Crazy off-road trip: Smbataberd Fortress, Zorats Temple, Horbategh Geyser in Yerevan, Armenia
Yerevan, Armenia

Crazy off-road trip: Smbataberd Fortress, Zorats Temple, Horbategh Geyser

Outty Ranking 57 5.0 · 2 traveler reviews12 hoursFrom $370
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Outty Ranking

57/100

Worth a Look. Our proprietary evaluation. How we score

Traveler rating

5.0/5

Based on 2 traveler reviews. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.

Quick answer

Is Crazy off-road trip: Smbataberd Fortress, Zorats Temple, Horbategh Geyser worth booking?

Crazy off-road trip: Smbataberd Fortress, Zorats Temple, Horbategh Geyser is a 12-hour experience in Yerevan, Armenia, from $370 per person. It scores 57 out of 100 on the Outty Ranking, which we label “Worth a Look”, based on a 5/5 rating across 2 reviews. Cancellation is free up to 24 hours before the start time. Same-day spots are currently showing.

Outty Ranking
57 / 100
Rating
5/5 (2)
Duration
12 hours
From
$370 per person

Are you ready for a crazy off-road trip to Smbataberd? The walls of the fortress with their gates remind the city of Ani. A beautiful and unrepeatable road awaits us before reaching the impregnable fortress of Prince Smbat. During this off-road tour, we will also visit Zorats Cathedral, which is the only one nowadays with its unique history and structure. It is the only one whose tabernacle has a special height, because it was a holy place where soldiers going to war entered on horses to receive a blessing. This tour brings together the past and the present, traveling through the 5th-14th centuries in a special current vehicle. After getting your dose of adrenaline during the off-road tour, wrap up the day with tea/coffee and sweets.

What you get

    About this experience

    Are you ready for a crazy off-road trip to Smbataberd? The walls of the fortress with their gates remind the city of Ani. A beautiful and unrepeatable road awaits us before reaching the impregnable fortress of Prince Smbat. During this off-road tour, we will also visit Zorats Cathedral, which is the only one nowadays with its unique history and structure. It is the only one whose tabernacle has a special height, because it was a holy place where soldiers going to war entered on horses to receive a blessing. This tour brings together the past and the present, traveling through the 5th-14th centuries in a special current vehicle. After getting your dose of adrenaline during the off-road tour, wrap up the day with tea/coffee and sweets.

    What's included

    Included

    • Snacks in the car
    • On-board WiFi
    • Bottled water
    • All taxes, fees and handling charges
    • Raincoats
    • In-vehicle air conditioning
    • Transportation on comfortable vehicles and professional drivers
    • Essential medicine
    • Free pick-up & drop-off within Yerevan

    Not included

    • Alcoholic beverages
    • Lunch

    What you'll see and do

    1. Zorats Church

      Zorats Church is also called Soldier Church, because before war the soldiers came to the church on horses to get blessings.

      60 minutes here

    2. Horbategh Geyser is located in Vayots Dzor Province in the village called the same way.

      45 minutes here

    3. Smbataberd Fortress

      Smbataberd is a 5th century fortress surrounded by beautiful nature and deep gorges.

      60 minutes here · Admission included

    4. Noravank Monastery

      Monastery Noravank is among the wonderful steep red rocks on the ledge of a meandering gorge. It was founded in the XII century on the site of ancient buildings. Complex Noravank, thanks to the magnificent creations of medieval architects and its location on the background of a beautiful landscape, leaves an indelible impression. It is one of the majestic monuments of the Armenian medieval architecture.

      60 minutes here

    Where it starts and ends

    Hotel pickup

    Pickup is included for all travelers. Pickup begins about 10 minutes before departure.

    Options you can book

    • 7-9 travelers

      Off-road tour to Smbataberd, Horbategh geyser, Zorats Temple and Noravank Monastery Duration: 12 hours SUV Pickup included

    • 1-3 travelers

      Off-road tour to Smbataberd, Horbategh geyser, Zorats Temple and Noravank Monastery Duration: 12 hours SUV Pickup included

    • 10-12 travelers

      Off-road tour to Smbataberd, Horbategh geyser, Zorats Temple and Noravank Monastery Duration: 12 hours SUV Pickup included

    • 4-6 travelers

      Off-road tour to Smbataberd, Horbategh geyser, Zorats Temple and Noravank Monastery Duration: 12 hours SUV Pickup included

    Before you book

    Cancellation
    For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
    Ticket
    Mobile Only
    Runs on
    Every day
    Group size
    Up to 15 travelers per booking
    Operated by
    Jan Armenia Tours

    Know before you go

    • Specialized infant seats are available
    • Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
    • Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
    • Not recommended for pregnant travelers
    • Suitable for all physical fitness levels

    Photos

    Crazy off-road trip: Smbataberd Fortress, Zorats Temple, Horbategh Geyser in Yerevan, photo 2Crazy off-road trip: Smbataberd Fortress, Zorats Temple, Horbategh Geyser in Yerevan, photo 3Crazy off-road trip: Smbataberd Fortress, Zorats Temple, Horbategh Geyser in Yerevan, photo 4Crazy off-road trip: Smbataberd Fortress, Zorats Temple, Horbategh Geyser in Yerevan, photo 5Crazy off-road trip: Smbataberd Fortress, Zorats Temple, Horbategh Geyser in Yerevan, photo 6Crazy off-road trip: Smbataberd Fortress, Zorats Temple, Horbategh Geyser in Yerevan, photo 7

    Traveler reviews

    2 verified traveler reviews for Crazy off-road trip: Smbataberd Fortress, Zorats Temple, Horbategh Geyser. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.

    5 star
    2
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    ninalM2589QV · September 2024

    Highly rated and a must!

    If you're new in Armenia or a tourist go to their office first before you do anything. Mary and Nelly are very knowldegable and welcoming, they give good suggestions and you will enjoy your trip better.

    Response from the operator: "Thank you so much for your wonderful feedback! We’re thrilled to hear that your experience with us was unforgettable. Our team works hard to create well-rounded itineraries and memorable experiences, and we’re glad we could deliver that for you. We look forward to welcoming you on another adventure soon!"

    via Tripadvisor

    Curiosity31279592408 · July 2024

    Highland adventure

    Amazing views and locations. Very friendly & knowledgeable guide. If you want to see an Armenia more away from the typical places this tour is for you.

    Response from the operator: Thank you for your glowing review! We’re beyond happy that you had such a fantastic time with us. Your support and kind words truly motivate our team to keep up the great work!

    via Tripadvisor

    Good to know

    Duration
    12 hours
    Free cancellation
    Up to 24h before
    Minimum age to book
    All ages
    Availability
    Bookable today
    Runs on
    Every day
    Price range
    $370 to $1,480
    Hotel pickup
    Included for all travelers
    Booked in 30 days
    1
    Verdict
    Worth a Look

    Who runs this experience

    Operated by Jan Armenia Tours, who run 21 experiences we rank across 1 city, with an average Outty Ranking of 64.9.

    See everything Jan Armenia Tours runs

    Why this scores 57

    The Outty Ranking is a weighted composite. Here is how this experience performed on each component.

    Traveler sentiment (30% weight)91
    Review evidence (18% weight)17
    Booking momentum (14% weight)13
    Value for money (12% weight)32
    Listing quality (10% weight)85
    Local standing (8% weight)52
    Booking flexibility (8% weight)100

    Crazy off-road trip: Smbataberd Fortress, Zorats Temple, Horbategh Geyser: questions travelers ask

    Practical detail on this experience, plus the wider planning questions for Yerevan.

    How much does Crazy off-road trip: Smbataberd Fortress, Zorats Temple, Horbategh Geyser cost?

    +

    Prices start at $370 per person. The final price depends on the date, the time slot and the number of travelers, and peak weekends in Yerevan usually price higher than midweek mornings. Live pricing and remaining availability are confirmed on the booking screen before you pay.

    How long does Crazy off-road trip: Smbataberd Fortress, Zorats Temple, Horbategh Geyser take?

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    Plan for about 12 hours from start to finish, not counting travel to the meeting point. Most travelers leave another 30 minutes on either side so the rest of the day in Yerevan is not rushed.

    Is Crazy off-road trip: Smbataberd Fortress, Zorats Temple, Horbategh Geyser worth it?

    +

    It holds an Outty Ranking of 57 out of 100, which we label "Worth a Look". That score blends traveler sentiment (5/5 across 2 reviews), the depth of that review evidence, recent booking momentum, value for money against comparable last minute in Yerevan, and how flexible the cancellation terms are.

    Can I cancel or reschedule Crazy off-road trip: Smbataberd Fortress, Zorats Temple, Horbategh Geyser?

    +

    Yes. Cancel free up to 24 hours before the start time for a full refund. Inside that window the booking is non-refundable, and no-shows are not refunded.

    Is Crazy off-road trip: Smbataberd Fortress, Zorats Temple, Horbategh Geyser suitable for kids and families?

    +

    Yes, all ages are welcome. Families should still weigh the 12-hour running time, and strollers are easier on the earlier, quieter departures.

    How far in advance should I book Crazy off-road trip: Smbataberd Fortress, Zorats Temple, Horbategh Geyser?

    +

    Around 1 people booked this in the last 30 days, so popular slots go early. Two to three weeks ahead is comfortable in shoulder season, while summer weekends and holidays in Yerevan can sell out a month out. Same-day spots do open up when other travelers cancel, so it is worth checking if you are already in town.

    What should I bring or wear?

    +

    Bring photo ID, your booking confirmation on your phone, a refillable water bottle and comfortable shoes. Dress for the weather in Yerevan and add a light layer if any part of the 12-hour experience runs outdoors or after sunset.

    Where does Crazy off-road trip: Smbataberd Fortress, Zorats Temple, Horbategh Geyser start and how do I get there?

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    The exact meeting point and directions are on your voucher once you book, and they sit in central Yerevan within reach of public transport. Arrive 15 minutes early: late arrivals are treated as no-shows by most operators.

    What are the best things to do in Yerevan?

    +

    On Outty we rank every Yerevan experience on the same 0 to 100 scale, and alongside this one the highest scorers right now include Group Tour: Lake Sevan (Sevanavank), Dilijan (Goshavank, Haghartsin), Group Tour: Khor Virap, Garni temple, Geghard, Lavash baking, Group Tour: Garni pagan temple, Geghard monastery, Lake Sevan, Sevanavank. The city page groups everything into most popular, highest reviewed, last minute and family-friendly so you can build a day around what actually delivers.

    When is the best time to visit Yerevan?

    +

    Booking patterns follow the same curve: prices and queues climb in peak weeks, while shoulder season gives you better availability on the top-ranked experiences and more room to change plans.

    How many days do you need in Yerevan?

    +

    Three full days covers the headline sights without sprinting. A workable rhythm is one anchor experience each morning, such as this one, an unhurried afternoon in a single neighborhood, then a food or nightlife booking in the evening. Five days lets you add a day trip outside the city.

    Do I book through Outty or through the operator?

    +

    Outty ranks and explains the experiences, then hands you to Viator to complete the booking with the operator directly. The price is the same as booking on Viator yourself, and Outty earns an affiliate commission on the referral, which is how the rankings stay free to read.

    What is included in Crazy off-road trip: Smbataberd Fortress, Zorats Temple, Horbategh Geyser?

    +

    Included: Snacks in the car; On-board WiFi; Bottled water; All taxes, fees and handling charges; and Raincoats. Not included: Alcoholic beverages; and Lunch. Always check the voucher for the final list before you travel.

    Does Crazy off-road trip: Smbataberd Fortress, Zorats Temple, Horbategh Geyser include hotel pickup?

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    Yes, pickup is offered for every traveler from 98 listed pickup locations in and around Yerevan. Be ready about 10 minutes before the start time. You can also enter a custom pickup address when booking.

    Will I get instant confirmation and a mobile ticket for Crazy off-road trip: Smbataberd Fortress, Zorats Temple, Horbategh Geyser?

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    Confirmation is sent by the operator after booking, usually within 48 hours; if it is not confirmed you are not charged. Mobile tickets are accepted, so you can show the voucher on your phone.

    Is Crazy off-road trip: Smbataberd Fortress, Zorats Temple, Horbategh Geyser wheelchair or stroller accessible?

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    The operator notes: Specialized infant seats are available; and Not recommended for pregnant travelers. If accessibility is critical, contact the operator after booking to confirm arrangements for your date.

    What happens to Crazy off-road trip: Smbataberd Fortress, Zorats Temple, Horbategh Geyser if the weather is bad?

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    It generally runs rain or shine, so dress for the forecast in Yerevan. Standard cancellation terms apply: free cancellation up to 24 hours before the start.

    What booking options are available for Crazy off-road trip: Smbataberd Fortress, Zorats Temple, Horbategh Geyser?

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    There are 4 options to choose from, including 7-9 travelers, 1-3 travelers, 10-12 travelers, 4-6 travelers. Prices and start times differ by option, so compare them on the booking screen.

    Ready to lock in your spot?

    Pick a date, choose your group, and see the exact price for Crazy off-road trip: Smbataberd Fortress, Zorats Temple, Horbategh Geyser.

    Pick your date