Discover Armenia

About Dates FAQs Apply

With its vibrant history and traditions, spectacular landscapes and unparalleled hospitality, it's easy to make Armenia the premier destination for your summer. Discover what makes the homeland unique while meeting peers from different parts of the world. You'll explore ancient ruins and cultural gems, experience heritage in new and exciting ways and give back through meaningful projects.

Don't miss the opportunity to join diaspora teens ages 15-18 for a unique 10-day or 3-week journey throughout different regions of Armenia. Space is limited.

We offer a diverse range of service activities designed to foster a deep sense of connection and engagement with the country and its people. Whether you're supporting displaced children and families from Artsakh through AGBU’s integration programs, helping renovate and build in rural communities, participating in eco-cleanup efforts, or distributing essential relief aid, every project offers a unique opportunity for teamwork, personal growth, and lasting memories. Be part of something bigger—make an impact while building friendships that will last a lifetime!

Earn a total of 20 or 60 hours of community service credit.

Immerse yourself in the Armenian culture, traditions and breathtaking sites throughout your 10 day or 3-week stay. The program offers a perfect balance of sightseeing and fun with travel to off-the-beaten-path locations that will remain forever in your memories.

Among the summer highlights is a group hike at Mount Aragats - the tallest mountain in Armenia, boating and swimming in Lake Sevan, ziplining across the stunning mountains of Ijevan, taking the world's longest cable car to the iconic Tatev Monastery, learning the art of khatchkar carving or traditional calligraphy and more. The program also includes cooking and dance classes, and as well as sports and outdoor activities to ensure a well-rounded and exciting experience.

Throughout the stay participants will also have the privilege to meet with local dignitaries and accomplished professionals, gaining deeper insights into Armenia’s heritage, history, and contemporary achievements.

2025 DATES

Spring: April 12 - April 21

Applications Due: March 15

Summer 1: June 19 - July 6

Applications Due: May 15

Summer 2: July 30 - August 16

Applications Due: June 15

Applications Open for 2025!

Don't miss this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity!

APPLY NOW

Discover Armenia Participant Helping to Build a House

Discover Armenia Participant doing pottery

Discover Armenia Participants having selfie

Program Details

Travel

Finances & Registration

Program Details

What sort of supervision and guidance is provided?

During the duration of the program, the program Director and a committed team of expert counselors live with the group at the site. They are available to answer questions and assist participants throughout their stay. Participants are supervised for the entire duration of the trip.

While doing any renovation or construction project, a chief of construction will supervise the participants to ensure their safety on site.

What are the rules of the program?

AGBU Discover Armenia expects a positive attitude and enthusiastic participation from all enrolled. Students must follow the directions of the Program Director and Staff. All participants require and should expect essentially equal attention. Behavior detrimental to the safety or enjoyment of the experience will not be tolerated. A more comprehensive list of rules and regulations is listed on the Participant Code of Conduct and Agreement Form found on the application. This must be signed by each participant and legal guardian during registration.

What is the itinerary scheduled for the upcoming summer?

A specific itinerary will be provided closer to the program start date and will be clearly communicated to participants and their families.

Does the program have a technology policy?

Phones or computers are permitted during designated free time, allowing participants to stay connected while still engaging with their surroundings. For emergencies, program leaders will facilitate communication with families.

Participants may use phones during sightseeing only for photos, videos, or program-related activities, while general use, including social media or texting, is restricted.

This policy encourages a balanced approach, fostering deeper connections with the program and its cultural experiences.

How can I communicate with my child during their stay?

You can keep in touch with your child via email or phone during the designated free time. Each participant can bring his/her own international mobile phone (unlocked and capable of working with GSM systems) or buy one in Armenia. In case of emergency, we encourage you to reach out to the program director.

Travel

Where are participants housed during their stay in Armenia?

The participants will reside in the AGBU Vahe Karapetyan Center which is a spacious, state-of-the-art, fully furnished multi-purpose facility designed to host international youth participating in AGBU activities. The center is equipped with 24/7 building security, a library, a TV room, separate bedrooms and bathrooms, and all essential amenities.

Each participant will share a room with three others of the same gender. Room assignments will be made at random. The facility provides housekeeping and laundry services, along with all necessary furnishings, including sheets and towels, to ensure a comfortable and convenient stay.

What sort of food is available for participants during their stay?

Participants enjoy a variety of healthy meals from traditional Armenian meals to sandwiches and continental cuisine. If your child has food allergies, please contact us in advance of enrollment to discuss the options available.

What supplies should participants bring for their stay?

A complete packing list will be provided to participants prior to their arrival in Armenia. This will include our guidelines for attire as well as other essentials.

AGBU will provide materials for the renovation projects, such as masks, construction glasses and gloves.

Will AGBU provide accommodations for participants arriving before or leaving after the assigned program dates?

The building will not be available before the beginning of the Program and after departure dates. If your child is arriving prior to the program start date, you are responsible for arranging accommodations in the country in advance of or after the program.

Can participants stay with relatives/friends during the Program?

Discover Armenia requires that all participants live together in AGBU housing. This fosters camaraderie and collaboration amongst the group. NO EXCEPTIONS will be made.

Finances & Registration

What is the tuition cost to send my child to Discover Armenia?

Our program fees are $700 for the spring session and $1,800 USD for each summer session. Air Travel fees are not included.

What amenities and expenses does the participation fee cover?

The Participation Fee includes lodging expenses, meals as well all planned activities including tours, group dinners, organized trips out of town, and local sightseeing visits.

Is financial aid provided?

For financial aid, please, contact the Program Director at discoverarmenia@agbu.org with a request for the application form.

What is the Cancellation Policy?

In the event you wish to withdraw from the program, please inform the Program Director immediately via email at discoverarmenia@agbu.org. Any cancellations after corresponding submission deadlines will incur a $200 cancellation fee.

If for any reason AGBU cancels the program, all payments will be refunded in full.

Does my child require any spending money while in the Program?

The basic necessities (daily meals, lodging, and local transportation expenses) are included in the program fee. Spending money should be provided to each participant at the parents' discretion. The recommended amount is $150 for the spring session and $200–$250 for the summer sessions.

How do I access my child's application to update information?

Once you create a family profile, you can return to your login by clicking here.

If I enrolled an older child previously, do I still need to complete an application?

Yes. Each child needs their own enrollment form including personal information, health background etc. You can return to your family profile using this link and simply add a child.

Supervision and Team

Participants spend their days in a supervised environment. Both the Program Director and expert counselors live in the same accommodation and are available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.