Tour Multi-Day Caucasus Travel: Azerbaijan & Georgia

Transport

Private air-conditioned vehicle Professional Driver service

Accommodation

Overnight at the 4* hotel

Others

1 Bottle of Water Per Person Per Day Entrance Tickets to Shirvansahs Palace, Gobustan National Museum, Sheki Khans Palace, Sheki Albanian Church, Taxi fees to Mud Volcanoes & Kish Albanian church Additional transport 4 x 4 WD Jeep service to Gergeti mount-on day 3 Excursions in accordance with the program

Guide

Professional Licensed English /or other (upon request basis) Speaking Guide

Not included:

Insurance

Flights

Others

Personal expenses Meals - Lunch & Dinner Alcoholic beverages Services not mentioned

Meals

Only breakfast is included

Start planning your experience

Day 1 Day 1: Arrival In The Airport & Baku City Tour
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Day 1: Arrival In The Airport & Baku City Tour

        Arrival in the airport.

From Airport to City Center 20-25 minute.

The representative of our company will receive guests in Baku International Airport named after Heydar Aliyev. Then take guests to their accommodation by our company car. After check-in to the rooms & having some rest, we take our guests to restaurant or short trip on depending on guest’s arrival time.

     – Relax time

     – Baku city tour:

For orientation we start in Highland Park with its sweeping panoramas of the city and Baku Bay laid before us. This is also the best spot for photographing Baku’s 21st-century icons - the astonishing trio of sinuous skyscrapers, appropriately nicknamed the ‘Flame Towers’. Contrast this modernity with our next stop, a guided walk through the medieval heart of the Old City. Ringed by impressive stone walls, pierced by massive double gates, the timeless, low-rise buildings here include classic caravanserais, antique bath-houses and traditional mosques with calligraphic facades. Above a colourful trading street, oozing unique atmosphere, we climb to the top of Baku’s oldest and most historically mysterious structure, the Maiden Tower famous for its many stories and legends. The last Old City stop is the Shirvanshahs Palace, mostly built in the 14th & 15th centuries by a dynasty of rulers who shaped the whole medieval history of Baku. We will finish the tour at Baku Seaside Boulevard, passing by the Little Venice with emerald green waters, bridges, Venetian-inspired colonnades and the unique Carpet Museum. The Azerbaijan Carpet Museum presents different schools and techniques from around the entire country, as well as covering various historical states and the development of carpet weaving. We will continue our excursion visiting Cultural Center named after Heydar Aliyev. Return to the hotel.

Overnight in Baku.
Day 2 Day 2: Absheron Peninsula Tour
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Day 2: Absheron Peninsula Tour

Sightseeing tour to Absheron Peninsula: Breakfast at the hotel. Start of the excursion. We visit Fire Temple Ateshgah (literally Fire House) which is located in 30 kilometers from the center of Baku, in the south-eastern outskirts of the Absheron Peninsula. The temple was built over a pocket of natural gas that fueled a vent providing an ‘eternal’ fire which zoroastrians used to worship. The Temple of Eternal Fire - Ateshgah - is an authentic Azerbaijani exotic. It is well-known practically all over the world. This territory is known for such unique natural phenomenon as burning natural gas outlets (underground gas coming onto surface contacts oxygen and lights up). The temple in its present state was constructed in the 17th-18th centuries. It was built by the Baku-based Hindu community related to Sikhs. Next to this small village in the Absheron peninsula, Mount Yanardag (a natural gas fire which blazes continuously on a hillside on the Absheron Peninsula near Baku, which itself is known as the “land of fire’’) is situated. This natural burning flame became as a result of the emergence of natural gas at the foot of the hill. A hill that burning approximately 4 millenniums nonstop even in times of raining and snowing roots of the gas going as far as to Caspian Sea. Yanardag Mountain is also known as Burning Hill, where natural gas has been ablaze for hundreds of years. You will enjoy the view of Yanardag – the infamous burning mountain. In ancient times natural eternal flames were burning in many places of Absheron. Yanardag was declared State Historical-Cultural and Natural Reserve in order to protect natural monument. Return to the hotel.

Overnight in Baku.
Day 3 Day 3: Guba-Khinalug Tour
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Day 3: Guba-Khinalug Tour

After the breakfast, driver will pick up you from your hotel for starting the Guba-Khinalig Tour. Guba is located 168 km away from Baku on the attitude of 600m above the sea level in the hills of Greater Caucasian Mountains. Guba due to its rich flora and fauna and soft climate is very popular among the tourists. First stop in Guba will be the Handmade Carpet Factory Called “Qadim Quba” which you will see the process of vowing carpets by the women of the city. After the factory you will take your way further to the north, Khinalig Village. a village that located in the Greater Caucasian Mountains on 2350 meters above the sea level with fascinating natural beauty and beautiful mountain slopes. The village is one of the most ancient continuously inhabited human settlements in the world that dates back to 3rd millennium BC. Many invaders who came to Azerbaijan couldn’t reach to the village because of its high attitude and strong climate. That is why Khinalig kept its architectural and cultural uniqueness. Generally, inhabitants of Khinalig have 380 houses that each of them are approximately 200 to 300 years old. In the Khinalig you will be invited to the one local house to drink tea and eat the local pastries. The houses, made of cobblestone and stretching up the hill, resemble multi-storied buildings. In his recollection of Memories on the Village of Khinalug, Rasul Rza used to compare these houses with a whole range of eagle’s nests. Khinalug has been designated as a nature reserve, and therefore construction is forbidden in the area. The inhabitants of Khynalyg have preserved their traditional way of life. Weddings and other ceremonies are held in strict conformity with the rites inherited from one generation to another. This area abounds with the richest traditions linked to rain and land cultivation coupled with a special attitude to domestic animals, weddings and funerals, as well as to celestial bodies. The rites and traditions that have become an integral part of life are linked closely to natural phenomenon. The villagers are mainly involved with sheep breeding. It is rare to find such an ecologically pure fuel. Whilst in Khynalyg, one may often notice a pile of cubes or bricks called tezek in Azerbaijani made of manure. In the past, this type of bio-fuel was widely used in Azerbaijan. The manure is piled up and mixed with hay, formed into special shapes and then pressed. The bricks formed are dried in the sun and then, used to build high walls. The bricks are the main fuel used by the inhabitants of Khynalyg: they are high-quality material and do not incur any additional costs On the way back from Khinalig you will also be able to see the Qachrash forest. After the Khinalig you will visit the 100% Jewish Settlement Called Red Village. In the village close to 1000 Mountain Jews are living in Peace since 18th century without any conflict. In the village you will see the Synagogue, Jewish Religious School and Religious Rainwater Bathhouse. You will be amazed with seeing how jews and muslims are living together and sharing the city without any conflict since 18th century. After finishing tour you will be transferred to the Baku and dropped to the Hotel.

Note: This experience requires good weather. If it’s canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund

Overnight in Baku.
Day 4 Day 4: Gobustan Rocks & Mud Volcanoestour
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Day 4: Gobustan Rocks & Mud Volcanoestour

After having a good breakfast in the hotel, your private car and guide will pick you up from your hotel and we begin to discover Gobustan.

Gobustan geographical region is situated in the west-south of Baku. The meaning of the word «Gobustan» is derived from two words «gobu» – «ravine» and «stan»- «place», i.e. ravine area.

The tour will start off from Gobustan National Museum where you will see ancient human bones, work tools used in back to thousand years ago during the Mesolithic period. Gobustan - The Archeological monument is located in 56 km from the capital city, Baku. You will visit the Gobustan Museum to get the better insights to the history of the area Then, you will advance to the mountain in order to see real rock paintings in the open air museum. The artifacts and rock carvings were discovered in 1939 – 1940 years. As a result of the researchers, more than 3,500 human and animal paintings and various markings – petroglyphs were recorded and 20 suburban shelters have been identified in this place. Mesolithic monuments (medieval stone) are mostly exhibited in the reserve. There are many caves, springs, carved by primitive men on walls of caves, rocks, and stony lumps. Later on the tour will continue to the Mud Volcanoes which is not far from Gobustan National Museum. That is why the Transportation will be changed to the Soviet Lada Cars. Whoever wants can bring some strong plastic bags with them to collect some of the mud from there which has been said is good for the skin. Azerbaijan keeps the first place in the world for the number of mud volcanoes. About 300 mud volcanoes are to be found in Azerbaijan – at the shore, in the sea and on islands. During this trip you will get a great chance to see these amazing active volcanoes from very close distance.Return to Baku. Then we visit beautiful Bibiheybat mosque. After the Rock Mountain, you will visit the Mud Volcanoes. That is why the Transportation will be changed to the Soviet Lada Cars. Whoever wants can bring some strong plastic bags with them to collect some of the mud from there which has been said is good for the skin.

Overnight at the Hotel in Baku.
Day 5 Day 5: Free Day
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Day 5: Free Day

Breakfast at the hotel

No Transport service

No Guide

Overnight at the hotel in Baku.
Day 6 Day 6: Shamakhi- Gabala -Sheki
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Day 6: Shamakhi- Gabala -Sheki

After breakfast at the hotel your 4-day Azerbaijan tour starts with the morning transfer from your Baku hotel to Sheki city . On the way, stop in Shamakhi and see the historical Juma Mosque, Yeddi Gumbez Mausoleum and the Shirvan Shah’s family grave yard. Diri Baba mausoleum stands in a square located on a cliff. Architecture of Diri Baba mausoleum harmonically fits into picturesque surroundings of the building – view against the background of rocks and greenery of trees. Then we will visit fascinating Nohur Lake locates near the village of Nohurqishlag. The quiet atmosphere and bird sounds will create an ideal relaxation environment. Later, we visit our next destination - Sheki city.On the way, visit the first Albanian church in Caucasus, dating back to the 1st century AD. Kish Albanian Church - The brilliantly renovated round-towered Albanian church in pretty Kish village has been lovingly converted into a very well-presented trilingual museum. It’s the best place anywhere to learn about mysterious Caucasian Albania, the Christian nation that once covered most of northern Azerbaijan.

Sheki Khans Palace – The Palace itself built in 1762 as a summer residence for the Khan of Sheki. During the construction of the building, no single nails and glues were used. From inside, all the walls of the Palace are full of paintings which each painting has its own philosophical meaning. In the garden outside of the palace, you will discover 2 plane trees that both are 500 years old.The Shaki History Museum is one of the main museums, considered one of the most important for artifacts of the Khanate period. You will see the Caravanserai one of the attractions of Sheki.

Caravanserais were built in the form of locks with a closed courtyard, with one gate, which closed in case of danger, resulting in an impregnable fortress. The complex consists of two caravanserais, called “Yukhary” (Upper) and “Ashagy” (Lower). Their construction dates back to the XVIII-XIX centuries. Part of the caravanserai is now used as a hotel. Then you walk along the streets of the city, admire the panorama of the city from the mountainous part.

Finally, you will be transferred to the Hotel in Sheki.
Day 7 Day 7: Sheki -Lagodeki-Signagi-Bodbe- Tbilisi
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Day 7: Sheki -Lagodeki-Signagi-Bodbe- Tbilisi

Breakfast at the Hotel. Visiting to local bazaar in Sheki. Due to its very soft climate, the soil of Sheki is very good for different kinds of fruits and vegetables.Then you will be transferred from Sheki to the border Lagodeki.

Meet at the Lagodekhi Border. Drive to Kakheti-the region of Georgia known as a birthplace of viticulture and winemaking. Arrive in Signagi-an ancient town also called “City of Love”, encircled by beautiful 18th c. wall with 23 defensive fortifications. Signagi surroundings are home for numerous cultural and architectural monuments. Visit local small and lovely museum with archaeological, ethnographic, numismatic, photographic and paintings’ collections. Visit Bodbe – a monastic complex located near the Signagi town. Bodbe monastery was built in 9th c. and was significantly renovated in 17th c. The monastery now functions as one of the major pilgrimage sites in Georgia. Overnight in Tbilisi.
Day 8 Day 8: Tbilisi Full Day City Tour
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Day 8: Tbilisi Full Day City Tour

Breakfast at the hotel. Start Tbilisi Sightseeing: First we drive towards the Tbilisi Sea, and visit the Chronicles of Georgia, a monument in Tbilisi that is sometimes called as a “modern Georgian Stonehenge”. Monument was erected in 1980 and depicts various historical and religious events that took place in the country. From this point we can enjoy panoramic views of Tbilisi city. From there we continue our tour to the Gardenia Shevardnadze, a flower garden and plant nursery, with a café located. Afterwards we drive to the Aghmashenebeli Avenue and take a walk in the renovated “New Tiflis” area. Here, we can make a stop at the Tbilisi Flea Market on Dry Bridge, where you will find vast assortment of antique, such as hand-made jewelry, old military medals from World War II, Soviet style cutlery, old enamel, vintage cameras and many more. From Dry Bridge we drive to the Tbilisi Old Town. We are going to visit Anchiskhati Basilica – the oldest church (built in the 6th century) in the city, the Residence of the Patriarch of the Georgian Orthodox Church – the Holy Trinity Cathedral of Tbilisi, which is also one of the tallest orthodox churches in the world. From there move towards the Rike park, cross the glass Bridge of Peace-a modern glass bridge in high-tech style and take a cable car from the car that takes us to the Narikala fortress, a medieval fortress situated on the mountain overlooking Tbilisi. We stroll down from Narikala back to the old districts, visit Legvtakhevi canyon and waterfall and continue to Sulfur Bathhouse District (Abanotubani), Meidan square and Shardeni street. There are lots of outdoor cafes, bars, restaurants, art galleries and souvenir shops in these areas. Drive on a tram to Mtatsminda Hill, where you can have a nice walk in Mtatsminda Park, overlook the beautiful views of the city and upon wish you may ride the Ferris Wheel too. Visit the Pantheon of writers and public figures, continue to the National Museum of Georgia. The museum collection includes artifacts of natural and human history, with animal remains, and rich ethnographic and archaeological collections beginning from Paleolithic era to Middle Ages. Evening stroll down on the Rustaveli Avenue, walk along the street and see the Parliament of Georgia, Rustaveli Drama Theatre, an Opera and Ballet Theatre. Overnight in Tbilisi.
Day 9 Day 9: Tbilisi - Ananuri -Kazbegi - Gergeti - Tbilisi
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Day 9: Tbilisi - Ananuri -Kazbegi - Gergeti - Tbilisi

Breakfast at the hotel. Today we will explore Caucasus Mountains. Drive North to Gudauri ski resort via Georgian Military Highway. The way to Gudauri is quite picturesque with attractive views of Great Caucasus Range, serpentine roads and waterfalls. On the way, visit Ananuri fortress which was the residence of Aragvi Eristavis’ (Dukes) during 16th-17th cc. Continue to Kazbegi (Stepantsminda) – administrative center of Khevi province – via Jvari Pass (Cross Pass; 2395 m. above sea level). During the trip we will make few stops to local taste mineral waters. Arrive in Kazbegi and drive on 4 x 4 WD Jeep to Gergeti Mountain, where Gergeti Holy Trinity Church of 14th c. stands. Evening drive back to Tbilisi for overnight.
Day 10 Day 10: Tbilisi - Mtskheta - Gori - Uplistsikhe - Tbilisi
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Day 10: Tbilisi - Mtskheta - Gori - Uplistsikhe - Tbilisi

Breakfast at the hotel. Drive to Mtskheta-the former capital of the Eastern Georgia (3rd c. BC-5th c. AD.) visit the UNESCO historical monuments – Jvari Monastery of 6th c. and Svetitskhoveli Cathedral of 11th c.

Continue to Gori-a small city where you visit Stalin’s house-museum and next, explore Uplistsikhe-the most ancient caves 1st mill BC, situated seven km Southeast of Gori town on the left bank of the River Mtkvari. The history of Uplistsikhe goes back to the 2nd-1st millenniums B.C. In antiquity, the city was one of the most important centers of Kartli and in the middle Ages it stood on an important trade route that linked Byzantium with India and China. Today various kinds of halls, rooms, buildings made in different epochs still survive and amaze the visitors by its extraordinary position, refined forms and the beauty of decors. You will find huge echoing halls, long meandering corridor-streets, chambers for pagan worship and even the remains of Georgia’s oldest theatre there. Archaeologists claim that the people of Uplistsikhe had close ties with the centers of Urartu, Iran, Asia Minor and Greek-Roman countries. Overnight in Tbilisi.
Day 11 Day 11: Departure Time - Tbilisi Airport
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Day 11: Departure Time - Tbilisi Airport

Breakfast at the hotel. Today, your 11-day Caucasus Adventures come to an end!

Transfer to Tbilisi Airport & Departure.

11 days tour

Multi-Day Caucasus Travel: Azerbaijan & Georgia

This tour includes:

Not included:

Start planning your experience

Itinerary of your trip Multi-Day Caucasus Travel: Azerbaijan & Georgia

Day 1: Arrival In The Airport & Baku City Tour

Day 2: Absheron Peninsula Tour

Day 3: Guba-Khinalug Tour

Day 4: Gobustan Rocks & Mud Volcanoestour

Day 5: Free Day

Day 6: Shamakhi- Gabala -Sheki

Day 7: Sheki -Lagodeki-Signagi-Bodbe- Tbilisi

Day 8: Tbilisi Full Day City Tour

Day 9: Tbilisi - Ananuri -Kazbegi - Gergeti - Tbilisi

Day 10: Tbilisi - Mtskheta - Gori - Uplistsikhe - Tbilisi

Day 11: Departure Time - Tbilisi Airport

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