Vayots Dzor, Armenia
A guide to 181km (8–10 days) of hiking on the Transcaucasian Trail
This guide will help you plan a multi-day, unsupported thru-hike on a 181km stage of the Transcaucasian Trail, passing through the mountains, canyons and vineyards of Vayots Dzor province in southern Armenia. Here you’ll find practical information and trail notes, plus links to interactive maps and downloadable GPS data to help navigate the route.
This dramatic 181km stage of the Transcaucasian Trail weaves through Vayots Dzor, passing Silk Road caravanserais, world-famous monasteries, and wineries both ancient and modern.
Self-sufficient thru-hikers will find plentiful wild-camping opportunities along the route, giving you the ability to modify the itinerary to suit your preferred schedule and level of challenge. For those wishing to spend their nights indoors, guesthouse accommodation is available at many locations along the trail. Our recommendations are included on the interactive map.
The route is partially marked in both directions with red and white painted blazes and directional signposts. Some stages of this route have been cleared, rebuilt and signposted by our friends at HIKEArmenia, Trails For Change and Barev Trails. Visit their websites for more information about their ongoing work.
Important Disclaimer
The TCTA strives to provide accurate, current information as to trail conditions and the trail route. However, actual trail conditions may be different, and such information may not be accurate or complete. Trail users are urged to consider all the information available from other sources and to heed local advice when available. Trail users are ultimately responsible for all decisions as to the trail routes, trail conditions, weather, and safety.
In addition to the hazards posed by steep terrain and mountain weather, hikers should be prepared for difficult route-finding and challenging trail conditions, the possibility of washed-out bridges and dangerous river crossings in high water, aggressive dogs guarding sheep and cattle, giant hogweed, and frequent summer thunderstorms with extremely intensive periods of lightning. Access to emergency medical care and search and rescue is not always available.
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Partners & Sponsors
This section of the Transcaucasian Trail was developed between 2016–2018 with the generous support of the following organizations, as well as individual donors to the Transcaucasian Trail Association.
To become a TCTA member and support more trail development projects like this one, join here.
