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Peregrine Travel Centre

Azerbaijan, Georgia & Armenia Adventure

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Azerbaijan, Georgia & Armenia Adventure

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Description

Head off the beaten track on a 20-day adventure through the Caucuses region, where historical Old Towns and monasteries sit alongside towering skyscrapers. With a local leader by your side, you’ll journey from the Black Sea to huge, shimmering lakes, stopping at wineries, small villages, jazzy capitals and the serene countryside. Enjoy a hearty home-cooked lunch with a local Kakheti family and hike to the iconic Gergeti Trinity Church. Seek bezoars with an expert ranger and stay overnight in a lake cottage supporting inclusiveness. This trip shows you all the local bits (and all the highlights) of this gorgeous mountainous area.

Trip Name
Azerbaijan, Georgia & Armenia Adventure
Last Updated
1970-01-01
Days
20
Capacity
12
Highlights
  • Visit the first café in Armenia to focus on the employment of people living with disabilities, stay by Lake Sevan with a local NGO committed to inclusivity and attend a cooking workshop founded by local women who aim to preserve Armenian culture.
  • Enjoy the best local hospitality and get to know the people – head to a Kakheti home for a home-cooked lunch, soak up the scenery (and the drops) in Georgia and Armenia during winery visits and do it all with a local leader by your side.
  • Hike through The Caucasus Mountains to the 14th-century Gergeti Trinity Church, which sits in isolation at 2170 m above sea level. Then, visit Khor Virap Monastery and Sevanavank Monastery for a view just as impressive as the history.
  • Join rangers in search of bezoar goats with the country’s first community-managed protected area – the locals here aim to preserve the environment and educate the community about the local flora and fauna.
  • Veer off the tourist track and explore the lesser visited Georgia – see the Soviet ghost town of Tskhaltubo to wander the abandoned sanatoriums, explore Vardzia’s Cave Town to learn about 12th-century history and walk to Borjomi’s natural mineral springs.

Itinerary

ITINERARY CHANGES Our itineraries are updated regularly throughout the year based on customer feedback and to reflect the current situation in each destination. The information included in this Essential Trip Information may therefore differ from when you first booked your trip. It's important that you review this information prior to travel so that you have the latest updates. Due to weather, local conditions, transport schedules, public holidays, political unrest or other factors, further changes may be necessary to your itinerary once in-country. Your group leader or local representative will keep you up to date with any such changes once your trip is underway. OPTIONAL ACTIVITIES A selection of optional activities that have been popular with past travellers are listed in the day-to-day itinerary. This isn't an exhaustive list and should be used as a guide only for some of what might be available. Prices are approximate, are for entrance fees only, and don’t include transport to and from the sites or local guides unless indicated. All activities are subject to availability, and maybe on a join-in basis. It may not be possible to do all the activities listed in the time available at each destination, so some pre-planning for what you are most interested in is advised. When it's recommended that travellers pre-book these activities, look for a note in the Special Information section of the day-to-day itinerary. For most, they can either be organised independently on the day, or let your group leader or local representative know you are interested at the Welcome Meeting and they can assist. Where activities are considered medium or high risk, we work with operators whose safety and credentials we have sighted and assessed. Although it is possible that you may find the same activity cheaper with another operator on the ground, we cannot vouch for the safety or quality of that operator. Medium and high-risk activities not listed above have not been assessed by us and as such our staff and group leader or local representative are unable to assist you with organising these activities. Activities that contravene our Responsible Travel policies are also not listed. Please remember that the decision to partake in any activity not listed is at your own discretion and risk. There is a chance of potential changes to the itinerary due to heavy rain, flooding and snow at higher altitudes, which often affect roads and bridges, making travel difficult or impossible (particularly in remote areas). Your tour leader will advise of the revised itinerary in such unexpected situations.

Day 1 - Baku
Welcome to Azerbaijan! Your adventure begins with a welcome meeting at 6 pm. Why not seek some traditional local fare with the group after the meeting and join your leader for a night walk around Baku.
Day 2 - Qobustan/ Baku
In the morning, drive to Qobustan, a national reserve and World Heritage site that functions as an open-air archaeological museum. Stop on the way to check out the bubbling mud volcanoes first and then continue to Qobustan. Here lie some well-preserved rock petroglyphs dating back as far as BC 12th century, as well as a Roman inscription notable as the easternmost of its kind. Return to Baku in the afternoon and explore Baku’s UNESCO World Cultural Site - the walled old Town and learn about its history and legends on a guided walking tour. Finish in the Old Market Square and enjoy exploring the old city of Baku. The evening is yours to spend. If you’re searching for somewhere to eat, ask your leader to point you in the direction of Nizami Street, where local restaurants line this busy boulevard. Perhaps order some lavangi – walnuts, dried fruit and onions stuffed inside chicken and roasted to create a tantalising fusion of flavours.
Day 3 - Caucasus Mountains / Lahij
This morning, leave Baku and drive through a dry landscape that gives way to a densely forested mountain area, stopping en route in Shamakhi to check out one of the oldest Mosques of Azerbaijan - Juma (Friday) Mosque, then continue to your destination today, the village of Lahij, a stunning traditional village of Tats people. Explore its cobbled streets, stone houses and visit a copper workshop and get to know some local folk over a cup of tea. Enjoy a yogurt master class later on and bunk down in a guesthouse in Lahij tonight.
Day 4 - Sheki
After breakfast, head to Nij village, a settlement of the Udi people who are the direct descendants of ancient Caucasian Albanians. Most the world’s surviving Udi people call Nij home, giving the community a unique culture.Take a stroll in the village with your leader and visit an unassuming site of a significant church. The Albanian Church (as it’s known colloquially) is a source of pride and heritage for the local Udi community. Continue to Sheki afterwards and enjoy a free evening.
Day 5 - Sheki
Visit the Palace of Shaki Khans first in the morning. The walls inside the palace are painted with scenes of hunting and war and feature impressive stained glass. Afterwards, check out a workshop where shebeke – stained glass windows made with no glue or nails – are produced by masters. Then get on a local public bus to Kish to visit the pointed spires of a church that is among the oldest in Christendom, believed to be around 1700 years old. Try Azerbaijan’s national dish – Piti for lunch – a stew made of lamb, sheep fat, chickpeas, onions, chestnuts, saffron and spices, and is guaranteed to be full of exciting flavors. The rest of the afternoon is free for you to discover Sheki. Why not explore the impressive traditional architecture on foot. It’s easy enough to stop for tea and some local halva (made with sugar, hazelnuts, coriander and rice flour grinned in a watermill) if you get tired.
Day 6 - Telavi
After breakfast at the hotel, take a walk with your leader through the Sheki market. It’s a good idea to stock up on snacks for the journey to come, so maybe grab some halva, nuts and dried fruit. Continue to Lagodekhi on the Azerbaijan-Georgia border. Travel through the beautiful green valleys of the Kakheti region to Gremi, a complex that includes a castle and church from the 16th century. Spend some time here and then hit the road again, stopping at a traditional Georgian wine producer where the ancient, UNESCO-listed qvevri method is still used and enjoy lunch here. Continue to Telavi to your accommodation for the evening – a locally-owned family hotel.
Day 7 - Gudauri
In the morning, wander through the raucous local farmers market in Telavi, where butchers carve up fresh meat and vendors offload piles of spices, then visit Tsinandalia, a historic estate and winery once owned by noted Georgian poet Alexander Chavchavadze. In 1814, aristocrat Chavchavadze was the first to bottle wine produced using the qvevri method. Tour the complex, which consists of a memorial house, European-style landscaped garden, a traditional winery, wine cellar, hotel and cafe. Continue to UNESCO listed Alaverdi Cathedral that dates back to 6th century. Afterwards, a stunning drive into the mountains up the renowned Georgian Military Highway, which eventually leads to the Georgia–Russia border. Tonight, enjoy an included dinner and spend the night in lofty Gudauri.
Day 8 - Gudauri / Stepantsminda
Follow the Tergi River on a drive to Stepantsminda (formerly known as Kazbegi). Explore this mountain village then take a 2.5-hour hike through beautiful valleys and woodlands to the iconic Gergeti Trinity Church (2170 m). This 14th-century church sits at the base of the second-highest volcanic summit in the Caucasus – Mt Kazbegi (5047 m) – and weather permitting you may catch a glimpse of this frosty behemoth. The image of the pointed spires of the isolated church against the mountains is truly breathtaking, and a great place to practice your photography skills. Drive back to Gudauri for an included dinner.
Day 9 - Tbilisi
Make the drive to the capital of Tbilisi (approximately 3 hours), sure to be a slight shock to the system after the peace of the mountains. Get into the swing of things with an orientation walk with your leader. Spend the rest of the daytime as you wish, perhaps grabbing a khachapuri (bread stuffed with salty cheese) to snack on while you wander. In the evening, regroup and head out for dinner with your fellow travellers and leader. This is a good chance to munch down on khinkali, Georgia’s famous dumplings. Make sure to ask your leader about the polite way to eat them – it involves sucking out the juice and leaving the pinched bit of dough where the edges of the delicious parcel have joined on the plate.
Day 10 - Tbilisi
Today is a free day in Tsibili to explore at your own pace. Maybe head to one of the local cafes or wine bars around the downtown area or just take the chance to rest and recharge. You’ll have another welcome meeting tonight at 6 pm to meet the new travellers joining your group. After your meeting, why not head out for dinner – your leader will always have some great recommendations.
Day 11 - Kutaisi
Today, you’ll head to Kutaisi by train. The third largest city in the country, Kutaisi is more than 3000 years old and connected to the legend of Jason and the Argonauts, with his mythical Golden Fleece. When you arrive, follow your leader for an orientation walk around the city, passing City Hall, the Opera House, Mon Plesier Arch and Mtsvane Bazari (a local market) known for its fresh vegetables, fruits, natural dairy products and variety of spices. Later, jump on the Soviet Aerial tramway for some great views of the city. You'll have a free afternoon and evening to maybe visit another significant historical site – the Gelati Cathedra. Or, explore the cobbled streets as you make your way up to the ruins of Bagrati Palace and Citadel.
Day 12 - Tskhaltubo/ Kutaisi
This morning, you’ll travel like the locals and hop on a public bus to Tskhaltubo – the Soviet ghost town home to some abandoned sanatoriums. Wander some of the empty halls and rooms that seem straight out of an apocalyptic movie, featuring decorated ceilings, grand pillars, huge staircases and lots of graffiti. This atmosphere also makes for some great photos! After, you’ll visit a family winery to learn about the traditional way of making Georgian wine – one of the oldest wine-making countries in the world. Sit down to a hearty home-cooked Georgian lunch, complete with a wine tasting. This afternoon, return to Kutaisi for some free time.
Day 13 - Borjomi/ Akhaltsikhe
Drive to Akhaltsikhe today, stopping along the way in Borjomi – famous for its naturally fizzy mineral water. Take a short walk with your leader to the mineral springs and maybe grab some lunch while you’re here. Continue the journey to Akhaltsikhe, arriving in the mid-afternoon. When you arrive, you’ll get your bearings with your local leader on an orientation walk. Then, you have a free afternoon to explore at your own pace. Maybe see the Rabati Fortress and Castle – the massive 9th-century fortification gives the surrounding settlement (‘New Castle’ in Georgian) its name.
Day 14 - Vardzia/ Gyumri
Take a private transfer to the once mighty cave city of Vardzia, which stretches over half a kilometre along the Mtkvari River and has 19 tiers of winding cobbled streets. Within the complex, there’s a rock-hewn church with 12th-century frescos, dwelling quarters, small, hall-type churches, refectories and wine cellars. You’ll take a tour of the site with a local guide who will give some historical context and explain the rise and fall of the city, which now serves as a working monastery. Then, continue across the border into Armenia, arriving in Gyumri around lunchtime. Head out for a walking tour of the city with your leader and visit a local bakery – the first inclusive café in Armenia to employ young adults living with disabilities and mothers with special needs children. Maybe grab some lunch here before a free afternoon and evening.
Day 15 - Yerevan
After a relaxing morning, take a train to Yerevan – Armenia's capital, Yerevan is known for its grand Soviet-era architecture and mountainous backdrop. After check-in this afternoon, you’ll head out on an orientation walk with your leader. Visit the ethnographic house that showcases Armenian traditions and culture, founded by local women who aim to preserve and educate. Meet your hosts and take part in a cooking demonstration to learn how the signature dish of Dolma (stuffed vegetables) is made, with the Armenian twist! After learning the tricks of the trade from local masters, you’ll sit down to enjoy the dish for dinner. Soak up the local flavours, get to know the local women and toast to a great evening!
Day 16 - Yerevan
This morning, meet with a local guide who will introduce you to the sights and sounds of Yerevan on a tour of the city. Established in 782 BC, Armenia’s capital is one of the oldest cities in the world. Nowadays, the city’s liveliness comes from its ancient culture mixed with a modern lifestyle. See Republic Square, then head to the Cafesjian Center – an open-air museum of modern art. Continue on to Freedom Square – a lively city hub with its ornate Opera House sitting at the centre. The rest of the day is free. Maybe visit Matenadaran – The Museum of Ancient Manuscripts – or wander around Vernissage Market.
Day 17 - Areni
Head to Khor Virap Monastery – over 1000 years old, this is the most sacred monastery in Armenia and makes for a stunning view, backdropped by the towering Mt Ararat. Wander the monastery with your leader, which has been repeatedly rebuilt since the 5th century. Legend says King Trdat III imprisoned St Gregory the Illuminator here for 12 years and these days, pilgrims climb down a metal ladder into the well where the saint was incarcerated. Continue to Areni – this old village on the banks of the Arpa River is probably the most important region for winemaking in Armenia. Believed to have been founded by Noah and his sons, who planted the first grapes here, excavations have revealed several findings from the Bronze and Iron Ages, including large clay jars used in winemaking and a 6100-year-old winery! When you arrive, you’ll visit a modern winery and learn about life in the countryside from the locals. See the Armenian way of making wine and what makes it different from Georgian wines, then enjoy a delicious traditional lunch with some paired wines. Head back to this village this afternoon for a free evening.
Day 18 - Lake Sevan
Drive to the northeast shore of Lake Sevan today, stopping along the way at Noravank Monastery – a 13th-century complex and once a spiritual and educational center. After driving through Gnishik Canyon, you’ll arrive at the monastery and maybe even see a few birds of prey soaring above! After wandering the complex, continue to the Arpa Protected Landscape. This is Armenia’s first community-managed protected area, run by a foundation representing the Khachik and Areni villages. Learn how the locals protect the flora and fauna, including the rare Caucasian leopard, Armenian mouflon, European lynx, brown bears and bezoar goats. You’ll head out on a hike with the rangers to find some of the friendly goats. Then continue to visit Orbelian Caravanserai before getting to tonight’s accomodation. Your accommodation is a lodge set up by a local NGO, whose mission it is to encourage inclusivity and accessibility for people living with disabilities to experience and enjoy nature. When you arrive, you might want to kayak out onto the scenic lake or simply relax outside and enjoy the view.
Day 19 - Yerevan
Say goodbye to the glittering blue of Lake Sevan and take your private transfer back to Yerevan, stopping to visit the Sevanavank Monastery along the way. Explore the monastery with your leader and learn about how this ancient monastery complex was transformed from an island to a peninsula, when the lake was partially drained. Hear about the local legends tied to this site, then carry on to Yerevan. You’ll arrive at around midday, and have a free afternoon to explore at your own pace. Tonight, maybe head out for a farewell dinner with your group and toast to an amazing adventure.
Day 20 - Yerevan
With no further activities planned, your trip comes to an end this morning after breakfast. If you’d like to extend your adventure, just speak to your booking agent ahead of time.

Trip Dates

StartEndPrice FromRoom Type
21-04-202510-05-2025AUD $ 5,521-
05-05-202524-05-2025AUD $ 5,742-
02-06-202521-06-2025AUD $ 5,742-
14-07-202502-08-2025AUD $ 5,521-
28-07-202516-08-2025AUD $ 5,521-
11-08-202530-08-2025AUD $ 5,521-
25-08-202513-09-2025AUD $ 5,742-
15-09-202504-10-2025AUD $ 5,742-
29-09-202518-10-2025AUD $ 5,742-
20-04-202609-05-2026AUD $ 6,820-
04-05-202623-05-2026AUD $ 7,090-
18-05-202606-06-2026AUD $ 7,090-
01-06-202620-06-2026AUD $ 7,090-
15-06-202604-07-2026AUD $ 6,820-
13-07-202601-08-2026AUD $ 6,820-
27-07-202615-08-2026AUD $ 6,820-
10-08-202629-08-2026AUD $ 6,820-
24-08-202612-09-2026AUD $ 7,090-
14-09-202603-10-2026AUD $ 7,090-
28-09-202617-10-2026AUD $ 6,820-

Accommodation

Hotel (14 nights),Guesthouse (4 nights),Lake Cottage (1 night)

Transport

Private Vehicle,Public Bus,Taxi,Aerial Tramway,Train

Map

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