Georgia, Armenia & Azerbaijan

Fly overnight to to Baku, Azerbaijan's laidback capital. On arrival, transfer to your hotel. Stroll down Martyrs' Lane to the seafront before heading into Icheri Sheher, the atmospheric old city for a delicious local dinner.

Today you will enjoy a walking tour through the historic Old City, known as ‘Icheri Sheher’. Landmarks such as the majestic Shirvanshahs' Palace, the emblematic Maiden Tower, and various caravanserais and mosques come to life, brimming with history. Lunch at a local restaurant is followed by some leisure time before dinner.

Travel to the Absheron region, famous for its preserved rock paintings, before visiting Azerbaijan's distinctive mud volcanoes – an example of its unique landscapes. Next, Yanardag, the ‘burning mountain, comes into view as your journey continues to Ateshgah, the Fire Worshippers Temple.

Head north through the spectacular landscapes of the Caucasus Mountains. Stop in the ancient city of Shamakhi, visiting the 8th-century Juma Mosque and pop into a local home to try your hand at traditional yoghurt making. Continue to the city of Gabala.

Visit Nidj village to meet the native Udin people before arriving in Sheki, a renowned point along the Great Silk Road. Discover its treasures, starting with Sheki Palace before visiting with a local family.

Upon crossing from Azerbaijan to Georgia, you'll enter Lagodekhi, stopping at a local market before lunch at a local family’s residence. Following that, the Khareba Winery beckons—indulge in a diverse array of Georgian wines while gaining knowledge about winemaking techniques and the storied history of Georgian viticulture.

Travel to the beautiful 18th-century town of Sighnaghi. Continue to Bodbe Monastery, the burial place – so legend tells – of St Nino, who converted Georgia to Christianity in the 4th century. Arrive in Tbilisi, the capital of Georgia and have dinner in the atmospheric old town.

Set out for Sadakhlo to cross the Georgia-Armenia border, where your first stop is the remarkable 10th-century Haghpat Monastery, a UNESCO Heritage site with intriguing wine-storage holes in its floors. Proceed to Vanadzor, known as the Green City, and engage in a captivating khachqar carving masterclass. The journey then leads to Dilijan, dubbed the Armenian Switzerland, nestled in between the Aghstev River and surrounding lush mountains.

Today’s journey begins with a visit to Sevanavank Monastery and views of Lake Sevan. Continue to Noratus, home to an astounding collection of ancient Armenian khachkars. Your journey takes you to a family farm, where natural alpine milk is transformed into an array of cheeses, from traditional Armenian varieties to innovative creations aged with wine and cognac. Passing through Selim Caravanserai, a relic of the Silk Road, you reach Noravank Monastery, nestled amidst dramatic rock formations that shift in colour with the sun. End the day in Goris.

After breakfast, you head to Khndzoresk village, where a famous swinging bridge spans 160 meters long and 36 meters high, connecting the village's banks. Continue to Halidzor for the record-breaking ‘Wings of Tatev’ aerial cableway, leading to the 9th-century Tatev Monastery perched on Vorotan River's gorge. After lunch, continue to Yerevan.

Yerevan is a thriving city with all the hustle and bustle of a modern capital. Start your explorations in Republic Square, ascend the Cascade Monument for breathtaking panoramic views before travelling to Echmiadsin. Experience a tolma masterclass and end the day at the ruins of 7th Century Zvartnots.

After breakfast, you’ll explore the Matenadaran, home to Armenia's impressive collection of ancient manuscripts. Journey to Geghard Monastery, known for its rock-carved architecture and acoustic marvels. Next, visit the Garni Pagan Temple, a 1st-century gem and the only Greco-Roman building in Armenia. After a special lavash-baking class at a local restaurant, your return to Yerevan includes a visit to the Symphony of Stones, a natural basalt formation resembling an organ.

Head to Saghmosavank Monastery, set atop a stunning gorge. Built in 1215 by the Vachutyans, it holds rich historical significance. Then, proceed to Gyumri, Armenia's second-largest city with a 3000-year history and cultural prominence. Following lunch, you will delve into a city tour, exploring Gyumri's Old Town and the charming Kumayri district, a living testament to authentic Armenian urban architecture.

After breakfast cross the Armenia-Georgia border at Bavra and head to Vardzia—a remarkable rock-hewn complex founded in the 12th-13th centuries. After exploring Vardzia, lunch awaits at Valodia's cottage. Our next stop is Rabati Castle, a 13th-century fortress transformed through various rulers' influences. Today, it stands restored as a cultural centre with museums and galleries showcasing the region's history.

Today you will travel to Borjomi, with free time to enjoy the park and sample Borjomi mineral water from natural springs. Later enjoy a city tour of Kutaisi, revealing its rich history through diverse architectural styles. Landmarks such as the White Bridge and Colchis Fountain capture the city's essence, while the iconic Bagrati Cathedral and Gelati Monastery's intricate architecture reflect Georgia's Golden Age.

After breakfast, head to Mestia in the Upper Svaneti region, pausing at Enguri Dam to admire the breathtaking views of the Greater Caucasus. Mestia's preserved landscape features medieval villages with iconic tower houses built by the Svan people as defence structures dating back to the 9th century. This entire region is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Today you visit Ushguli, a collection of five villages. The 4x4 journey takes you to one of Europe's highest inhabited settlements at 2200 meters above sea level. Its medieval charm is preserved due to its challenging accessibility, boasting over 200 well-preserved Svan towers dating back to the 9th century. Surrounded by the majestic Caucasus peaks, explore the Svaneti Museum of History and Ethnography before preparing lunch at a Kubdari masterclass in a local family's home.

Journey back to Kutaisi, with intriguing stops along the way, the first of which will be Sisa Tura Ethno Village, which is spread across three hectares. Experience authentic Megrelian dwellings and participate in preparing the local dishes elarji, gebjalia and khachapuri. Continue to Zugdidi to explore the Dadiani Palace Museum, home to impressive art and historical treasures, including Napoleon Bonaparte's death mask.

After breakfast, you continue to Gori, where you will visit the Joseph Stalin Museum, dedicated to the former Soviet leader. Next, explore the ancient cave city of Uplistsikhe, dating back over 3,000 years and offering insights into ancient life. En route to Gudauri, enjoy breathtaking panoramic views across the region's landscapes.

Journey to Kazbegi where the highlight of your visit is the Gergeti Trinity Church, a magnificent 14th-century Orthodox church situated atop a hill. This church provides awe-inspiring views of the encompassing mountains and valleys. Enjoy lunch at a local guesthouse where the hosts will be giving you a khinkali master class. Return to Gudauri later this afternoon.

Begin the day by visiting Mtskheta, where you visit Svetitskhoveli Cathedral, Tbilisi's Old Town, and explore a vibrant mix of architecture, from baths to churches and mosques. A lift takes you to the Narikala fortress, Anchiskhati and Sioni churches, Meidan Square, and Metekhi Cliff. The day ends with a lively folk show, offering a sample of local culture.

Transfer to the airport for your flight to New Zealand, arriving home the following day.