lake for thousands of years.
  • We will enjoy the beautiful spring in the mountains.
Trekking program
Day 1: Ascent of Mount Azhdahak via Karmir Katar, camp near Badi Lake
✓ 09:00–09:45 — transfer from Yerevan to Geghard
✓ 09:45–11:00 — off-road transfer to the foot of Mount Paytasar
✓ 11:00–11:30 — optional ascent of Mount Paytasar
✓ 11:30–13:30 — ascent of Karmir Katar with a short stop at the summit
✓ 13:30–15:00 — ascent of Mount Azhdahak
✓ 15:00–15:30 — rest and lunch at the summit
✓ 15:30–17:00 — hike to Lake Badi (Badi Lich), setup of camp
✓ 17:00–22:00 — dinner in nature and stargazing

Note: all camping equipment will be transported by a “Bukhanka” van, so we hike light.
Day 2: Climbing Mt. Great Spitakasar and Mt. Nazeli, hiking to the petroglyphs
✓ 08:00–09:00 — breakfast, pack up camp, prepare gear for transport by “Bukhanka”
✓ 09:00–11:00 — ascent of Great Spitakasar
✓ 11:00–11:20 — snack break and short rest at the summit
✓ 11:20–13:30 — ascent of Mount Nazeli, lunch at the summit
✓ 13:30–15:30 — hike to the petroglyphs
✓ 15:30–16:00 — drive to Vanki Lake by “Bukhanka”
✓ 16:00–17:00 — transfer to Geghard
✓ 17:00–17:45 — return to Yerevan

Optional: If time permits, we can stop at Geghard Monastery and Garni Temple on the way back to Yerevan.
Price:
✔️ Transfer on a comfortable minibus
✔️ Guides
✔️ Meals (lunch pack for a snack on the route and a hot dinner at the end of the hike)
✔️ Group first aid kit
✔️ Group equipment (gas, gas stove, cooking pot, walkie-talkies, etc.)
You don’t need to worry about food - we provide delicious meals during and after the hike. With love and care, our team prepares homemade dishes just for you.
Our Picnic Menu
Photo gallery