Overview
Discover the ancient soul of the Caucasus on this immersive 7-night, 8-day tour through Georgia and Armenia, two nations with profound histories and deeply-rooted Christian traditions. Your journey begins in Georgia’s captivating capital, Tbilisi, a city of charming contrasts, from the historic lanes of its Old Town to its modern architectural feats. Explore the country’s fertile wine region, Kakheti, with a visit to the romantic, well-preserved walled town of Sighnaghi and the sacred Bodbe Nunnery. The itinerary takes you back in time as you explore the remarkable Uplistsikhe Cave Town, an ancient rock-hewn city, and journeys up the spectacular Georgian Military Highway into the Greater Caucasus range. The stunning landscapes of Ananuri and Gudauri serve as a prelude to the breathtaking sight of Gergeti Trinity Church, perched dramatically beneath the snow-capped peak of Mount Kazbek.
Crossing into Armenia, you’ll enter the world’s first Christian nation, a land rich with ancient monasteries and spiritual landmarks. You will visit the holy city of Echmiadzin and the ruins of Zvartnots, both UNESCO World Heritage sites that stand as powerful symbols of Armenian faith and architectural ingenuity. The tour is based in the vibrant capital, Yerevan, from where you will explore the magnificent pagan temple of Garni and the incredible Geghard Monastery, partially carved out of a mountainside. A final highlight is a visit to the “blue pearl” of Armenia, the vast, high-altitude Lake Sevan. This tour is a spiritual and cultural pilgrimage, offering deep insights into the heart of these two remarkable countries.
Highlights
- Tbilisi: Discover the Georgian capital's key sights, including the Chronicles of Georgia monument, Trinity Cathedral, Rustaveli Avenue, and the Old Town with its Narikala Fortress.
- Kakheti Wine Region: Visit the "City of Love," Sighnaghi, and the Bodbe Nunnery, enjoying local hospitality with homemade wine and food.
- Historical Georgia: Explore the ancient Uplistsikhe Cave Town, the Stalin Museum in Gori, and the former capital and UNESCO site of Mtskheta.
- Caucasus Mountains: Travel the scenic route to Kazbegi to see the iconic Gergeti Trinity Church, set against a stunning mountain backdrop.
- Armenia's Spiritual Heart: Visit the UNESCO World Heritage sites of Echmiadzin Cathedral, the mother church of the Armenian Apostolic Church, and the ruins of Zvartnots Cathedral.
- Yerevan: Tour Armenia's "pink city," including Republic Square, Northern Avenue, and the Opera House.
- Garni & Geghard: Explore the unique Hellenistic Garni Temple, the only one of its kind in the region, and the magnificent rock-cut Geghard Monastery, a UNESCO World Heritage site.
- Lake Sevan: Admire the stunning beauty of the high-altitude Lake Sevan and visit the historic Sevanavank Monastery on its peninsula.