The Heart of the Caucasus: 12 Days of Heritage and Nature

Upon your arrival in Baku, the vibrant capital of Azerbaijan, you will be warmly welcomed by our professional driver who will escort you to your hotel for check-in, available after 2:00 PM. Once settled, meet your expert local guide to begin an immersive sightseeing experience of this fascinating city. Your first stop is Martyrs’ Lane, locally known as Shehidler Khiyabany, a solemn memorial park dedicated to those who sacrificed their lives. As you stroll along the Alley of Martyrs, enjoy sweeping panoramic views of Baku’s sparkling coastline and Caspian Sea, setting a reflective and inspiring tone for your journey.

Next, delve into the heart of Baku’s rich history by exploring Icheri Sheher, the ancient walled city. Here, marvel at the intricate architecture of the Shirvan Shahs’ Palace, wander through the historic Caravanserai, and gaze up at the iconic Maiden Tower, a symbol of the city’s medieval past. The bustling main market square nearby offers a lively atmosphere filled with artisan workshops and souvenir stalls showcasing local crafts. Transitioning to modern Baku, stroll along the lively Nizami Street and Fountain Square, hubs of city life lined with shops, cafes, and street performers. Conclude your day with a visit to the architectural masterpiece, the Heydar Aliyev Center, whose flowing, futuristic design contrasts beautifully with the city’s historic elements. In the evening, savor a welcome dinner at a traditional Azerbaijani restaurant, sampling authentic flavors and regional specialties. Overnight stay in Baku.
Duration: 6-7 hours; Driving distance: approx. 30 km; Meals: Dinner

After breakfast, journey to Surakhany village to explore Ateshgah, the ancient Fire Temple once revered by Zoroastrians from India. Return to Baku to visit the iconic Heydar Aliyev Cultural Centre, a stunning architectural marvel by Zaha Hadid. Inside, discover diverse exhibits on Azerbaijani culture, featuring traditional costumes, music, and carpets. In the afternoon, drive to Gobustan National Park to explore prehistoric petroglyphs etched into rocks as early as 10,000 BC. Visit the Petroglyphs Museum, and, weather permitting, switch to a 4×4 vehicle to witness Gobustan’s famous mud volcanoes, which account for nearly half of the world’s total. Return to Baku for the night.

Duration: 8-9 hours; Driving distance: approx. 220 km; Meals: Lunch

Enjoy breakfast before departing Baku for Sheki. En route, stop in Maraza to see the Diri Baba Mausoleum, uniquely built into a cliff face. Continue to Shamakhi to visit the Juma Mosque, one of the oldest mosques in the Caucasus, restored in 2013. If weather permits, drive through the scenic Girdimanchay Canyon to Lahich, a mountain village known for its preserved medieval sewage systems and cobblestone streets. This picturesque village is famed for its craftsmanship, including metalwork, carpets, and traditional tools. Arrive in Sheki by evening, a tranquil town nestled among green hills, renowned for its signature baklava. Overnight at a hotel.

Duration: 10-11 hours; Driving distance: approx. 340 km; Meals: Breakfast

After breakfast and hotel check-out, start your day with a visit to the vibrant Sheki Bazaar, rich in local produce, spices, cheeses, and confections. Next, explore the Sheki Khans Palace, set within fortress walls and famous for its ornate stained-glass windows. Visit nearby artisan workshops and the historic caravanserai. Then, drive to the Georgian border and after formalities, meet your Georgian guide. Enjoy a scenic drive to the Khareba Winery near Kvareli, passing through picturesque vineyards. Discover the winery’s rock-hewn tunnels originally built for military use. Enjoy a wine tasting session before heading to Telavi for hotel check-in and overnight stay.

Duration: 10-11 hours; Driving distance: approx. 230 km; Meals: Lunch

Start your day with a leisurely breakfast before exploring Telavi, the administrative and cultural heart of Georgia’s wine country. Wander through its quaint streets, soaking in the local atmosphere, and stop for photos at the monument dedicated to King Erekle II, a pivotal figure in Georgian history. Visit a family-owned boutique cheese factory and cellar, where you will learn about traditional cheese-making techniques and savor five distinct varieties paired with a delicious lunch. Next, journey to Tsinandali, the historic estate of the Georgian noble family Chavchavadze. Explore the beautifully landscaped park, the museum dedicated to the poet and public figure Prince Alexander Chavchavadze, and the wine cellar, which preserves centuries-old winemaking heritage. Your final stop is Shumi Winery, one of the region’s premier producers, where you will enjoy a guided tour and tasting session of their finest wines. Return to your hotel in Telavi for a restful night.

Duration: 5-6 hours; Driving distance: approx. 20 km; Meals: Cheese tasting, lunch, wine tasting

After breakfast, set off on a captivating journey toward the mountainous town of Kazbegi, located near the Russian border. Your first stop is Alaverdi Cathedral, one of Georgia’s tallest churches, nestled among vineyards with the towering Greater Caucasus range as a backdrop. This architectural gem features remarkable frescoes dating from the 11th to 17th centuries. Continue along the legendary Georgian Military Highway, a historic route through the Caucasus Mountains. En route, visit the Ananuri fortress complex, a former stronghold of the Argveti Dukes, composed of churches and defensive towers from the 16th and 17th centuries, overlooking the serene Jinvali Reservoir. Witness the fascinating confluence of two mountain rivers that maintain distinct colors even after merging, a natural curiosity. Ascend to the Cross Pass and pause at the Soviet-era ‘People’s Friendship’ monument, perched on a cliff offering dramatic views of deep gorges below. Continue climbing to the highway’s highest point at 2,394 meters above sea level before arriving in Kazbegi. Here, enjoy breathtaking vistas of Mount Kazbek, soaring to 5,033 meters and ranking as the seventh highest peak in the Caucasus. Overnight in Kazbegi, surrounded by majestic alpine scenery.
Duration: 8-9 hours; Driving distance: approx. 200 km; Meals: Breakfast

Begin your day in Kazbegi with a visit to the iconic Gergeti Holy Trinity Church, perched dramatically at 2,170 meters above sea level. This 14th-century church offers not only spiritual significance but also unparalleled panoramic views of the towering Mount Kazbek and the surrounding alpine landscape, making it a photographer’s paradise. After soaking in the serene atmosphere and breathtaking vistas, depart Kazbegi and head south toward Tbilisi. Along the way, stop in Mtskheta, one of Georgia’s oldest and most revered towns, which served as the ancient capital of the Kingdom of Iberia from the 3rd century BC. Mtskheta remains a vital cultural and religious center for the nation. Visit the Jvari Monastery, an architectural gem of the early medieval period, gracefully situated atop a hill that overlooks the confluence of the Aragvi and Mtkvari rivers. The site’s harmonious blend of nature and architecture offers a peaceful retreat and spectacular views. Next, explore Svetitskhoveli Cathedral, the spiritual heart of Mtskheta, renowned for its grand scale and historical importance. This sacred cathedral is believed to house the robe of Christ, making it a pilgrimage site for many. After this enriching cultural immersion, continue your journey to Tbilisi, the vibrant capital of Georgia, where you will spend the night.
Duration: 7-8 hours; Driving distance: approx. 170 km

After breakfast, embark on a comprehensive tour of Tbilisi, a city where ancient traditions blend seamlessly with modern life. Begin at the Metekhi Church and the nearby monument dedicated to Vakhtang Gorgasali, the legendary founder of Tbilisi, who established the city in the 5th century AD. From here, ascend to the Narikala Fortress, a commanding ancient stronghold offering sweeping panoramic views over the sprawling city, winding Mtkvari River, and surrounding hills. Descend into the historic district famous for its sulphur bathhouses, where natural hot springs have been cherished for centuries. Pass by Tbilisi’s only mosque, reflecting the city’s multicultural heritage. Stroll through the charming Sharden neighborhood, characterized by narrow cobblestone streets lined with cozy cafés, wine bars, and artisan shops, providing a lively atmosphere that echoes the city’s rich past. Visit Sioni Cathedral and Anchiskhati Basilica, two of Tbilisi’s oldest churches, each with unique architectural features and historical significance. Admire the whimsical clock tower of the Rezo Gabriadze Puppet Theatre, a local cultural icon. Cross the modern Bridge of Peace, a striking glass and steel structure connecting the old town with Rike Park, a green oasis along the riverbank. After several hours of guided exploration, enjoy some leisure time before gathering for a traditional Georgian dinner at a local restaurant, where you will savor authentic dishes and regional wines. Overnight in Tbilisi.
Duration: 4-5 hours; Driving distance: approx. 10 km; Meals: Dinner

At 9:00 AM, depart your hotel in Tbilisi and travel to the Sadakhlo-Bagratashen border crossing between Georgia and Armenia. After completing border formalities, meet your Armenian guide and driver to begin an inspiring journey through Armenia’s rich cultural landscape. Head north to the Lori region to visit the UNESCO-listed Haghpat Monastery, a stunning example of medieval Armenian ecclesiastical architecture built between the 10th and 13th centuries. Perched on a hillside overlooking the Debed River, Haghpat was designed to provide peace and seclusion for its monks, and its intricate stone carvings and harmonious layout exemplify Armenian craftsmanship. Following the monastery visit, enjoy a warm, traditional lunch hosted by an Armenian family, offering a genuine taste of local hospitality and cuisine. Continue through the picturesque town of Dilijan toward Lake Sevan, often called “The Jewel of Armenia.” This vast high-altitude freshwater lake is surrounded by dense forests, rugged cliffs, mountain steppes, and alpine meadows, creating a breathtaking natural mosaic. Stop at Sevanavank Monastery, located on a peninsula extending into the lake. The complex comprises two churches, Surb Arakelots and Surb Karapet, constructed from distinctive black tuff stone, which likely inspired the monastery’s name meaning “Black Monastery.” From this vantage point, enjoy sweeping views of the lake embraced by snow-capped peaks on the horizon. Conclude the day by driving to Yerevan, Armenia’s vibrant capital, for your overnight stay.
Duration: 9-10 hours; Driving distance: approx. 370 km; Meals: Lunch

Begin the day with a visit to Etchmiadzin, the spiritual center of the Armenian Apostolic Church and the official residence of the Catholicos of All Armenians. Explore the Etchmiadzin Cathedral, one of the world’s oldest cathedrals, renowned for its architectural beauty and profound religious significance. Return to Yerevan for an engaging city tour of one of the world’s oldest continuously inhabited cities, often called the “Pink City” due to its distinctive volcanic stone buildings. Visit the Cascade Monument, a monumental stairway rising 118 meters with 572 steps, adorned with contemporary sculptures and fountains. From the top, enjoy panoramic views encompassing the Opera House, Mount Ararat’s majestic silhouette, Swan Lake, Republic Square, and the fashionable Northern Avenue. Continue to the Tsitsernakaberd Armenian Genocide Memorial Complex, a poignant site dedicated to the memory of the victims of the 1915 genocide. In the evening, delight in a traditional Armenian dinner accompanied by a folklore performance showcasing the country’s rich musical and dance heritage. Overnight in Yerevan.
Duration: 6-7 hours; Driving distance: approx. 50 km; Meals: Dinner

Depart Yerevan for a day exploring some of Armenia’s most remarkable historical and religious sites. Begin at Garni, a village famed for its Hellenistic-style fortress, the only pagan temple in Armenia to survive the Christianization of the country in the 4th century. Descend into the nearby Garni Gorge to witness the spectacular “Symphony of Stones,” a natural rock formation of basalt columns resembling organ pipes, carved by volcanic activity and erosion. Next, visit the Geghard Monastery, a UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned for its stunning location amidst towering cliffs and its remarkable rock-cut churches. The monastery’s intricate stone carvings and medieval frescoes provide insight into Armenia’s rich spiritual and artistic traditions. Continue to Khor Virap Monastery, situated near the Turkish border, famous for its deep pit where St. Gregory the Illuminator was imprisoned for 13 years before Christianity was adopted in Armenia. This site offers magnificent views of Mount Ararat, a symbol of Armenian identity. Return to Yerevan for overnight.
Duration: 7-8 hours; Driving distance: approx. 150 km

After breakfast, check out from your hotel by noon. Enjoy some free time to relax, shop for last-minute souvenirs, or explore Yerevan at your leisure. When the time comes, you will be transferred to Yerevan International Airport for your onward flight. This concludes your unforgettable 12-day journey through the rich cultures, breathtaking landscapes, and ancient histories of Azerbaijan, Georgia, and Armenia. Safe travels!
Driving distance to airport: approx. 15 km