The Ultimate South Caucasus Tour

Are you planning an extended trip to South Caucasus? If so, you’re in for a treat! Visitors are wowed by the history, culture, and beauty of this ancient region, which has something to offer to everyone. The Ultimate South Caucasus Tour in 35 Days brings you to locations all across South Caucasus, from its picturesque coastline areas to its colorful mountain ranges, making a one-of-a-kind memorable Caucasian vacation experience. The region is incredibly rich in history, culture, and architecture, not to mention the fantastic cuisine and varied wines of these stunning nations. Cities like Baku, Tbilisi, and Yerevan have a beautiful blend of old and new architecture; remote settlements like Khinalug in Azerbaijan and Ushguli in Georgia offer a glimpse to a local’s life in these places surrounded by magnificent Great Caucasus mountains. During this month-long tour to Azerbaijan, Georgia and Armenia you have an opportunity to visit numerous local families to immerse yourself in local lifestyle, taste their homemade food accompanied by fine wines. The Ultimate South Caucasus Tour in 35 days is handcrafted personalized program that creates lifelong memories. The tour can be carried out during spring, summer, and autumn.

Tour itinerary:

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Day 1: Baku – arrival

Arrival in Baku. You will be greeted by our driver at the airport. Transfer to the hotel. Check-in at 14:00.
Free day. Overnight at the hotel.
Driving distance: 30 km

Day 2: Baku city tour

At 09:00, start sightseeing tour in Baku. Visit Martyrs Lane, known as ‘Shehidler Khiyabany’ among locals. When you walk through the Alley of the Martyrs, you will find a beautiful view overlooking Baku’s coastline. Move to Icheri Sheher, the old part of the city. Visit Shirvan Shahs’ Palace, Caravanserai, Maiden Tower, and the main market square, which has numerous art studios and souvenir stalls. Continue touring new Baku by exploring Nizami Street and Fountain Square. Visit the iconic Heydar Aliyev Cultural Centre, which is in a quirky building designed by Iraqi-British architect Zaha Hadid. The Centre showcases examples of a wide spectrum of Azerbaijani culture, with national costumes, musical instruments, and carpets providing a good insight into local craftsmanship. Have a welcome dinner in Baku. Overnight at the hotel.
Duration of sightseeing tour: 5-6 hours
Driving distance: 30 km
Meals: dinner

Day 3: Baku – Absheron – Gobustan – Baku

Breakfast at the hotel. Today you will visit the area of the Greater Baku and Absheron peninsula. Start with Gobustan National Park. Pay a visit to the Petroglyphs Museum and explore petroglyphs dating back to 10,000 BC. Visit mud volcanoes. Later drive to Ateshgah – temple of fire worshippers located in Surakhany village. Zoroastrians from India travelled thousands of kilometers to Ateshgah to worship fire coming out of the earth. Drive to Yanardag Mountain with natural gas burning for several thousands of years. Return to Baku for overnight.
Duration of sightseeing tour: 6-7 hours
Driving distance: 190 km

Day 4: Baku – Khinalug – Baku

In the morning, meet your guide and the driver at your hotel in Baku. Depart the capital city to the northwest of the country. Drive through Red Village (Krasnaya Sloboda), the biggest settlement of Mountain Jews in Azerbaijan. The road to Khinalug is a picturesque mountain road at an altitude of 2,000 m. Enjoy breathtaking views of the landscape. Khinalug is one of most ancient settlements in the country where people have been continuously living for more than 5,000 years. Return to Baku. On the way back stop at Quba mass grave. Arrive in Baku. Overnight at the hotel.
Duration of sightseeing tour: 10-11 hours
Driving distance: 420 km

Day 5: Baku – free day

Breakfast. Free day in Baku (guide and transportation are not provided).

Azerbaijan National History Museum - the perfect place to learn about the everything from the ancient history to the modern era of the country. The museum occupies the former home of an oil billionaire who lived there at the beginning of XX century;
Azerbaijan State Carpet Museum. A beautiful museum in the shape of rolled carpet, this is the richest bank of Azerbaijan carpets and provides a look into the world of intricate designs and natural dyes;
Sea Boulevard is a favorite place for locals since 1909, making it one of the best people watching spots in Baku;
Funicular ride to the iconic trio of Flame Towers. Travel tip: the towers are best seen in the evening when they are beautifully lit up;
Ganjlik Mall offers the best shopping facilities;
Opera and Ballet Theater usually offers performances on weekend. To see what is on and book tickets please visit https://iticket.az/en

Overnight at the hotel.

Day 6: Baku – Shamakha – Lahich* – Sheki

Breakfast. Depart towards Sheki. On the way, stop at Diri Baba Mausoleum in the village of Maraza. Continue to Shamakhi and visit the historical Juma Mosque. Weather permitting, a scenic drive through Girdimanchay River Canyon to visit Lahich will follow. Lahich, an ancient village with charming, cobbled sidewalks, is famous for its medieval water supply and sewage systems, as well as its traditional jewelry, copperware, carpets, pottery, daggers, and iron tools workshops. Continue driving to Sheki, the pleasant and easily walkable medieval town set in a lush mountainous area. Sheki is especially known for local style sweet baklava. Arrival in Sheki at about 19:00 for overnight at the hotel.
Driving distance: 340 km
*Lahich will not be reachable during 2024 due to the road construction.

Day 7: Sheki – Mingechevir – Ganja

Breakfast at the hotel. At 08:30, visit the colorful Sheki Bazaar. Here, you can find virtually everything you may want to eat: local fruits and berries, spices, freshly-baked bread, honey, cheeses, and Sheki sweets. Continue to the Palace of Sheki Khans, which is surrounded by medieval fortress walls, and then visit handicrafts workshops and caravanserai. Depart Sheki and head to Ganja town (160 km, 2-3 hours). One the way, visit Mingachevir town. Have a short drive around the city; pass by riverside, city center, and beautiful water reservoir. Continue driving to Ganja. Check-in to hotel on arrival. Overnight at the hotel.
Driving distance: 200 km

Day 8: Ganja – Goygol – Ganja

In the morning, start city tour in Ganja with visiting Shakh Abbas Mosque with two minarets, the mausoleum of the last khan of Ganja Javad Khan, and Chokek Hamam (medieval bathes). Continue sightseeing tour walking by Central Square, Sardar Baghi Park, Alexander Nevski Christian Orthodox Church and Christian Temple Agvan Kilsasi.
Drive out of the city to a small town of Goygol to visit village Helenendorf that was settled in the winter of 1818-1819 by 194 Swabian German families. German architecture of local buildings will surprise you.
Change the vehicle to 4WD drive and head to Goygol National Park and Goygol Lake, a picturesque lake surrounded by dense forest charms its visitors with its beauty and exquisiteness. Overnight in Ganja.
Driving distance: 100 km

Day 9: Ganja – Red Bridge border crossing – Tbilisi

After breakfast check out of the hotel and head to Red Bridge border. The name of the border comes from a red-brick arch bridge across the Khrami River in the no-man's land area between the border posts. The bridge's current structure is mostly XVII century, but there has been a bridge on the site since the XII century as well. Cross the border. Meet your Georgian driver. Head to vibrant capital of Georgia – Tbilisi. Check in at the hotel. Free afternoon. Overnight at the hotel.
Driving distance: 205 km

Day 10: Tbilisi

At 09:00 am meet your guide at the hotel lobby. We will embark on Tbilisi sightseeing tour. Start at Metekhi Сhurch and the monument to Vakhtang Gorgasali, the legendary founder of Tbilisi. Visit Narikala Fortress to enjoy a breathtaking panoramic view of the city. Walk down to the district of sulphur bath houses and pass by the only mosque in Tbilisi. Stroll through the Sharden area, full of narrow streets with cozy cafés, wine tasting bars, and souvenir shops, and breathe in the history of Old Tbilisi. Also visit Sioni Cathedral, Anchiskhati Basilica, and the famous Rezo Gabriadze Theatre’s clock tower, before crossing the Bridge of Peace to Rike Park. Have a welcome dinner in Tbilisi with folklore show. Overnight at the hotel.
Duration of sightseeing tour: 4-5 hours
Driving distance: 5 km
Meals: dinner

Day 11: Tbilisi – free day

Breakfast. Free day in Tbilisi (guide and transportation are not provided). We suggest the following activities and places to visit in Tbilisi:

National Gallery on Rustaveli Avenue – to see the works of the famous Georgian artists Niko Pirosmani, David Kakabadze, and Lado Gudiashvili;
Georgian National Museum on Rustaveli Avenue – to visit the “Archaeological Treasury” exhibition;
Tbilisi flea market at Dry Bridge – where you can find antiquities (many of which are from the Soviet era), paintings by local artists, and handmade Georgian souvenirs;
David Agmashenebeli Avenue – a recently-renovated pedestrian street full of historical buildings that have beautiful facades in the art nouveau, pseudo gothic, and classicist styles with a mix of typical Georgian ornamentation and balconies. All along the street there are plenty of cozy art cafés, galleries, shops, and wine bars;
Dezertirebi Bazaar – which sells local, natural products including Georgian sweets (such as churchkhela); various types of dried fruits, nuts, and spices; and Georgian cheeses;
Funicular railway to Mtatsminda Mountain – which offers a beautiful view of Tbilisi;
Wander in Sololaki – a neighborhood full of art nouveau houses;
For nature lovers, we offer a day hike to Birtvisi Canyon and Fortress. Contact us to find out more.

In the evening, you can visit the famous Tbilisi sulphur bath houses to relax in the hot, naturally sulphur-enriched water after a long day of exploring (both public and private rooms are available, but private ones should be booked in advance).
For those who are interested in culture, we suggest visiting the State Opera House of Georgia to enjoy a ballet or opera performance (opera.ge). You can find out what other cultural events are on in Tbilisi, and book tickets, at tkt.ge.

Day 12: Tbilisi – Vardisubani – Telavi – Shumi – Tsinandali – Telavi

After breakfast depart towards the Kakheti region (Eastern Georgia), the cradle of Georgian wine. Beautiful road lies through Gombori pass. Our first stop will be at Kbilashvili Winery and Qvevri Workshop, where you will learn about traditional Georgian winemaking in qvevri (large earthenware vessels). Continue to Telavi, the administrative and historic center of the region. Have a short walk through charming streets of old Telavi and have a photo stop at the monument to Erekle II. Reach Shumi Winery, where you will have a cooking masterclass of famous Georgian dishes Khinkali (Georgian dumplings) and Khachapuri (Georgian pizza) followed by wine tasting and delicious lunch. Continue to Tsinandali, the residence of dukes of Georgia with beautiful English garden, a museum and the wine cellar that belonged to prince Chavchavadze, 19th century public figure and poet. Return to Telavi for overnight.
Duration of sightseeing tour: 8-10 hours
Driving distance: 160 km
Lunch, 2 wine tastings and a cooking masterclass included

Day 13: Telavi – Gremi – Kvareli – Bodbe – Sighnaghi

Continue exploring Kakheti region and Alazani valley. Check-out from the hotel and drive to Gremi architectural complex, 16th century royal residence and the capital of Kakheti Kingdom. Gloomy and monumental, the Gremi castle is one of the most visited tourist points in Georgia. Next stop will be at unique Winery Khareba located in the tunnel carved out of the rock. Originally built for military purposes, today the tunnel is used to store Khareba’s finest wines. Wine tour and wine tasting. Drive to Sighnaghi, making en-route stop at Bodbe convent, which according to the legend is a burial place of St. Nino, who converted Georgia to Christianity in the 4th century. Continue to Sighnaghi, the city of love and the Royal Town, one of the crossroads of the Great Silk Road surrounded by defensive walls with 23 towers. Overnight in Sighnaghi.
Duration of sightseeing tour: 8-10 hours
Driving distance: 100 km
Wine tasting included

Day 14: Sighnaghi – David Gareja – Tbilisi

In the morning depart towards Tbilisi. On the way make a tour to semi-desert area near Gareja. On the way stop at a local market to take some snacks. Arrive in David Gareja Monastery and start walking up to explore the Lavra Cave Monastery, founded in the 6th century. The Lavra Monastery is an inhabited complex of caves with a courtyard, church and other buildings. Continue walking up to Udabno (takes around 1,5-2 hours) where you can have some rest and enjoy the view of Azerbaijan from Georgian side. Udabno* is famous for its wall-paintings, dating from the end of the 12th century. Thousand-year-old frescos at Udabno depict such scenes from the Bible like “The Last Supper” and “The Exaltation of the Cross”. After some rest, walk down along another path. Drive to Tbilisi for overnight.
*As Udabno is located on the territory of Georgia-Azerbaijan border, the access to the monastery is subject to current safety situation at the border.
Duration of sightseeing tour: 7-8 hours
Driving distance: 205 km

Day 15: Tbilisi – Jvari – Mtskheta – Ananuri – Kazbegi

After breakfast, drive to Mtskheta, one of the oldest towns and the cultural and religious center of Georgia. Mtskheta was the capital of the Eastern Georgian Kingdom of Iberia from the third century BC. Visit Jvari, a true architectural masterpiece of the early Medieval Period overlooking the confluence of Aragvi and Mtkvari rivers from the top of the hill, and Svetitskhoveli, the main cathedral of Mtskheta and a sacred place where the robe of Christ is being kept. Continue to Ananuri architectural complex, a former residence of Argveti Dukes. Complex featuring churches and towers dating back to the 16-17th centuries is beautifully overlooking Jinvali reservoir. We will keep climbing on the Georgian Military Highway passing through the highest point of it at 2394 m above sea level. Arrive at Kazbegi, a small town with the views of Mount Kazbek (or Mkinvari) 5033 m, the seventh highest peak in the Caucasus Mountains. Overnight at the hotel.
Duration of sightseeing tour: 9-10 hours
Driving distance: 160 km

Day 16: Kazbegi – Gergeti Trinity Church – Kazbegi

After breakfast meet your guide. Take 4WD and drive to Gergeti Holy Trinity Church located on the altitude of 2170 m to enjoy breathtaking views to the Mount Kazbegi. The rest of the day is free. Overnight at the hotel.
Duration of sightseeing tour: 2-3 hours
Driving distance: 15 km

Day 17: Kazbegi – Merebashvili Wine Cellar – Gori – Uplistsikhe – Tbilisi

Breakfast. Drive to Merebashvili Wine Cellar, local family winery offering its visitors, warm welcome, home-cooked lunch and homemade wine. After lunch and wine tasting drive to the cave town of Uplistsikhe, which dates back to the Hellenistic Period and is notable for its unique combination of various styles of rock-cut architecture, including both pagan and Christian. Continue to Stalin’s hometown of Gori. Visit the Stalin Museum, which includes more than 60,000 artifacts, the tiny house where Stalin was born, and an impressive bulletproof train that Stalin used to travel to Yalta and Potsdam. Reach Tbilisi in the evening. Overnight at the hotel.
Duration of sightseeing tour: 9-10 hours
Driving distance: 300 km
Lunch and wine tasting included

Day 18: Tbilisi – Haghpat – Sanahin – Dilijan

At 09:00 am check out of the hotel and head to Sadakhlo-Bagratashen border point. Cross border, meet Armenian guide and driver. Depart to Lori region. Visit Haghpat and Sanahin monasteries built during prosperous the Kiurikian dynasty (10th to 13th century). Both monasteries were very important educational centers. Sanahin (meaning “this one is older than that one”) was famous for its calligraphy and illumination school. There are numerous khachkars (Armenian cross-stones) on their territory dating back to 1273. Being UNESCO World Heritage Sites, Haghpat and Sanahin represent bright example of traditional Armenian religious architecture. Reach Dilijan. Overnight at the hotel.
Duration of sightseeing tour: 9-10 hours
Driving distance: 215 km

Day 19: Dilijan – Sevanavank – Selim pass – Goris

After breakfast, continue exploring Armenia with Sevanavank Monastery standing on a narrow rocky peninsula in the northwest part of the Lake Sevan, one of the largest freshwater alpine lakes in Eurasia. The road passes through the coastline of the lake, surrounded by beautiful nature. Lake Sevan attracts many locals and tourists throughout a year. Continue to Selim Pass Caravansary, also known as Orbelian's Caravanserai, located at a height of 2410 meters above sea level. The Caravansary was built in 14th Century and was one of the major stop points of the Great Silk Road part which went through Armenia. After crossing the pass, head to Goris for overnight.
Duration of sightseeing tour: 9-10 hours
Driving distance: 275 km

Day 20: Goris – Tatev – Khndzoresk – Yeghegnadzor – Old Bridge winery

In the morning we will visit Tatev Complex. The 9th-century monastery, standing on the edge of a deep gorge of the Vorotan River attracts many visitors each year. To reach the monastery, we need to ride a cable car “Wings of Tatev”, the longest aerial tramway in the world. It is included in the Guinness World Records book (5700 m. length, 12 min. duration). Tatev used to be the religious and political center of the region and the remote location of the monastery was chosen strategically, to protect the complex from the constant invasions.
Continue to Khndzoresk, the historical cave village, located on the steep slope of a gorge. It consists of natural and manmade caves. Since many of the dwellings were carved out over and around each other, a complex system of ropes and ladders were required for people to reach many corners of the community. Right up until the 20th century Khndzoresk Cave Village was the biggest village in Eastern Armenia. We will reach Old Bridge Winery and have a delicious dinner accompanied by locally produced wines. Overnight at Old Bridge Winery in Yeghegnadzor.
Duration of sightseeing tour: 9-10 hours
Driving distance: 165 km
Dinner and wine tasting included

Day 21: Yeghegnadzor – Noravank – Khor Virap – Tushpa Wine Cellar – Yerevan

After breakfast we will depart to the Noravank complex, which is situated on a ledge of a deep, winding gorge. Noravank stands among bizarrely shaped, precipitous red cliffs. Later we will visit the Areni Cave complex where in 2008 the world’s oldest leather shoe was found. Head to Khor Virap Monastery. According to the legend, St. Gregory the Illuminator (who is credited with converting Armenia to Christianity) had been kept in the basement here for 13 years for disseminating of Christianity, until King Tradt decided to adopt the new religion. The monastery’s location allows you to enjoy superb views of Mount Ararat. Last stop for today will be Tushpa Wine Cellar, a great place to taste good wine and experience culture and tradition. Lunch and wine tasting at the winery. Head to Yerevan for overnight.
Duration of sightseeing tour: 8-9 hours
Driving distance: 150 km
Lunch and wine tasting included

Day 22: Yerevan city tour

After breakfast meet your guide and start exploring Yerevan, one of the world’s oldest cities. Yerevan is often referred to as the “Pink City” and impresses visitors with its grand Soviet architecture. Our first stop in Yerevan will be at the Armenian Genocide Memorial Complex on Tsitsernakaberd Hill. Next, we will visit the modern symbol of Yerevan – Cascade Monument, a giant stairway (572 steps) linking downtown Yerevan with Monument neighborhood. From the top of the monument, you can capture the best panorama of Yerevan and Mount Ararat. Continue exploring the city with a walk down its beautiful streets, passing Opera House, Republic Square and Abovyan Avenue. Visit Matenadaran, the world's largest storage of ancient Armenian manuscripts. Have welcome dinner in Yerevan. Overnight at the hotel.
Duration of sightseeing tour: 4-5 hours
Driving distance: 10 km
Meals: dinner

Day 23: Yerevan – Geghard – Garni – Symphony of Stones – Etchmiadzin – Yerevan

Depart Yerevan and drive to Geghard Monastery (meaning "spear" in Armenian), a complex founded in the 4th century by Gregory the Illuminator near a sacred spring inside a cave. Next stop is Garni, the only pagan temple in Armenia that survived the Christianization of the land in the 4th century. Descend Garni Gorge to explore a monumental rock formation called Symphony of Stones. Have lavash baking masterclass accompanied by local lunch in Garni village. Continue to Echmiadzin*. According to many scholars, it was the first cathedral built in ancient Armenia. We will visit the main Cathedral (the residence of the Catholicos, the supreme head of the Armenian Apostolic Church) and a museum filled with Christian relics. Drive back to Yerevan. Overnight at the hotel.
Duration of sightseeing tour: 8-9 hours
Driving distance: 115 km
Lunch and lavash-baking masterclass included

Day 24: Yerevan – free day

Breakfast. Free day in Yerevan (guide and transportation are not provided). We suggest the following activities and places to visit in Yerevan:

The National Gallery of Armenia on 1 Aram Street to get acquainted with works of Aivazovsky, Sureniants, Sarian, Serov, Kandinsky, Donatello, Rodin, Chagall and other well-known artists. (Monday – day off)
Megerian Carpet Museum – where you can observe a process of creating famous Armenian rugs. You will see carpets from different regions of Armenia and find out about hidden meanings of elements used in their design. (Sunday – day off)
For the movie enthusiasts, we recommend visiting Sergei Parajanov Museum. Sergey Paradjanov’s several film-masterpieces are: "Shadows of Forgotten Ancestors" (1964), "The Colour of Pomegranates" or "Sayat-Nova" (1969), "The Legend of Suram Fortress" (1985) and "Ashik-Kerib" (1988).
Cafesjian Center for the Arts which is located within the Cascade complex. There you can see private collection of the founder Gerard L. Cafesjian. Once you finish with the museum, enjoy views of Mountain Ararat from the top stage of Cascade complex.
Visit Ararat Brandy Factory in Yerevan to taste renowned Armenian cognac.
Visit dried fruit market located at Khoryenatsi M. str. 35, one of the best places to buy local food and snacks.

For those who are interested in culture, we suggest visiting National Academic Opera and ballet Theatre named after A. Spendiaryan and enjoy ballet or opera performance.

Day 25: Yerevan – Oshakan – Amberd Fortress – Gyumri

After breakfast check put of the hotel. Visit Oshakan, which is known as a burial place of the father of the Armenian alphabet Saint Mesrop Mashtots. A cathedral named after him houses his grave which was rebuilt by Catholicos George IV in 1875. We will then drive towards Amberd complex, comprised of medieval fortress and a church located in a quiet area on the southern slopes of the Mount Aragats. Amberd is at 2300 meters above the sea level; this explains its name which means ‘fortress in the clouds’. On arrival in Gyumri we will have a short walk on its streets to see examples of traditional Armenian urban architecture of 19th century. Overnight at the hotel.
Duration of sightseeing tour: 7-8 hours
Driving distance: 140 km

Day 26: Gyumri – Ninotsminda border – Vardzia – Akhaltsikhe

After breakfast check out of the hotel. Cross Amenia-Georgia border and head to Vardzia, which was erected in the 12-13th centuries during the rule of George III and his daughter Queen Tamara to protect southern boundaries of Georgia. Vardzia is not just a set of random rooms cut in rocks, it is a multi-storied complex with streets, tunnels and stairs leading to monasteries, temples, fortresses, baths, libraries dwelling houses and so forth. Continue to Akhaltsikhe for overnight.
Duration of sightseeing tour: 8-10 hours
Driving distance: 200 km

Day 27: Akhaltsikhe – Borjomi – Kutaisi

In the morning explore the Rabati fortress. The old stone Rabati fortress, the main sight of the Akhaltsikhe town, is standing on the small hill on the very shores of the Potskhovi river. Its name comes from Arabic meaning “fortified place”. We will then drive to Borjomi and take a walk in its Central Park with its mineral water reserves. Drive to Kutaisi, the second biggest city in Georgia, which according to the legend was the ultimate destination of the Jason and Argonauts searching for the Golden Fleece. Overnight at the hotel in Kutaisi.
Duration of sightseeing tour: 8-9 hours
Driving distance: 180 km

Day 28: Kutaisi – Gelati – Motsameta – Toma’s Wine Cellar

After breakfast visit Bagrati Cathedral (11th century) - one of the best samples of medieval architecture towering over Kutaisi and visible from almost any point of the city. Next stop is Gelati Academy (12th century) built by King David the Builder. Gelati was the center of spiritual and scientific life of the Middle Ages, the tomb of Georgian kings, and the cult place for pilgrims. It is under UNESCO protection as an object of cultural and historical legacy. Visit Motsameta Monastery located in a beautiful gorge. Have lunch at Toma’s wine Cellar. The food here is simply incredible: varied, and interesting, with unforgettable local flavors. Here you will have a chance to try local Imeretian food accompanied by homemade wine. The rest of the day free. Overnight at the hotel.
Duration of sightseeing tour: 4-5 hours
Driving distance: 20 km
Lunch and wine tasting included

Day 29: Kutaisi – Geguti – Vani – Kutaisi

After breakfast head to Vani. At first, we will visit the Colchis Fountain in Kutaisi and look at enlarged replicas of golden statues found at Vani. We will then reach Geguti to explore remnants of the medieval palace of Georgian Kings. The Palace, which had been built during centuries, has original architectural solution and several construction layers. Used as a summer residence, at came to decay in 18-19 centuries. Our tour will then bring us to Vani, a settlement which served as the religious center of Colchis Kingdom from the 16th -1st centuries BC. The recently renovated Vani archaeological museum showcases ancient gold, bronze and ceramic artifacts from the famed Colchis Kingdom. Close to the museum there is small archaeological site, which we surely will visit before coming back to Kutaisi.
Duration of sightseeing tour: 6-7 hours
Driving distance: 85 km

Day 30: Kutaisi – Prometheus Cave – Mestia

In the morning, drive to the Prometheus Cave with numerous stalactites and stalagmites. In the afternoon, head to mysterious Svaneti region through the Inguri Gorge. This region is the birthplace to a special ethnic group of people – heroic and courageous Svans – distinguished by their culture, traditions and customs from the rest of Georgia. Svaneti is also famous for its original architecture and is called “the Country of Thousand Towers”, which had played both economic and defensive functions. Mestia still has dozens of such medieval stone houses with the watchtowers and inhabited towers that were used to protect valleys and churches from the 10-14th centuries. Visit Svan original house “machubi” and tower “koshki”. Overnight at the hotel.
Duration of sightseeing tour: 8-9 hours
Driving distance: 220 km
Dinner included

Day 31: Mestia – Ushguli – Mestia

After breakfast at the hotel drive on a 4x4 type car to Ushguli village, the highest standing settlement in Europe (2200 m). Spend time in Ushguli strolling through the old narrow streets. Visit Lamaria Church complex with impressive wall frescos (12th century). Locals believe that Queen Tamara was buried right under this church. Enjoy picturesque view of the Mount Shkhara. The Ushguli architectural complex is a valuable architectural and historical monument, included in the UNESCO World Heritage List for its exclusiveness. Return to Mestia. Overnight at the hotel.
Driving distance: 95 kilometers
Duration of sightseeing: 6-7 hours
Dinner included

Day 32: Mestia – Sisa Tura Ethno Village – Petra Fortress – Batumi

In the morning we will visit the Svaneti Museum of History and Ethnography. The museum was established in 1936 and has one of the richest collections of artifacts depicting life and crafts of Svan people. At noon depart to Batumi (150 km). We will stop on the way at Sisa-Tura Ethno Village near Zugdidi for lunch. Sisa-Tura gives us an insight what daily life of Georgians used to be like in 19th century. Our next stop is Petra fortress with green gardens beautifully overlooking the Black Sea. Arrive in Batumi and check in at the hotel for overnight.
Driving distance: 270 kilometers
Duration of sightseeing: 7-8 hours
Lunch included

Day 33: Batumi

After breakfast we will have a walking tour around old part of Batumi, visit Europe square, Piazza, Alphabetic tower, “Ali and Nino” statue, and take a ride on the longest ropeway in Georgia (about 6 min.). The rest of the day free.
Driving distance: Mostly on foot
Duration of sightseeing: 3-4 hours

Day 34: Batumi – Tbilisi (transfer by train)

Check out of the hotel till noon. Take morning or evening train to Tbilisi. Transfer to the hotel for overnight.
Train transfer takes up to 5 hours.

Day 35: Tbilisi – departure

Check out of the hotel till noon. Transfer to the airport. End of the Ultimate South Caucasus Tour.
Driving distance: 25 km

Price includes:

All transfers (1-2 pax by sedan, 3-4 pax by Mercedes Vito or similar, 5-10 pax by Mercedes Sprinter passenger van, 11-15 by 30-seats bus);
Accommodation based on double/twin room sharing, breakfasts included;
Sightseeing tour program in each country with local English-speaking guides;
Entrance tickets to sights as per itinerary;
Meals: 34 breakfasts, 6 lunches, 4 dinners, 1 cooking masterclass, 1 lavash baking masterclass, 6 wine tastings;
Azerbaijan e-visa;
Ticket on train Batumi – Tbilisi;
Separate 4WD to Gergeti Trinity Church and Ushguli;
Bottled drinking water.

Price doesn't include:

Full board (lunches and dinners);
Hotel charges for additional services;
Personal travel insurance;
Tips are not included, but would be appreciated.

Prices, per person

Economy

Comfort

Luxe

1 person

US$ 12,550

US$ 14,020

US$ 15,880

Request

2 persons

US$ 6,960

US$ 7,800

US$ 9,015

Request

3 persons

US$ 5,750

US$ 6,540

US$ 7,695

Request

4 persons

US$ 4,945

US$ 5,705

US$ 6,840

Request

Single supplement

US$ 970

US$ 1,595

US$ 2,030

Prices are for 2024 in US$ per person, with discounted prices for larger groups available on request.

Accommodation

Baku - 5 nights

Economy:
Boutique Hotel Baku / City Park / Grand Midway
Comfort:
Sultan Inn Hotel / Molokan Inn / Midtown
Lux:
Radisson Hotel Baku / Sapphire City / Courtyard by Marriott

Sheki - 1 night

Economy:
Sheki Palace / MinAli Boutique Hotel / Macara Sheki City Hotel / Ruma Qala
Comfort:
Sheki Palace / MinAli Boutique Hotel / Macara Sheki City Hotel / Ruma Qala
Lux:
Sheki Palace / MinAli Boutique Hotel / Macara Sheki City Hotel / Ruma Qala

Ganja - 2 nights

Economy:
Premium / Leon / VIS Palm
Comfort:
Premium / Leon / VIS Palm
Lux:
Premium / Leon / VIS Palm

Tbilisi - 6 nights

Economy:
Stay Boutique / Kopala / Tiflis / Ginger / Monday / Ramada By Wyndham Tbilisi Old City
Comfort:
River Side / Museum / Ibis Styles / New Tiflis
Lux:
Ambassadori / Tiflis Palace / Rooms / Swissôtel Tbilisi / Wyndham Grand

Telavi - 1 night

Economy:
Seventeen Rooms / Chateau White Flags / Hotel & Wine Cellar ARGE
Comfort:
Holiday Inn Telavi / Chateau Mere / Kviria / Château Mosmieri Hotel & Winery
Lux:
Schuchmann Wines Chateau / Esquisse Design Hotel / Panorama Kakheti Resort / Qvevrebi

Sighnaghi - 1 night

Economy:
Brigitte Sighnaghi / LOST RIDGE INN / History Hotel Sighnaghi
Comfort:
Kabadoni / Ampelo / Ambassadori Kachreti
Lux:
Kabadoni / Ampelo / Ambassadori Kachreti

Kazbegi - 2 nights

Economy:
Sunshine Kazbegi / Horizon Kazbegi / Best View / NOA Kazbegi / Alpenhaus Kazbegi
Comfort:
Intourist Kazbegi / Memoir Kazbegi / Mountain House / Northgate Kazbegi / Capra Hotel
Lux:
Rooms Hotel

Dilijan - 1 night

Economy:
Turfenkian Old Dilijan Complex / Hover Boutique
Comfort:
Turfenkian Old Dilijan Complex / Hover Boutique
Lux:
Dilijani Tun / Best Western Plus Paradise

Goris - 1 night

Economy:
Mirhav / Goris / Mina / Redroof Gueshouse / Khoreayi Dzor
Comfort:
Mirhav / Goris / Mina / Redroof Gueshouse / Khoreayi Dzor
Lux:
Mirhav / Goris / Mina / Redroof Gueshouse / Khoreayi Dzor

Yeghegnadzor - 1 night

Economy:
Old Bridge winery
Comfort:
Old Bridge winery
Lux:
Old Bridge winery

Yerevan - 4 nights

Economy:
Hayasa / Ani Central Inn / Silk Road Boutique / Cascade / President by Hrazdan Hotel CJSC
Comfort:
Opera Suite / Yerevan Place
Lux:
Tufenkian Historic / DoubleTree by Hilton Yerevan / Republica Hotel / Courtyard by Marriott

Gyumri - 1 night

Economy:
Villa Kars / Kuma Hotel / Hotel Plaza Viktoria / Aratta
Comfort:
Shiraz Plaza Hotel & Spa / Orienta Hotel Gyumri
Lux:
Grand Hotel Gyumri by Apricot Hotels

Akhaltsikhe - 1 night

Economy:
Almi guesthouse / Beni / Hotel Luxor
Comfort:
Lomsia / Gino Wellness Rabati / Akhaltsikhe Inn
Lux:
Lomsia / Gino Wellness Rabati / Akhaltsikhe Inn

Kutaisi - 3 nights

Economy:
Solomon Kutaisi / Magnolia / Memoire / Terrace Kutaisi / Family Hotel 1887
Comfort:
Best Western Kutaisi / Grand Opera / Newport
Lux:
Best Western Kutaisi / Grand Opera / Newport

Mestia - 2 nights

Economy:
Old House Mestia / Mestia Inn / Chubu / Old Seti / Villa Mestia
Comfort:
Lahili / Chalet Mestia / Sunset Terrace
Lux:
Gistola Mestia / Posta

Batumi - 2 nights

Economy:
Graphic Hotel / London Hotel / O Galogre / New wave / Hotel N16 / Bel Mare
Comfort:
Monarch Hotel / Best Western Premier Batumi / JRW Welmond
Lux:
Rooms Batumi / Wyndham / Courtyard by Marriott / Ramada Plaza by Wyndham

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35-day Ultimate South Caucasus Tour35 days | Private | Azerbaijan, Georgia, Armenia

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