14 days tour

Highlights Of Georgia & Armenia

Highlights Of Georgia & Armenia

This tour includes:

Others

Arrival & departure transfers

Guide

There are two leaders, one in Armenia and another in Georgia.

Meals

All breakfasts, seven lunches and four dinners are included. Georgian specialities include khachapuri (cheese pies), khinkali (meat dumplings) and lobio (bean stew with herbs and spices). There are many sauces made from walnuts to accompany cheese or meat dishes. Churchekhela (walnuts in solid grape juice) is a typical local sweet. Armenian specialities feature a variety of local cheeses, flat lavash bread, sweet lavash made from fruits, khoravats (barbecues), dolma (stuffed vine leaves), kartofel (raisin and apricot pilaf rice dish) and kyufta (veal meatballs cooked with cognac). Local beer, wine, vodka and cognac are readily available in both countries as is fruit vodka, which is locally distilled and tastes more like grappa. Still and sparkling water is easy to find, as are other soft drinks. There is a huge variety of food in both countries. Vegetarians can easily be catered for, as there are lots of fruit and vegetables, cheese and other dairy products, various local breads and dumplings. Vegans or those with a wheat or dairy intolerance will find there is far less variety but can be accommodated. Walnuts are ubiquitous in salads and sauces, so those with nut allergies should be aware. Please advise Exodus at the time of booking if this affects you.

Transport

Most of the driving is on reasonable roads, though some are still potholed, especially on minor roads. Due to the mountainous nature of the terrain, there are many bends. Travelling is in a private bus or minibus. This will depend on the group size.

Accommodation

We spend 12 nights in hotels and one night in a guesthouse. The hotels in Yerevan and Tbilisi are modern city centre properties, within walking distance of all the main sites. Each offers buffet breakfast and wifi. The Tbilisi hotel has a small indoor swimming pool and a terrace bar offering panoramic views of the Georgian capital. At Lake Sevan, the hotel is resort-style with a large pool and beautiful views across the lake. The one night spent in the countryside is in more basic accommodation but the guesthouse is family-run and offers a very warm welcome.

Not included:

Others

โ€” Travel insurance โ€” Visas or vaccinations โ€” Single supplement โ€” Azerbaijan extension

Insurance

Start planning your experience

Itinerary of your trip Highlights Of Georgia & Armenia

  • Day 1 Day 1: Start Yerevan
    • 12:00 am - 11:59 pm

      Day 1: Start Yerevan

      Our trip begins in the hotel in Yerevan. There will be a welcome meeting this evening, in which weโ€™ll meet for the first time as a group and the leader will go over the adventures to come. Accommodation: Hotel Europe (or similar)

  • Day 2 Day 2: Garni Pagan Temple, Geghard Monastery And Traditional Baking (Breakfast,Lunch)
    • 12:00 am - 11:59 pm

      Day 2: Garni Pagan Temple, Geghard Monastery And Traditional Baking (Breakfast,Lunch)

      We have the morning at leisure. At midday we take a trip to the Kotayk region to see the Hellenistic temple of Garni and Geghard rock Monastery. Garni was built in the 1st century AD and served as a summer residence for Armenian kings. It is the only pagan temple on the territory of modern Armenia, others were destroyed after the adoption of Christianity. Here in one of the traditional houses we will have the chance to observe the traditional methods of baking national Armenian flat bread called โ€œlavashโ€. This demonstration also includes tasting local cheese and greens and is a good opportunity to meet local people. Geghard - was initially known simply as Ayrivank (Cave Monastery). The present buildings, which are carved right into the solid rock, date back to 10th - 13th centuries AD, at which time it was renamed Geghard meaning "lance" in Armenian. The name refers to the biblical lance used by a Roman soldier to pierce Christโ€™s body. The Monastery is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Return to Yerevan. Accommodation: Hotel Europe (or similar)

  • Day 3 Day 3: Yerevan, Zvartnots And Tsitsernakaberd Genocide Memorial (Breakfast,Lunch)
    • 12:00 am - 11:59 pm

      Day 3: Yerevan, Zvartnots And Tsitsernakaberd Genocide Memorial (Breakfast,Lunch)

      A short drive through the city takes us to the impressive seventh-century ruins of Zvartnots Cathedral, the churches of Hripsime and Gayane and then Echmiadzin. The main cathedral sits among hedges and lawns, where clergy in dark robes sit in theological debate with Mount Ararat as the backdrop. In the gardens, there are many fine khachkars (carved cross stones) and bell towers. Due to renovation works, the cathedral may continue to be closed during 2023 and so we may only be able to view it from outside. Next stop is Echmiadzin cathedral, the religious centre of the Armenian Apostolic Church. Weโ€™ll have lunch at Machanents House, on one of the oldest streets of Echmiadzin and part of cultural heart of the town. Back in Yerevan we will have a sightseeing tour of the capital along major avenues and squares visiting the most popular public buildings and monuments. Amongst all the sites visited we will have a short stop at the fruit and vegetable market. Next, we will visit the Tsitsernakaberd Genocide Memorial and Museum. The site is dedicated to the victims of the Armenian genocide committed by Ottoman Turks during World War I. The visit will help us understand why a huge Armenian diaspora developed across the world. Accommodation: Hotel Europe (or similar)

  • Day 4 Day 4: Matenadaran; Khor Virap And Noravank Monasteries And Wine Tasting (Breakfast,Lunch)
    • 12:00 am - 11:59 pm

      Day 4: Matenadaran; Khor Virap And Noravank Monasteries And Wine Tasting (Breakfast,Lunch)

      Today begins with a visit to Matenadaran Museum - one of the richest book-depositories in the world, and recognized as such by UNESCO. Its collection of about 17,000 manuscripts includes almost all areas of ancient and medieval Armenian culture and sciences as well as manuscripts in Arabic, Persian, Greek, Syrian, Latin, Ethiopian, Indian, Japanese and others. We continue the day by heading south to Khor Virap โ€“ one of the holiest sites in Armenia, the site of the underground pit where Gregory the Illuminator was imprisoned before converting King Tiridat III to Christianity. The monastery has a spectacular view to Mount Ararat. Next is Noravank โ€“ a unique monastery situated in Noravank canyon. The road to Noravank monastery is an adventure itself. The high rocks on both sides of the route almost block out the sky above until the picturesque view of one of the most remarkable monastery complexes in Armenia appears. Weโ€™ll have lunch in Noravank then head back towards Yerevan stopping on the way for some wine tasting at Vayots Dzor, the best know of Armeniaโ€™s wine producing regions, home to Areni wine. Accommodation: Hotel Europe (or similar)

  • Day 5 Day 5: Lake Sevan, Noraduz, Dilijan And A Molokan Tea (Breakfast,Lunch)
    • 12:00 am - 11:59 pm

      Day 5: Lake Sevan, Noraduz, Dilijan And A Molokan Tea (Breakfast,Lunch)

      Our first visit today is to Noradouz โ€“ the "Forest of Khachkars" (cross-stones) which date back to the 10th century. The Khachkar is unique to Armenian tradition, incorporating both pagan and Christian symbols into a spiritual and artistic form that endures to the present day. Noraduz itself is an old graveyard with approx. 900 khachkars from various periods and of various styles. Weโ€™ll meet a local artisan, a sculptor who carves khachkars. Weโ€™ll receive a demonstration on how the carvings are made. We continue to Lake Sevan โ€“ the largest lake in Armenia and one of the largest high-altitude freshwater lakes in the world. Its surface is at an altitude of 1,950 m above sea level. Along with Lake Van and Lake Urmia, Sevan was one of the three great lakes of the Armenian Kingdom, referred to as the seas of Armenia, and it is the only one within the boundaries of present-day Armenia. While at Sevan we will visit Sevanavank โ€“ one of the most significant historic sites near the lake. Weโ€™ll have a fish lunch by the shore of the lake. Our next stop is the resort town of Dilijan famous for its thick forests and subtropical climate. Besides being a resort town, it has also gained fame for the streets in its old centre where handicrafts are produced. The last highlight of the day is a stop at Fioletovo village for a tea break with a difference. Fioletovo is inhabited by an ethnic minority of Russian origin โ€“ the Molokans. This small community was forced from Russia centuries ago because of religious conflict. In Armenia they live in villages producing their own dairy products, meat and vegetables and lead a traditional lifestyle. Weโ€™ll enjoy homemade food and tea served from special vessels called โ€œsamovarsโ€. Accommodation: Hotel Europe (or similar)

  • Day 6 Day 6: To Gyumri And Haghpat (Breakfast,Lunch)
    • 12:00 am - 11:59 pm

      Day 6: To Gyumri And Haghpat (Breakfast,Lunch)

      We check-out of our hotel this morning and drive to Gyumri, Armeniaโ€™s second largest city. By the end of the 19th century, when the city was known as Alexandropol, it was one of the largest cities of Eastern Armenia with a population similar to that of Yerevan. It was renamed to Leninakan during the Soviet period and regained its name of Gyumri after gaining independence. Gyumri is known for its crafts and art. We will visit the Dzitoghtsyan Museum of Social Life and National Architecture of Gyumri - an old mansion, housing collections related to both history and the everyday-life of Gyumri, as well as paintings and other works of art. We have a brief stroll along the streets of Gyumri and then continue to Lori Region and Haghpat Village where we check into our hotel. Accommodation: Hotel Qefo (or similar)

  • Day 7 Day 7: Visit Medieval Churches At Haghpat And Sanahin Before Crossing Into Georgia; To Tbilisi (Breakfast,Lunch)
    • 12:00 am - 11:59 pm

      Day 7: Visit Medieval Churches At Haghpat And Sanahin Before Crossing Into Georgia; To Tbilisi (Breakfast,Lunch)

      We make our last stops in Armenia this morning, visiting the two monastic complexes of Sanahin and Haghpat, representing the pinnacle of religious architecture in Medieval Armenia. Both sites are Unesco recognized. Between visits weโ€™ll visit a local house and have a drink with the family who live there. We continue to Sadakhlo border, say goodbye to our Armenia leader and driver and walk about 10 minute across the border into Georgia, where we will be met by our new guide, and travel onto the capital, Tbilisi. Our hotel is a short walk from the wonderfully restored historic centre with its relaxing pavement cafes and bars. Accommodation: Tbilisi Inn (or similar)

  • Day 8 Day 8: Walking Tour Of Tbilisi; Free Afternoon; Georgian Folk Show (Breakfast,Dinner)
    • 12:00 am - 11:59 pm

      Day 8: Walking Tour Of Tbilisi; Free Afternoon; Georgian Folk Show (Breakfast,Dinner)

      Much of Tbilisi can be visited on foot. In the morning, we explore the old town to see the ancient sulphur baths, Sioni Cathedral and the beautifully decorated synagogue, built in the early 20th century. We also visit Rustaveli Avenue, the main artery of the city, and the Treasury of the State Museum, which has a fantastic collection of pre-Christian gold artefacts and jewellery. The rest of the afternoon will be free, with time to explore the art galleries, handicraft and painting markets, and the enormous new Holy Trinity Cathedral, all within a reasonable distance of our hotel. Or you may choose to relax in one of the many cafes that line the old town streets. This evening, we enjoy dinner at a local restaurant and a Georgian folk show. Accommodation: Tbilisi Inn (or similar)

  • Day 9 Day 9: To Kazbegi Village For Views Of Mount Kazbek; Alpine Walk To Gergeti Trinity Church; Onto Gudauri (Breakfast,Dinner)
    • 12:00 am - 11:59 pm

      Day 9: To Kazbegi Village For Views Of Mount Kazbek; Alpine Walk To Gergeti Trinity Church; Onto Gudauri (Breakfast,Dinner)

      We take a long drive up the Georgian Military Highway after breakfast, through the great Caucasus Mountains via Ananuri Church. Our goal is the town of Stepantsminda (formerly Kazbegi) where we walk up through the village of Gergeti after lunch to the landmark Holy Trinity church. The walk takes two to three hours in total; alternatively, you can usually rent a 4x4 for a reasonable cost. If the weather is clear, we have spectacular views of Mount Kazbek, the third highest of the Georgian Caucasus Mountains, soaring to 16,560ft (5,047m). We then drive back to the ski resort of Gudauri, where have dinner and spend the night in a cosy, alpine hut-style hotel. Accommodation: Hotel Alpina (or similar)

  • Day 10 Day 10: To Uplistsikhe Pre-Christian Cave Town; Onto Gori, Birthplace Of Stalin; Finish Kutaisi (Breakfast,Dinner)
    • 12:00 am - 11:59 pm

      Day 10: To Uplistsikhe Pre-Christian Cave Town; Onto Gori, Birthplace Of Stalin; Finish Kutaisi (Breakfast,Dinner)

      Today is our longest day. We drive three hours to Uplistsikhe, once an enormous rock-hewn town with pre-Christian roots. It sits by the Mtkvari River and is notable for its unique rock-cut style and the co-existence of pagan and Christian architecture. Ancient temples and theatres can still be identified, and we walk up sandstone steps for a view across the river and plains. We then take a short drive to the town of Gori, birthplace of Joseph Stalin. Visiting Stalin Square, where a huge statue of him used to stand, we take a guided tour of the fascinating museum about his life and the role he played in the Soviet Union. Stalinโ€™s bulletproof train carriage, which he used to travel to the Potsdam Conference in 1945, lies in the museum grounds. It is worth a visit for its simple but elegant interior. The small wooden house where he was born is also here in a temple-like structure โ€“ there are still people in Georgia who greatly admire Stalin. We then continue to Kutaisi where we spend the night. Accommodation: Kutaisi guesthouse

  • Day 11 Day 11: Explore Sataplia Cave; Visit Unesco-Listed Gelati Monastery; Finish In Borjomi (Breakfast,Dinner)
    • 12:00 am - 11:59 pm

      Day 11: Explore Sataplia Cave; Visit Unesco-Listed Gelati Monastery; Finish In Borjomi (Breakfast,Dinner)

      After breakfast, we drive to Sataplia Nature Reserve (about 20-25 minutes to the west), where the footprints of herbivorous and raptor dinosaurs are found. Easy walkways take us to the conservation building of dinosaur footprints, an exhibition hall, unique karst caves, Colchic Forest and the wild bee habitat area. There are also beautiful views of the Imereti region to enjoy. After, we take the road back to Kutaisi and continue to Gelati Academy and Monastery. Founded by King David IV in the 12th century, Gelati was inscribed in the Unesco World Heritage List in 1994. It is no surprise he chose this superb location for this monastery, whose monks were members of the royal court. After, we drive to the lovely mineral town of Borjomi. Accommodation: Old Borjomi Hotel/Borjomi Palace (or similar)

  • Day 12 Day 12: Visit Borjomi-Kharagauli National Park And Mtskheta; Drive Back To Tbilisi; Free Evening In The Georgian Capital (Breakfast)
    • 12:00 am - 11:59 pm

      Day 12: Visit Borjomi-Kharagauli National Park And Mtskheta; Drive Back To Tbilisi; Free Evening In The Georgian Capital (Breakfast)

      After breakfast, we visit the lovely Borjomi-Kharagauli National Park and take a guided walk (one to two hours). Afterwards, we travel back to Tbilisi, stopping at Mtskheta, the former capital of Georgia, where we can see the 11th-century Sveti-Tskhoveli Cathedral, the largest functioning cathedral in Georgia. However, the main reason people visit Mtskheta is to see the sixth-century Jvari Church, built where Saint Nino set up her cross in the fourth century, which converted the town from paganism to Christianity. Continuing to Tbilisi, we have free time to enjoy this historic capital. Accommodation: Tbilisi Inn (or similar)

  • Day 13 Day 13: Visit Sighnaghi And The Wine Region Of Kakheti; Lunch And Wine Tasting With A Local Family; Return To Tbilisi (Breakfast,Lunch)
    • 12:00 am - 11:59 pm

      Day 13: Visit Sighnaghi And The Wine Region Of Kakheti; Lunch And Wine Tasting With A Local Family; Return To Tbilisi (Breakfast,Lunch)

      We leave Tbilisi after breakfast, driving east to the wine region of Kakheti, where we visit the recently renovated royal town of Sighnaghi. We have lunch with a local family, who will prepare specialities paired with wine, and we continue with a visit to Tsinandali Family Estate and its wine cellar, which once belonged to the 19th-century aristocratic poet Alexander Chavchavadze. The residence consists of a summer home, garden and winery, featuring several vintages of white wine. We make our way back to Tbilisi for our final night in Georgia. Accommodation: Tbilisi Inn (or similar)

  • Day 14 Day 14: Finish Tbilisi (Breakfast)
    • 12:00 am - 11:59 pm

      Day 14: Finish Tbilisi (Breakfast)

      Our tour ends after breakfast. You can begin your return home, but if youโ€™d prefer a little longer to explore Tbilisi, speak to your sales representative about extending your stay.

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Experience Style

Experience Style

Mixed

There will be challenging activities such as hiking, biking, canyoning and trekking, but youโ€™re also going to have other means of transportation and relaxed moments to just chill.

Accomodation level

Accomodation level

Medium

This accommodation includes essential services like a hot shower, electricity, and a nice and comfy bed.

Experience Type

Experience Type

Small Group

Youโ€™ll be accompanied by a small group of travelers just like you.

Physical Rating

Physical Rating

Average

There are several physical activities that last from 2 to 6 hours in easy terrains, low altitude flats, or water experiences. Please ask if youโ€™re not sure this applies to you.

Age range

Age range

Min: 16 / Max: 99

Age range allowed for this experience.

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