Trip highlights
- Unearth the fascinating capital cities of Baku, Tbilisi & Yerevan
- Explore the iconic, dramatically sited Gergeti Trinity Church, Georgia
- See the ancient rock carvings, mud volcanoes and gas-stones at Gobustan Reserve
- Visit Khor Virap monastery and its breathtaking Mount Ararat backdrop
- Discover Sheki, Azerbaijan’s Silk Road gem
- Enjoy time in the famous wine growing region of Kakheti
- Take in Lake Sevan, Geghard Cave Monastery and the holy city of Echmiadzin
- Wonder at the UNESCO listed Mtskheta, an outstanding example of medieval religious architecture
- Discover the ancient cave town of Uplistsikhe
- Experience the beautiful Caucasus Mountains around Kazbegi
This remarkable journey includes diverse landscapes, magnificent architecture and rich cultural heritage. We begin in the fascinating city of Baku, the capitol of Azerbaijan, and famous for its walled old city. From here we visit Sheki Khans Palace, Sheki Khans Summer Palace and Caravanserai. As we learn about this enthralling country, we enjoy time in the famous wine growing region of Kakheti. Making our way to Georgia, we enjoy the country’s capital, Tbilisi and discover the cultural, natural and gastronomic splendours that this wonderful country has to offer. We take time to marvel at the UNESCO listed Mtskheta, an outstanding example of medieval religious architecture; and explore the beautiful Caucasus Mountains around Kazbegi. We make our way to the ancient rock-hewn town of Uplistsikhe, which played an important role in Georgian history. We will explore one of the most amazing sites of Georgia: Vardzia, a cave complex (12th century) that once was a concealed city. Continuing on to Gyumri, a city of rich traditions and culture, we’ walk in the historic downtown admiring the city’s old architecture from 19th century. From here we visit the ruins of medieval Amberd castle and surrounds, and tour the holy city Echmiadzin, the religious capital of Armenia, and UNESCO World Heritage Site. Not to be missed, we’ll take in beautiful Lake Sevan and the 13th century rock-carved monastery of Geghard. At the 1st century Garni pagan temple we’ll walk down the scenic Garni gorge to see the unique rock formations called ‘Symphony of Stones’. Our travels conclude in Yerevan, the capitol of Armenia, with it’s grand Soviet-era architecture.
Itinerary
Day 1 Join in Baku, Azerbaijan
Day 2 Medieval Walled City of Baku
Day 3 Gobustan State Historical & Artistic Reserve
Day 4 Sheki, Azerbaijan’s Silk Road Town
Day 5 Balakan/Lagodekhi border to Kvareli
Day 6 Kakheti Region
Day 7 In Tbilisi
Day 8 Mtskheta to Kazbegi National Park
Day 9 Juta village and walk in the Caucasus Mountains
Day 10 Gori and Borjomi Park
Day 11 Vardzia to Gyumri
Day 12 In Gyumri, to Yerevan
Day 13 Explore Yerevan & Echmiadzin
Day 14 Day trip to Lake Sevan
Day 15 To Geghard and Garni
Day 16 In Yerevan, trip concludes
Inclusions
What’s included
- 15 breakfasts, 9 lunches, 14 dinners
- accommodation in hotels/guesthouse on a twin share basis
- local sightseeing & entrance fees to monuments
- all internal transport by private vehicle
- English speaking local tour guides
- airport transfers (day 1 and 16 only)
- assistance on arranging visas
What’s not included
- Meals not indicated in the itinerary
- Bottled water, aerated and alcoholic drinks
- Items of a personal nature such as phone calls, laundry, etc.
- Tips
- International flights
- Airport and departure taxes
- Visas
- Travel insurance
WEX – AGA
Images courtesy of World Expeditions