2027 Georgia, Armenia & Azerbaijan

We commence the tour with an overnight flight to Dubai.

We arrive in Dubai early this morning and after clearing Customs and Immigration formalities, we are met and transferred to our hotel for an over-night stay. There is time to rest up after the flight until mid-afternoon when we visit the Museum of the Future. One of Dubai’s most famous landmarks, the museum takes pride of place along the city’s superhighway, Sheikh Zayed Road. Founded by the Dubai Future Foundation and launched on 22 February 2022, the museum explores how society could evolve in the coming decades using science and technology. Each floor of the museum is designed like an expansive, interactive movie set, brought to life by expert storytellers, technologists and visionary artists. There is time for exploration before we return to the hotel for dinner this evening.

Late morning, we transfer to the airport to join our short flight to Baku. On arrival, we are met and transferred to our hotel for a 3-night stay. Enjoy a visit to Highland Park for a view over the city at sunset, followed by a welcome dinner together this evening.

This morning we travel to Gobustan National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site famous for its ancient rock carvings. Visit the Rock Art Museum and open-air archaeological reserve before continuing to the fascinating Mud Volcanoes, one of Azerbaijan’s most unique natural attractions.
Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant before returning to Baku.
This evening, take a stroll along Baku Boulevard, the city’s attractive waterfront promenade on the Caspian Sea. Weather permitting, there will be an opportunity to enjoy an optional ferry ride. Dinner is included at a local restaurant.

Today we discover the historic heart of Baku, the UNESCO-listed Old City. Explore its maze of narrow streets and visit some of the city’s most important landmarks, including the impressive Palace of the Shirvanshahs, the iconic Maiden Tower, and one of the ancient Caravanserais that once welcomed traders travelling along the Silk Road. We also visit a local Cultural Centre to gain a deeper understanding of Azerbaijan’s rich heritage and traditions.
Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant before an afternoon at leisure to further explore the capital. You may wish to visit some of Baku’s museums, browse the shops and cafés, or take the opportunity to visit the renowned Azerbaijan Carpet Museum (optional).
Dinner is included this evening at a local restaurant.

After breakfast we check out of our hotel and travel northwest through the scenic countryside towards the historic town of Sheki, one of Azerbaijan’s oldest and most charming destinations.
En route, we stop in Shamakhi, once the capital of the Shirvan Kingdom. Here we visit the impressive Juma Mosque, one of the oldest mosques in the Caucasus, before continuing to the striking Diri Baba Mausoleum, dramatically built into the side of a cliff. We also visit the Yeddi Gumbez (Seven Domes) Mausoleum, the burial site of former Shirvan rulers.
Upon arrival in Sheki, we explore the town’s rich Silk Road heritage. Highlights include the beautifully decorated Sheki Khan’s Palace and the historic Caravanserai, which once provided accommodation for merchants travelling the Silk Road. We also visit the ancient Kish Albanian Church, believed to be one of the oldest Christian churches in the Caucasus.

This morning we depart Azerbaijan and travel to the Lagodekhi Border, crossing into neighbouring Georgia. Along the way, we visit the peaceful Bodbe Monastery of St. Nino, one of Georgia’s most important religious sites and the final resting place of St. Nino, who brought Christianity to the country in the 4th century. We continue to the picturesque hilltop town of Sighnaghi. Enjoy lunch at a local winery, accompanied by a tasting of the region’s renowned wines. The Kakheti region is considered the heart of Georgian winemaking, with a tradition that dates back more than 8,000 years. Later this afternoon, arrive in the village of Kvareli for an overnight stay.

This morning, enjoy a guided tour of the winery adjacent to our hotel, where we learn about the centuries-old traditions of Kakhetian winemaking. After checking out, we journey towards Tbilisi, stopping en route to visit the impressive Gremi Monastic Complex. Once the capital of the Kingdom of Kakheti, this historic site dates back to the 16th century and offers spectacular views over the surrounding countryside. Enjoy a memorable lunch with a local family, providing an opportunity to experience traditional Georgian hospitality and learn about daily life, culture and cuisine. Take time to explore their home and gardens before continuing our journey.
Later this afternoon, arrive in Tbilisi, Georgia’s vibrant capital city, where old-world charm blends seamlessly with modern life.

Today we explore the many highlights of Tbilisi, a fascinating city where centuries of history, culture and architecture come together. Enjoy panoramic views from the ancient Narikala Fortress and visit the towering Mother Georgia monument overlooking the city. We also see the historic Metekhi Church and the statue of King Vakhtang Gorgasali, the founder of Tbilisi.
Our tour continues through the atmospheric Old Town, passing the famous Sulphur Bathhouses, winding cobbled streets, the Armenian St. Gevorg Church, the city’s historic Synagogue, the striking Bridge of Peace, the charming Puppet Theatre, and many other hidden corners that give Tbilisi its unique character. Lunch is included in the city centre before an afternoon and evening at leisure to further explore the Georgian capital at your own pace.
Tonight, enjoy dinner at a local restaurant, accompanied by traditional Georgian music and lively folk dancing.

After breakfast, we check out and journey north towards the spectacular Caucasus Mountains, home to some of Georgia’s most breathtaking scenery. Our first stop is Mtskheta, Georgia’s ancient capital and one of the country’s most important religious centres. Here we visit the magnificent Svetitskhoveli Cathedral, dating from the 11th century and regarded as one of Georgia’s most sacred sites. We also visit the hilltop Jvari Monastery, a masterpiece of early medieval architecture.
Continuing along the historic Georgian Military Highway, we visit the impressive Ananuri Fortress Complex, a medieval stronghold overlooking the waters of the Zhinvali Reservoir.
After lunch, we travel through the mountain resort town of Gudauri stopping at the spectacular Friendship Monument, where panoramic views stretch across the dramatic mountain landscapes of the Greater Caucasus. Later this afternoon, we arrive in Stepantsminda nestled beneath the towering peaks of the Caucasus Mountains, where we spend the night.

This morning, we board off-road vehicles for the journey up to the iconic Gergeti Trinity Church, one of Georgia’s most photographed landmarks. Perched high on a mountainside beneath the towering peak of Mount Kazbek, the church offers breathtaking views of the surrounding Caucasus Mountains. We then travel south through the town of Gori, the birthplace of Joseph Stalin. There will be an opportunity to stop in the town centre to view the Stalin Museum (optional visit) and the modest house where he was born. Lunch is enjoyed in Kaspi Village, accompanied by a tasting of local wines and an opportunity to experience Georgian hospitality.
This afternoon we continue to the spa town of Borjomi, renowned throughout the region for its naturally carbonated mineral water. On arrival, enjoy a leisurely walk through the attractive Borjomi Central Park, where you can sample the famous spring water directly from its source and take in the peaceful surroundings.

After breakfast, we depart Borjomi and travel west to Kutaisi, Georgia’s second-largest city and one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in Europe. On arrival, we explore the city’s historic centre, where a blend of 19th and 20th century architecture reflects Kutaisi’s rich and varied past.

This morning we visit one of Georgia’s most important cultural and religious landmarks, the Gelati Monastery, a masterpiece of medieval Georgian architecture and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Founded in the 12th century by King David, Gelati was once one of the most important centres of learning in the region, housing a renowned medieval academy. After lunch, we journey south through the countryside to Akhaltsikhe, a historic town near the Armenian border where we will spend our final night in Georgia.

This morning we visit the remarkable Vardzia Cave City, a vast 12th-century cave complex carved into the cliffs and once home to a thriving monastic community. With over 100 caves, exploring the site provides an insight into how people lived in centuries past. After lunch in Georgia, we cross the border into Armenia and continue to Gyumri, the country’s second-largest city. During a walking tour, discover its charming streets, elegant Belle Époque architecture, historic churches and antique shops while learning about the city’s recovery following the 1988 earthquake.

Today we journey through the lush green landscapes of Armenia’s Lori Province to visit two of the country’s most important medieval monasteries. Explore the magnificent Sanahin Monastery before continuing to the Haghpat Monastic Complex, Armenia’s first UNESCO World Heritage Site. Both are outstanding examples of Armenian religious architecture and provide a fascinating insight into the country’s rich cultural and spiritual heritage.
Later, continue to Dzoraget Village for our overnight stay, surrounded by the beautiful scenery of northern Armenia.

Today we explore the beautiful forests of Dilijan National Park. We visit the historic Goshavank and Haghartsin Monasteries, both set amongst the tranquil woodlands and renowned for their impressive medieval architecture. We also spend time in the charming town of Dilijan, strolling along its restored Old Street, where traditional buildings reflect the town’s Silk Road heritage.
After lunch, we continue to the shores of Lake Sevan, one of the largest high-altitude lakes in the world. We have an overnight stay in Dilijan before beginning our exploration of southern Armenia.

Today we travel through some of Armenia’s most scenic landscapes, following routes once used by traders along the ancient Silk Road. Our journey begins along the shores of Lake Sevan, where we visit the Sevan Peninsula and the historic Sevanavank Monastery, dating from the 9th century.
We continue to Noratus, home to the largest collection of traditional Armenian Khachkars (cross-stones), before crossing the dramatic Selim Pass to visit the well-preserved 13th-century Selim Caravanserai, which once provided shelter to merchants and travellers crossing the mountains.
After lunch, we continue to the spa town of Jermuk, renowned for its mineral springs and mountain scenery, where we will spend two nights.

Today is a more relaxed day to enjoy the renowned spa town of Jermuk. You may choose to take a leisurely stroll through Jermuk Park, visit the famous Gallery of Mineral Water to sample the town’s natural spring waters, and admire the picturesque Jermuk Waterfall, one of Armenia’s most beautiful natural attractions. There will also be time to enjoy the facilities and spa services available at the hotel.

After breakfast we check out and journey south into the spectacular Syunik Province, a region known for its dramatic landscapes and ancient history. En route, we visit Karahunj (Armenian Stonehenge), a mysterious prehistoric site believed to date back around 7,000 years and considered one of the world’s oldest astronomical observatories. We then continue our exploration of Armenia’s captivating south with a visit to the fascinating Khndzoresk Cave Village. Later, we travel to the magnificent Tatev Monastery, one of Armenia’s most treasured religious sites, reached via the Wings of Tatev, the world’s longest reversible cable car. Perched high above the Vorotan Gorge, the monastery offers breathtaking views and a fascinating insight into Armenia’s medieval history.

Today we travel north towards the Armenian capital, stopping en route to visit the beautiful Shaki Waterfall, one of Armenia’s most picturesque natural attractions. After lunch and a local wine tasting, we continue to the stunning Noravank Monastic Complex, dramatically set amongst towering red-rock cliffs. We then visit Khor Virap Monastery, one of Armenia’s most important pilgrimage sites, renowned for its spectacular views of Mount Ararat, the biblical mountain that dominates the horizon. Later this afternoon, we arrive in Yerevan, Armenia’s vibrant capital city.

Today we discover the highlights of Yerevan. We begin with panoramic views from Victory Park and the impressive Mother Armenia Statue, overlooking the city and the distant silhouette of Mount Ararat. Our city tour includes visits to some of Yerevan’s most important landmarks, including the Matenadaran Institute of Ancient Manuscripts, the elegant Opera House, the poignant Armenian Genocide Memorial, and the city’s grand government precinct featuring the Parliament, Presidential Residence, and Republic Square. There will also be free time to explore the Cascade Complex, an impressive open-air stairway and modern art centre offering excellent views across the city. During our in the city, you may choose to attend a performance at the Yerevan Opera House or a traditional folk dance performance (subject to ticket availability and schedule).

Today we visit Echmiadzin, the spiritual heart of Armenia and the seat of the Armenian Apostolic Church. En route, we stop at the impressive Zvartnots Cathedral, a remarkable 7th-century church and UNESCO World Heritage Site, renowned for its distinctive architecture and historic significance. In Echmiadzin, we visit the Mother Cathedral, one of the oldest Christian cathedrals in the world, along with its fascinating Treasury Museum, which houses a collection of religious artefacts and treasures. Lunch is included and features a hands-on masterclass where we learn how to prepare a traditional Armenian dish, providing a memorable insight into the country’s culinary heritage.

Leaving Yerevan, we travel to Garni Temple, the country’s only surviving example of Hellenistic architecture and a reminder of Armenia’s pre-Christian past. We then continue to the UNESCO-listed Geghard Monastery, a remarkable cave monastery partially carved into the surrounding rock and renowned for its medieval architecture and spiritual significance. Continue on to Garni Canyon to view the spectacular “Symphony of Stones”, a natural formation of towering basalt columns lining the canyon walls. Lunch is enjoyed in a local village and includes a demonstration of the traditional baking of Lavash, Armenia’s famous flatbread.

This morning we leave Yerevan for an overnight stay in Byurakan. First we travel to the foothills of Mount Aragats, Armenia’s highest mountain. We stop at the Tonatsuyts Ethnographic House in Byurakan Village, where we gain a fascinating insight into traditional Armenian life.
Through folk songs, stories and cultural demonstrations, we learn about family customs, weddings, cuisine, shadow theatre and the rich traditions of village life through the centuries. A delicious local lunch is included, along with demonstrations of how some traditional Armenian delicacies are prepared. After lunch, we visit the impressive Amberd Fortress, a 7th-century stronghold dramatically situated on the slopes of Mount Aragats and offering spectacular views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.

This morning we continue exploring the beautiful landscapes surrounding Mount Aragats, visiting two of Armenia’s most impressive medieval monasteries. We begin at Hovhannavank Monastery, founded between the 5th and 13th centuries, before continuing to nearby Saghmosavank Monastery, known as the “Monastery of Psalms” and dramatically perched above the Kasagh Gorge. We also visit the unique Monument to the Armenian Alphabet, a collection of giant stone letters celebrating one of the world’s oldest alphabets and Armenia’s rich literary heritage.
Lunch is hosted by a local family in Oshakan Village, providing an opportunity to experience traditional Armenian hospitality. After lunch, we return to Yerevan for check-in and free time before gathering this evening for a final dinner together to celebrate our journey through the Caucasus.

Sadly, our adventure draws to a close and we begin our journey home. We take a short flight to Dubai, arriving mid-afternoon with overnight accommodation reserved at the airport.

Time for the last leg of our journey on our flight home.

Arrival time in Auckland is mid-morning.