Azerbaijan, Georgia & Armenia Explorer

Azerbaijan’s capital, Baku, sits on the coast of the Caspian Sea. At its heart is a well preserved, UNESCO-listed medieval walled old city, containing the Palace of the Shirvanshahs, a vast royal complex, and the iconic stone Maiden Tower. Surrounding the old city are elegantly illuminated stone mansions and pedestrianised boulevards and squares filled with exclusive boutiques. Wooded parks and the Caspian-front promenade make it feel a million miles away from the surrounding desert. The more recent oil boom has flooded the city with breathtaking contemporary landmarks such as the Zaha Hadid–designed Heydar Aliyev Centre, and the Flame Towers, 3 pointed glass skyscrapers. Baku is rapidly changing, and now is the perfect time to visit whilst it remains relatively under most tourist radars.
Overnight: Midtown Hotel or similar

Today we take our time to see the sights of Baku. First, we enjoy the panoramic cityscape from the viewing platforms at the Highland Park, before continuing on to discover the UNESCO-listed, medieval Old City, a treasure trove of Azerbaijani history. We'll explore the ancient city walls, bathhouses and mosques, Maiden Tower and caravanserais which make up the impressive, Palace of the Shirvanshahs. We’ll stop for a rest and lunch in a local restaurant, after which we head a short way out of town to the Absheron Peninsula. When Marco Polo visited the then-Persian city of Baku in the 13thC, he mentioned numerous mysterious flames throughout the region, most notably in the Absheron Peninsula. These fires are considered to have played a crucial part in the creation of Zoroastrianism and gave rise to the moniker, Land of Fire. We’ll visit the Ateshgah of Baku, often referred to as the “Fire Temple”, Gala archaeological and ethnographical museum complex and Yanar Dag, where a 10m long wall of fire burns continuously. We enjoy a delicious dinner in a local eatery before heading back to our hotel for the night.
Overnight: Midtown Hotel or similar

Just a short, hour long drive south from Baku brings us to the remarkable Gobustan National Park which is rich in archaeological monuments. The expansive site features over 6,000 petroglyphs, covering some 40,000 years pf rock art. The engravings depict scenes of the daily lives of the local inhabitants of the time, animals, battle-scenes, ritual ceremonies, bullfights, naval ships, camel caravans, images of the sun and stars. The site also contains once inhabited caves, settlements and burials, illustrating the intensive human habitation of the area during the wet period that followed the last Ice Age, from the Upper Paleolithic to the Middle Ages. Home to nearly a third of the world’s mud volcanoes, Gobustan is also famous for the bizarre mud volcanoes which bubble and erupt, sometimes in flames across the landscape. Many locals believe the mud has a special healing quality and it is common practice to apply the mud to the skin. We’ll break for lunch before heading back into town with stops at the striking Bibi Heibat Mosque, then the Azerbaijan National Carpet Museum. Applied arts, particularly carpet weaving, hold a special place in the cultural history of the people of Azerbaijan. Due to their aesthetics, fleecy and pileless carpets, adorned with various patterns and symbols are used to decorate the walls and floors of marquees, huts, homes, nomads' tents, and other buildings, turning them into a symbol for the nation.
Overnight: Midtown Hotel or similar

Today we drive west to the beautiful former Silk Road town of Sheki. En route we'll have time to visit the two-storeyed Diri Baba Mausoleum, followed by a visit to the impressive Juma Mosque in Shamakhi. Enjoy a local lunch here before finishing our road trip. Medieval Sheki is one of the oldest towns in Azerbaijan, and was once a stop-over on the fabled Silk Road, connecting travellers and cultures from east to west. Nestled on the southern slopes of the Greater Caucasus, Sheki's main attraction is its blend of small town charm, fresh mountain air and attractive historic architecture. The Sheki Khans Summer Palace is said to be one of the most beautiful buildings in the Caucasus. We'll spend the afternoon and evening wandering the charming streets and sites of Sheki.
Overnight: Macara Hotel or similar

In the morning we cross the Balakan/Lagodekhi border and continue our trip in Georgia. Following two days it’s time to explore the famous wine-growing region – Kakheti. However, we will not only taste the wine that makes this region so famous and attractive, but also get a glimpse of the daily life of the Kakhetians and understand their history better. In Lagodekhi we explore The Lagodekhi Protected Areas and have a short walk in the forest, where we have our lunch picnic as well. After the walking part of the day is finished, we drive to visit a famous wine factory ‘Khareba’. This factory stores wines in a tunnel that is carved in the rock of the Caucasus Mountain range. The constant temperature in the tunnel is 12-14 degrees Celsius. This along with 70% humidity creates the ideal, natural conditions for wine to age in French oak barrels, as well as to store bottled wines for extended periods. Here we try several sorts of Georgian wine. Dinner is at a local restaurant.
Overnight: Chateau Kvareli or similar

We start the day with a short drive towards the Nekresi monastery (4th -­ 15th century), which is situated on a hill. After the monastery we visit Gremi, a fortified church complex and the capital of Kakheti in the 16th century. We continue our way to a local wine cellar, where we will learn about the process of Georgian wine making through a modern and interesting museum. Of course we will also taste wines made by Georgian tradition directly from the clay jars (Qvevri). In December 2013, this ancient Georgian Qvevri wine making method joined the UNESCO heritage list. After the wine tasting and a delicious lunch will we continue our way to Telavi. On the way we will stop at the Alaverdi Cathedral (11th century). If there is still enough time left we make a last stop before returning to the hotel: the estate of the 19th century poet and noble man Aleksandre Chavchavadze in Tsinandali (closed on Mondays). His house, the main house, is also a museum. The aristocratic Chavchavadze family was one of the most talented and powerful families throughout Georgia. This place was a centre of intellectual life, and is much frequented by famous Georgian and foreign writers (including Alexander Dumas). Aleksandre offered his guests fine wines made at his estate. He was the one who possessed the oldest and largest winery in Georgia, where he combined European and Georgian winemaking traditions. The house is surrounded by beautiful gardens covering 18 hectares. They contain a variety of European, Asian and American plants and a walk in the park is also a must. Furthermore, there is also a small labyrinth with a wishing tree in the middle, which is worth visiting. This evening dinner is either at a hotel or at a restaurant.
Overnight: Chateau Kvareli or similar

We drive to Tbilisi and enjoy some sightseeing of the ‘City that loves you’. You can immediately feel that the capital of Georgia has a long history of multicultural relationships and is still the bridge between Europe and Asia. Walking through the old parts of the city you can sense its history and learn more about its special religious status: everyone is welcome. That’s why you will see and visit different religious buildings: churches, synagogue, mosque. And not only religious buildings will capture your eye, but also the famous 19th century houses with colourful wooden balconies. The old city with its narrow streets and religious and secular architecture - here we find a mix of buildings: churches, synagogues, mosques, as well as famous 19th century houses with wooden multi-coloured balconies and the sulfur bath which made an unforgettable impression on Pushkin. The city tour also goes to the statue of Mother Georgia and the old castle Narikala (4th century) from where you will be able to enjoy the great panoramic views over the city. In National Museum (closed on Mondays) we visit a treasury that hosts a really unique, unknown collection, so this is a highlight that can’t be missed. Another important place is the Sulphur baths – well known to relax your mind after a long day full of impressions. Dinner tonight is at a traditional Georgian restaurant.
Overnight: Clocks Hotel or similar

In the morning we visit the old capital and religious heart of Georgia, Mtskheta. It was the site of early Christian activity and the location where Christianity was proclaimed as the state religion (337), after the Cappadocian woman St. Nino arrived to enlighten the country. Not only centuries ago people valued this place, also today its valued by many and hence the fact that you find two UNESCO World Heritage Sites here. Needless to say you will visit both. One is Jvari Monastery (C5th-6th), which looks over Mtskheta and from where you have a perfect view on the next UNESCO site: Svetitskhoveli Cathedral (C11th). Whereas Jvari church gives you a private, personal, rather intimate feeling the Cathedral leaves you with an overpowering impression of Georgian religious splendour. Later it’s time to explore the Great Caucasus Mountains. In the morning we visit Ananuri fortified complex (17th century) and enjoy the beautiful views of the Jinvali water reservoir. Afterwards it’s time to discover Kazbegi National Park, where we will be walking the next two days as well. When we arrive at the charmingly located town Stepantsminda, also known as Kazbegi, we will see the impressive and holy Mt. Kazbek (5047m). On the hilltop in front of us lays a Georgian icon, the C14th Tsminda Sameba Church, commonly known as Gergeti Trinity Church, our goal for today.
Walking: ~2½hrs, +/- 400m
Accommodation: Hotel Porta Caucasia Kazbegi or Intourist Hotel or similar

Today we drive by 4WD to the remote village of Juta, to visit a local family and taste traditional Georgian yoghurt “Matsoni” and honey. We will take a short walk towards breathtaking Mt. Chaukhebi (reach the top of the village) and enjoy herbal tea at a local cafe. The gorge runs through all the way to the moraine. For keen walkers, there is the option of a beautiful short walk from Juta (approx. 3 hours return) to the foot of Mt Chaukhebi (3842m) - a multi-pinnacled peak popular with climbers. Afterwards we will walk back to Juta village, and return to Kazbegi for overnight.
Walking time: 3.5 – 4 hrs; Ascend/Descend 500 m; Grade: easy to moderate.
Accommodation: Hotel Porta Caucasia Kazbegi or Intourist Hotel or similar

In the morning we drive to visit a place dating from the 1st millennium B.C.: Uplistsikhe. Once this was an enormous cave city, but the ruins of it are still impressive. One can wonder here how it must have felt in those days and your guide will explain how this place from a centre of paganism changed to a centre of Christianity. In the centre of Gori we can visit the Stalin museum. Later we continue our way to Borjomi. Here we visit Borjomi Park where we will be able to taste the famous mineral water – Borjomi. This water is very good for health and is one of the favourite drinks of Georgians and most importantly one of the biggest export products of Georgia. Dinner is at the hotel.
Overnight: Crowne Plaza Borjomi or similar

In the morning we drive to Akhaltsikhe and visit the newly reconstructed, impressive Rabati Fortress, which is one of the most expensive projects related to tourism in Georgia and that is noticeable. They incorporated within the fortress walls different buildings from different ages, for example a gazebo, a castle, a mosque with a gilded dome. And let’s not forget the archaeological museum, which is elaborate and has stunning artefacts. Today lunch will be served in a local residents house, everything on your table will be fresh, natural and extremely delicious. The specialty of the day is freshly caught trout. After lunch, we explore one of the most amazing sites of Georgia: Vardzia, a cave complex (12th century) that once was a concealed city. An earthquake damaged its original structure in the 13th century, so it’s not hidden anymore, but it still captures visitors with its uniqueness and greatness. The complex includes 139 cave groups with a total of 409 rooms, 25 wine cellars and 12 small churches. Dwellings are interconnected with passageways. In the centre of the monastery is the main cathedral, which preserves murals (12th century) that have been a crucial significance in the development of the Medieval Georgian wall painting. It includes one of the few portraits of the iconic Queen Tamar. Afterwards we cross border to Armenia at Bavra border and continue our way to Gyumri.
Overnight: Araks Hotel/Alexandropol Hotel in Gyumri, or similar

Today we will explore Gyumri – a city of rich traditions and culture. We'll walk in the historic downtown admiring the city’s old architecture from 19th century, which contrasts the Soviet architecture of later period. We will visit a blacksmith’s studio, the oldest brewery in Armenia and a local barber’s shop which almost hasn’t changed since its establishment nearly a century ago. We will then leave Gyumri to discover the surroundings of Mt. Aragats, the highest mountain in Armenia at 4,090 m. We'll see its rugged landscapes full of mountain springs, alpine meadows and wild flowers. We will visit the ruins of medieval Amberd castle located on the slopes of mountain, which was skillfully constructed on a triangular cape dominating the two gorges naturally protecting the fortress. We'll have a possibility to have a short walk near Amberd to enjoy the fresh air and natural beauty of this picturesque place. Season permitting, we will see the seasonal camps of Yezidi people – the largest religious and ethnic minority in Armenia, who come to stay in the mountains in the warm months of the year (depending on the weather: May to September). For dinner a local family will host us. The hostess will treat us with her delicious homemade dishes prepared with great love and care.
Overnight: Ani Plaza Hotel or similar

Today we will have a tour of Yerevan, including Victory Park at Mother Armenia monument, from where you will behold a panoramic view of the city. We will also visit other sights of the capital, including the Republic Square, the Opera house, the Cascade complex; and Matenadaran museum, which hosts the biggest collection of medieval Armenian manuscripts. In the afternoon we will tour Echmiadzin – the religious capital of Armenia, and Zvartnots Cathedral. Both are UNESCO sites. *Please note that our trip itinerary will depend on current opening times (and days) of the museums/historic sites and therefore the order of sights visited may vary accordingly. Return to Yerevan for dinner & overnight.
Overnight: Ani Plaza Hotel or similar

Today we will travel to places where outstanding natural beauty meets history, tradition and culture. We'll drive through Ararat plain and make a stop at Khor Virap, which provides a fantastic view of the biblical Mt. Ararat believed to be the resting place of Noah’s Ark. Continuing our way through the mountains, we will reach Vayots Dzor region which is rich in history, archeology, culture and breathtaking landscapes. Next, we'll drive by Areni village known as the grapes and wine capital of Armenia. We will stop at Areni-­1 cave to see the place where the world’s oldest leather shoe and an ancient winemaking facility was discovered. Driving through the spectacular Noravank gorge, a place of natural beauty, rich with beautiful multi-colored rocks, we'll reach the famous Noravank medieval monastery - resting on a high cliff around red rocks and known for its outstanding, intricate carvings. Rustic village lunch at a café inside a cave. We will then follow the Silk Road to drive up the picturesque Selim Pass (2,014 m) and stop at a 14th century Selim Caravanserai, which offered hospitality for traders traveling along the Silk Road. We'll then continue our way along the shores of Lake Sevan, the “Pearl of Armenia” and one of the largest high---altitude fresh water lakes in the world (1,900 m). We’ll stop at Sevan peninsula and ascend to its top to admire the beautiful colours of the lake from this viewpoint. Dinner at a local restaurant on the shores of the lake where we will try delicious grilled fish – the best in the area. Return to Yerevan.
Overnight: Ani Plaza Hotel or similar

In the morning we will visit a 13th century rock-carved monastery of Geghard, a UNESCO World Heritage site. We'll explore this medieval Armenian architecture, the Monastery and some chambers of the monastery were carved out of solid rock and possess exceptional acoustics. The monastic complex received its name after the Holy Lance which was kept here in the middle ages. We'll then drive to the village of Garni, en route stop by roadside stalls with villagers selling their homemade jams, pickled vegetables, and other local products. We'll then visit 1st century Garni pagan temple - at one time this was the summer residence of the Armenian kings located in a picturesque place overlooking a deep canyon. We will have a 1 hour walk down to Garni gorge to see the unique rock formations called ‘Symphony of Stones’. We'll have lunch at a private house and watch local women bake traditional Armenian flat bread ‘lavash’ made in a special oven in the ground. Return to Yerevan and visit the Cognac Factory for a tour and tasting. Farewell dinner at an atmospheric restaurant in Yerevan.
Overnight: Ani Plaza Hotel or similar

After breakfast, trip concludes with transfers to the airport for onward travel. Should you wish to extend your stay in Yerevan, please discuss post tour arrangements with your World Expeditions' Adventure Travel Consultant.