Ultimate Caucasus
Baku, Shaki, Telavi, Tbilisi, Kazbegi, Kutaisi, Mestia, Borjomi, Dilijan & Yerevan
based on 14 nights inc. flights & daily experiences
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* Pricing is a guideline only and excludes special offers. Travel over peak periods (e.g. Christmas, New Year and other public holidays) can affect prices considerably, as can exchange rates, flight class and room type.
Price includes:
Accommodation
Private transfers
Daily experiences
Daily Breakfast
Entrance fees
Price is based on two people sharing one room.
At a Glance
Breathtaking valleys ornamented with isolated UNESCO churches and monasteries
Idyllic retreat to the Caucasus mountains straddling between Europe and Asia
Sip a glass of Saperavi in style at the oldest wine civilization
Feel the vibrant pulse of cultural Tbilisi and the handsome Russian edifices of Yerevan
Bizarre subterranean mud volcanoes, fire mountains and rock carvings of Azerbaijan
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Best time to Visit
Good time to visit
Average time to visit
Caucasus is a year-round destination. During the summer months from late June to August, visitors can experience pleasant temperatures and dry weather ideal for hiking, whilst those visiting in the rainy months of April to June can enjoy beautiful foliage in between showers. Snowfall is common in the colder months between December and March, bringing a different beauty to the Caucasus Mountains.
We design each itinerary around you, so this suggested itinerary is a starting point that we can tweak or transform into something completely bespoke to you. Call us on 020 3993 8476 to start planning your holiday.
Itinerary
Home to some of the last frontiers linking Asia with Europe, start from the bizarre Azerbaijan through the pristine countryside and cities of Georgia before retreating to rural Armenia with its picturesque monasteries.
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Fly into Baku
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Days 1-3: Baku
Your trip begins in Azerbaijan's capital. Baku is a city of contrast with metropolitan towers jutting amongst historic monuments. Explore the Old Town of Baku, the State Carpet Museum and admire a panoramic city view.
Be dazzled by Gobustan rock carvings, the gurgling Mud Volcanoes, the UNESCO-listed Zoroastrian Fire Temple of Ateshgyakh and the Burning Mountain of Yanar Dagh.
Accommodation: Intourist Hotel Baku, Autograph Collection (2 nights)
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Days 3-4: Shaki
A scenic drive through Azeri countryside brings you along Daribaba Mausoleum, Djuma Mosque, Yeddi Gumbaz royal mausoleum and onwards to Shaki. In Shaki, which is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site, make a visit to Shekhi Khan Palace with its intricate Persian-influenced architectures.
Accommodation: Marxal Resort & Spa (1 night)
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Days 4-5: Telavi
Feel the awe of Georgian countryside as you pass through the Kakheti, the birthplace of wine-making, onwards to Sighnaghi, an 18th century town with an Italian feel.
Accommodation: Chateau Mere (1 night)
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Days 5-7: Tbilisi
En route to David Gareja for a hike through the rock-hewn monastery complex by the Georgian-Azerbaijan border. Onwards to Tbilisi, where you will enjoy a sightseeing through the churches, monasteries and synagogue with sunset cable car ride to Narikala Fortress.
Accommodation: Mercure Tbilisi Old Town (2 nights)
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Days 7-8: Kazbegi
A scenic drive brings you through 16th century Ananuri fortress and Gudauri ski resort into Kazbegi. In Kazbegi, walk up to the scenic Tsminda Sameba Church, perched on top of a hill overlooking the Kazbegi village.
Accommodation: Hotel Porta Caucasia Kazbegi (1 night)
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Days 8-9: Kutaisi
Driving from Kazbegi to Kutaisi, you will make stops at the historical Mtshketa, the Stalin House-Museum in Gori and Uplistsikhe cave town. In Kutaisi, you will make a visit to Bagrati Cathedral and Gelati Monastery which has some of the most well-preserved frescoes and mosaics in Caucasus.
Accommodation: Best Western Kutaisi (1 night)
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Days 9-11: Mestia
In the Svanetian capital of Mestia, you will have a 4WD excursion to Ushguli village, the highest continuously inhabited settlements in Europe. Take a walk in the rural Svaneti and visit St. Mary's Church.
Accommodation: Hotel Banguriani (2 nights)
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Days 11-12: Borjomi
After a long day of driving from Mestia to Borjomi, take it easy and rest in Borjomi, a town famous for its mineral water.
Accommodation: Crowne Plaza Borjomi (1 night)
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Days 12-13: Dilijan
Unravel the mysterious UNESCO monastic complexes of Haghpat and Sanahin, outstanding examples of medieval Armenian architecture. En route to Saghmosavank monastery, seated near the breathtaking Qasakh canyon.
Accommodation: Best Western Plus Paradise Hotel Dilijan (1 night)
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Days 13-15: Yerevan
From Dzoraget to Yerevan, a scenic detour takes you to the picturesque Lake Sevan with its twin monasteries.
Feel the pulse of the heart-wrenching Armenian stories in Yerevan. Step into Echmiadzin, Armenia's own Vatican City and the nearby Zvartnots ruins.
On your final day, make a trip to 3 beloved Armenian icons: Khor Virap set against the picturesque Mt. Ararat backdrop, the Garni pagan temple and the rock-cut Geghard monastery.
Accommodation: Armenia Marriott Hotel Yerevan (2 nights)
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Fly home from Yerevan
Experiences
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Absheron Peninsula: Fire Temple & Burning Mountain
Admire the UNESCO-listed Zoroastrian Fire Temple of Ateshgyakh and the Burning Mountain Yanar Dagh.
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Ananuri & Gudauri
Travel between Tbilisi and Kazbegi, stopping at Ananuri Fortress and Gudauri Ski Resort en-route.
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Ancient Capital of Mtshketa
Follow the footprints of time into Mtshketa , the ancient capital of Eastern Georgia. Visit Jvari Monastery and Svetitskhoveli Cathedral.
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Armenian Genocide Museum & Memorial
Discover Armenian spirit through their heartbreaking tales in the Memorial Park and Museum of the Armenian Genocide.
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Ascend to Zuruldi Restaurant
Let us take you up to the highest restaurant in Svaneti at the Zuruldi mountain within 10 minutes.
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Azerlime Carpet Manufacturing Centre
Gain insights in the carpet-waiving processions, how the nets are made, coloured, as well as a show room of ready-made carpets.
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Bagrati Cathedral & Gelati Monastery
Visit Bagrati Cathedral and the UNESCO-listed Gelati Monastery in Kutaisi.
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Batumi City Tour
See the best of Batumi, including Piazza Square, Europe Square and a walk through the promenade to admire the city skyline.
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Boat Tour of Caspian Sea
Enjoy a short cruise around the Baku Bay with a picturesque view of the Baku skyline.
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Borjomi Park
Enjoy a relaxing walk through Borjomi Park.
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Caspian Sea in Private Yacht with Black Caviar & Champagne Tasting
Enjoy a private yacht cruise around the Baku Bay with a picturesque view of the Baku skyline. During the cruise, you will also enjoy black caviar and champagne tasting.
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Ceramic Workshop
We will visit Terracotta Art Studio for a workshop in pottery and ceramics techniques. A craftsman will demonstrate and explain the potter's wheel work, narrate about Armenian traditions and techniques in clay and pottery.
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Chalaadi Glacier
Hike 8km to the tongue of this massively breathtaking glacial valley.
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Chateau Mukhrani in Mtshketa
With architecture based on the Georgian Royal Palace, a winery tour and wine tasting at the historic Chateau Mukhrani is an essential experience for wine aficionados.
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Cognac Tasting
We will visit the Brandy Factory of Yerevan with tasting of three types of Armenian cognac, including the 20-year-old Nairi cognac and 10-year-old Dvin cognac.
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Cooking Class at Traditional Georgian Restaurant
Get acquainted with Georgian cuisine and learn how to make various Georgian dishes, including the famous khinkali dumplings.
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David Gareja Rock-Cut Churches
Visit David Gareja monastery complex, a rock-hewn monastery along Georgian-Azerbaijan border, including Lavra and Udabno monasteries.
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Dinner at Shirvanshah Museum Restaurant
Enjoy a sumptuous dinner while soaking in the opulent atmosphere of Azeri heritage.
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Dolma-Making Masterclass
Today, you will learn how to make a traditional cuisine called dolma, made from grape leaves stuffed with meat, at the Sheki's Karvansaray.
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Drive through Azeri Countryside
Enjoy a scenic drive with stops at Daribaba Mausoleum, Djuma Mosque, Yeddi Gumbaz royal mausoleum and enjoy a Caspean yogurt and butter-making experience with a local family.
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Echmiadzin & Zvartnots
Step into Echmiadzin, Armenia’s own Vatican City, as well as the nearby Zvartnots Ruins – both UNESCO-listed.
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Enguri Dam
Enjoy a show-stopping break at the magnificent Enguri Dam.
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Evening at Narikala Fortress & Peace Bridge
Take a sunset cable car ride to Narikala Fortress and stop by Peace Bridge for a night view.
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Gergeti Trinity Church
Hike up to Gergeti Trinity Church, also known as Tsminda Sameba Church.
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Gobustan Rock Art & Mud Volcanoes
Be dazzled by the rock carvings of Gobustan National Park and the bizarre Mud Volcanoes.
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Haghpat & Sanahin Monastic Complex
Uncover the mysterious monastic complexes of Haghpat and Sanahin, as well as Saghmosavank Monastery in Qasakh canyon.
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Halva-Making Masterclass
Join a pastry chef to unravel the culinary secrets behind the makings of this super-sweet dessert.
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Hike Dariali Gorge
The hike brings you to highlights such as the mysterious Tsdo village where ritual lamb slaughter takes place, traditional Georgian cemetery, two Gveleti waterfalls and a monastery complex near Russian border.
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Hike Juta Village
A 4WD ride will bring you to Juta village, where you will start hiking towards the Chaukhi Massif. Juta is the highest town in the region. Please note that hiking takes approximately 2 hours per way.
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Hike Truso Valley
Enjoy a hike through the Kasari Canyon, the abandoned village of Ketrisi, two monasteries to the Zakagori Fortress. If you would like, you can also bathe in the natural pool of mineral springs in the valley.
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Historical Baku Tour
Unravel the Old Town of Baku including Icheri Sheher, Maiden Tower, Museum of Miniature Books, Shirvanshahs’ Palace Complex, Synyk Kala Minaret, the State Carpet Museum and Dagüstü Park for a panoramic view of the city.
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Historical Stalin & Cave Town
Follow the footprints of time into Gori, the birthplace of Joseph Stalin, and Uplistsikhe, a cave town from the Bronze Age.
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Hot Air Balloon in Alazani Valley
Soar above the scenic Alazani valley with a glass of champagne, passing through villages, orchards, vineyards, river streams with a view of the mighty Great Caucasus.
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Hot Air Balloon in Mukhrani Valley
Soar above the scenic Mukhrani valley, located near Mtskheta with a glass of champagne.
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Khachkar-Carving Masterclass
Today, you will learn how to carve Khachkar, the famous Armenian cross stone characteristic of Medieval Christian Armenian art.
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Khor Virap
Explore the iconic Khor Virap with its stunning Mount Ararat backdrop.
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Lavash-Baking Masterclass
Learn how to bake lavash, a traditional bread of Armenia which has been inscribed in UNESCO.
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Lunch with Lavash-Making Demonstration
Visit a rustic local house for lunch and observe the Lavash-making process.
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Mazeri Trek
Enjoy a hike around Becho and Gul valley with backdrop of the 4,710 meter twin peak of Mount Ushba, renowned for its beauty which has been dubbed as the Matterhorn of the Caucasus.
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Nobel House Visit with Black Caviar & Champagne Tasting
Not usually open for public, you will visit the famous house of the Nobel Brothers at Villa Petrolea and enjoy black caviar tasting with champagne at the Nobel's museum.
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Prometheus Cave
Admire the natural wonder of Prometheus karst cave.
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Rabaty Old Town in Akhaltsikhe
Wander around Akhaltsikhe's old town with its multicultural architecture.
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Shaki Caravanserai
Lovers of history will rejoice a brief stop at the historical caravanserai.
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Shaki Khan Palace
Visit the Palace of Shaki Khans, a grand palace that acted as the summer residence for the Shaki Khans. Explore this two-floor masonry structure admiring the murals, stained-glass windows, fountains and decorative tiles.
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Sno Village
Visit the Sno Village, famous for the stone-carved faces with large statues.
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Tbilisi Sightseeing
Discover the highlights of Tbilisi. Stroll through Rustaveli Avenue, visit the Metekhi Church of the Virgin, Sioni Cathedral, bath houses and Simon Janashia Museum of Georgia. Time-permitting, visit a flea market or Dezerter Bazaar in the afternoon.
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Tolma-Making Masterclass
Today, you will learn how to make a traditional cuisine called tolma, made from grape leaves stuffed with meat.
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Twin Monasteries of Lake Sevan
A scenic drive takes you to the beautiful Sevanavank Monastery at the picturesque Lake Sevan. En route, also visit Dilijan National Park and Hagrartsin Monastery.
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Ushguli & St Mary's Church
Visit Ushguli, one of the highest continuously inhabited settlements in Europe at 2,220 metres above sea level.
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Vardzia Cave Town & Khertvisi Fortress
Make a visit to the 10th century Khertvisi fortress and the magnificent cave town of Vardzia.
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Visit a Local Felt Master
Get acquainted with the local felt industry while you enjoy a selection of herbal teas.
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Wine Spa in Kvareli
Indulge in unique wine spa treatment in Kvareli, right at the heart of Kakheti wine region. We can help you reserve a place so that you can enjoy a variety of wine spa treatments.
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Wine Tasting at Kakheti & Explore Sighnaghi
Enjoy wine tasting at Kakheti, the birthplace of wine-making in Georgia and explore Signaghi, the 18th century royal town, as well as Bodbe Monastery.
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Yerevan City Tour
Wander around Mashtots Avenue, Republic Square, Opera House, Cascade, the spacious Grigor Lusavorich cathedral and conclude with a view of the Yerevan skyline from Mother Armenia.
Location
Baku, Shaki, Telavi, Tbilisi, Kazbegi, Kutaisi, Mestia, Borjomi, Dilijan & Yerevan
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