Azerbaijan, Georgia and Armenia

We begin the day exploring the remarkable Qobustan National Park, discovering ancient petroglyphs—thousands of carvings over 40,000 years old—that reveal the history of the region’s first inhabitants. Besides the rock carvings, we’ll explore the dramatic volcanic mud fields—an otherworldly landscape resembling the surface of the moon.
Later, in Baku, we’ll spend the afternoon exploring its exciting food scene. Our visit to a traditional market includes experiencing the delightful scents of spices, nuts, and teas, followed by a typical meal that lets us savour the unique flavours of Azerbaijan. The rest of the day is free for exploring; stroll the old town, unwind on a terrace, or discover the architectural contrasts between the capital’s past and present.

Accommodation: hotel in Baku
Meals: breakfast

Our journey takes us from modern Baku into the heart of Azerbaijan’s countryside, a scenic drive through a stunning gorge leading to the captivating village of Lahij, which boasts a history stretching back 2,000 years. The town’s cobbled streets and historic houses are a testament to its rich past, preserving a legacy of over 40 crafts, ranging from leather and carpet making to metalworking. Lahij’s skilled artisans are still renowned for their copper work, with pieces found in world-famous museums.
Lahij, home to the Tat people with their unique language and traditions, is a haven for culture and food. Summer brings fresh mountain air, village exploration, artisan workshops, delicious local food, and scenic hikes for the adventurous, revealing the raw beauty of the Greater Caucasus.

Accommodation: guesthouse in Lahij
Meals: breakfast

Today we travel to Sheki, a former Silk Road hub nestled at the foot of the Caucasus mountains. We visit the Sheki Khan’s Palace, a stunning wooden structure adorned with stained glass mosaics, then explore the local bazaar and caravanserai.
In the evening, we sleep in a historic inn that once hosted traders and travellers from across Central Asia.

Accommodation: hotel in Sheki
Meals: breakfast

Once an important Silk Road stop, Sheki still holds the essence of a time when merchants, artisans and caravans filled its cobbled streets. We begin our day exploring the Palace of the Sheki Khans, a masterpiece of Persian-influenced architecture with dazzling stained-glass windows and intricate frescoes.
We’ll then wander through the local bazaar and visit the ancient Caravanserai — where merchants and travellers once rested — before ending the day with a relaxed evening in this culturally rich town.

Accommodation: hotel in Sheki
Meals: breakfast

მოგესალმებით! (mogesalmebit) – welcome to Georgia 🏴󠁧󠁢󠁥󠁮󠁧󠁿
Today we cross the border into Georgia and travel through its wine-making heartland, Kakheti. The landscape begins to shift as we journey to the charming hilltop town of Sighnaghi, known for its winding streets and panoramic views of the Alazani Valley.
We take our time settling into the new rhythm of Georgian life, learning about local crafts, meeting welcoming families, and walking through a town that feels like a living museum.

Accommodation: homestay in Sighnaghi
Meals: breakfast

We travel to Gori, a town deeply tied to one of the 20th century’s most controversial figures — Joseph Stalin. Visiting his birthplace and museum offers a complex insight into Georgia’s recent history.
But Gori isn’t just about politics — it’s a living town where history and everyday life blend. We explore local markets and try simple regional specialities in no-frills taverns, experiencing the texture of life in Georgia’s heartland.

Accommodation: hotel in Gori
Meals: breakfast

We set off on one of the most iconic drives in the Caucasus — the Georgian Military Highway. Along the way, we stop at the spiritual capital of Georgia, Mtskheta, to explore its ancient churches.
As the mountains rise around us, we reach Stepantsminda under the towering Mount Kazbegi. After hiking or driving up to the Gergeti Trinity Church, perched dramatically on a hilltop, we settle in for a cosy evening in the mountains.

Accommodation: hotel in Stepantsminda
Meals: breakfast

Leaving the peaks behind, we descend along the Aragvi River valley, stopping at the fortress complex of Ananuri. By afternoon, we arrive in Tbilisi and explore its eclectic streets.
From Soviet-era charm to sulphur baths and colourful balconies, Tbilisi feels both familiar and strange — a bridge between Asia and Europe, tradition and change.

Accommodation: hotel in Tbilisi
Meals: breakfast

Today we immerse ourselves in the charm and contrasts of Tbilisi. We begin in the Sololaki district, with its elegant balconies and crumbling mansions, then cross the Peace Bridge towards Rike Park. A cable car ride takes us up to the Narikala Fortress for sweeping views, followed by a visit to the statue of Mother Georgia, a symbol of strength and hospitality.
We wander down through the old alleyways past sulphur baths and colourful houses, absorbing the city’s unique blend of cultures. Along the way, you’ll discover small art spaces, independent bookshops, and local artisans — a perfect day to embrace the layered spirit of Georgia’s capital.

Accommodation: hotel in Tbilisi
Meals: breakfast

բարի գալուստ! (bari galust) – Welcome to Armenia 🇦🇲
Crossing into Armenia, the scenery changes dramatically. We pass deep gorges and rolling hills as we make our way to Dilijan, known as “Armenia’s Little Switzerland”.
On the way, we visit Haghartsin Monastery hidden in the woods, where centuries-old stone architecture sits in peaceful silence. The evening offers time to reflect and slow down in nature.

Accommodation: hotel in Dilijan
Meals: breakfast

We visit the Sevanavank Monastery overlooking Lake Sevan’s turquoise waters. The view is vast, windswept, and unforgettable.
Driving south, we pass villages and changing landscapes before arriving in Goris, a town nestled in a valley surrounded by strange, eroded cliffs.

Accommodation: hotel in Goris
Meals: breakfast

Today we soar on the world’s longest reversible cable car — the Wings of Tatev — to visit the stunning cliffside monastery of Tatev, once a major centre of learning.
Later, we explore Karahunj, Armenia’s ancient stone circle shrouded in mystery. The day blends history, legend, and wild landscapes.

Accommodation: hotel in Goris
Meals: breakfast

On our way to Yerevan, we stop at the Khor Virap Monastery for a dramatic view of Mount Ararat. Once in the capital, we take time to explore its museums, squares and lively streets.
We end the day at the imposing Mother of Armenia statue, a powerful symbol overlooking the city and its layered past.

Accommodation: hotel in Yerevan
Meals: breakfast

Depending on your departure time, there’s an option to visit the Armenian Genocide Memorial or the Matenadaran manuscript museum.
Take one last walk through Yerevan’s open-air cafés or pick up final souvenirs — then it’s time to say farewell to the Caucasus.

Accommodation: –
Meals: breakfast