Things To Do
in Masis
Masis is a town in the Ararat Valley of Armenia, just south of Yerevan. It sits at the foothills of Masis Mountain, offering expansive views of farmland and the Ararat plain. The town is known for its warm hospitality, weekly markets, and traditional Armenian cuisine.
Visitors can enjoy a calm, scenic escape with easy access to the capital and surrounding countryside.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive in Masis and check into a local guesthouse to experience Armenian hospitality. Take a leisurely stroll through the small town, soaking in the unique architecture and vibrant atmosphere. Visit the local market to taste fresh fruits and traditional savory pastries.
After lunch at a cozy café, explore the nearby ruins of the ancient fortress of Karmravor, which offers stunning views of Mount Ararat. Engage with local artisans to learn about traditional crafts and perhaps purchase a handmade souvenir. Enjoy a relaxed afternoon wandering the charming streets and observing everyday life.
Conclude the first day with a traditional Armenian dinner at a family-run eatery. Taste local specialties such as dolma and fresh lavash, paired with a glass of Armenian red wine. Spend the evening chatting with locals while enjoying folk music that echoes the cultural heritage of the region.
Set out early for a hike on the trails leading to Mount Ararat, where you can admire its majestic peak and unique landscapes. Along the way, listen to stories and folklore relating to this historically significant mountain. The morning sun casts beautiful light over the surroundings, perfect for photography.
After a scenic picnic lunch with breathtaking views of the summit, continue your exploration by visiting the nearby Ararat Valley, known for its vineyards. Spend the afternoon sampling local wines and learning about the winemaking process from passionate vineyard owners. Capture stunning landscapes, enriched by the vast fields of grapevines.
Return to Masis for an evening of relaxation at your guesthouse, where you can unwind after an active day. Enjoy a simple dinner prepared by your hosts, featuring fresh, organic ingredients. As night falls, take a moment to appreciate the starlit sky, free from light pollution.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $8-12 |
| 🏨Mid-range hotel room (1 night) | $30-60 |
| ☕Coffee/Tea | $2-4 |
| 🍽️Meal for two at mid-range restaurant | $20-40 |
| 🛒Groceries for a week | $40-80 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich cultural heritage and hospitality
- Close-knit communities and scenic countryside
- Low-cost travel with good value for money
- Proximity to Yerevan for day trips
- Limited nightlife and fewer large-scale tourist facilities in Masis
- Rural infrastructure can be less developed than in Yerevan
- Weather can affect travel plans in shoulder seasons
- Some services may be cash-only in smaller places
- "Barev" - Hello
- "Shnorhakal em" - Thank you
- "Khndrum em" - Please
- "Ayo" - Yes
- "Voch" - No
- "Khndrum em, inch e English?" - Excuse me, do you speak English?
Places to Visit in Masis
Visit one of these nice places.
Panoramic shots over the Ararat Valley with distant Yerevan on clear days.
Golden-hour photographs of traditional façades, markets, and local life.
Wide valley shots with Mount Ararat peeking on the horizon when the weather is clear.
Food in Masis
Masis Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Armenian barbecue; skewered grilled meat served with fresh herbs and lavash.
Must-Try!
Stuffed grape leaves or vegetables filled with rice, herbs, and sometimes minced meat.
Soft, chewy bread baked in a traditional oven; great for mopping up stews or with cheese.
Slow-cooked wheat and meat porridge, rich and comforting on cooler days.
Sweet pastry as a dessert or coffee accompaniment.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A bustling market where you can buy fresh fruit, vegetables, cheeses, nuts, bread, and homemade pastries.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Armenians are warm hosts; accepting invitations to share meals is common.
Greet with a handshake; address elders with courtesy; showing respect is appreciated.
Dress modestly when visiting churches; hats off in sacred places; avoid loud behavior in public.
Meals are social occasions; expect to share dishes and savor conversations.
Safety
Tipping in Masis
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping around 5-10% in restaurants if service is good; rounding up cash is common in casual places.
Cash (AMD or USD) is widely accepted; many places also take Visa/Mastercard, especially near Yerevan; some rural spots may be cash-only.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Hot, dry days; bring water, sunscreen, and light clothing. Late afternoons offer cooler temperatures and great sunset views.
Mild days with harvest vibes and golden light; some nights can be chilly.
Cold with the possibility of snowfall; some rural roads may be harder to access; pack warm layers.
Refreshingly cool mornings with warming afternoons; rains can occur, bringing blooming landscapes.
Masis at Night
Hiking in Masis
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Popular day hike with panoramic valley views and wildflowers in summer.
Scenic route offering views toward Mount Ararat on clear days.
Gentle trails through orchards and rural Armenian villages nearby.
Airports
How to reach Masis by plane.
Main international gateway to Armenia, located near Yerevan; from Masis, about a 30-60 minute drive depending on traffic.
Located in Gyumri; international flights and regional connections; longer drive from Masis but an option if flying elsewhere.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Predominantly Armenian, with a mix of families in the town and surrounding villages.
Some Armenian families with ties to the diaspora; visitors may encounter relatives returning home during holidays.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport; local teams and community leagues are common.
A traditional sport with strong Armenian roots and local competitions.
Popular pastime and competitive activity in schools and clubs.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Masis.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Armenian meals can accommodate vegetarians through vegetable stews, lentil soups, salads, stuffed peppers with rice, and bread with dips; ask for stock and meatless preparations.