Premium Azerbaijan, Georgia & Armenia
Premium Azerbaijan, Georgia & Armenia
$5655
Premium Azerbaijan, Georgia & Armenia
15 Days Starting in Baku and ending in Yerevan
Visiting: Baku, Qobustan / Baku, Shamaki / Sheki, Sheki / Kakheti Region / Telavi, Telavi/Tbilisi , Tbilisi, Mtskheta / Tserovani / Borjomi, Vardzia / Borjomi, Gori/ Gudauri, Caucasus Mountains / Stepantsminda / Gudauri, Haghpat/ Dzoraget, Lake Sevan / Garni / Geghard / Yerevan, Yerevan
Tour operator:
Tour code:
KMPC
Guide Type:
Fully Guided
Group size:
1 - 12
Age range:
15-99 years
Trip Styles:
Interests:
Activities:
Tour Overview
Watch arid landscapes give way to verdant hillsides and snow-capped mountains on this 15-day Premium adventure through Azerbaijan, Georgia and Armenia. Explore a land where the walls speak of centuries of rich history and where ancient traditions intersect with modern geopolitics. Journey with an expert local leader and a small group of keen adventurers through forests, past tall mountain peaks, to cultural marvels. Taste the delectable cuisine and experience the local hospitality with plenty of opportunity to rub shoulders with the locals. Wander through cosmopolitan Baku, make friends in Tbilisi and end up in Yerevan – Armenia’s centre of culture.
Highlights
Itinerary
Day 1: Baku
Location: Baku
Accommodation: City Park Hotel or similar
Meals Included: dinner
Salam eleykim! Welcome to Azerbaijan. When you arrive at Baku Airport, you'll be met by a representative and transferred to your hotel. Baku is where ancient fortified buildings stand next to Russian imperial-style squares and ultra-modern architectural wonders. Your adventure begins with a welcome meeting at 6 pm tonight, where you’ll meet your local leader and fellow travellers. If you arrive with time to spare, maybe walk down Nizami Street and observe its Baroque, Neo-Gothic and Neo-Renaissance architecture. After your meeting, head out for a local dinner with your newfound companions.
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Day 2: Baku
Location: Baku
Accommodation: City Park Hotel or similar
Meals Included: breaksfast
This morning, embark on a tour of the city with a local guide. Visit the fortified Old City, once the Medieval capital, where your guide will weave together the history of Baku, from the rule of the Shirvanshahs to the cosmopolitan city you see today. Stop by the Shemakha Gate, Maiden Tower (visit optional), Old Market Square and end with a guided tour of the Palace of the Shirvanshahs. Be sure to bring your camera as there will be some panoramic views of Baku's varied skyline. The rest of the day is free to explore at your own pace.
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Day 3: Qobustan / Baku
Location: Qobustan / Baku
Accommodation: City Park Hotel or similar
Meals Included: breaksfast
This morning, head out of the city on a half day trip to Qobustan, about 60 km south of Baku. Stop off along the way to view old oil rigs and learn how Azerbaijan was one of the birthplaces of the oil industry. Visit Qobustan National Park and one of the world's largest open-air archaeological museums, where a local guide will share the stories of 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 for free time. Maybe visit one of Baku's most significant modern landmarks – the Heydar Aliyev Center designed by Zaha Hadid. This evening, you might like to take a 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.
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Day 4: Shamaki / Sheki
Location: Shamaki / Sheki
Accommodation: Sheki Palace Hotel or similar
Meals Included: breaksfast, dinner
Leave Baku and head for the Caucasus Mountains in the northwest of Azerbaijan. Watch arid landscapes slowly give way to densely forested mountains. Along the way, you’ll stop at the Yeddi Gumbaz Mausoleum and the Juma Mosque in Shamakhi. When you arrive in Sheki, visit a local craft workshop where the famous shebeke (stained-glass windows with intricately carved frames) are made by hand. You’ll also visit the acclaimed Palace of Shaki Khans to see its magnificent frescoes and stained glass. Enjoy a final evening of Azerbaijani cuisine during an included dinner at a local restaurant.
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Day 5: Sheki / Kakheti Region / Telavi
Location: Sheki / Kakheti Region / Telavi
Accommodation: Savaneti Hotel or similar
Meals Included: breaksfast, lunch
Have breakfast at the hotel before driving to Lagodekhi – a town at the Azerbaijan–Georgia border where you’ll change transportation. From here, travel to Georgia's Kakheti region, known for its winemaking. Have lunch with a local wine making family, which includes delicious homemade cuisine, wine and chacha (a local brandy). There will also be time to listen to unique Georgian polyphonic songs – a traditional style of music prevalent in the Kakheti region. After, travel to your beautiful accommodation near Telavi, tucked into the foothills of the Tsiv-Gombori mountains. Your hotel has a swimming pool, a marvellous on-site restaurant and unbeatable views of the Alazani Valley and Caucasus mountains.
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Day 6: Telavi/Tbilisi
Location: Telavi/Tbilisi
Accommodation: Museum Hotel or similar
Meals Included: breaksfast
Following breakfast, explore the famous Telavi Bazaar. Wander through stalls selling fresh produce and aromatic spices as your leader picks out some local specialties for you to try. After snacking your way through the market, drive to Tbilisi. You’re free to explore at your own pace when you arrive, so you might like to wander the old districts of Georgia’s capital to see the colourful houses, patterned balconies and revamped modern architecture. Your leader will always have some great restaurant recommendations ready for dinner.
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Day 7: Tbilisi
Location: Tbilisi
Accommodation: Museum Hotel or similar
Meals Included: breaksfast
This morning you’ll head out on a walking tour with a local guide, which includes the 13th-century Metekhi Church and amazing views over old Tbilisi. Take a cable car to the ancient Narikala Fortress – a former Persian citadel with a history stretching back to the 4th century. Here, your guide will share the layered history of the fortress while you take in sweeping views across Tbilisi. Then make your way to a historic part of the city where you’ll learn a little more about Tbilisi’s past. The name translates to ‘warm place,’ which is thought to be after the bubbling hot springs the city was built around. This afternoon, maybe visit one of the local bathhouses for a dip.
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Day 8: Mtskheta / Tserovani / Borjomi
Location: Mtskheta / Tserovani / Borjomi
Accommodation: Golden Tulip Hotel (Feature Stay) or similar
Meals Included: breaksfast, lunch
Today, you’ll visit Mtskheta – the ancient capital and religious centre of Georgia. Visit World Heritage-listed sites with your local guide as they share fascinating histories. After, visit the Tserovani Refugee Settlement – home to 8000 people displaced by the 2008 conflict between the Russian Federation and the Republic of Georgia over South Ossetia. While here you’ll visit an enamel jewellery workshop run by a social enterprise offering training and employment to displaced youth and women within the settlement. Meet the artists whose pieces tell the story of Georgia, and with their guidance, maybe even design a piece for yourself. Have a light lunch, then tour the settlement to learn about the issues surrounding long-term displacement faced by thousands of Georgia’s citizens. In the afternoon, drive to Borjomi Spa Town, famous for its naturally fizzy mineral water. Stay overnight at your Feature Stay hotel here, located in the former residence of the Iranian consul in a building with almost 130 years of history.
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Day 9: Vardzia / Borjomi
Location: Vardzia / Borjomi
Accommodation: Golden Tulip Hotel (Feature Stay) or similar
Meals Included: breaksfast
Today, drive to the once mighty cave city of Vardzia, with a stop along the way at the 10th-century Khertvisi Fortress. Vardzia 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 12th-century frescos and the complex also includes dwelling quarters, small hall-type churches, refectories and wine cellars. Tour the site with a local guide who will provide historical context and explain the rise and fall of the city, which now serves as a working monastery. Head back to Borjomi for the evening, and maybe ask your leader to recommend the tastiest Georgian dishes for dinner, like khinkali (spicy dumplings) or tatarberaki (a local Meskhetian version of pasta).
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Optional Activities:
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Day 10: Gori/ Gudauri
Location: Gori/ Gudauri
Accommodation: Marco Polo Hotel or similar
Meals Included: breaksfast, dinner
In the morning you’ll visit Gori – the birthplace of Joseph Stalin. Your leader will take you on a city tour before you visit the Stalin Museum. See the sites of Gori, including The Memorial of Georgian War Heroes and Gori Fortress, and delve into its artistic side to see traditional ornamental mosaics. After, drive 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. Your leader will explain how the carvings on the churches are some of the best surviving examples of Georgian art. Take a scenic drive through the Caucasus Mountains and arrive at your hotel in Gudauri, where you’ll have dinner with the group.
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Day 11: Caucasus Mountains / Stepantsminda / Gudauri
Location: Caucasus Mountains / Stepantsminda / Gudauri
Accommodation: Marco Polo Hotel or similar
Meals Included: breaksfast, dinner
Enjoy a scenic drive from Gudauri along the Tergi River before arriving in Stepantsminda. From here, head into the heart of the Caucasus Mountains, hop in 4WDs and take the mountain road to Gergeti Trinity Church, 2170 m above sea level. Weather depending, you may catch a glimpse of Mt Kazbegi. On the way back to Gudauri, stop at the small village of Sno to explore the local version of Easter Island – a park with half a dozen massive stone heads representing famous figures of Georgian history. Return to Gudauri this afternoon for some free time – the perfect opportunity to enjoy the mountain air and views. Your hotel has many facilities, including a wellness centre.
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Day 12: Haghpat/ Dzoraget
Location: Haghpat/ Dzoraget
Accommodation: Avan Dzoraget Hotel or similar
Meals Included: breaksfast, lunch
Have breakfast in Gudauri before driving to Sadakhlo – a village at the Georgia–Armenia border. On the way to the border, stop in Tbilisi to break the journey and have lunch. Continue to Armenia and after completing all the formalities, 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 and your leader will give you an introduction to the country’s history and design. Continue to Dzoraget, where you’ll spend the night surrounded by views of the Debed River.
Included Activities:
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Day 13: Lake Sevan / Garni / Geghard / Yerevan
Location: Lake Sevan / Garni / Geghard / Yerevan
Accommodation: Tufenkian Historic Yerevan Hotel or similar
Meals Included: breaksfast
After breakfast, you'll meet your Armenian driver and local guide and 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, where your guide will explain how it was built by the Armenian King Tiridates and dedicated to Mithra, the God of the Sun. Be treated to a special local performance in the temple and hear the magnificent sounds of the Duduk – a flute-like instrument originating in 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 UNESCO World Heritage-listed site is partly carved out of a mountain and surrounded by cliffs. In the afternoon, drive to Armenia’s capital, Yerevan, where you’ll spend the next two evenings.
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Day 14: Yerevan
Location: Yerevan
Accommodation: Tufenkian Historic Yerevan Hotel or similar
Meals Included: breaksfast, dinner
This morning your local guide will introduce you to the sights and sounds of Yerevan on a tour of the city. 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 Armenian Genocide Museum to learn the tragic history of this region, then the afternoon is free for reflection or further exploration. Tonight, join your group for a final dinner at a local restaurant. Armenian cuisine is built on a foundation of fresh local produce and meat. Maybe try some khorovats (a barbecued kebab) or spas (a refreshing yoghurt soup).
Included Activities:
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Day 15: Yerevan
Location: Yerevan
Meals Included: breaksfast
Your adventure comes to an end after breakfast this morning. If you would like to spend some more time in Yerevan, just speak to your booking agent ahead of time to organise additional accommodation.
What's Included
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Baku - Welcome Dinner at Local Restaurant
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Baku - Complimentary Airport Arrival Transfer
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Absheron Peninsula - Half Day Tour
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Baku - Caravanserai
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Baku - Walking Tour with Local Guide
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Absheron Peninsula - Ateshgah Fire Temple, Mardakan Medieval Fortress & Yanar Dag (Fire Mountain)
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Qobustan - Half Day Trip
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Qobustan - Petroglyphs
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Sheki - Khan's Palace
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Sheki - Stained Glass Workshop Visit
What's Not Included
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Tipping and Gratuities
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International Travel
Transport
- This trip includes some long travel days and some rough travelling in areas away from main tourist routes. Windy roads and rough surfaces make for some challenging travel experiences. On some long travel days we depart early in the morning to ensure we optimize our time at our next destination. If you experience travel sickness we recommend you consider medication to help ease the discomfort.
Accommodation
- The style of accommodation indicated in the day-to-day itinerary is a guideline only and may change. On some occasions, alternative arrangements may need to be made due to the lack of availability of rooms in our preferred accommodation. In these cases, we will use a similar standard of accommodation.
- Throughout the trip, we request that our properties prepare rooms in time for our arrival, especially if we're arriving prior to normal check-in time. However, this isn't always possible which means we won't be able to check-in immediately on arrival at some hotels. Instead, we can store our luggage and explore our new destination or on some trips, have use of shared day rooms until all rooms are available.
Important Information
- 1. A complimentary airport arrival transfer is included; valid if you are arriving on Day 1 or if you have booked pre-tour accommodation through us. You must provide your flight details to your booking agent at least 14 days prior to travel.
- 2. A single supplement is available if you’d prefer not to share a room?on this trip. The single supplement applies to all nights of your trip?and is subject to availability. Please speak to your booking agent for further information.
- 3. Due to current border crossing restrictions for different Caucasus nationalities, your Trip Leader may be from nearby countries. Your leader will have in-depth knowledge and extensive travel experience throughout the Caucasus. Local guides from Georgia, Azerbaijan and Armenia are represented throughout the itinerary to ensure you receive a diverse and uniquely local range of perspectives.
- 4. The Formula 1 Grand Prix will take place in Baku from September 13 – 15, 2024. During this period, streets may be closed and traffic may be heavy.
- 5. This trip can be enjoyed by just about anyone with a reasonable level of fitness. Some trips may have individual inclusions that may be of a higher physical rating compared to the overall rating of the trip. Please read the day-to-day itinerary carefully to find out more details on each day's activities, and whether they are suitable for you. Activities can be opted out of if you don't want to participate.
Check out our Q&As
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Are airport transfers included in this tour?
Yes, Complimentary arrival airport transfer
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Are international flights included in this tour?
No
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Are all the relevant entry visa’s included in the price of the tour?
No
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Are the local guides on the tour English speaking?
Yes
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Are children permitted to take part in the tour?
Yes if aged 15+ and accompanied by an adult
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Are all entrance fees included in the price?
No
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Is this trip right for you
Although the climate in all three countries is relatively mild, the temperatures in high-altitude mountain regions (over 2000 m) can be much lower.
This 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.
On some days, there is a lot of walking between sites and around towns and cities, so make sure you bring comfortable walking shoes with good support.
There are some long travel days on this adventure. This is a great opportunity to get to know your fellow travellers and enjoy the passing scenery. 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. -
What policies are in place for Covid-19?
Please contact us for latest COVID-19 policies
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How long has the tour company been trading?
Intrepid Travel has been taking travellers around the world for over 30 years
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Will the accommodation included meet local health and safety regulations?
Yes
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What Ethical Travel credentials does the tour company have?
Since 2002, The Intrepid Foundation has supported over 130 organisations across the world. We’re creating positive impact through the joy of travel, community and connection.
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Do you operate a “single share” option and how does it work?
Over 50% of traveller travel solo with Intrepid. You can choose to share a room with another solo travelle of the same sex for no additional charge, or choose to pay a single supplement if you’d like your own room. Please request this when booking, and we will secure you a single supplement wherever possible. Please note, if you are booking a last-minute trip, it may be harder for us to secure a single room
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Free Date Changes
Intrepid Travel allows you to make 10 free date changes, as long as the change is made at least 56 days before the start of the tour.
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Transfer as credit to Future Tours
Intrepid Travel allows you to transfer existing payments to a future tour to avoid cancellation fees if you can't travel and inform intrepid travel, 56 days before departure.
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Low Deposit
Intrepid Travel requires a minimum deposit of 400 USD per person or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 56 days before departure.
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Cancellation Policy
We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of intrepid travel charges.
Up to 56 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.
At 55 days before tour starts: Forfeit 30% of booking price.
At 30 days before tour starts: Forfeit 60% of booking price.
At 14 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.
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Terms and Conditions