Hitchhiking in Armenia

One of the ways to travel in Armenia can be hitchhiking. There are many reasons why people choose to hitchhike: being on a budget, desire of having a more adventurous trip, learning about new cultures, meeting new people, and list goes on… Despite all of the concerns about hitchhiking, many people still prefer to try it and most of the time, it turns out to be not as scary and dangerous as it seems. In fact, hitchhiking can be an exceptional experience, which you could not have anywhere else. You never know who will you meet, what will you see and experience. This intriguing feeling makes the trip even more exciting. Once you’ve tried it, it’s hard to get back to a normal way of traveling.

Here are some tips for hitchhiking in Armenia.

Hitchhiking in Armenia is fast

Experience shows, that hitchhiking in Armenia is faster than in other countries. Unless you are in a remote location of the country, it usually takes less than 10 minutes until someone stops. There are many Armenian drivers, who are willing to help hitchhikers. If you share a common language, get ready for a fun and interactive ride. You will hear many stories about Armenia, about the life of Armenian people, maybe some complaints. Some of them might introduce you to “Armenian” music, want it or not.

The usual way to stop cars in Armenia is to reach out your arm and wave your hand to the ground. Thumb up also works. You can have a sign of your destination, but usually it works with just by naming it.

Beware of taxis with no signs

In Armenia, there are many taxi drivers, who don’t have a taxi sign on their cars. So it’s better to warn a driver that you are hitchhiking and don’t plan to pay. So that there will be no misunderstanding by the end of your trip. Although, in some rare cases, even taxi drivers are ready to help hitchhikers and don’t charge them.

Be prepared to meet a lot of people

While hitchhiking in Armenia, be prepared, that some Armenian drivers can unexpectedly stop somewhere, maybe even change the route a bit to introduce you to their friends and families. Armenian people are very hospitable, they really love guests, travelers, and especially foreigners who visit their country. So some of them might want to show you their hospitality and treat you with delicious Armenian traditional dishes and drinks.

Don’t worry, they usually warn you, that they are about to take you somewhere. If they don’t, and you feel uncomfortable, ask the driver to drop you off. And even if they warn you, but you don’t feel safe and don’t want to have any unplanned stops, finish your ride, and find another one.

Language

Most common foreign language is Russian. Knowledge of Russian will make your experience a lot easier, because almost everyone in Armenia knows this language. 

If you don’t know it, you might come across a language barrier. Usually naming the destination is enough. If you have a possibility, you can use an online translator. You can also learn some words and phrases in Armenian, that will help you to communicate better. 

To greet someone, say “Barev”, or “Barev dzez” which is more formal. 

If you want to let the driver know, that you’re a hitchhiker, you can say “Autostop”.

“Anvchar” means “For free”.

If you want to thank the driver, say “Shnorhakalutyun” or the French “Merci”, Armenians use it very often.

If girl, better not to be alone

Usually hitchhiking in Armenia is safe for everyone, even if you’re alone. However, the easiest and safest way to hitchhike in Armenia is in a pair.

There are still female travelers, who don’t feel safe, when they are hitchhiking in Armenia all by themselves, but year by year this fear fades away. Most of the times drivers are just curious, because female hitchhikers are still not very common in Armenia. They might be very talkative and ask different questions. Sometimes they ask for phone numbers, but it is person’s choice, to give it or not (but better don’t).

If you’re still concerned as a solo female traveler, then it’s better not to be alone, or choose to stop the cars in which there is another woman, or a child.

Camping

If there is a need to camp, it’s safe in most parts of Armenia. Although Armenia is a mountainous country, there are many comfortable camping areas. It’s starting to get colder in the middle of autumn, so prepare warmer stuff for camping. If you are close to some village, you can set up your tent close to the houses. It is also possible, that some of the villagers will notice you and offer to host you for a night.

If you are nowhere near the city or village, you can safely camp not far from the road. It is a very common thing that travelers do in Armenia.

There is also an option of guest houses, which is more popular in Armenia, when you’re outside of big cities.

Roads

In many parts of Armenia there can be poor road conditions. Because this country has many mountainous parts, you might have some difficulties while reaching your destination. But the views of beautiful Armenian landscapes that you will see during your ride, will make it all worth it. While observing Armenian nature, you can plan your future hikes and trips. Whichever destination you choose, you will not regret it.

One of the ways to have a good hitchhiking experience is to have a positive mindset. When you think positively, you attract people with the same energy. Most of the people in Armenia are very kind and caring. They are ready to help you, even if it was not in their plans at all. Whenever you will feel ready, try hitchhiking in Armenia with your friends. Despite all of the concerns, it can turn out to be a great traveling and learning experience.

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