Days
15
Price from
From Baku to Yerevan, unlock the treasures of the Caucasus
Watch arid landscapes give way to verdant hillsides and majestic snow-capped mountains on this eye-opening 15-day adventure through Azerbaijan, Georgia and Armenia. Explore a land where the walls speak of centuries of rich history and where ancient traditions intersect with a modern way of life. Journey with local leaders and a small group of keen adventurers through forests and past tall mountain peaks to find medieval mosques and villages. Wander through cosmopolitan Baku and Tbilisi, make friends with the friendly Georgian locals over a glass of Qvevri wine and end up in Yerevan – Armenia’s centre of culture.
- Start
- Baku, Azerbaijan
- Finish
- Yerevan, Armenia
- Destinations
- Armenia, Azerbaijan, Georgia
- Style
- Peregrine
- Code
- PCAA
- Physical rating
- Trip rating
- 7 reviews
- Ages
- Min 15
- Group size
- Min 1, Max 12
Peregrine trips are now operated by Intrepid Travel
Why you'll love this trip
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Azerbaijan's cosmopolitan capital of Baku is a city of contrasts. Enjoy a guided walking tour around the city's World Heritage-listed Old Town then stroll past waterfront parks and modern architectural wonders.
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Relax among the Kyareli Mountains after a day of travel in your Georgian premium Feature Stay accommodation, with elegant interiors, wellness facilities and panoramic views of the countryside.
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Be serenaded by traditional singers in Georgia’s Kakheti region while sampling local food, understanding the importance of bread in a Georgian diet, and learning traditional methods of winemaking.
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See the historic sights of Georgia at Mtskheta – its 3000-year-old ancient capital and centre of religious culture – and the magnificent cave town of Vardzia, complete with 12th-century frescoes.
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Discover the natural wonders of Armenia with a trip to the high-altitude Lake Sevan, and take a guided tour of the capital Yerevan – considered to be one of the world’s oldest continually inhabited cities.
Is this trip right for you?
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As we don't want you to miss anything, the itinerary is densely packed, so you'll be busy squeezing in as many sights and activities as you can. Take the downtime when you can for relaxing or independent exploration.
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You will have three different local leaders on this tour, changing at each border crossing so that in each place you have a local expert.
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Georgia and Armenia are two of the oldest Christian countries on earth which means that sightseeing often focuses on churches and monasteries of which locals are extremely proud, but some travellers may find a bit repetitive. You are always welcome to sit out an included sight and explore on your own while the leader takes the group inside.
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Some activities, including the trip to the high Caucasus around Kazbegi, are weather and road condition dependent. Your leader will keep you up to date on any necessary itinerary changes due to local conditions.
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There are some long travel days on this adventure. While tiring, this is a great opportunity to get to know your fellow travellers and enjoy the passing scenery.
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On some days, there is a lot of walking between sites and around towns and cities. While it can be tiring to be on your feet, this is the best way to see a destination. Make sure you bring comfortable walking shoes with good support.
Gallery
Itinerary
Salam eleykim! Welcome to Azerbaijan. On arrival at Baku Airport, you'll be met by a representative and transferred to your hotel (approximately a 40-minute drive). Baku certainly is a city where old meets new – ancient fortified buildings standing next to Russian imperial-style squares and ultra-modern architectural wonders. Your adventure begins with a welcome meeting at 6 pm in the evening, where you will meet your local leader and fellow travellers joining you for this adventure. Relax and enjoy a restful evening, with your welcome dinner scheduled for tomorrow evening to allow all travellers to attend.
Accommodation
- City Park Hotel (1 night)
Meals Included
There are no meals included on this day.Special Information
It’s very important that you attend the welcome meeting as we will be collecting insurance details and next of kin information at this time. If you are going to be late please let your travel agent or hotel reception know. Ask reception or look for a note in the lobby for more information on where the meeting will take place. If you can't arrange a flight that will arrive on time, you may wish to arrive a day early so you're able to attend. We'll be happy to book additional accommodation for you (subject to availability).
Get to know Baku with a tour of the city, taking in a visit to the Old City, including time at Shemakha Gate, the Palace of the Shirvanshahs, Maiden Tower and Old Market Square. Be sure to bring your camera as there will be some panoramic views of Baku's varied skyline to enjoy. Afterwards, embark on a tour of the Absheron Peninsula, visiting the Ateshgah Fire Temple, Mardakan Medieval Fortress and the eternally burning Yanar Dag (Fire Mountain). Return to Baku in the evening and enjoy a local dinner with your leader and small group.
Accommodation
- City Park Hotel (1 night)
Included Activities
- Baku - Maiden's Tower
- Baku - Palace of the Shirvanshahs
- Baku - Caravanserai
- Absheron Peninsula - Half Day Tour
Meals Included
- Breakfast
- Dinner
This morning, head out of the city on a day trip to Qobustan, located around 60 kilometres south of Baku. Visit one of the world's largest open-air archaeological museums and wander past ancient rock art dating back some 40,000 years. The prehistoric carvings depict scenes of hunting, fishing and gathering. Return to Baku in the afternoon and finish your day with a visit to the much-loved Carpet Museum located on the waterfront. Afterwards, perhaps continue to walk along the waterfront to find a restaurant for dinner, keeping an eye out for the Baku Eye and Flame Towers that light up the city skyline at night.
Accommodation
- City Park Hotel (1 night)
Included Activities
- Qobustan - Petroglyphs
- Baku - Carpet Museum
Meals Included
- Breakfast
Leave Baku and head for the Caucasus Mountains in the northwest of Azerbaijan. Watch arid landscapes slowly give way to densely forested mountains. En route to Sheki, there will be stops at an active mud volcano, Diri Baba Mausoleum in Maraza, the Yeddi Gumbaz Mausoleum, and the Juma Mosque in Shemakha. Also, stop in to visit a family to learn traditional yoghurt making methods and enjoy some local snacks. On arrival in Sheki, stop at a local craft workshop where the famous shebeke – stained-glass windows with intricately carved frames – are made by hand. You will also visit the acclaimed Palace of Shaki Khans to see its magnificent frescoes and stained glass. After a long day of driving and activities, enjoy a relaxing night in Sheki.
Accommodation
- Sheki Palace Hotel (1 night)
Included Activities
- Sheki - Mud volcano
- Sheki - Khan's Palace
- Sheki - Stained Glass Workshop Visit
- Shamakhi - Yoghurt Making Master Class
Meals Included
- Breakfast
Special Information
Please note that the mud volcanos are not accessible in foggy or wet weather and will only be visited if road conditions are suitable. It may be necessary to change vehicles to access the volcano and walk a short distance.It can sometimes be difficult to confirm our preferred hotel in Sheki. For this reason, we have selected alternative hotels. Our alternative hotel is the Sheki Yaffle Inn. If you would like to confirm which hotel your departure will be staying, please contact a Peregrine booking agent.
Enjoy breakfast at the hotel and visit the local Sheki bazaar before driving to Lagodeckhi – a town at the Azerbaijan–Georgia border – to meet your Georgian leader and change transportation. From here travel to Georgia's Kakheti region, known for its winemaking. There will be a visit to the Gremi Architectural Complex and its museum, followed by lunch with a local family, which includes delicious homemade cuisine and wine. Discover the importance of bread in the Georgian diet and discover how they bake this staple before continuing to a winery to sample different kinds of the Georgian varietals. There will also be time to listen to unique Georgian polyphonic songs – a traditional style of music prevalent in the Kakheti region. Afterwards, travel to your Feature Stay accommodation in Kvareli – Royal Batoni castle – located in a picturesque area on the banks of Ilia Lake, between the Kvareli Mountains and the Duruji River. Spend time relaxing by the outdoor swimming pool overlooking the lake, or in your elegant room with lake or mountain views.
Accommodation
- Royal Batoni or similar (1 night)
Included Activities
- Sheki - Bazaar Visit
- Kakheti - Gremi Architectural Complex
- Kakheti - Lunch with a Local Family
- Kvareli - Winery Visit
Meals Included
- Breakfast
- Lunch
- Dinner
Special Information
Today you will cross the border from Azerbaijan to Georgia. You are required to have your passport with you, and you will need your Azerbaijan visa to exit the country. Your Azerbaijan leader will accompany you to the border and provide directions for the formalities. It will be necessary to carry or wheel your luggage a short distance to the Georgia customs area where you will meet your Georgian leader.
Following breakfast, journey to the beautiful 18th-century town of Sighnaghi, known for its quaint stone walls, small houses with terracotta roofs and decorated balconies. After some time to admire the picturesque views of Alazani Valley and Great Caucasus Mountains, drive to Tbilisi. Once arrived, wander the old districts of Georgia’s capital, which are structured like terraces, and walk through the narrow streets to appreciate the colourful houses, patterned balconies and revamped modern architecture. Get to know the city on a walk beginning from the 13th-century Metekhi Church, with its magnificent views over old Tbilisi, before visiting the main sights of the city. In the afternoon enjoy some free time.
Accommodation
- Citadines City Centre Tbilisi or similar (1 night)
Included Activities
- Tbilisi - Old Town Walking Tour with Local Guide
- Sighnaghi - Village Walk with Local Guide
Optional Activities
- Tbilisi - Anchiskhati Church - Free
- Tbilisi - Sioni Cathedral - Free
Meals Included
- Breakfast
Enjoy panoramic views of the whole town from the ancient Narikala Fortress, then head to the historic domed sulphur bath area. Visit the stunning treasury of the Golden Fund at the Natural History Museum (closed on Mondays), which will prove that Georgia is truly the land of the Golden Fleece. From here, visit a local art studio and become acquainted with Georgian cloisonne enamel – also known as Minanqari – and see how it is made. This afternoon is free for you to continue your independent exploration, so why not treat yourself to a spa treatment at one of the thermal bathhouses around the city? This is a traditional experience, and there are many bathhouses to check out around back in the the Abanotubani area of the city.
Accommodation
- Citadines City Centre Tbilisi or similar (1 night)
Included Activities
- Tbilisi - National History Museum
- Tbilisi - Narikala Fortress & Cable Car
- Tbilisi - Enamel Workshop
Meals Included
- Breakfast
Today visit Mtskheta – the ancient capital and religious centre of Georgia. Visit World Heritage-listed sites such as the sixth-century Jvari Monastery and the impressive Svetitskhoveli Cathedral, where the Robe of Christ is purported to be buried. Afterwards, visit a wine cellar in the village of Chardakhi and taste unique BIO wines, produced using traditional Georgian methods. Meet the owners of the wine cellar over a delicious lunch and Qvevri wines. In the afternoon, drive to the south-western part of Georgia and visit Borjomi Spa Town, famous for its mineral water Borjomi. Spend the night in Akhaltsikhe, with dinner included at your hotel.
Accommodation
- Hotel Lomsia or similar (1 night)
Included Activities
- Mtskheta - Jvari Church & Svetitskhoveli Cathedral
- Chardakhi - Georgian Wine Tasting & Home Cooked Lunch
Meals Included
- Breakfast
- Lunch
- Dinner
Special Information
It can sometimes be difficult to confirm our preferred hotel in Akhaltsikhe. Our alternative hotels include Crystal Hotel and Hotel Gino Wellness Rabati. If you would like to confirm which hotel your departure will be staying, please contact a Peregrine booking agent.
Today, drive to the magnificent cave town of Vardzia, which stretches over half a kilometre along the river Mtkvari and has 19 tiers of winding cobbled streets. There is a church hewn out in rock with amazing 12th-century frescos, and the complex also includes dwellings quarters, small hall-type churches, refectories and wine cellars. En route to Vardzia, you'll also visit the 10th-century Khertvisi Fortress. In the afternoon return to Akhaltsikhe and visit the multicultural complex of Rabat (closed on Mondays). Spend the evening with your group at an included dinner at your hotel.
Accommodation
- Hotel Lomsia or similar (1 night)
Included Activities
- Akhaltsikhe - Rabat Fortress
- Meskheti - Khertvisi Fortress
- Vardzia - Cave Town Visit with Local Guide
Meals Included
- Breakfast
- Dinner
Special Information
We recommend wearing sturdy shoes for today’s activity. Steep weathered stairs, sandy platforms and narrow tunnels at this site mean you need to watch your footing. Access to the monastery is by way of a 15-minute walk that is a steep incline. There are local buses available that make this journey which costs GEL 1.
In the morning visit the town of Gori, home to the Stalin Museum, and historic Uplistsikhe Cave Town. Uplistsikhe was a stop on the Great Silk Road, and is a fascinating complex with dwelling quarters, wine cellars, bakeries, a three-nave basilica church hewn out in rock and even a theatre! Afterwards, drive up the renowned Georgian Military Highway, which eventually leads to the Georgia–Russia border. On the way, you'll visit the Ananuri architectural complex – two churches and a fortress that overlook the Zhinvali water reservoir. The carvings on the churches are one of the best surviving examples of Georgian art. Enjoy a scenic drive through the Caucasus Mountains, and arrive at your hotel in Gudauri. Dinner is included at your hotel this evening.
Accommodation
- Marco Polo Hotel or similar (1 night)
Included Activities
- Gori - Stalin Museum
- Uplistsikhe - Cave Complex Visit with Local Guide
- Ananuri - Architectural Complex
Meals Included
- Breakfast
- Dinner
Enjoy a stunning drive from Gudauri along the Tergi River before arriving in Kazbegi. From here, take the mountain road to Gergeti Trinity Church, located at 2170 metres above sea level. Weather depending, you may catch a glimpse of Mt Kazbegi – one of the highest glaciers in the Caucasus. Better yet, it may be possible to return part of the way by cable car – your driver can you drop you at the station in Kobi and you can travel the 7.5 kilometres to Gudauri in a gondola for a bird’s eye view of this landscape. Return to Gudauri this afternoon for time to relax in your hotel. This is the perfect opportunity to enjoy the mountain air and views. Your hotel has many facilities including a bowling alley and a wellness centre, and dinner this evening is included at the hotel.
Accommodation
- Marco Polo Hotel or similar (1 night)
Included Activities
- Stepantsminda - Gergeti Trinity Church
Meals Included
- Breakfast
- Dinner
Enjoy a final breakfast in Gudauri before driving to Sadakhlo – a village at the Georgia–Armenia border. Here, your group will change leaders and transportation. Begin the Armenian leg of your adventure with a visit to Haghpat Monastery, listed as a World Cultural Heritage Site. Haghpat stands as an example of one of the most outstanding works of medieval Armenian architecture. Continue on to the picturesque resort town of Dilijan, often referred to as the ‘Little Switzerland of Armenia’. Dilijan's central Sharambeyan Street has been preserved and maintained as a charming old town, complete with craftsman’s workshops, a gallery and a museum. Stay overnight at a hotel in Dilijan.
Accommodation
- Best Western Paradise Hotel Dilijan or similar (1 night)
Included Activities
- Haghpat - Haghpat Monastery
Meals Included
- Breakfast
Special Information
Today is a long travel day, but the scenery is spectacular and there are plenty of stops to break the day.Depending on the size of the group, your luggage may be transported in a separate vehicle in Armenia, to allow for a comfortable trip.
It can sometimes be difficult to confirm our preferred hotel in Dilijan. For this reason, we have selected alternative hotels. Our alternative hotels are Dilijan Resort and Toon Armeni. If you would like to confirm which hotel your departure will be staying, please contact a Peregrine booking agent.
After breakfast, drive to the reflective waters of Lake Sevan, nicknamed ‘The Pearl of Armenia’. Sevan is one of the largest fresh-water high-altitude lakes in the world. Visit Sevanavank Monastery, which overlooks the water on the Peninsula. Move on to the village of Garni to visit the first century Garni Temple, built by the Armenian King Tiridates and dedicated to Mithra, the God of the Sun. Be treated to a local performance in the temple the magnificent sounds of the Duduk – a flute-like instrument originating to Armenia, and currently listed on the UNESCO in-tangible Cultural Heritage List. Travel northeast of Garni, higher up the gorge of the Azat River, to the magnificent Geghard Monastery. This World Heritage-listed site is partly carved out of a mountain and surrounded by cliffs. In the afternoon, drive to Armenia’s capital – Yerevan. Stay overnight at a hotel in Yerevan.
Accommodation
- Ani Plaza Hotel or similar (1 night)
Included Activities
- Geghard - Geghard Monastery
- Lake Sevan - Sevanavank Monastery
- Garni - Temple Visit & Duduk Performance
Meals Included
- Breakfast
After breakfast, become familiar with the streets of Yerevan on a leader-led city tour. Established in 782 BC, Armenia’s capital is one of the oldest cities in the world. Nowadays, the city’s liveliness comes from its ancient culture mixed with a modern lifestyle. Visit the Matenadaran – home to ancient manuscripts that contain historical documents from all over Europe and Asia. The building also holds the first copy of the Bible in Armenian. In the afternoon, depart for Zvartnots Temple – a stunning example of seventh-century Armenian architecture. Return to the capital in the afternoon to discover Armenian Carpet Making and learn about the weaving process and to swing past the local fruit market before returning to your hotel for the night.
Accommodation
- Ani Plaza Hotel or similar (1 night)
Included Activities
- Yerevan - City Tour with Local Guide
- Vagharshapat - Zvartnots Temple
Meals Included
- Breakfast
Special Information
Departure PCAA201006: Due to museum schedules in Yerevan, on this departure the Yerevan City Tour will happen on the afternoon of Day 13 and Geghard Monastery, Garni Temple, Duduk Performance and Zvartnots tour will occur on Day 14.
Today your adventure comes to an end after breakfast. There are no activities included on this day and you are free to leave at any time.
Meals Included
- Breakfast
Meals
14 breakfasts, 2 lunches, 6 dinnersTransport
Private BusAccommodation
Hotel (13 nights), Royal Batoni (Feature Stay 1 night)Included Activities
- Baku - Maiden's Tower
- Baku - Palace of the Shirvanshahs
- Baku - Caravanserai
- Absheron Peninsula - Half Day Tour
- Qobustan - Petroglyphs
- Baku - Carpet Museum
- Sheki - Mud volcano
- Sheki - Khan's Palace
- Sheki - Stained Glass Workshop Visit
- Shamakhi - Yoghurt Making Master Class
- Sheki - Bazaar Visit
- Kakheti - Gremi Architectural Complex
- Kakheti - Lunch with a Local Family
- Kvareli - Winery Visit
- Tbilisi - Old Town Walking Tour with Local Guide
- Sighnaghi - Village Walk with Local Guide
- Tbilisi - National History Museum
- Tbilisi - Narikala Fortress & Cable Car
- Tbilisi - Enamel Workshop
- Mtskheta - Jvari Church & Svetitskhoveli Cathedral
- Chardakhi - Georgian Wine Tasting & Home Cooked Lunch
- Akhaltsikhe - Rabat Fortress
- Meskheti - Khertvisi Fortress
- Vardzia - Cave Town Visit with Local Guide
- Gori - Stalin Museum
- Uplistsikhe - Cave Complex Visit with Local Guide
- Ananuri - Architectural Complex
- Stepantsminda - Gergeti Trinity Church
- Haghpat - Haghpat Monastery
- Geghard - Geghard Monastery
- Lake Sevan - Sevanavank Monastery
- Garni - Temple Visit & Duduk Performance
- Yerevan - City Tour with Local Guide
- Vagharshapat - Zvartnots Temple
Essential trip information
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