Wilderness Landscape & Natural Heritage
Shikahogh State Reserve, located in the southern Syunik Province of Armenia, covers approximately 24,400 hectares of predominantly forested landscape. It features one of the last remaining preserved old-growth forests in the Caucasus region, with dense stands of Oriental beech, oak, and hornbeam trees. The reserve’s geography includes mountainous terrain ranging between elevations of 1,400 to 2,300 meters, with river valleys, cliffs, and meadows interspersed within the forest. Shikahogh is internationally recognized for its high biodiversity, hosting many rare and endemic species such as the Caucasian leopard, bezoar goat, brown bear, and approximately 1,100 plant species, including medicinal herbs. Historically, the reserve was formally established in the 1950s, though conservation efforts began earlier to protect its virgin forests from logging and development. Visitors to Shikahogh can engage in trekking on rustic trails, wildlife watching, and birding, with the chance to see black vultures and other raptors. The area remains relatively undeveloped, providing a tranquil wilderness experience in a protected setting with limited visitor facilities. Notable landmarks include the dense forest groves themselves and traditional villages near the reserve’s boundary providing cultural insight into local rural life. Its remote location and pristine nature attract eco-tourists, researchers, and outdoor enthusiasts seeking unspoiled landscapes within a day’s drive from regional hubs like Kapan or Goris.
