Welcome to Baku, the magnificent capital of Azerbaijan.

On arrival at Heydar Aliyev International Airport (GYD), make your own way to your hotel located in the very heart of the dynamic and vibrant city center where the rest of the day is at leisure.

Alternatively, you can pre book a private arrival transfer where a representative will meet you on arrival and transfer you to the hotel via the booking process.

Begin your day with breakfast before meeting your local guide for a full day exploration of Baku. Our journey starts with a visit to Hillside Park and Martyr’s Avenue, perched on the elevated slopes of the city's western end, providing striking views of the city and Bay of Baku. Witness Baku's transition from decaying Soviet structures of the 1960s to the exquisite capital adorned with new, almost Parisian architecture and seaside promenades.

Later, embark on a guided tour of "The Old Town," a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a continuously inhabited historic area where archaeological excavations have unveiled Bronze Age burial chambers, dating back over 1,500 years. Navigate through a labyrinth of alleys, dead ends, and caravanserais, often referred to as the 'Acropolis of Baku.' Explore carpet shops and cafes, and don't miss the chance to sample hot lavash bread at a tea café, freshly pulled from clay ovens. Visit the 1761-1762 built Shirvanshah’s palace, glimpse the Maiden Tower, and ascend for panoramic views of the historic enclave.

Return to your hotel to unwind before a welcome dinner at a traditional restaurant, featuring authentic local cuisine and a glass of wine, shared with your fellow travellers.

Following breakfast, we set off to Gobustan National Park, renowned for its ancient rock petroglyphs and mud volcanoes dating back to the 8th millennium BC. Listed on UNESCO's World Heritage List, the park features remarkably preserved rock carvings portraying prehistoric life in the Caucasus. The petroglyphs depict scenes of ancient people using reed boats, hunting antelope and wild bulls, and engaging in dances.

Later, an excursion to the captivating mud volcanoes awaits. Gobustan houses around 300 of the world's 700 mud volcanoes, situated between the park and the Caspian Sea. These craters contain mud believed to possess medicinal properties, attracting tourists who indulge in mineral-rich mud baths.

In the late afternoon, return to your hotel with time to freshen up before enjoying dinner with the group this evening.

After breakfast, our exploration of Baku carries on. We kick off with a guided tour of the local bazaar, where your guide will acquaint you with vendors and regional produce. Our next stop is the remarkable Heydar Aliyev Cultural Center, an architectural marvel by Iraqi-British designer Zaha Hadid. Known for its fluid, curved design mirroring the landscape's contours. Next, your guide escorts you to the Baku Fire Temple, also called Atashgah, a fortress-like Hindu temple turned museum, intertwined with local legends of Zoroastrian fire worship.

Continuing our journey, we reach Yanardag, or the 'burning mountain,' where natural gas vents fuel perpetual flames on the hillside, with flames reaching 3 metres in the air from porous sandstone. 

We return to the hotel later this afternoon, granting you relaxation time before a group dinner.

Following breakfast, our journey leads us by road to Shemakha, formerly a significant capital and trade hub for western Azerbaijan, now a small town rich in heritage. Despite enduring eleven major earthquakes, Shemakha has persisted as the economic and administrative heart of Shirvan and a pivotal Silk Road stop. Discover the striking Juma Mosque of Shamakhi, a 10th century marvel. Our next stop is the Yeddi Gumbez mausoleum, dating back to the 18th century, where only three of the original seven structures have endured.

Continuing the drive, we arrive at Sheki, an ancient settlement and cultural nucleus of Azerbaijan. Nestled 2,300 feet above sea level, Sheki is like an amphitheater encircled by mountains, oak forests, and fertile pastures. Founded over 2,700 years ago on the southern slopes of the Major Caucasus Mountains, Sheki is renowned for the Royal Summer Palace of Sheki Khans. The palace boasts breathtaking frescoes extending up to 80 feet and intricate stained glass work. Constructed in 1762 without using a single nail, it stands as a remarkable relic of its era. A highlight awaits at Yukhari Caravanserai, an architectural gem resting in forested hills with panoramic Caucasus views.

We will settle into our Sheki hotel and enjoy a delightful dinner tonight.

Following breakfast, our journey progresses as we cross the border into Georgia. Upon reaching the Lagodekhi Border, we switch vehicles and are warmly received by a local Georgian guide, who will accompany us through their captivating country.

Today, we delve into the enchanting and exceptionally fertile region of Kakheti in Georgia. This area borders the Great Caucasus range to the north, with the Alazani Valley showcasing peaks surpassing 3,000 metres. As the birthplace of viticulture and winemaking, it's fitting that we pause to explore a local winery for lunch and wine tasting.

Post-lunch, we head to the remarkable Gremi Fortress. This architectural gem from the 16th century boasts a royal citadel and the Archangels Church. Our journey continues to the Alazani valley, where we visit the elegant 11th century Alaverdi Cathedral. Founded by Assyrian monk Joseph Alaverdeli, the cathedral's roots are in a former pagan village, where it played a vital role in Christian conversion.

This afternoon, we arrive in Telavi, the principal city and administrative hub of Georgia's eastern Kakheti province. Here, you have the remainder of the day at your leisure.

Enjoy breakfast this morning before immersing yourself in the local farmers market in Telavi with your guide. Following this we set a course for Tbilisi. 

En route, a captivating pause awaits at the Tsinandali Family Estate and wine cellar, nestled in the heart of Georgia's renowned wine region. Once owned by the 19th century aristocratic poet Alexander Chavchavadze, this historic landmark unfolds the original Chavchavadze Palace, erected in 1886, and an astonishing 18-hectare garden featuring 1600 exotic plant species from across the globe.

Our journey proceeds, taking us to Sighnaghi, a fortified town famed for its wine culture. Revel in panoramic vistas of the Kizikhi area and the unique charm of Sighnaghi Royal Town. Meander through narrow streets adorned with intricately carved wooden balconies. Enjoy a wine tasting accompanied by lunch and later, visit the Bodbe Nunnery, the resting place of St. Nino, the 4th century female evangelist of Georgians.

Our road stretches onward to Tbilisi, Georgia's capital. Its cobblestone old town bears witness to a complex history, featuring Persian and Russian influences. The cityscape boasts diverse architecture, including Eastern Orthodox churches, ornate Art Nouveau structures, and Soviet Modernist designs. Dominating the skyline are Narikala, a reconstructed 4th century fortress, and Kartlis Deda, the iconic "Mother of Georgia" statue.

Upon arrival, settle into our centrally located hotel in this enchanting city, followed by dinner.

Start your day with breakfast before joining your guide for an exploration of the captivating and historically rich city of Tbilisi. This city has witnessed the rule of traders, warriors, tyrants, and dictators in succession.

Stroll through the old town, immersing yourself in a vivid living history. Discover the Metekhi Church of Assumption (13th century), perched atop a hill and constructed by King Demetre II. This church exemplifies the style of cross-domed Georgian Orthodox architecture. Explore further as we visit the Georgian Synagogue from 1895, the Sioni Cathedral (6th-19th centuries), and the remarkable Anchiskhati Basilica (6th century), the city's oldest surviving church. 

Continuing our journey, we reach the Narikala Fortress, Tbilisi's primary citadel, offering panoramic views of the city. Our tour also encompasses Rustaveli Avenue, Tbilisi's central boulevard, named after the medieval Georgian poet Shota Rustaveli.

Afterward, return to your hotel, granting you a leisurely afternoon and evening to enjoy as you please

Following breakfast, our journey leads us to Mtskheta, the ancient capital of Georgia. Begin with a visit to the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Jvari, a 6th century monastery with a cross-shaped design, perched atop a cliff offering a commanding view of the confluence of the Aragvi and Mtkvari rivers. This spot marks where St. Nino, a female evangelist, erected a large wooden cross on the remnants of a pagan temple. 

Continue to Svetitskhoveli, an 11th century fortified cathedral. This revered site is said to house the burial place of the Robe of Christ.

Our route along the Georgian Military Highway leads us to Ananuri. Discover the remarkable architectural complex and former residence of the Dukes of the Aragvi region. This site boasts churches and towers from the 16th and 17th centuries, standing amidst breathtaking views of Jinvali reservoir.

As we arrive in Kazbegi, check into your design hotel, embraced by picturesque mountains and the extraordinary scenery that defines this unique corner of the world.

Enjoy breakfast while gazing upon the magnificent mountains, setting the stage for our exploration of Kazbegi with your knowledgeable guide. Nestled in the shadow of Mt. Kazbek, the seventh highest peak in the Caucasus Mountains, this small town has deep-rooted significance. Linked to the myth of Prometheus, the mountain is said to be the site where he was chained as punishment for granting fire to mortals.

Embark on a hike to the iconic 14th century Gergeti Holy Trinity Church, one of Georgia's most photographed and recognized landmarks. Perched at 2170 metres below Mt. Kazbek, this church held both spiritual and protective roles, serving as a sanctuary during historical invasions. Poised like a fortress atop a towering Georgian peak, it offered refuge from adversaries. Delight in the breathtaking panorama before descending and resuming our journey back to Tbilisi, including a lunch stop en route. The evening is free for you to enjoy at your leisure.

Please note: the hike to Gergeti Holy Trinity Church involves a 60-75-minute ascent to the top and an equal descent with resting time. The trail is rated as "intermediate," featuring a steep final uphill stretch. Moderate fitness is required for this excursion. If the climb is challenging, local transportation is available at an additional cost.

Today's excursion takes you on a captivating journey as we drive just over an hour to the heart of the Shida Kartli region, arriving in Gori – renowned as the birthplace of Soviet leader Joseph Stalin. Immerse yourself in the Stalin's Museum, where you can explore the house of his birth and his personal railway carriage.

We also visit Uplistsikhe, translated as "The Fortress of God." This ancient cave town dates back to the first half of the 1st millennium BC. Positioned at the crossroads of vital trade routes and approximately 10 kilometres from Gori, Uplistsikhe boasts a rich history. Your guide will unveil its complex narrative: a hub of paganism featuring an intricate ensemble of halls, caves, theatres, altars, pagan temples, hidden passages, prisons, a pharmacy, and streets – all hewn from stone across a 4-hectare expanse. After being buried under layers of dirt and sand, this area has been meticulously excavated, with extensive restoration efforts in place. As a result, it stands proudly among UNESCO's protected historical monuments.

Upon our return to Tbilisi, the remainder of the day is yours to enjoy at your own pace

Today marks our departure from Georgia as we transition to the Sadakhlo border, crossing into Armenia. At this border juncture, we switch vehicles and connect with our Armenian guide, who will lead us through the next leg of our journey.

En route to Yerevan, a remarkable stop awaits at Haghpat Monastery, also known as Haghpatavank. This medieval monastery complex, erected between the 10th and 13th centuries, holds historical significance. Founded in around 976 by Queen Khosrovanuysh, consort of Bagratid King Ashot III, the monastery has earned its place as a vital UNESCO World Heritage site.

Our drive then directs us to Lake Sevan, one of the planet's highest freshwater lakes. Nestled in the central expanse of the Republic of Armenia within the Gegharkunik Province, the lake sits at an altitude of 1,900 metres above sea level. Here, we explore the enchanting Sevanavank Monastery. An inscription within one of the churches traces its establishment back to 874, credited to Princess Mariam, the daughter of Ashot I when at that time, Armenia was struggling to liberate itself from Arab rule.

Our drive continues to Yerevan arriving in the early evening.

Today unfolds with a captivating walking tour of Yerevan, guided by a local expert. Delve into the city's multifaceted history, uncovering hidden medieval shrines concealed behind imposing Soviet-style facades. Wander the narrow lanes of the old centre, where sunlight dances upon pink-hued walls. Our path leads us to landmarks like Republic Square, Aboyan Street, the visionary Northern Avenue – an emblem of Armenia's ambition as an independent nation – the Opera House, and the Cascade. A must-see cultural gem is the Matenadaran library, a repository of countless ancient Greek and Armenian manuscripts, commanding attention along the main avenue.

Subsequently, we then drive to Khor Virap, an Armenian monastery situated in the Ararat plain near the Turkish border. Hosting a theological seminary and serving as the residence of Armenian Catholicos, this site stands as a monument of immense cultural and historical import in Armenia. The name "Khor Virap" translates to "deep pit," and this is where Saint Gregory the Illuminator endured 13 years of captivity. Dating back to the 7th century, this ancient monastery is also steeped in legend and is the legendary resting place of Noah's Ark.

Returning to Yerevan, the remainder of the day is yours to enjoy at your leisure.

Start your day with breakfast at the hotel, then join your guide for another day of enriching exploration and historical immersion. Our first destination is the Ejmiatsin Cathedral, the spiritual nucleus of the Armenian Apostolic Church. Situated in Vagharshapat (Etchmiadzin), this cathedral is widely recognized as the first built in ancient Armenia, often heralded as the oldest cathedral in the world.

Next, we proceed to the Zvartnots Cathedral, a 7th century Armenian cathedral boasting a centrally planned aisled tetraconch design. Erected under the patronage of Catholicos Nerses the Builder from 643 to 652, the cathedral now stands in ruins at the periphery of Vagharshapat (Etchmiadzin) in the Armavir Province. Designated a UNESCO protected site, Zvartnots' archaeological remains provide vivid insight into the evolution of the Armenian central-domed cross-hall architectural style, which significantly impacted the artistic and structural development of the region.

Returning to Yerevan, we explore the Vernissage open-air market. Extending over 350 metres, this market emerged during the 1980s as Armenian artists showcased their creations. Over time, it has grown into Yerevan's largest open-air market, displaying a diverse array of carved wood items, artworks, traditional carpets, ancient coin collections, medallions, books, jewellery, musical instruments, and more.

Begin your day with breakfast before embarking on a 40-minute drive to the neighbouring town of Garni.  Here, we explore the Temple of Garni, erected in 77 AD during the reign of King Tiridates I. This remarkable structure, dedicated to the sun god Mithra after King Tiridates I's triumph over the Roman army, stands as Armenia's sole surviving pagan temple.

Following our temple visit, we journey to the UNESCO-listed Geghard Cave Monastery nearby. Dating back to the 12th-13th centuries, this monastic complex hosts an array of churches and tombs, many carved directly into the rock. These architectural wonders epitomise the zenith of Armenian medieval design. 

Following an insightful exploration guided by your expert guide, we return to Yerevan, granting you time to unwind before we gather for a farewell dinner. As we raise a glass of local wine in a toast, we celebrate not only an incredible adventure but also the bonds forged among newfound friends.

Your tour concludes at the hotel after breakfast. At the appropriate time make your own way to the airport for your onward flight.  

A private departure transfer to the airport can be booked at an additional charge via the booking process.