Complete Caucasus
Example Itinerary
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Overview
One of the most linguistically and culturally diverse regions in the world, the Caucasus is a melting pot of traditions, conflicts and religions. Home to some of the oldest Christian churches on earth, it can also boast caravanserais and ancient rock art, spectacular landscapes and some of the richest biodiversity hotspots in the world.
This in-depth journey will take you through a land rich in religious faith and historical pedigree, where you will have an opportunity to explore ...
One of the most linguistically and culturally diverse regions in the world, the Caucasus is a melting pot of traditions, conflicts and religions. Home to some of the oldest Christian churches on earth, it can also boast caravanserais and ancient rock art, spectacular landscapes and some of the richest biodiversity hotspots in the world.
This in-depth journey will take you through a land rich in religious faith and historical pedigree, where you will have an opportunity to explore ancient hidden monasteries and medieval towns, visit rural markets and travel across some of the most spectacular mountain scenery on the continent. Beginning in Azerbaijan you will have a chance to visit ancient rock paintings and rural mountain villages, before crossing through the fertile Georgian vineyards of Kakheti.
Georgia then offers up charming Tbilisi and the medieval complex of Gelati, as well as the mountains of Svaneti, where you will experience village life, spectacular caves and the Ottoman fortress of Rabat. Crossing the high plateau you then tour the captivating monasteries of Armenia, some of the oldest and most important on earth, before ending the journey in Yerevan, the Armenian capital.
TRIP HIGHLIGHTS
How Tailor-Made Works
Discuss your initial ideas with one of our experts, the types of things you want to see and do.
Your expert will start designing your perfect trip. Within a day or two we'll send a suggested itinerary.
At this stage you can still tweak anything from accommodation to experiences and dates, using our expert advice.
Time to prepare for your trip, safe in the knowledge you'll be in the expert hands of local guides and drivers throughout.
Relax and enjoy...through our partners you'll have support on the ground as well as 24-hour emergency assistance in the UK.
Example Itinerary
This is an example itinerary. Our experts have all travelled widely in the region and will be happy to tailor any of our itineraries to suit your tastes and budget, or build a trip from scratch.
Day 1 Arrive Baku: Historical Sights
On arrival into Baku you will be greeted by your Wild Frontiers representative and transferred directly to your hotel for check in. This afternoon, your guided walking tour of Baku, take the funicular to the top of Martyr’s Hill, an area of parks dedicated to those lost in recent conflicts. A walk through the modern city and Fountains Square brings you to the medieval walled city "Icheri Sheher" with its narrow alleyways, historic caravanserais, mosques and Palace of the Shirvan Shahs. Visit the 12th century Maiden's Tower whose function has never been established and climb to the top of its tower. As you continue through Baku see the restored mansions of the oil barons, some now home to municipal buildings and designer shops, and also the Bulvar, the wide promenade stretching the length of the bay.
Day 2 Baku: Gobustan Petroglyphs And Modern Sights Excursion
Depart Baku for a half day excursion to Gobustan National Park. This mountain outcrop and cave complex is covered in thousands of rock paintings dating from the early Stone Age to the Bronze Age. You will also see the old oil fields of Bibi Heyat, learn about oil production in this area and see the bizarre mud volcanoes.
Day 3 Baku: Absheron Peninsula Excursion
Today enjoy a half day excursion to the Absheron Peninsula, visiting the Ateshgah (or place of fire) a Zoroastrian Fire Temple. Also see the fortresses, which in medieval times formed part of the defence system of the Peninsula and the attractive mosque at Amirjan. There's time for a swim in the Caspian Sea, before returning to Baku. The afternoon is then free for shopping, relaxing or more sightseeing. You might like to sit in the park overlooking the Caspian and watch the world go by or take a cruise on the Bay of Baku from the waterfront (only in summer).
Day 4 Baku - Shamakhi - Lahij: Into The Caucasus Foothills
Head west and into the foothills of the Caucasus, en route visiting the Diri Baba (living grandfather) Mausoleum, and also stop at Shamakhi, once the capital of Shirvan and home to the 19th Century Grand Mosque, the 11th Century Gulistan Fortress and the ‘seven tombs of the khans of Shamakhi’. Leave the main road and head into the mountains to visit the charming village of Lahij, the centre of Azerbaijani handicrafts, where you will stay for the night.
Day 5 Lahij - Sheki: Meet the local artisans
Spend the morning exploring this beautiful village and meet with a local coppersmith, the village is famed for its traditional industries, copperwork being one of the main arts as well as knitted and woven goods, leather and wood work. After exploring the village drive on through some of the region's most spectacular scenery as you follow the southern foothills of the Caucasus Mountains. Here you will reach the town of Sheki, one of the oldest centres of culture in Azerbaijan, founded more than 2,700 years ago.
Day 6 Sheki: Summer Palace & Kish Village
Sheki is known for its charm and is one of the most ancient towns in the Caucasus, dating back to the late Bronze Age. Visit the Royal Summer Palace of the Sheki Khans with its magnificent frescoes and stained glass as well as Sheki Museum and Fortress. In the afternoon explore the village of Kish with the oldest church in the Caucasus dating from the first century and enjoy a walk in the surrounding Caucasus foothills.
Day 7 Sheki - Kakheti (Georgia) - Tbilisi: Through Wine Country
This morning you will first of all visit a kelaghai workshop where delicate silk scarves are made using batik techniques, afterwards leave Azerbaijan behind and drive into the Kakheti region of Georgia, well-known for its wine producing and great views of the Caucasus mountains and valleys of Kakheti. After a morning of travelling enjoy a delicious homecooked feast at a local family home. From here you will then visit the fortified 'town of love' Sighnaghi, which has preserved its original 18th century layout and offers stunning views over the Caucasus Mountains. Continue on to Tbilisi, en route visiting a traditional Georgian wine cellar, where you will learn how Georgian wine is made in quevri (clay vessels) - a UNESCO experience.
Day 8 Tbilisi: Historical Sights
Enjoy a full day exploring old Tbilisi, a charming town built along the twisting valley of the Mtkvari river. Walk through narrow streets past colourful houses and patterned balconies, ancient domed sulphur baths and bustling daily markets. Take in some of the city’s most beautiful sites, before delving into the historical museum to discover why Georgia is known as the land of the Golden Fleece. Enjoy an evening of artistry and culinary delights, as you take in one of the most traditional of Georgian performances – a puppet show, held at the renowned Rezo Gabriadze Marionette Theatre, before sampling some of the country’s finest cuisine and wine at one of our favourite local restaurants.
Day 9 Tbilisi - Mtskheta - Uplistsikhe - Gori - Kutaisi: Ancient Capital & Cave City
A trip to Georgia isn’t complete without a visit to the ancient capital – Mtskheta, home to two UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Nearby is the ancient cave town of Uplistsikhe, dating from the 6th century BC this town was hewn in to the cliff face and is home to dwellings, wine cellars, bakeries, a three-nave church and even a theatre.
Day 10 Kutaisi - Mestia (Svaneti): Gelati Monastery
This morning explore the sights of Kutaisi, capital of the ancient kingdom of Colchis where Jason and his Argonauts came looking for the Golden Fleece. Stop at the Gelati Monastery, one of the foremost educational centres in medieval times and decorated with colourful frescoes. This afternoon then sees the start of your journey to Svaneti, a region of some of the highest mountains and glaciers and the most abiding ancient traditions.
Day 11 Mestia (Svaneti): Waterfalls And Villages Walk
Today begin to explore the upper Svaneti Region, which preserved by its long isolation is an exceptional example of mountain scenery and is inscribed by UNESCO in the World Heritage List. Visit medieval-type villages where you can see some very unusual tower-houses that were used as defence posts against the invaders who plagued the region. Enjoy walks through remote woodland and past stunning mountain views, and go in search of some of the beautiful waterfalls that can be found in the area.
Day 12 Mestia (Svaneti): Ushguli Excursion
A morning drive takes you up to the highest permanent village in Europe - Ushguli, where 6 months of the year snow covers the whole area and often the road is closed. The villages in this area are famous for their watchtowers, dwelling houses and ancient one-nave basilicas with impressive murals. Spend time exploring on foot and discover some of Georgia’s best kept secrets.
Day 13 Mestia (Svaneti) - Tskaltubo - Kutaisi: Spa Town & Prometheus Cave
Transfer back down to Kutaisi, stopping en route to visit Tskaltubo, once the main spa resort in the whole of the Soviet Union during the 60s and 70s, with trains from Moscow arriving daily. Here you can also explore the impressive Prometheus Cave with fascinating stalactites and stalagmites in the themed halls of the grotto.
Day 14 Kutaisi - Bojormi - Akhaltsikhe: Ottoman Castle
This morning you will leave Kutaisi and head for the small but beautiful spa town of Borjomi. Borjomi is known for its natural spring water and you will have the opportunity to enjoy lunch at one of the roadside cafes and take a walk in the town's Central Park. Continue to Akhaltsikhe and visit the carefully renovated Rabati Fortress which stands over the town.
Day 15 Akhaltsikhe - Vardzia - Dzoraget (Armenia): Rock Hewn Cave City
This morning you will visit Khertvisi Fortress before moving on to the magnificent 12th century Vardzia Cave Town, one of the highlights of any visit to Georgia. There used to be about 3000 caves here, but now there are just over 500, which include a church hewn out of rock with amazing 12th century frescoes. Continue south on to a high plateau and down to the border with Armenia, resting at Dzoraget for the night.
Day 16 Dzoraget - Haghartsin - Lake Parz - Dilijan: Monasteries, Valleys and Lakes
Today visit the medieval Haghartsin Monastery, set in a scenic valley beside a stream and home to several interesting khachkars (cross stones). Continue on to Lake Parz, one of Dilijan's most attractive natural sites, as well as the Monastery of Goshavank, established by Mkhitar Gosh, the famous scientist and author of medieval Armenia. Continue on to the small town of Dilijan.
Day 17 Dilijan - Lake Sevan - Selim Pass - Karahunj – Goris: Silk Road Caravanserai
Driving to the south of the country today will take you past Lake Sevan, visit a medieval field of Khochkors and the Sevan Monastery out on a peninsular in the lake. Drive over the 2400m Selim Pass, home to an old caravanserai, one of the few remaining reminders of Armenia's part in the Silk Road. Before reaching Goris you can visit Karahunj, an ancient star gazing circle of stones.
Day 18 Goris - Tatev - Areni - Yerevan: Cable Car & Winery
This morning visit the beautifully located Tatev Monastery, reached by cable car and a former centre for the arts and sciences which stood as a bastion of culture and learning for centuries. Continue on to Areni, where you will visit a family-owned winery that has been growing and producing wine for over 40 years using the endemic Areni grape. Tour the vineyard and try three varieties of wine in the unique ‘Wine Cube’, set within the vineyards. The wine will be paired with a traditional lunch and there is also the option to try making your very own khatchkars, before driving on to Yerevan for the evening.
Day 19 Yerevan: Historical Sights And Etchmiadzin Excursion
This morning you explore Etchmiadzin, the spiritual heart of the Armenian Apostolic Church. In 301 Armenia was the first country in the world to adopt Christianity as its state religion, and in 303 the first church was built on the site of Etchmiadzin. This afternoon is dedicated to the Armenian capital, a city whose history stretches back to before the founding of Rome. See, among other things, the Matenadaran Manuscripts Museum - a huge depository of ancient manuscripts, the Memorial of the 1915 genocide, and the old Urartian Fortress of Erebuni, the first capital of Armenia. The Blue Mosque makes an interesting visit in this Christian country and the doors to the brandy distillery are open to all visitors interested in trying for themselves this popular local tipple, famous for being Winston Churchill’s favourite drink.
Day 20 Yerevan: Garni And Geghard Excursion
Your final day of explorations will first take you through a scenic route into the mountains to visit the pagan temple of Garni, dating back to the 1st century AD. Here you will meet a duduk musician who will give you a beautiful performance within the atmospheric Garni temple and tell you more about Armenia’s national instrument, called “duduk”. Continue to Geghard Cave Monastery, which consists of the "Mother of God" Cathedral and two chapels carved deep into the rock. Complete the morning with a bread making masterclass in the company of a local expert who will teach you about Armenia’s national bread, called “lavash”.
Day 21 Yerevan: Departure
Today you will be collected from your hotel and transferred to the airport in time for your onward flight.
EXAMPLE ACCOMMODATION
Molokan Inn Hotel, Baku
Located in central Baku next to one of the city's oldest parks, the beautiful Molokan Inn Hotel is a welcome addition to the capital's higher end offerings. The 21 rooms and suites are beautifully finished with Art Nouveau touches, spacious with en suite bathrooms with views of either the park or the courtyard, as well as a generous selection of modern amenities. The hotel offers a substantial breakfast, and guests are within walking distance of Baku's most popular areas where they can find an array of wonderful restaurants serving both local and international cuisine.
Sheki Saray Hotel, Sheki
Completed in 2006, the Sheki Saray Hotel enjoys an excellent location in the centre of the town and offers good standards of comfort. High ceiling rooms are tastefully decorated blending modern style with traditional local furnishings. They all offer uninterrupted views of the Caucasus Mountains and the red roofs of Sheki, and feature modern amenities including satellite TV, telephone, mini fridge and a well-equipped bathroom. The popular restaurant serves international cuisine and a selection of local specialities, and guests can also enjoy a cold or hot drink with Sheki halva in the garden grounds.
Tufenkian Historic Yerevan Hotel, Yerevan
Close to the centre of Yerevan, this newly opened hotel has the delightful blend of modern and traditional Armenian decor that the Tufenkian brand does so well. Rooms are a good size and are decorated in natural colours with each offering modern amenities and many with panoramic city views. The large open plan lobby opens in to a restaurant and bar and another restaurant will open next door.
B&B Armenia, Dilijan
Stay at the B&B Armenia in Dilijan, known as Armenian Switzerland, popular with skiers and mountain bikers. This three-star bed and breakfast has stunning mountain views which can be enjoyed from the terrace. On top of a terrace, each room has a satellite television, private bathroom and kitchen. The bar, lounge and garden areas are shared, and a continental and vegetarian breakfast is served in the morning in the main building. Bike hire is available from the property.
Tufenkian Avan Dzoraget Hotel, Dzoraget
One of the first boutique style hotels to open in Armenia, the Tufenkian Avan Dzoraget Hotel is in a secluded and quiet location, around an hour from Dilijan. Surrounded by spectacular rock formations and mountains, this luxurious hotel offers 55 fully equipped double rooms with views of the Debed River and Dzoraget village, all tastefully decorated blending traditional and modern styles. There is a double height lounge, a cozy bar with a fireplace and a restaurant famous for its Armenian and Georgian cuisine, which uses fresh ingredients and local recipes. The hotel also features an indoor swimming pool, a spa and gymnasium. Altogether a recommended choice when staying in northern Armenia.
Mirhav Hotel, Goris
Mirhav Hotel is a centrally located, newly built hotel designed according to Goris' traditional architectural style. Its nineteen rooms are simply but stylishly furnished with local carpets and furniture. All are a good size with an en-suite shower room, and some have balconies overlooking the tree lined streets of Goris. The hotel has its own restaurant with a large pleasant garden overlooking the river and it is centrally located for nearby amenities. It comes recommended as one of the best hotels in the region.
Grand Opera Hotel, Kutaisi
A great new addition to Kutaisi, the Grand Opera Hotel offers excellent upper mid-range accommodation in the heart of the city. Set within a beautiful traditional building, the hotel's decor includes tasteful, modern furnishings and artwork, and the spacious rooms and suites all offer en suite facilities and good amenities. There is a hotel restaurant serving up delicious Georgian food and guests can also access the hotel's wine cellar to sample some local wines.
Evim Hotel, Lahij
This cosy, family-run guesthouse is set in a picturesque stone and wood building surrounded by scenic mountains and forest. The eight guestrooms are simple, spacious and comfortable, many with their own private balcony. Guests are welcome to use any part of the grounds including the living room and gardens. The family are very hospitable and are on-hand to help with requests such as early morning breakfasts. Hearty, traditional lunches and dinners are available at the guesthouse, however, you are only a short stroll to the cobbled- stone streets, shops and restaurants of the town for further options.
Taberne Boutique Hotel, Tbilisi
Offering a great location within walking distance of central Tbilisi, the Taberne Boutique Hotel is a comfortable and stylish addition to the capital. With just 43 rooms, the hotel maintains an intimate feel which is felt throughout the different social areas and private rooms. The restaurant is light and airy, with a great selection of both local and international cuisine, whilst the rooms are spacious and beautifully designed, some with private balconies and great views of the city.
Lela's Guesthouse, Mestia
A simple guesthouse accommodation within the mountain town of Mestia, Lela's Guesthouse is the ideal accommodation for those walking in or exploring the region. Doubles, twins and triples are available, all with private bathroom facilities. What the guesthouse lacks in luxury, it makes up with in character and hospitality. Spend your evenings drinking Georgian brandy, trule, on the balcony overlooking the hills after enjoying a homely meal in the dining room, created from the vegetables grown in the large garden.
Hotel Lomsia, Akhaltsikhe
In the centre of Akhaltsikhe, the Hotel Lomsia is a modern three-star hotel, recognizable by its clock feature overlooking the entrance. The restaurant and bar have large windows, allowing in plenty of light, and lead to a delightful pavement street terrace. At the end of a long day sightseeing, enjoy a glass of Georgian wine on the terrace with views of the illuminated fortress at night. The hotel is tastefully designed with careful use of marble, deep carpets and dark wood. Rooms are comfortable and well furnished with additional extras such as kettles, satellite television and bath tubs.
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Accommodation listed here is intended as a guide only, to give you a taste of what we can do. Our experts can tailor any aspect of this itinerary and accommodation to suit your budget and tastes.
WHAT'S INCLUDED
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TRANSPORT
ENTRANCE FEES
EXPERT TEAM
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WILD MILES
ACCOMMODATION
Wild Miles Club
When you book a trip with Wild Frontiers you are awarded points, which are based on the return distance from London to the arrival city of your trip. Points are awarded for all our holidays, including both our escorted group tours and tailor-made trips. When you accrue points, you will qualify for the following discounts on all future bookings:
| Blue | More than 10,000 points | 2.5% discount |
| Bronze | More than 30,000 points | 5% discount |
| Silver | More than 45,000 points | 7.5% discount |
| Gold | More than 60,000 points | 10% discount |
This itinerary is aimed to give you an idea of what we can offer. The price shown above is per person, based on two people travelling outside of peak periods. As this itinerary is only a suggestion and can be tailor-made to suit your interests and budget, your final price may differ.
Positive Impact of this Trip
Making a Difference
Community Tourism
People and local communities have always been at the heart of Wild Frontiers and the travel experiences we offer. Through community tourism we have the opportunity to generate real positive impact, supporting people we visit through sustainable local development, and in turn help to alleviate poverty and protect culture and environments in often more vulnerable destinations. While doing so, our clients gain richer travel experiences and more meaningful connections with the people they meet.
Conservation and Climate Action
As a travel company, we hold a responsibility to minimise our environmental footprint and contribute to sustainability, and work closely with local communities to support their efforts. By implementing initiatives such as carbon measuring, tree-planting, reducing single-use plastic and promoting eco-friendly practices, we can help mitigate the negative impacts of tourism on fragile ecosystems and local communities. Additionally, prioritising conservation efforts helps preserve natural habitats and wildlife, ensuring that future generations can continue to enjoy the wonders of our planet.
Wild Frontiers Foundation
The Wild Frontiers Foundation aims to provide a platform to create awareness, raise money and deliver funding to projects in countries where we operate as a travel company. Through the foundation, we are able to channel money into grass roots projects, which we have either established ourselves or support through charity partners. These include initiatives focused around education, the empowerment of local people and community conservation.
START PLANNING YOUR TRIP
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WHY WILD FRONTIERS?
Expert travel consultants
Up-to-date knowledge and advice from our experienced consultants on the best places to stay, things to do and regions to visit to make your holiday the trip of a lifetime.
EXPERIENCED LOCAL GUIDES
We use experienced local guides to help bring the sights to life, introduce you to local characters and ensure you get under the skin of your destination.
HAND-PICKED ACCOMMODATION
Whether you are looking for a boutique hotel, homestay, local guesthouse, luxury spa, tented camp or heritage hotel, our experts can select the perfect property for you.
24-HOUR SUPPORT
Our local agents are there to help you on the ground should you need any assistance, and in addition you will be given a 24-hour UK emergency phone number.Meet the expert, Natalie
Natalie is our Causcaus expert, who has travelled extensively in the region.
Speak to Natalie by calling
+44 (0)20 3944 6258
OTHER ITINERARIES IN ARMENIA
Check out our group tours in Armenia
As well as private tailor-made trips, we also offer small group tours (max size 12) to Armenia. Led by an experienced tour leader, travel with a group of like-minded people on one of our award-winning group tours.
View Group Tours in Armenia