The climate of Armenia
Armenia, a country nestled in the South Caucasus region of Eurasia, is largely mountainous with fast flowing rivers and few forests. Its geographical makeup greatly influences the climate of the country. Depending on altitude, one may encounter a variety of climate types. The lower parts of the Ararat plain exhibit a cold desert climate with relatively moderate to low precipitation levels throughout the year. Contrastingly, the mountain peaks foster a tundra climate characterized by very cold temperatures and short, cool summers. Along the middle reaches of the Arax, up to an elevation of 1,300m, the climate is dry and continental, characterized by cold winters and hot summers. Above this altitude, the climate starts to transition into a more humid continental type, leading to cooler summers and quite cold winters.
The best time to visit Armenia
The most agreeable time to visit
Armenia is typically between
April and
June or from
September to
October. During these periods, the climate is most favorable for sightseeing and outdoor activities. From April to June, spring brings a pleasant climate, with temperatures ranging from 15°C (59°F) to 24°C (75.2°F). In September and October, the autumnal weather yields a similar temperature range and is accompanied by the beautiful colors of fall. Rainfall during these periods is moderate, averaging 30mm (1.18") to 40mm (1.57") per month, making for enjoyable travel conditions.
The worst time to visit Armenia
The harsh winter season from
December to
February is generally considered the least favorable time to visit
Armenia. In this period, temperatures can plunge to below -10°C (14°F), especially in regions with a higher altitude. Furthermore, winter months can also bring heavy snowfall, which, while beautiful, can create difficult travel conditions. Additionally, the summer months, particularly
July and
August, can see temperatures soar up to 35°C (95°F) in the lower parts of the country. Such intense heat, paired with the arid climate, may not be comfortable for all visitors.
Spring weather in Armenia
Spring in
Armenia, spanning from
March to
June, is a delightful time with blooming flowers and green landscapes. The season begins with moderate temperatures in March, ranging from 6°C (42.8°F) to 12°C (53.6°F). As the season progresses into
April and
May, temperatures start to climb, typically hovering between 15°C (59°F) to 24°C (75.2°F). Spring also sees a moderate amount of precipitation, averaging 30mm (1.18") to 40mm (1.57") monthly. However, in the highland areas, cooler temperatures persist and the snowpack from winter can linger.
Summer weather in Armenia
Summer in
Armenia runs from
June through
August, often characterized by dry conditions and intense heat in lower elevations. The average temperatures can range from 25°C (77°F) in early summer to up to 35°C (95°F) in the peak of the season, especially in areas with a dry subtropical climate. Precipitation levels during this season are typically low, adding to the arid conditions. In higher altitudes, temperatures remain relatively mild, offering a respite from the heat.
Autumn weather in Armenia
The autumn season, from
September to
November, brings a welcome change from the heat of summer in
Armenia. The country showcases a beautiful array of fall colors, making it a scenic time to visit. The temperatures during this period typically fall between 8°C (46.4°F) to 25°C (77°F). Rainfall during autumn is relatively light, averaging about 25mm (0.98") to 35mm (1.38") per month. However, as November approaches, one can expect a noticeable drop in temperature, particularly in the mountainous areas.
Winter weather in Armenia
The winter season in
Armenia, spanning
December through
February, is characterized by cold temperatures and snow, particularly in higher altitudes. In the lower regions, temperatures can drop to -5°C (23°F), while in the mountains, it can go as low as -15°C (5°F). Snowfall during these months can be significant, making the landscapes stunning but also leading to challenging travel conditions. Despite the cold, winter presents opportunities for winter sports enthusiasts, especially in ski resorts such as Tsakhkadzor. The average monthly snowfall ranges from 20mm (0.79") to 30mm (1.18").
Weather in January
January in
Armenia is considered the heart of winter, typically characterized by cold temperatures and significant snowfall, especially in regions of high altitude. This month is, on average, the coldest of the year. The lower parts of the country, including the capital city, Yerevan, experience average temperatures ranging from -5°C (23°F) to 1°C (33.8°F).
Weather in January » Weather in February
February continues the winter season in
Armenia, exhibiting cold temperatures but usually with slightly less snowfall compared to
January. The average temperatures in lower regions, including the capital Yerevan, hover from -3°C (26.6°F) to 3°C (37.4°F).
Weather in February » Weather in March
March marks the beginning of spring in
Armenia, ushering in a gradual increase in temperature and a decrease in snowfall. The average temperatures in lower regions of the country, such as the capital city Yerevan, start to climb, ranging from 3°C (37.4°F) to 12°C (53.6°F).
Weather in March » Weather in April
April further progresses the spring season in
Armenia, demonstrating a marked shift from the colder temperatures of
March. In lower regions of the country, including Yerevan, the capital, average temperatures range from 10°C (50°F) to 20°C (68°F).
Weather in April » Weather in May
May in
Armenia brings about noticeable changes as the country transitions fully into the spring season. In lower regions, such as the capital, Yerevan, temperatures can vary from 15°C (59°F) to 24°C (75.2°F). Mountainous regions also see a considerable rise in temperature, averaging between 10°C (50°F) to 20°C (68°F). Compared to
April, May experiences warmer temperatures and similar dry conditions, allowing for plenty of sunshine and clear, blue skies.
Weather in May » Weather in June
June in
Armenia marks the onset of the summer season, characterized by rising temperatures and increasingly arid conditions. In the lower regions, including Yerevan, temperatures typically range from 20°C (68°F) to 30°C (86°F).
Weather in June » Weather in July
July is typically the hottest month of the year in
Armenia, representing the peak of the summer season. The lower regions of the country, including the capital, Yerevan, experience temperatures from 25°C (77°F) to 35°C (95°F).
Weather in July » Weather in August
August continues the peak summer season in
Armenia, with temperatures remaining high throughout the country. In the lower regions, such as the capital city Yerevan, temperatures usually range from 23°C (73.4°F) to 33°C (91.4°F).
Weather in August » Weather in September
September marks the beginning of the autumn season in
Armenia, providing a welcome relief from the intense heat of the summer months. In the lower regions, such as Yerevan, the average temperatures range from 18°C (64.4°F) to 28°C (82.4°F).
Weather in September » Weather in October
October deepens the autumn season in
Armenia, bringing cooler temperatures and an increase in precipitation. In the lower regions, including the capital city, Yerevan, the average temperatures range from 12°C (53.6°F) to 22°C (71.6°F).
Weather in October » Weather in November
November in
Armenia signifies the end of autumn and the onset of winter, with temperatures continuing to drop across the country. In the lower regions, including Yerevan, temperatures typically range from 5°C (41°F) to 15°C (59°F).
Weather in November » Weather in December
December brings the onset of winter in
Armenia, with temperatures dropping significantly and snowfall becoming more common, especially in higher altitudes. In the lower regions, including the capital, Yerevan, temperatures typically range from -1°C (30.2°F) to 7°C (44.6°F).
Weather in December »