Astrophotography near Yerevan

[u/dheera]

Hi everyone,

I'm visiting Yerevan for a week, mostly for the food :D but I also do astrophotography back at home and wondering about potentially getting to some dark sky sites in the Yerevan area, e.g. Amberd Fortress or Zorats Karer. It would also be nice to see some places like these to beat the heat...

1. Is it fairly straightforward to rent a car and drive in Armenia if I'm used to driving in e.g. Los Angeles and unpaved mountain roads of the US/EU?
2. Are these remote areas safe for astrophotography at night and generally free of stray dogs / shepherd dogs that might attack a lone photographer?
3. Is there any special precautions one needs to take to drive at night in Armenia (animals, crime, etc.)?
4. Curious about other dark sky sites you all might know!
5. Is it better to hire a driver for e.g. 7pm-1am returning to Yerevan same night? Are there drivers willing to do this kind of weird timing?

I may not necessarily do this, it's just a thought since it's hot lately and would be a good way to dial in some nature and cool-off periods in between my food adventures. Thanks!

[u/MechanicDramatic3786]

Your trip idea sounds epic and I hope you do see it through 🙏🏻