Tatev is part of Armenia’s Syunik province, which is an area known for its valuable cultural heritage and lush nature. Home to an ancient monastery, Tatev has traditionally been a touristic site. On this trail, however you will be exploring the massive Vorotan Gorge, and seeing all that lies between the famous Tandzatap Village and the Devil’s Bridge Natural Monument. An adventurous experience that you won’t likely forget is waiting for you.

  • Length:  4.5 km / 2.8 miles
  • Duration: 2-3 hours
  • Elevation gain: 605m / 1987 ft
  • Elevation loss: 206m / 677ft
  • Max elevation : 1411m / 4629 ft
  • Min elevation: 970m / 3183 ft
  • Altitude (from sea level): 970m-1411m
  • Difficulty: Moderate
  • Best time to hike: April-November
  • Access route from Tatev monastery to Tandzatap village Trail head kiosk: 5 km / 3.1 miles

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General Information

Vorotan Gorge is the most impressive, deepest and scenic gorge to be found in all of Armenia. It is covered with forests and rocky outcrops, and can be found in the Syunik Province of Armenia. It is the first established trail within the frameworks of the BarevTrails project, a joint project of WWF Armenia and Wesser Foundation.

The trail will connect Tandzatap village to the Devil’s Bridge Natural Monument. Along the way, hikers will be able to see historical landmarks, an old chapel and a khachkar, and the famous Great Hermitage of Tatev called Tatev’s Mets Anapat (or Great Desert). It is a thrilling trek filled with breathtaking natural views which goes across a varying range of altitudes.
This trail is particularly interesting for its diverse flora and fauna.

The gorge is inhabited by rich wildlife, including the Golden Jackal, Badger, Indian Crested Porcupine, occasionally also Brown Bear, Gray Wolf, Eurasian Lynx, and Wild Boar. These all are nocturnal and hard to spot species. If you are really lucky you might be able to catch a glimpse of them, otherwise you may be able to pick up a footprint or other sign of their presence.
Vorotan Gorge is home to various species of reptiles, amphibians and invertebrates. You will be able to see here a number of Caucasian butterflies and dragonflies. Of particular interest is the avifauna of the Vorotan Gorge. Local highlights include Egyptian and Griffon Vultures, Peregrine Falcon, Middle Spotted and Green Woodpeckers, Golden Oriole, Rock Bunting, Woodchat Shrike and White-throated Dipper.

The flora of the area is also rich. Some of the plants we have recorded so far are the beautiful Iris flowers and Juniper, Walnut and Hornbeam trees.

Throughout the trail there will be informational signs, showing the species of plants, animals and their tracks which can be encountered on the trail as well as objects of cultural interest. Tourists will be able to visit locals and learn about their lifestyles while experiencing their hospitality and culture. They will also have the opportunity to buy local produce (fruit, honey, dried fruits, home brewed moonshine etc.).

We hope that our trail is exciting and educational, providing visitors with information and knowledge not only about cultural monuments, but also about the surrounding biodiversity. Our trails aim to minimize negative impact on the environment, and help to maintain the integrity of the protected areas.