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Description
Urts Gorge is a great destination for birdwatching due to its diverse landscape, combining rocky canyons with green oases nourished by underground springs. Birds of prey like orlosup bradatý, orlík krátkoprstý and sokol stěhovavý can be spotted here, along with many other species like strnad pustinný, bělořit plavý, Brhlík dlouhozobý and hýl pouštní. The quiet and sparsely populated area allows for uninterrupted birdwatching in a natural setting.
Details
Access
Urts Gorge is located in the Urts Mountains in the Ararat Province of Armenia. By car: this is the fastest and most convenient option, the distance is about 55 km from Yerevan, and the travel time is around one hour. The route starts by taking the M2 highway southeast from Yerevan towards Armas village. Follow the road south through Armash to mountains to reach a anti-mudflow dam. The road accessible by sedans ends here, you should go on foot further.
By taxi, the travel time is also about one hour, with an estimated cost of 7,000 to 12,000 AMD, depending on the service. Apps like GG Taxi, Yandex Go, or local taxi services can be used. The route is the same as for the car.
By public transport, the journey is longer and requires multiple transfers. First, take a marshrutka (minibus) or bus from Sasuntsi Davit Bus Station in Yerevan to Artashat, which takes around 40 to 50 minutes and costs approximately 500 to 700 AMD. From Artashat, transfer to a marshrutka or taxi to Armas village, which takes about 30 minutes and costs around 500 AMD for a marshrutka. From Armash you should continue on foot. The total travel time by public transport is around 2.5 to 3 hours.
Terrain and Habitat
Canyon/cliff , Scattered trees and bushesConditions
Rocky , Dry , HillyCircular trail
NoIs a telescope useful?
Can be usefulGood birding season
Spring , Autumn , SummerBest time to visit
Spring migration , SpringRoute
Wide path , Unpaved roadDifficulty walking trail
Average walkAccessible by
FootBirdwatching hide / platform
NoExtra info
There are some spots with unfriendly dogs along the road:
- At the end of Armash village (carrying a shock device or an ultrasonic dog repeller is recommended).
- At the farm (it's better to go around via the dry riverbed).