GRAND CAUCASUS

On arrival, be greeted warmly by our local guide and drive to the Absheron Peninsula, an extension of the Caucasus distinguished for its abundant oil reserves.   

Delve into the historical richness of the Baku Ateshgah, often referred to as the ‘Fire Temple of Baku’, the 17th century pilgrimage center of the Zoroastrians who were involved in trade with the Caspian area via the famous ‘Grand Trunk Road’.  

Next is the awe-inspiring sight of the Burning Mountain (Yanar Dag) where a perpetual natural gas fire illuminates the hillside creating a mesmerizing and continuous blaze.  The historical name of the country came from these holy centers of Baku.  

Admire outstanding architecture built during the last two centuries by oil magnates.  Make a photo stop at the iconic Heydar Aliyev Center noted for its flowing curves.   
 

Enjoy a picturesque drive along the scenic Caspian shore to Gobustan National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its ancient petroglyphs dating back to the Neolithic era providing a vivid window into the traditions of ancient tribes, hunting scenes and cultural rituals. (Note: Route to visit the petroglyphs is not paved and involve some inclinations) 

Continue to one of Gobustan’s most unique attractions, the mud volcanoes.  Azerbaijan is home to nearly half of the world’s mud volcanoes and Gobustan provides an opportunity to witness these fascinating natural phenomena up close.  (Note: In event of rain, we will visit Mud Volcanoes Complex instead) 

Return to Baku to learn how the capital built on its heritage to become a beacon of modern architecture Explore the historic Icharishahar, a maze of narrow alleyways and winding corridors, all gracefully encircled by imposing fortress walls. At its heart lies the 15th-century Shirvanshahs' Palace, a masterpiece of medieval architecture. From the palace grounds, the iconic Flame Towers dominate the skyline, offering a striking juxtaposition of Baku's rich history and modern innovation. 

Explore the walled city with the fabled Maiden’s Tower which boasts not only a captivating history but also a commanding panorama of the bay.  

Journey into the heart of the Azerbaijan Mountains from Baku.  Our first stop will be at Maraza Village celebrated for its 15th-century two-storied mausoleum-mosque named Diri Baba.  Resume our picturesque drive to the enchanting town of Sheki. (Note: We will be using the mountain route which can be winding.  In case of bad weather or road closure, we will use the highway and skip the visit to Maraza Village).     

Visit the remarkable Sheki Khan’s Palace, a living testament to medieval opulence.  The medieval fortress offers a glimpse into the past.  Next, explore the caravanserai, inns built during the Middle Ages characterised by their massive impregnable gates. 

Proceed to cross the border between Azerbaijan and Georgia. ((Note: Please be prepared as we need to cross the border on foot with our luggage. There is roughly 1km of walking between the 2 borders and it can get quite busy.) 

Drive to the fortified town of Signagi, affectionately known as the city of love.  Stroll through its charming, cobbled streets where ancient churches tower above a sea of rust-coloured rooftops.  Enjoy sweeping views of the enchanting Alasani Valley in every direction.   

Continue to Kakheti, a renowned wine making region in Georgia where grapes have been cultivated for around 8000 years.  Engage in this historical legacy as we indulge in a wine tasting experience.   

End the day in the capital of Georgia, Tbilisi. 

Ascend with the cable car to Narikala Fortress and be rewarded with the finest panoramic views of Tbilisi.  (weather permitting). Take a leisurely stroll to the iconic Mother Georgia Monument before we meander downhill to the historic Abanotubani, the historic district known for its Sulphur Baths.  See the city’s most significant religious landmark, the Sioni Cathedral near the banks of the Mtkvari River and the Anchiskhati Basilica, the oldest surviving church in Tbilisi dating back to the 6th century.   

Stop by the quirky Clock Tower.  Its colourful tiles, leaning structure and an eclectic mix of architectural styles appeal to both locals and visitors. Admire the unique design of the Bridge of Peace which connects the old Town with Rike Park.     

Continue our journey to Gori, the birthplace of Joseph Stalin.  Explore the Uplistsikhe Cave Town built by pagans as a holy city in the 4th century BC.  The city fortress was unconquered for close to 1800 years, mostly due to its location, secret water and food supplies, and a great fortification.  (Note: Climb to the cave town is mostly on unpaved paths.  Please exercise caution during this excursion)  

Continue to the Stalin Museum, which chronicles his life from humble beginnings to his death. The visit includes the house where he was born and raised, as well as his private train carriages. 

Travel on the famed Georgian Military Highway, a highlight of any trip to Georgia. This scenic route served as link between Europe and Asia over the centuries and connects Tbilisi to the Russian city of Vladikavkaz. 

Stop at the Ananuri Fortress, a classic example of Georgian architecture enhanced by its superb location overlooking the Ahinvali Reservoir.  Continue to the Gudauri Friendship Monument, also known as the Gudauri Panorama decorated with mosaics depicting Georgian and Russian heroes, farmers, fairy tales and communist symbols.  The monument is a circular balcony hanging off a 600m cliff with amazing views of the Caucasus Mountains.   

Cross Jvari Pass, the highest point at 2395m, as we drive towards Stepantsminda. (Note: During heavy snow, the road might be closed.  Alternative arrangements will be made until the tunnel between Gudauri and Kazbegi is completed (end of 2024).  

Ride in 4WD vehicles to the beautiful Gergeti Trinity Church.  Set against the backdrop of Mount Kazbegi, the views from the church are truly breath-taking!   Gergeti Trinity Church is a treasury of valuable treasures and relics thanks to its hard-to-access location.   

Visit a local family to learn how to make the Georgian traditional dumplings, Khinkali.  Thereafter, enjoy eating them as well as other local dishes for lunch.  

In the afternoon, visit a felt maker to discover the traditional art of felting in Georgia. Learn firsthand as the artisan shares their techniques and the secrets of this timeless craft.  Enjoy tasting some homemade jam as well. 

Drive to the ‘city-museum’ and former capital, Mtskheta with its towering monuments, quaint cobblestone streets and idyllic charm.   

Perched on a hill high above Mtskheta is the beloved monastic temple of Jvari, Georgian for ‘cross’, and where St Nino planted the sacred cross to symbolize Georgia’s acceptance of Christianity.  Another important monument is the Svertiskhoveli Cathedral, a grandiose cathedral of tetraconch design.  The facades are decorated with stone carving characteristic of Georgian architecture of the 10th and 11th centuries.   

Return to Tbilisi.  Visit the Chronicles of Georgia, a monument which stands about 30m tall and describes the chronicles of Georgia.  The tope contains kings, queens and heroes remembered in history while the lower section portrays scenes from the life of Jusus Christ.   

Bid goodbye to Georgia as we travel towards the border for Armenia.  (Note:  Please be prepared as we need to cross the border on foot with our luggage)  

Meet up with our Armenian guide to visit Haghpat in the Debed Canyon of Lori, an area rich with historical monuments and natural beauty.  Visit the Haghpat Monastery, once the largest centres of science with a rich collection of manuscripts.  All the stone structures are kept spare to prevent the monks from being distracted. Learn about the beliefs of Russian Molokans, a national minority, in Fioletovo village. 

Continue to Dilijan, the ‘Switzerland of Armenia’, surrounded by dense forests valleys and mountains.  Visit Sharambeyan Street which presents the history of Dilijan workshops of craftsmen and artists.   

Set off for Lake Sevan, the largest lake in the Caucasus 1900m above sea level.  Its colours and shades change with the weather from a dazzling azure to dark blue and a thousand shades in between. 

Visit a family-run cheese farm to learn the traditional techniques and methods of cheese making.  After lunch, drive to Yerevan, the capital of Armenia where ancient culture and traditions are integrated with modern lifestyle. 

Start our walking tour of Yerevan from the Republic Square, the masterpiece of neoclassical architect - Alexander Tamanian.  Continue to the Cascade, an open-air museum of modern art with massive stairways leading up to Victory Park.  See the Opera House, Swan Lake and walk through the Northern Avenue, for better insight into the modern architecture of the capital. 

Visit the Armenian monastery carved out of cliffs and named after that spear that stabbed Jesus, the Geghard Cave Monastery.   

Continue to the Temple of Garni, the only standing Greco-Roman colonnaded building in Armenia. Nearby is the Garni Gorge where we can see well-preserved basalt columns referred to as the ‘Symphony of the Stones’ carved out by the Goght River.   

Observe how the national bread ‘lavash’ is baked in an underground stove called ‘tonir’. After lunch, drive to Khor Virap Monastery which imprisoned St Gregory the illuminator in a pit of thirteen years. Explore the charming architecture and rich history here. 

Drive to Etchmidadzin, also known as Vagharshapat, Armenia’s 4th largest city just 10km north of the closed Turkish Armenian border. The city is best known as the location of Mother See of Holy Etchmiadzin, the central cathedral and the administrative headquarters of the Armenian Apostolic Church.   

The Etchmiadzin Cathedral, built in 303Ad by St Gregory the Illuminator, is considered the world’s oldest cathedral and a UNESCO World Heritage site. 

Visit the ruins of Zvartnots Cathedral, a masterpiece from the Middle Ages and an important example of Armenian architecture with unique design and technique.   

Return to Yerevan to visit the legendary Armenian Brandy Factory commonly known for its famous brand ‘ArArAt’.  Continue the tour to Vernissage, a popular open-air market that offers a vibrant and colourful glimpse into Armenian culture and craftsmanship. 

Enjoy a traditional dinner accompanied by a vibrant folklore performance celebrated for their intricate choreography, melodious tunes and storytelling elements.    Return to the hotel for a short rest before our transfer to the airport.