Azerbaijan, Georgia & Armenia

Jul 20

Discover South Caucasus

April 13 - 27, 2025

Tour is escorted by Undiscovered Frontiers
Tour Manager & Local Guides

Tour Introduction:

The Caucasus is a fascinating, yet mostly undiscovered, corner of the planet, with a unique blend of cultures and histories. This region is filled with significant historical and natural wonders. Armenia was the first country to fully adopt Christianity in 301 AD and is known as one of the world's oldest countries. It features numerous historic UNESCO monasteries and the beautiful Lake Sevan, while Georgia offers the rocky highlands of Kazbegi, and the oldest wine culture in the world. Tbilisi is the country's capital, and its old town is full of winding, cobblestoned streets. Azerbaijan, the sole Muslim nation among the three, is immersed in colors and patterns, from the twisty lanes of Baku's Old Town to the brilliant stained glass of Sheki Khan’s palace. Join us on this fascinating journey of discovery and adventure to explore the world’s oldest Christian churches and monasteries, incredible hospitality, diverse culture, and history in a part of the world that is often overlooked.

Tour Itinerary:

Welcome to Azerbaijan! Arrive in Baku and proceed to Passport Control for immigration followed by baggage collection and clearing customs formalities. After baggage collection, walk towards the arrival lounge where you shall be met by our representative who will assist you while transferring to Central Park 4* or a similar hotel for check-in. Free evening at leisure and enjoy your welcome dinner with fellow travelers from your group.
Note: Hotel is available for check-in at 2:00 pm.
Start your sightseeing by visiting the Martyrs' Cemetery, also known as Kirov Park, which is a lovely public park situated on a terraced slope overlooking Baku's harbor. Continue to Icheri Sheher, known as Old Town, and enjoy a stop at Fountain Square. The Old Town of Baku, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, was formerly the entire city and is the best spot to visualize its history. It is surrounded by the ancient city walls and their medieval gates. The twisting lanes and alleys are lined with private homes, mosques and madrassas, carpet merchants, and small shops. Explore some of the attractions on the sandy Absheron Peninsula, as well as the burning natural gas vents. More than thirty strongholds previously protected the inhabitants of the Absheron Peninsula from invaders entering the Caspian Sea from the east, and the tower at Ramana is one of the most spectacular. Enjoy your dinner in the town and return to Central Park 4* or similar hotel for the night.
Start your day trip to the Gobustan Peninsula's UNESCO-listed petroglyphs and the neighboring Mud Volcanos. On the way make a stop at Bibi Heybat Mosque. After enjoying the rock art culture our next stop is Carper Museum which displays a carpet collection dating back as far as the 16’th century. Visit the stunning Heydar Aliyev Center/Museum created by the world-renowned architect Zaha Hadidth which has become a landmark of modern Baku. After dinner in Old City, roam around the night light of Baku and return to your hotel for your overnight stay.
We'll drive to Sheki but on the way, we will stop at Shemakha which was a powerful capital of the Shirvan dynasty. The capital was shifted to Baku after the city was destroyed by an earthquake. We will explore the town by stopping at the Djuma Mosque which was built on the site of one of the oldest mosques, rock-hewn the Geddi Gumbez Royal Necropolis where the Shirvan khans were buried, the remains of 12’th century Gulistan palace and citadel. Continue to Sheki, where you will be transferred to the Sheki Saray 4 *hotel or similar for check-in and overnight.
Sheki, built approximately 2,700 years ago, is one of Azerbaijan's oldest settlements. Surrounded by oak forests, It remained an autonomous Khanate till Russia Zar took control over it in the 1820s. The town trip will include stops at Khan's palace, the caravanserai, and the local market. We will continue to the adjacent cobblestoned village of Kish to explore the oldest discoveries of the Kur-Araz culture and the oldest church in the Caucasus, dating back to the fourth century. Return to your hotel for the overnight.
Following breakfast, we'll drive to the Georgian border, where we'll clear customs and complete any necessary border formalities. We will drive to the Kakheti region which is famous for being wine making area, as well as associated with welcoming hospitality. Here we can see both snowy Caucasus mountains and fertile valleys. Drive to a local family and enjoy a traditional Georgian lunch with locals. Get the authentic taste of freshly harvested products from the host`s garden. Sit at the local`s table, share a delicious meal prepared with family recipes, and have incredible moments to cherish forever. Experience how to live like a Georgian and eat like a Georgian! Then, visit the wine factory, where you will try different kinds of famous Georgian wines. Afterward, drive to the 18th century beautiful, the small town of Sighnaghi which will impress us with its old defensive wall and small houses with tile roofs and decorated balconies. From here we can see the picturesque views of Alazani valley and the Great Caucasus mountains. Visit an Ethnographic Museum and wander in the town. Dinner and overnight at Kabadoni 4* or a similar hotel in Sighnaghi.
We drive to visit the ancient capital and religious center of Georgia – Mtskheta (3000 years old) and see its historical places: Jvari church (6th century) and Svetitskhoveli Cathedral (11th century) where the Robe of Christ is buried. Both Jvari and Svetitskhoveli are UNESCO World Heritage sites. Afterward, drive to a local family and have lunch with homemade dishes. Continue to Tbilisi the capital of Georgia. Dinner at a Georgian restaurant. Overnight at Tbilisi Marriott or a similar hotel in Tbilisi.
Today, we will explore the capital of Georgia, Tbilisi. Wander in the old districts of the city which are structured like terraces, as well as take a walk in the narrow streets to enjoy colorful houses, patterned balconies, and wonderful samples of modern architecture. We will start the tour from Metekhi church (13th c) facing the magnificent views of old Tbilisi. A stroll along the winding little streets takes us to the main sights of the city. Afterward, we will take a cable car to enjoy the panoramic views of the whole town and through the ancient Narikala fortress (4th c), find ourselves in the historical domed sulfur bath area – connected with the name of our city. Finally, the Golden Fund of the historical museum will prove the fact that Georgia is truly the land of the Golden Fleece. Overnight at Tbilisi Marriott or a similar hotel in Tbilisi.
In the morning, we drive to Gori and visit Uplistsikhe Cave Town (1st millennium BC) and the museum of Stalin. Uplistsikhe is the place where the Great Silk Road used to pass. This is an old and interesting complex with dwelling quarters, wine cellars, bakeries, a three-nave basilica church hewn out in the rock, and even an antic theatre. Have lunch at a local restaurant. Then, visit the museum of Stalin in Gori which is the birthplace of Joseph Stalin. We will visit his house and museum. Afterward, drive up along the famous Georgian Military Highway towards Gudauri (2200 m). Dinner in the town and overnight at Marco Polo 4* hotel or similar in Gudauri.
A stunning drive from Gudauri along the Tergi River will bring us to Stepantsminda (Kazbegi) – the main town in the region. From Kazbegi we drive up through beautiful valleys and woodland to Gergeti Trinity Church located at 2170 m. Weather permitting you may catch a glimpse of one of the highest glaciers in the Caucasus – Mt. Kazbegi (5047 m). Drive back to the town. Have lunch at a local family and enjoy a coffee break with a magnificent view. After some time drive to Tbilisi. Dinner at a Georgian restaurant. Overnight at Tbilisi Marriott or a similar hotel.
After breakfast, depart for the Georgian/Armenian border. Meet your guide and driver and start your journey in Armenia. Visit Haghpat Monastery also known as Haghpatavank, a medieval monastery complex in Haghpat, Armenia, built between the 10th and 13th century. Proceed to Dilijan, where you will walk through a museum street, with the buildings preserved from 19 c. with the ceramics workshop and woodcarvers studio. Drive to Lake Sevan, the second largest alpine lake in the world. This huge mountain lake takes up a huge territory of Armenia`s surface area (about 1900 meters above sea level). Visit Sevanavank, a beautiful Monastery on the Peninsula, once a strategic shelter for Armenian Kings. Drive back to the capital. Overnight at Ramada 4* hotel or similar.
Start our exploration of the vibrant capital of Armenia, Yerevan, where the ancient culture is mixed with modern lifestyle and great traditions. Though the city has turned 2800 years’ old, it keeps up to the latest trends alive with hustle and bustle of contemporary life. We start our tour from the Republic Square, the masterpiece of the architect Alexander Tamanian. Continue to Cascade Complex, an open-air museum of modern art. The complex links the downtown with the residential area with massive stairways leading up to the Victory Park providing a fantastic overlook to the entire downtown from above. The monument to Mother Armenia is standing tall in the park carefully guarding the city from above. Next, we are in the Opera House, a remarkable sample of urban architecture and a lively hub of the city. Freedom Square is just behind it, surrounded by parks and outdoor cafes which are a favorite spot to spend breezy summer evenings. Lunch at local restaurant. Visit Echmiadzin Cathedral which is one of the oldest standing churches in Christendom. It was built in 303 AD over a pagan fire altar. Then Visit the ruins of Zvartnots Temple - the pearl of the 7th c. architecture (inscribed in UNESCO World Heritage list. To strenghted our knowlede our final Armenia History Museum. It has a national collection of 400,000 objects. Dinner at the traditional restaurant in Yerevan. Overnight at Ramada 4* hotel or similar in Yerevan.
After breakfast at the hotel we will start our way to Northeast of Garni higher up the gorge of the Azat river, there is a magnificent monument of medieval Armenian architecture known as Geghard monastery inscribed in UNESCO World Heritage list. Geghard is another incredible ancient Armenian monastery, partly carved out of a mountain. The meaning `the Monastery of the Spear`, originates from the spear which had wounded Jesus during his crucifixion, allegedly brought to Armenia by Apostle Thaddeus, and stored amongst many other relics. Proceed to the village of Garni for lunch in a local house in Garni where you will have opportunity to watch Armenian national bread `baking and barbeque making process in the underground stove. After lunch, visit Garni Temple. The citadel and pagan temple of Garni is a picturesque monument of the Hellenistic period and an impressive piece of ancient Armenian architecture Visit to the famous the depositary of ancient manuscripts the Matenadaran which contains historical documents from all over Europe and Asia throughout many centuries. There is also the first copy of the Bible in Armenian and the Gospels that fascinate with their beautiful miniatures. Dinner at the traditional restaurant in Yerevan. Overnight at Ramada 4* hotel or similar in Yerevan.
Breakfast at the hotel. Visit the open-air crafts market - Vernissage. Then, a sightseeing tour to Khor-Virap monastery which has a very rich history, both religious and secular. It is situated in the Ararat valley against the biblical Ararat Mountain, where Noah`s arch cast anchor. Its importance is connected with Gregory the Illuminator, who introduced Christianity to Armenia and is considered to be the first Armenian catholicos. Lunch in Tushpa Wine Cellar. Back to the capital. Attend a master session to learn about Armenia`s national instrument, the duduk. Visit local fruit market where you can find dried fruits, sujuk, basturma, aromatic herbs, and fresh fruits-vegetables. Farewell dinner at the traditional restaurant in Yerevan. Overnight at Ramada 4* or a similar hotel.
Very early morning, transfer to the airport for the flight returning to the US. End of the service.

Land Tour Price Only: (International Airfare, Taxes & Fuel surcharges are not included)

5-6 Travelers:

USD 6,900 Per Person

Based on double room

occupancy

7-8 Travelers:

USD 6,300 Per Person

Based on double room

occupancy

9-10 Travelers:

USD 5,900 Per Person

Based on double room

occupancy

Single Room Supplement:

USD 850 Per Person (For all nights of the tour if you wish to stay in a single room).

Note: Group tour rates are quoted on a transparent and competitive pricing basis for brackets of 5-6, 7-8, and 9–10 travelers. A minimum of 5 participants is required to run the tour, and the tour will have a maximum capacity of 10 participants. Tour booking is subject to the booking terms and conditions outlined in the reservation form. Please read the terms and conditions carefully, and feel free to contact us with any questions.

Tour Fitness Level

Moderate: Fits all age groups with good health, some fitness level, and a sense of adventure. There will be some long walking days and a bit of standing while touring. Access to some of the sites and attractions will require walking on uneven terrain or steep staircases. Few elevations, a pleasant but busy schedule, and several long overland drives during the tour. Feel free to discuss the details of the trip with us.

Lodging Level

Comfortable (3/4-stars): Lodges and hotels that provide a decent size room & an ensuite bathroom. A limited range of enhanced services, some of the onsite amenities, and a level of service that is acceptable by international standards.

Luxurious (4/5 stars): Typical International-style hotels that offer a personalized service, premium location, spacious rooms with ensuite luxurious bathrooms, a good array of room services, and on-site amenities that you would expect from a hotel.

Visa & Passport

U.S. passport holders require an Oman visa which can be obtained online. Further details related to the visa application process will be sent out sixty (60) days prior to the trip. Ensuring that correct & valid visas are obtained remains the sole responsibility of the client. Your passport must be valid for at least six (6) months from the last day of the trip & should include an empty page to stamp the visas.

Tour Includes:

One-on-one virtual tour briefing before the trip.
Final documents tour packet will be mailed.
Group arrival/departure transfers between airports and hotels at the destination for tour participants.
Fourteen (14) nights of accommodation at 4* & 5* hotels as per itinerary.
Air-conditioned transportation for sightseeing days as per itinerary.
Services of Tour Manager and local English-speaking guides throughout the itinerary.
Entrance fees to all mentioned sites are as per the itinerary.
All meals as mentioned in the itinerary (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner).
Portage at the hotels.
Local taxes for hotels, meals, and tour services overseas.
Mineral Water during the tour.
Tips to the local guides, drivers, chambermaids, and waiters.

Tour Does Not Include:

International air USA – Azerbaijan/Armenia - USA.
Expenses due to excess baggage charges, flight delays or schedule changes, strikes, bad weather, or other reasons.
Consular visa fees for Azerbaijan visa. (Approx. $50.00 at the time of printing).
Personnel expenses such as laundry, alcoholic beverages, mineral waters, photo/video camera fees, telephone, laundry bills, &, etc.
Any expense for a ’la carte meal items not included in preplanned menus.
Travel Insurance (highly recommended).
Refunds for hotel accommodations, meals, or any other tour services not used.
Transportation between home city - airport – home city.
Baggage handling at airports in the US and overseas.
Trip surcharge to operate below required minimum participants.

Useful Details to Know and Tour Map:

This trip will require long driving distances overland. The roads are paved and in a good condition. For the comfort of the travelers, air-conditioned transportation will be provided throughout the trip. There will be several overland border crossings between countries while dealing with bureaucratic procedures and managing your luggage at the borders. During the sightseeing days, travelers must be able to walk a minimum of two to three miles to keep up with fellow travelers. Walking to and from sites could be on uneven surfaces or unpaved paths. Please note that elevators are not available at tour sites. We will have a few drives on poor-quality roads, but we will be making several restrooms stops, stretching our legs, and enjoying the scenic views on the way. Please make sure to have a comfy outfit and shoes for the sightseeing days. By signing up for this tour, participants agree that they have read and understood all the terms and conditions and that they are in good physical and mental health and have an open mind, a sense of adventure, and the ability to be tolerant and patient for the entire period of the tour. To ensure that the itinerary runs efficiently and for the comfort and/or safety of travelers, Undiscovered Frontiers reserves the right to modify the order of the sightseeing activities at any time before departure or after the tour begins, or cancel the tour if the planned itinerary is not possible to operate in the event of Force Majeure.