Not every traveler is thrilled by the idea of visiting the same crowded tourist spots. Some prefer to dig deeper, to really feel the vibe of a country. If you are the kind of traveler, there are many unusual activities in Armenia waiting to be explored.
Think of it as discovering a whole new side of Armenia—one that most visitors don’t even know exists. This also refers to exploring unusual professions in Armenia. For example, one of the latest tours organized by Levon Travel included a visit to the Molokan villages, a unique Russian sect that settled in Armenia in the 19th century. Another one featured a tour of Yazidi villages and meeting local shepherds.
These tours offer a totally unique experience and make the tourists feel the real vibe of Armenia. You won’t just be seeing the country; you’ll be living it. So are you ready to ditch the usual tours? Let’s uncover some of the coolest and most unforgettable adventures Armenia has to offer.
Participate in Workshops
If you’re looking for a hands-on way to connect with Armenian culture, diving into local workshops is where it’s at. One of the best ways is to see how khachkars (traditional cross-stones) are crafted, a skill that’s been passed down for centuries.
The one that you would definitely love is a lavash-making master class. Lavash is made in a traditional clay oven. It’s not that easy to make it as you have to stick it to the walls of the oven, a tonir. And let’s not forget about the art of carpet weaving as watching those vibrant threads come together is mesmerizing.
There are also different culinary master classes and other workshops tourists can attend. The thing is try to find some unusual art that you will hardly find in any other country. For example, some can visit the workshop of a duduk master. Duduk is an Armenian musical instrument made of apricot wood. Each of these unusual activities is not about solely learning the craft, it’s about experiencing the soul of Armenia.
Join a Local Village Festival
If you’re looking for an authentic slice of Armenian life, you’ve got to check out the village festivals that happen all year round.
These aren’t your typical fairs; there you can find some exotic activities like sheep shearing competitions. The themes of the festivals vary from a wine or gata (Armenian sweet bread) festival to a sheep shearing or harvest festival where locals showcase their products. And the best part? The events often take place in picturesque villages with stunning views.
Tourists can try local dishes, made with love and recipes passed down through generations. Besides, these festivals are the perfect way to experience the real Armenia. There are dozens of them, especially in summer.
Tour Unusual Villages
Exploring Armenia’s villages is like stepping into a different world. This is where tourists can feel Armenia’s traditions and explore stunning landscapes. Among the most intriguing are the villages of ethnic minorities like the Molokans and Yazidis. Molokans are a sect that was expelled from Russia and settled in Armenia. They live a simple life without the buzz of the internet or smartphones. It’s like traveling back in time! You’ll see traditional customs, and old-school outfits, and maybe even taste some homemade pies.
Meanwhile, the Yazidis are the largest ethnic minority. They escaped persecution and found a home here. Yazidis continue to preserve their distinct culture and traditions. Visiting these communities, including the impressive Quba Mere Diwane temple in Ararat province, offers a unique experience.
Visit Oldest Winery and See Oldest Shoe
Armenia is packed with ancient sites and boasts rare archeological finds. If you are obsessed with artifacts, you can visit some of its museums to see unusual relics.
History lovers must head to Areni-1 cave to find one of the world’s oldest wineries ever discovered. The researchers found that wine production existed here even 6,100 years ago. Storage vessels, drinking cups, and other equipment were found here.
The next relic that will blow your mind is in the History Museum of Yerevan. There is a 5,500-year-old shoe. Moreover, this is considered to be the oldest leather footwear in the world. A fun thing is you can try to wear a replica that is next to the real exhibit.
Armenia’s archaeological sites aren’t just history — they’re a full-on adventure waiting to happen.
Try Zipline and Paragliding
Armenia might not be the first place that comes to mind for extreme sports. However, it’s got some seriously cool and fun activities that’ll get your adrenaline pumping. Head to Tavush province for an epic adventure. The Yell Extreme Park located there is a great place to rest amid beautiful nature and take a zipline to glide at speeds of 80 km/h.
Besides, there is rafting in Lori province or paragliding over the mountains with Sevan Lake in the background. It’s a truly breathtaking experience that’ll leave you buzzing. These activities are perfect for anyone looking to see Armenia from a new, adrenaline-fueled perspective!
Finding Unusual Activities in Armenia
Looking for unique activities is easier when you know where to search for them, but not every agency can offer custom-made, unique tours. That’s where Levon Travel comes in. With years of expertise, they focus on crafting personalized experiences.
When reaching out to the travel agent, mention the type of activities you prefer and the goals of your trip. Their job is to create moments that will leave you in awe. When you’re looking for something special, Levon Travel is the go-to for discovering the unexpected side of Armenia.
