The Grand Caucasus - Azerbaijan, Georgia and Armenia in 20 Days

DAY 1: Transfer from Baku Airport to Baku

We will transfer from the airport to the hotel with the assistance of our guide, who will accompany you throughout the journey.

Accommodation: Baku Midtown Hotel 4*

20 km | 00:30 by car

DAY 2: Baku - Absheron - Baku

After enjoying a full breakfast at the hotel, we will begin our immersive exploration of historic Baku by visiting the Shirvanshahs' Palace. This medieval complex, a jewel of the Old City and World Heritage Site, will allow us to travel back in time through its exquisite architecture. Next, we will connect with the mystical essence of the country at Ateshgah, the ancient Zoroastrian fire temple, whose eternal flames are fed by natural gas. Following the trail of the legendary "Land of Fire," we will marvel at Yanardag, the famous mountain that burns perpetually. The architectural contrast will arrive as we head to the Heydar Aliyev Cultural Center, an avant-garde design masterpiece created by Zaha Hadid. To top off the day, we will immerse ourselves in the authenticity of Yashil Bazaar, a vibrant traditional market where we will stimulate our senses among aromas of spices, vivid colors and fresh flavors.

Accommodation: Baku Midtown Hotel 4*

43 km | 01:04 by car

DAY 3: Baku - Gobustan - Baku

After enjoying breakfast at the hotel, we will begin a fascinating excursion into the past at the Gobustan Reserve, an open-air museum declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Here, we will marvel at an impressive collection of petroglyphs dating back 40,000 years. The adventure will continue as we venture into the Mud Volcanoes area, a unique geological phenomenon where Azerbaijan concentrates a large portion of those existing in the world. Back in the capital, we will culminate by visiting the iconic Carpet Museum in Baku, where we will immerse ourselves in the rich textile heritage of the country.

Accommodation: Baku Midtown Hotel 4*

204 km | 03:30 by car

DAY 4: Baku - Shamakhi - Sheki

After enjoying a delicious breakfast, we will begin our route by immersing ourselves in the mysticism of the Diri Baba Mausoleum. This fascinating 15th-century monument, partially carved into a cliff, will surprise us with its unique fusion of Islamic architecture and wild nature. Next, we will travel to historic Shemakha to discover the Mausoleum of the Seven Domes (Yeddi Gumbez), a solemn 18th-century royal cemetery. The day will reach its peak upon arriving in Sheki, where we will visit the exquisite Khan's Summer Palace with its famous colored stained glass windows ("Shebeke"). Finally, we will explore the Albanian Church of Kish, considered one of the oldest Christian temples in the Caucasus, dating to the 1st century.

Accommodation: Sheki Macara Hotel 4*

347 km | 05:27 by car

DAY 5: Sheki - Lagodekhi - Kvareli - Alaverdi - Telavi

We will leave the historic city of Sheki behind to head to the Lagodekhi border crossing. After completing immigration procedures and stepping onto Georgian soil, we will venture into the fertile region of Kvareli to visit the famous Khareba Winery. There, we will explore its impressive complex of tunnels ("Gvirabi") carved into the Caucasus rock and enjoy an exquisite wine tasting. With our palates satisfied, we will continue by visiting the majestic Alaverdi Cathedral, an 11th-century jewel rising solemnly at 50 meters high. Finally, we will arrive at Telavi, the historic capital of the region.

Accommodation: Holiday Inn Telavi 4*

230 km | 03:50 by car

DAY 6: Telavi - Sighnaghi - Bodbe - Tbilisi

We will leave Telavi behind to head to the charming Sighnaghi. Known as the "City of Love," we will stroll through its picturesque cobblestone streets and admire its traditional architecture, enjoying the impressive views of the Alazani Valley from its historic defensive wall. A short distance away, we will visit Bodbe Monastery, a place of deep spirituality where we will venerate the tomb of Saint Nino, the evangelizer of Georgia. After enjoying the history and landscapes, we will embark on the return journey to Tbilisi.

Accommodation: Ibis Styles Tbilisi Center 4*

181 km | 03:08 by car

DAY 7: Tbilisi - Guided Tour

After enjoying breakfast at the hotel, we will begin our cultural immersion on the vibrant Rustaveli Avenue, the beating heart of Tbilisi. On this elegant boulevard, we will admire architectural jewels such as the imposing Parliament and the neo-Moorish Opera Theater. Our tour will take us to Metekhi Square, where the historic church and equestrian statue of King Vakhtang Gorgasali will offer us privileged views over the Mtkvari River. The experience will gain height as we ascend by cable car to Narikala Fortress, from the 4th century. Subsequently, we will venture into the picturesque district of Abanotubani, known for its historic sulfur baths. Finally, we will visit the Anchiskhati Basilica, the oldest church in the city.

Accommodation: Ibis Styles Tbilisi Center 4*

2 km | 00:26 by car

DAY 8: Tbilisi - Jvari - Svetitskhoveli - Kazbegi - Gudauri

We will leave Tbilisi for a deep immersion into the country's spiritual history. Our first stop will be at Jvari Monastery, a 6th-century jewel from where we will enjoy the iconic view of the confluence of the Mtkvari and Aragvi rivers. Next, we will visit the grand Svetitskhoveli Cathedral in Mtskheta, a World Heritage Site. We will resume the route north through the panoramic Georgian Military Highway to reach Kazbegi (Stepantsminda). There, the highlight will be the climb to the Gergeti Trinity Church, which stands solitary against the imposing summit of Mount Kazbek. After enjoying this postcard landscape, we will head to the mountain resort of Gudauri.

Accommodation: Marco Polo 4*

216 km | 04:29 by car

DAY 9: Gudauri - Uplistsikhe - Gori - Kutaisi

Our day begins by diving into the pages of contemporary history by visiting the famous Stalin Museum in the city of Gori. This unique complex offers us a unique perspective on the figure of the Soviet leader. We will take a leap back in time of more than three millennia to discover Uplistsikhe, a fascinating cave city masterfully carved into the living rock. We will walk along the ancient roads of this extraordinary archaeological site, exploring its mysterious secret tunnels and rock dwellings. Finally, we will arrive at Kutaisi.

Accommodation: Best Western Kutaisi 4*

335 km | 05:20 by car

DAY 10: Kutaisi - Bagrati - Motsameta - Gelati - Nikortsminda - Kutaisi

Our cultural exploration begins in Kutaisi, first visiting the majestic Bagrati Cathedral. From its privileged location on the hill, we will visually dominate the entire city. We will move to Motsameta Monastery, dramatically located on a rocky promontory surrounded by the Tskaltsitela River. A short distance away, the Gelati Academy awaits us, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Subsequently, we will venture into the picturesque Racha region to visit Nikortsminda Cathedral, recognized worldwide for the intricate beauty of its stone reliefs and magnificent decorated interiors.

Accommodation: Best Western Kutaisi 4*

191 km | 04:25 by car

DAY 11: Kutaisi - Prometheus - Martvili - Kutaisi

Our circular day is dedicated to the most precious natural jewels of western Georgia. We will start by exploring the underground world of Prometheus Cave, a geological labyrinth 1.4 km long. We will marvel at its illuminated rock formations and, if conditions are favorable, complete with a mysterious boat ride on the underground Kumi River. We will head to the historic Martvili Canyon, former summer retreat of the Dadiani nobility. If water levels allow, we will navigate by boat through the canyon and walk along its stone walkways.

Accommodation: Best Western Kutaisi 4*

127 km | 02:16 by car

DAY 12: Kutaisi - Ushguli - Mestia

Today an epic day awaits us ascending toward the highest peaks of Europe. From Kutaisi, we will embark on the journey to the remote region of Svaneti until reaching Ushguli, recognized as one of the highest inhabited settlements on the continent (2,200 meters). This cluster of villages, declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site, seems frozen in time with its dozens of medieval defensive towers. Under the imposing shadow of Mount Shkhara, Georgia's highest peak, we will walk along trails that bring us close to the base of its glacier. We will end in Mestia, surrounded by history and wild nature.

Accommodation: Hotel Posta Mestia 4*

208 km | 05:20 by car

DAY 13: Mestia - Chalaadi - Hatsvali - Mestia

We will begin the day with an immersion in wild nature, heading toward the Chalaadi Glacier. We will cross the bridge over the Mestiachala River and walk along a trail that crosses forests and moraines until reaching the base of eternal ice. After this invigorating hike, we will move to the Hatsvali mountain station. If weather conditions are favorable, we will take the cable car to ascend to the Zuruldi ridge, famous for offering one of the most impressive panoramic views of the region, with views of the mythical Mount Ushba and elegant Mount Tetnuldi.

Accommodation: Hotel Posta Mestia 4*

34 km | 01:11 by car

DAY 14: Mestia - Zugdidi - Shekvetili Dendrological Park - Batumi

We will leave behind the majesty of snow-capped peaks and defensive towers of Mestia to undertake a spectacular descent from the Greater Caucasus. The winding road will gift us unforgettable views of deep gorges and mighty rivers until reaching the fertile plains of the Samegrelo region, passing through its capital, Zugdidi. We will make an essential stop at the Shekvetili Dendrological Park, a biodiversity sanctuary where we will walk among giant and centennial trees, crossing bamboo forests and observing exotic fauna. The day will culminate upon arriving at Batumi, the pearl of the Black Sea.

Accommodation: Best Western Premier Batumi 4*

268 km | 05:08 by car

DAY 15: Batumi - Ubisa - Borjomi - Akhaltsikhe

After bidding farewell to the coast of Batumi, we will venture into the interior of Georgia. Our first stop will be the ancient Ubisa Monastery, a 9th-century complex where we will admire its exceptional 14th-century frescoes. We will continue toward the green gorge of Borjomi, the famous spa town. We will stroll through its Mineral Park to taste its famous healing volcanic waters. Finally, we will arrive at Akhaltsikhe, a historic crossroads city of cultures, where we will settle at the foot of its imposing fortress.

Accommodation: Hotel Gino Wellness Rabath 4*

324 km | 05:43 by car

DAY 16: Akhaltsikhe - Vardzia - Khertvisi - Bavra - Gyumri

Today we will begin an unforgettable day immersing ourselves in the majesty of Vardzia, an impressive cave monastery city carved into the rock dating from the 12th century. This monumental complex invites us to explore its intricate network of tunnels, cells and sanctuaries, where unique medieval frescoes stand out, especially the iconic representation of the legendary Queen Tamar. Subsequently, we will head toward Bavra, the strategic enclave marking the border between Armenia and Georgia. Here we will change vehicles and expert guide. We will end the day in Gyumri, the cultural capital of Armenia.

Accommodation: 21 Rooms Hotel 4*

193 km | 03:55 by car

DAY 17: Gyumri - Dilijan - Sevan - Yerevan

We will begin the day immersing ourselves in the nostalgic charm of Gyumri, considered the cultural capital of Armenia. We will enjoy a relaxed stroll through the city, walking along its historic cobblestone streets where 19th-century architecture, built with the characteristic black and red volcanic tuff, will tell us stories of resilience and local art. After absorbing the bohemian atmosphere, we will head to the picturesque Old Town of Dilijan, known as "Little Switzerland," to walk along the restored Sharambeyan Street. The day will continue toward Lake Sevan, where we will be captivated by the intense blue of its waters and the alpine landscape surrounding it. Finally, we will head to Yerevan.

Accommodation: Hotel Ani Plaza 4*

270 km | 04:30 by car

DAY 18: Yerevan - City Tour - Garni - Geghard - Yerevan

We will begin the day immersing ourselves in the vibrant atmosphere of Yerevan, one of the oldest cities in the world. During our city tour, we will walk along its elegant avenues to admire the fusion of Soviet and neoclassical architecture, stopping at the majestic Republic Square and the artistic complex of The Cascade. Subsequently, we will visit the Garni Temple, a 1st-century Hellenistic archaeological jewel, and appreciate the impressive basalt formations known as the "Symphony of Stones." To culminate, we will delve into the mysticism of Geghard Monastery, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, partially carved into the living rock of the mountain.

Accommodation: Hotel Ani Plaza 4*

62 km | 01:33 by car

DAY 19: Yerevan - Khor Virap - Areni Cave - Noravank - Yerevan

After enjoying breakfast, we will begin a day full of symbolism by first heading to the historic Khor Virap Monastery. This pilgrimage site is fundamental to Armenian identity, offering the most iconic and closest view of the biblical Mount Ararat. Next, we will delve into the history of viticulture at the fascinating Areni Cave, a world-renowned archaeological site where the oldest known wine cellar was discovered. Finally, the route will take us through a narrow gorge to the impressive Noravank Monastery, a 13th-century architectural jewel nestled among imposing red rock cliffs.

Accommodation: Hotel Ani Plaza 4*

239 km | 04:23 by car

DAY 20: Transfer from Yerevan to Zvartnots Airport

We will transfer from the hotel to the airport according to the scheduled flight time, with the assistance of our guide.

13 km | 00:25 by car