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Intrepid Travel · 30 days

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Duration

30 days

Tour Type

Small Group

Accommodations

Unknown

Physical Rating

Average

Guide Language

English

Highlights

Get to the heart of Turkey and the Caucasus with experienced local leaders through the ancient streets of Ephesus, the secrets of Troy, Baku’s diverse architecture and Tbilisi’s winding narrow streets.
Enjoy Feature Stays in Cappadocia, with elegantly decorated rooms carved from stone, and at a historic hotel that was home to the aristocratic Orbeliani family.
Uncover the real Turkey during Exclusive Experiences, including a cooking class with a chef, a visit to an empowering carpet weaving cooperative, a cruise around the southern coast and a traditional dinner at a local’s home in Cappadocia
Visit the Tserovani Refugee Settlement in Georgia during an Exclusive Experience. You will visit a jewellery-making workshop aimed at providing employment to displaced women.
Marvel at ancient wonders and otherworldly sights, from the Cotton Castle of Pamukkale and rockscapes of Cappadocia to the open-air archaeological museum of Qobustan and the cave town of Vardzia in Georgia.

Trip Details

Duration

30 days

Transportation

Private vehicle,Boat,Plane

Tour Type

Small Group

Guide Language

English

Starts

Istanbul, Armenia

Finishes

Yerevan, Armenia

Accommodations

Unknown

Travel Style

Explorer

Physical Rating

Average

Itinerary

Day 1: Istanbul

Hoş geldin! Welcome to Turkey. Your adventure begins in Istanbul – the continent-straddling metropolis that the Greeks, Romans, Byzantines and Ottomans have all once called home. If arriving today, you’ll have a complimentary transfer to your hotel from the airport. If you arrive early, maybe grab lunch at one of the city’s many eateries. Your adventure then begins with a welcome meeting at 1 pm. After, you’ll head out with your local leader and small group to explore the Old City of Istanbul. Your leader will introduce you to some of the city’s historic treasures, including the dazzling Blue Mosque, the ancient Hippodrome and the Million – a stone road marker in use since the fourth century. This evening, get to know your fellow travellers over dinner at a stylish restaurant.

Included Activities:

Istanbul - City Tour
Istanbul - Blue Mosque Visit
Istanbul - Welcome Dinner
Complimentary Arrival Transfer

Optional Activities:

Istanbul - Topkapi Palace Combined Ticket (Topkapi Palace + Hagia Irene + Harem) (2000 TRY)
Istanbul - Hagia Sophia (25 EUR)

Accommodation:

Fer Hotel or similar (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 2: Gallipoli - Canakkale

Rise and shine for an early breakfast, then begin the drive to Canakkale – a port city located on the shores of the Dardanelles. Arrive in time to buy yourself some lunch, then head to the Gallipoli Peninsula. Thousands from across the world journey here each year to pay respect to those who lost their lives in the battles of 1915. Tour the former battlefields and find remnants of trenches used by the Turkish soldiers. Head up to the memorials of Lone Pine and Chunuk Bair while your leader explains the significance of the events across the landscape. Look down upon the rough hills and gullies that became the graveyard for thousands of young men on both sides. After a day that will no doubt be full of sombre reflection, the evening is free for you to do as you wish in Canakkale.

Included Activities:

Gallipoli - Anzac Cove, Lone Pine and Chunuk Bair

Accommodation:

Cura Hotel or similar (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 3: Troy - Selçuk

Drive to Selçuk and stop along the way in Troy, where history and mythology sit side by side. Your leader will take you around the ancient city walls – there will be time for a photo op with a replica Trojan horse. Learn how the site has confounded historians and archaeologists, then continue to Selçuk. Once you’ve checked into your accommodation, join your leader for an orientation walk around this sprawling town at the base of the ancient Ayasoluk Hill fortress. You’ll visit the last remaining column of the Temple of Artemis, and the ancient aqueducts.

Included Activities:

Troy - Archaeological site visit
Selcuk - Leader-led orientation walk

Accommodation:

Celsus Hotel or similar (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 4: Ephesus - Sirince - Selçuk

Today, visit one of the best-preserved classical cities in the eastern Mediterranean and arguably the greatest Greco-Roman site in the world – Ephesus. Learn from your leader what life here was like as you tour the ancient theatre, stroll the marble streets once walked by Cleopatra and Mark Antony and marvel at the gymnasium, baths and restored Library of Celsus. Later, drive past apple and peach orchards to the quaint village of Sirince, where charming, red-roofed houses clamber up the hillside. Drop by a local wine house where you’ll taste locally produced fruit wines. Try a sip of kiwi, pear, peach, quince or all the above. Next, you’ll meet a local chef for a Turkish cooking class, using olive oil grown and made on-site and herbs and vegetables picked fresh from the garden. Learn how to make a range of small Turkish meze dishes using seasonal ingredients. Enjoy the fruits of your labour with an evening dinner of the mouth-watering meze plates you’ve made together.

Included Activities:

Ephesus - Archaeological site visit
Sirince - Village visit and fruit wine tasting
Selcuk - Cooking class

Optional Activities:

Selcuk - Ephesus Archaeological Museum (10 EUR)
Ephesus - Terrace Houses entry (15 EUR)

Accommodation:

Celsus Hotel or similar (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 5: Pamukkale

After breakfast this morning, travel to the town of Pamukkale. Named after its incredible travertine terraces, Pamukkale means ‘cotton castle.’ This spectacular natural phenomenon was created by deposits from thermal waters that cascaded down the mountainside over hundreds of years, forming a collection of pools and terraces. As the water overflows, dazzling cream-coloured stalactites are formed that, from afar, resemble cotton or snow. The pools are filled with waters that many believe have healing properties for circulation and the digestive system. Head up to the ruins of Hierapolis – an important Roman bath centre founded by the King of Pergamon in 190 BC, where your leader will bring history to life and guide you through an ancient temple, holy area, monumental fountain, bath, basilica, necropolis and an impressive theatre. You then have the evening free to spend how you wish.

Included Activities:

Pamukkale - Hierapolis and Travertines National Park

Accommodation:

Hierapark Hotel or similar (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 6: Kas

Make the journey to the coastal town of Kas (meaning ‘eyebrow’) and begin exploring on a walking tour. Now primarily a holiday town, Kas is strewn with the remains of Lycian tombs, iconic, whitewashed walls covered with climbing bougainvillea and an ancient theatre where you can watch a spectacular sunset. The walk is sure to inspire your appetite, and your leader will be on hand to show you where to grab a great gozleme (stuffed Turkish flatbread). The rest of the afternoon is free to enjoy this easy-going town – maybe sit back with a pomegranate cocktail or check out the local markets.

Included Activities:

Kas - Leader-led orientation walk

Optional Activities:

Pamukkale - Hot Air Balloon (180 EUR)

Accommodation:

Payam Hotel or similar (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 7: Kas

Set off for a boat cruise around the islands today, with a local family who use their unique knowledge and love of the local waters to share a distinctly traditional way of cruising and eating with travellers. Cruise to their home village of Ucagiz, then to the village of Simena, where its friendly inhabitants sell ice cream in front of bougainvillea-covered houses. On board, you’ll enjoy a range of freshly prepared local greens, zucchini fritters and maybe even some Turkish raki. Sail from large bays to protected inlets where you can cool off with a swim in turquoise waters. Kick back with a cold beer or learn how to play backgammon – Turkey’s most beloved game. Look out for the ruins of an ancient city submerged under the clear water. Return to Kas for an evening at your leisure.

Included Activities:

Kas - Sailing trip with seafood lunch

Accommodation:

Payam Hotel or similar (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 8: Phaselis - Antalya

Travel from Kas on a scenic route, stopping first at the ancient city of Phaselis. There you’ll have the chance to stretch your legs exploring the Roman ruins, or freshen up with a swim in the ocean. Then, continue to Anatalya. Your accommodation is tucked away near the beach, but you may want to get out to explore Kaleici (the Old City) once you settle in. Head out on an early evening walk to see Hadrian's Gate, the Old Roman Harbour and all the photo-worthy views. Soak up the city’s Mediterranean atmosphere and attitude over a fresh seafood dinner – your leader can recommend some superb spots.

Included Activities:

Antalya - Leader-led orientation walk
Antalya - Phaselis Ancient City

Accommodation:

Ruin Adalia Hotel or similar (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 9: Antalya

Wake up in beautiful Antalya and start your day with a visit to the Necropolis Museum which is centred on an ancient burial ground only discovered in 2008. With open-air and indoor exhibitions, the museum provides a unique glimpse into ancient burial rituals, with tomb artifacts ranging from the 3rd Century BC to the Roman period. The afternoon is then free for you to explore as you wish. If you’d like, your leader can help you to arrange your own trip to the ancient city of Perge. Or maybe wander the narrow cobblestoned streets of Kaleici with an ice cream in hand, beat the heat with a dip in the sea or chill out poolside.

Included Activities:

Antalya - Necropolis Museum

Optional Activities:

Antalya - Perge Ancient City with Transport (58 EUR)

Accommodation:

Ruin Adalia Hotel or similar (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 10: Konya

Say goodbye to Antalya and take a morning drive to Konya – an ancient city important in the Roman era and where the Sufi practice of 'whirling' was born. When you arrive, discover the mystic resting place of Mevlana Celaleddin-i Rumi, the 13th-century mystic, poet and theologian whose teachings continue to inspire and influence Muslims worldwide. Visit the small museum dedicated to his life and work. The rest of the day is free to get to know the city. Konya offers a wealth of museums, mosques and monuments worth visiting, so be sure to ask your leader for recommendations. For a leisurely afternoon, head to Alaeddin Hill, where locals sip coffee, eat pastries and let the hours slip by in peace.

Included Activities:

Konya - Mevlana Museum

Accommodation:

Selcuk Hotel or similar (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 11: Cappadocia

Depart Konya and travel to Cappadocia, where your leader will take you on an orientation walk to get to know your new surroundings. Check in to your Feature Stay accommodation, where you’ll feel miles away from the modern world in a cave hotel that looks like it’s straight out of a fairy tale. These unique rooms are carved into stone, featuring elegant décor and modern conveniences. Your leader can provide advice on exploring nearby villages. Keep an eye out for hot air balloons passing overhead and head out for a drink to watch the sunset over one of the world’s more iconic places. The rest of the evening is free for you to take it all in, or you could opt for a performance of whirling by local Dervishes in a restored han (caravansary).

Included Activities:

Cappadocia - Leader-led orientation walk
Cappadocia - Sunset drinks

Optional Activities:

Cappadocia - Turkish Night with Dinner (50 EUR)
Cappadocia - Whirling Dervish Performance with transport (40 EUR)

Accommodation:

HU of Cappadocia or similar (Feature Stay) (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 12: Cappadocia

Early birds have the option of taking a hot air balloon over the ethereal Cappadocian landscape. The scene at sunrise is sure to take your breath away. After a relaxing breakfast overlooking the valley, step back in time with a visit to the Goreme Open Air Museum. See the incredible houses, churches and monasteries carved out of the soft cliff face as your leader shares stories of the civilisations who lived here. Next, you’ll visit a carpet weaving cooperative that empowers women by giving them the tools to produce one-of-a-kind traditional rugs. Hear local insight into the history of traditional carpet weaving and see how the intricate pieces are made. Later in the afternoon, go on a short walk through the cheekily named Love Valley, which is famous for its phallic rock formations. Then, head back to your hotel and perhaps take an optional Turkish bath to unwind at the end of the day.

Included Activities:

Cappadocia - Valley walk
Cappadocia - Goreme Open Air Museum
Cappadocia - Carpet weaving co-op

Optional Activities:

Cappadocia - Hot Air Balloon Regular Flight (200 EUR)
Cappadocia - Hot Air Balloon Deluxe Flight (230 EUR)
Cappadocia - Hot Air Balloon Sightseeing from the Valley (20 EUR)

Accommodation:

HU of Cappadocia or similar (Feature Stay) (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 13: Cappadocia

Take a morning walk to see the fascinating rock formations of the Kizilcukur Valley. After lunch, head toward the red river of Avanos and descend to Ozkonak, where you’ll explore an underground city hollowed out of tufa rock that dates back to 400 BC. Return to the surface and visit the studio of a local ceramic master whose family have been in the pottery business for six generations. Speak with a local artist who will explain the history and techniques of traditional Turkish ceramics. Discover the rich clay from the red river and watch how it is moulded into exquisite pieces. This evening you’ll be warmly welcomed into the home of a local family who will prepare a special homecooked dinner for your group. Sit down to a feast made with passion, enjoy a friendly chat with your affable host and top off the night with some Turkish delight.

Included Activities:

Cappadocia - Pottery demonstration
Cappadocia - Ozkonak Underground City
Cappadocia - Kizilcukur Valley
Cappadocia - Home-cooked dinner

Accommodation:

HU of Cappadocia or similar (Feature Stay) (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 14: Istanbul

This morning, say goodbye to Cappadocia and return to where it all began – Istanbul. When you arrive, you may wish to explore the European side of the city or perhaps take trip across the Bosphorus to the Asian side of the city. Either way, you’ll find lively, close-knit communities and jumbles of cute cafes, markets and restaurants. Your Leader will be able to provide advice on things to see and do. This evening, consider rounding off your adventure by joining your group for an optional farewell dinner at one of Istanbul’s excellent restaurants.

Optional Activities:

Istanbul - Private Bosphorus Cruise Sunset with Soft Drinks (560 EUR)
Istanbul - Beyoglu Night Tasting Trail (85 EUR)

Accommodation:

Fer Hotel or similar (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 15: Baku

Wave goodbye to Turkey today and catch an unescorted flight to Azerbaijan to begin the second half of your adventure. When you arrive at Baku Airport, you'll be met by a representative and transferred to your hotel. Baku is where ancient, fortified buildings stand next to Russian imperial-style squares and ultra-modern architectural wonders. This portion of your adventure begins with a meeting at 6 pm, where you’ll meet your new local leader and fellow travellers. If you arrive early, maybe walk down Nizami Street and observe its Baroque, Neo-Gothic and Neo-Renaissance architecture. After your meeting, head out for a local dinner with your new companions.

Included Activities:

Baku - Welcome Dinner at Local Restaurant
Complimentary Arrival Transfer

Accommodation:

Radisson Hotel Baku or similar (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 16: Baku

This morning, embark on a tour of the city with a local guide. Visit the fortified Old City, once the Medieval capital, where your guide will weave together the history of Baku, from the rule of the Shirvanshahs to the cosmopolitan city you see today. Stop by the Shemakha Gate, Maiden Tower (visit optional), Old Market Square and end with a guided tour of the Palace of the Shirvanshahs. Be sure to bring your camera as there will be some panoramic views of Baku's varied skyline. The rest of the day is free to explore at your own pace.

Included Activities:

Baku - Palace of the Shirvanshahs
Baku - Walking Tour with Local Guide

Optional Activities:

Baku - National Museum of History of Azerbaijan (10 AZN)
Baku - National Carpet Museum (10 AZN)

Accommodation:

Radisson Hotel Baku or similar (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 17: Baku

This morning, head out of the city on a half day trip to Qobustan, about 60 km south of Baku. Stop off along the way to view old oil rigs and learn how Azerbaijan was one of the birthplaces of the oil industry. Visit Qobustan National Park and one of the world's largest open-air archaeological museums, where a local guide will share the stories of ancient rock art dating back some 40,000 years. The prehistoric carvings depict scenes of hunting, fishing and gathering. Return to Baku in the afternoon for free time. Maybe visit one of Baku's most significant modern landmarks – the Heydar Aliyev Center designed by Zaha Hadid. This evening, you might like to take a walk along the waterfront to find a restaurant for dinner, keeping an eye out for the Baku Eye and Flame Towers that light up the city skyline at night.

Included Activities:

Qobustan - Petroglyphs
Qobustan - Half Day Trip
Qobustan National Park Visit

Optional Activities:

Baku - The Heydar Aliyev Centre (15 AZN)

Accommodation:

Radisson Hotel Baku or similar (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 18: Sheki

Leave Baku and head for the Caucasus Mountains in the northwest of Azerbaijan. Watch arid landscapes slowly give way to densely forested mountains. Along the way, you’ll stop at the Yeddi Gumbaz Mausoleum and the Juma Mosque in Shamakhi. When you arrive in Sheki, visit a local craft workshop where the famous shebeke (stained-glass windows with intricately carved frames) are made by hand. You’ll also visit the acclaimed Palace of Sheki Khans to see its magnificent frescoes and stained glass. Enjoy a final evening of Azerbaijani cuisine during an included dinner at a local restaurant.

Included Activities:

Sheki - Khan's Palace
Sheki - Stained Glass Workshop Visit
Shamakhi - Yeddi Gumbaz Mausoleum & Juma Mosque

Accommodation:

Marxal Resort (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 19: Telavi

Have breakfast at the hotel before driving to Lagodekhi – a town at the Azerbaijan–Georgia border where you’ll change transportation. From here, travel to Georgia's Kakheti region, known for its winemaking. Stop in Sighnaghi, one of Georgia’s most stunning towns. Overlooking the Al-Azani Valley and the Caucasus Mountains. After, travel to your accommodation in Telavi. Your hotel has an outdoor swimming pool, as well as its own cellar showcasing wines produced by women winemakers. Have dinner with a local wine making family, which includes delicious homemade cuisine, wine and chacha - a local brandy. There will also be time to listen to unique Georgian polyphonic songs – a traditional style of music prevalent in the Kakheti region.

Included Activities:

Kakheti - Georgian Polyphonic Singing
Kakheti - Dinner and Wine Tasting with a Local Family

Accommodation:

Hotel Boutique (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 20: Telavi

Enjoy a relaxing start to your morning, and then get a taste of local life during a visit to the Telavi Food Market. Wander the stalls and feast your senses on the region’s delicacies – there are specialty cheeses, wines and sweets to try! Next visit Batonistsikhe Castle, a remarkable and superbly preserved 17th century fortress in the centre of Telavi, which was once the most important residence for the royal family of the Kakheti Kingdom After, drive to the remote and beautiful Pankisi Valley. Inhabited mainly by the Muslim Kist community, you’ll take a cultural walking tour of the valley that employs young local Kists to develop their skills and earn an income. Enjoy a traditional lunch in the valley, and then return to your accommodation for a free evening.

Included Activities:

Telavi - Market Tour with Tastings
Telavi – Batonis Castle
Pankisi Valley - Cultural Tour and Lunch

Accommodation:

Hotel Boutique (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 21: Tbilisi

Following breakfast, drive to Tbilisi. Check into your Feature Stay hotel, a historical building once owned by a noble family. It has played host to aristocrats, famous writers and public figures, and also overlooks Georgia’s presidential palace. You’re free to explore Tbilisi at your own pace when you arrive, so you might like to wander the old districts of Georgia’s capital to see the colourful houses, patterned balconies and revamped modern architecture. Your leader will always have some great restaurant recommendations ready for dinner.

Included Activities:

Tbilisi - Market Visit

Accommodation:

Museum Hotel Orbeliani or similar (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 22: Tbilisi

This morning you’ll head out on a walking tour with a local guide, which includes the 13th-century Metekhi Church and amazing views over old Tbilisi. Take a cable car to the ancient Narikala Fortress – a former Persian citadel with a history stretching back to the 4th century. Here, your guide will share the layered history of the fortress while you take in sweeping views across Tbilisi. Then make your way to a historic part of the city where you’ll learn a little more about Tbilisi’s past. The name translates to ‘warm place,’ which is thought to be after the bubbling hot springs the city was built around. This afternoon, maybe visit one of the local bathhouses for a dip.

Included Activities:

Tbilisi - Narikala Fortress & Cable Car

Optional Activities:

Tbilisi - The National Gallery (25 GEL)
Tbilisi - Open Air Museum of Ethnography (20 GEL)
Tbilisi - Thermal Bath House Visit - from (70 GEL)
Tbilisi – Old Town Walking Tour with Local Guide - Free

Accommodation:

Museum Hotel Orbeliani or similar (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 23: Akhaltsikhe

Today, you’ll visit Mtskheta – the ancient capital and religious centre of Georgia. Visit World Heritage-listed sites with your local guide as they share fascinating histories. After, visit the Tserovani Refugee Settlement – home to 8000 people displaced by the 2008 conflict between the Russian Federation and the Republic of Georgia over South Ossetia. While here you’ll visit an enamel jewellery workshop run by social enterprise Ikorta (an Intrepid Foundation partner), offering training and employment to displaced youth and women within the settlement. Meet the artists whose pieces tell the story of Georgia, and with their guidance, maybe even design a piece for yourself. Have a light lunch, then tour the settlement to learn about the issues surrounding long-term displacement faced by thousands of Georgia’s citizens. In the afternoon, drive to Akhaltsikhe. Sitting in Georgia’s southwest, the town has long been known for its multiculturalism, which is reflected in its variety of architecture and monuments.

Included Activities:

Tserovani - Ikorta (The Intrepid Foundation partner) enamel jewellery workshop visit
Mtskheta - Jvari Monastery & Svetitskhoveli Cathedral

Accommodation:

Akhaltsikhe Inn (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 24: Akhaltsikhe

Today, drive to the once mighty cave city of Vardzia, with a stop along the way at the 10th-century Khertvisi Fortress. Vardzia stretches over half a kilometre along the river Mtkvari and has 19 tiers of winding cobbled streets. There is a church hewn out in rock with 12th-century frescos and the complex also includes dwelling quarters, small hall-type churches, refectories and wine cellars. Tour the site with a local guide who will provide historical context and explain the rise and fall of the city, which now serves as a working monastery. Head back to Akhaltsikhe in the afternoon, where you’ll have to time to visit the Rabati Fortress. Boasting multiple watchtowers, gardens and places of worship, your leader can help to arrange a local guide to help you see it all. Alternatively, return to your accommodation for a restful evening.

Included Activities:

Meskheti - Khertvisi Fortress
Vardzia - Cave Town Visit

Accommodation:

Akhaltsikhe Inn (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 25: Gudauri

In the morning you’ll visit Gori – the birthplace of Joseph Stalin. Your leader will take you on a city tour before you visit the Stalin Museum. See the sites of Gori, including The Memorial of Georgian War Heroes and Gori Fortress, and delve into its artistic side to see traditional ornamental mosaics. After, drive the renowned Georgian Military Highway, which eventually leads to the Georgia–Russia border. On the way, you'll visit the Ananuri architectural complex – two churches and a fortress that overlooks the Zhinvali water reservoir. Your leader will explain how the carvings on the churches are some of the best surviving examples of Georgian art. Take a scenic drive through the Caucasus Mountains and arrive at your hotel in Gudauri, where you’ll have dinner with the group.

Included Activities:

Gori - Stalin Museum
Ananuri – Castle and Churches Visit

Accommodation:

Marco Polo Hotel or similar (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 26: Gudauri

Enjoy a scenic drive from Gudauri along the Tergi River before arriving in Stepantsminda. From here, head into the heart of the Caucasus Mountains, hop in 4WDs and take the mountain road to Gergeti Trinity Church, 2170 m above sea level. Weather depending, you may catch a glimpse of Mt Kazbegi. On the way back to Gudauri, stop at the small village of Sno to explore the local version of Easter Island – a park with half a dozen massive stone heads representing famous figures of Georgian history. Return to Gudauri this afternoon for some free time – the perfect opportunity to enjoy the mountain air and views. Your hotel has many facilities, including a wellness centre.

Included Activities:

Stepantsminda - Gergeti Trinity Church

Accommodation:

Marco Polo Hotel or similar (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 27: Dzoraget

Have breakfast in Gudauri before driving to Sadakhlo – a village at the Georgia–Armenia border. On the way to the border, stop in Tbilisi to break the journey and have lunch. Continue to Armenia and after completing all the formalities, begin the Armenian leg of your adventure with a visit to Haghpat Monastery, listed as a World Cultural Heritage Site. Haghpat stands as an example of one of the most outstanding works of medieval Armenian architecture and your leader will give you an introduction to the country’s history and design. Continue to Dzoraget, where you’ll spend the night surrounded by views of the Debed River.

Included Activities:

Haghpat - Haghpat Monastery

Accommodation:

Avan Dzoraget Tufenkyan or similar (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 28: Yerevan

After breakfast, you'll meet your Armenian driver and local guide and drive to the reflective waters of Lake Sevan, nicknamed ‘The Pearl of Armenia’. Sevan is one of the largest fresh-water high-altitude lakes in the world. Visit Sevanavank Monastery, which overlooks the water on the Peninsula. Move on to the village of Garni to visit the first century Garni Temple, where your guide will explain how it was built by the Armenian King Tiridates and dedicated to Mithra, the God of the Sun. Be treated to a special local performance in the temple and hear the sounds of the Duduk – a flute-like instrument originating in Armenia and currently listed on the UNESCO in-tangible Cultural Heritage List. Travel northeast of Garni, higher up the gorge of the Azat River, to the magnificent Geghard Monastery. This UNESCO World Heritage-listed site is partly carved out of a mountain and surrounded by cliffs. In the afternoon, drive to Armenia’s capital, Yerevan, where you’ll spend the next two evenings.

Included Activities:

Geghard - Geghard Monastery
Lake Sevan - Sevanavank Monastery
Garni - Temple Visit & Duduk Performance

Accommodation:

Tufenkian Historic Yerevan Hotel or similar (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 29: Yerevan

This morning your local guide 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. Visit the Armenian Genocide Museum to learn the tragic history of this region, then the afternoon is free for reflection or further exploration. Tonight, join your group for a final dinner at a local restaurant. Armenian cuisine is built on a foundation of fresh local produce and meat. Maybe try some khorovats (a barbecued kebab) or spas (a refreshing yoghurt soup).

Included Activities:

Yerevan - City Tour with Local Guide
Yerevan - Armenian Genocide Memorial Complex

Accommodation:

Tufenkian Historic Yerevan Hotel or similar (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 30: Yerevan

Your adventure comes to an end after breakfast this morning. If you would like to spend some more time in Yerevan, just speak to your booking agent ahead of time to organise additional accommodation.

Exclusions

Flights to and from origin and destinations
Airport transfers (arrival and departure)
Anything else not explicitly listed in tour inclusions
Recommended gratuities/tipping
Optional activities/tours
Personal expenses
Travel insurance
Visas, meals and beverages not stated in the list of inclusions.

Important Information

Meals

When meals are not included, your tour leader (where available) will be happy to help with restaurant recommendations, bookings, and directions. Please let us know if you have any dietary needs or preferences. We willdo our best to accommodate these, though we cannot guarantee that every request can be met.

Luggage

You are responsible for your personal belongings throughout the tour. You will need to carry your own bags between the vehicle and your hotel room. Drivers will assist with loading and unloading luggage from the vehicle.

Mobility

Travellers requiring wheelchair access should contact our sales and service team, who can make enquiries on your behalf.

Fitness Level

This tour requires an Average level of fitness. Activities are paced gently and include leisure time. You may be expected to join guided walks of up to one hour, navigate short stairways and mild inclines, and manage your own luggage. You should also be able to board and exit all transport without assistance.

Travellers are expected to be self-sufficient and capable of handling all aspects of their journey. Please discuss your circumstances and support needs with your booking agent to confirm this trip is suitable.

If you are unsure, we recommend consulting your doctor before booking or travelling. (Note: I assume each tour has a different description depending on level of fitness required).

Sightseeing

If a planned site visit is unavailable due to changes in operating hours or holiday closures, the itinerary may be altered, or a comparable activity will be substituted where possible and subject to availability.

Visas

Visa conditions can change. Once you receive your travel documents, check with the relevant embassy, consulate, or immigration office of your destination for the latest information.

It is your responsibility to ensure you have the correct and valid travel documents and to comply with all entry requirements.
Non-Australian citizens must also confirm visa and identification requirements with the appropriate consulate or visa agency.
Certain occupations (for example, journalists, government officials, or those working in charities) may face additional restrictions when applying for visas, which could affect the type of application required.

Departure Dates & Surcharges: See checkout for live dates and availability.

AUD $15,180

(Tour only)

Per Person Twin Share

Duration: 30 days

Trip Type: Small Group

Activity Level: Average

Check Availability Brochure

Price based on per person in Double Room for departure 28 Mar 2027

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Customer Reviews

Overall Rating

Excellent

4.5

Guide

Excellent

4.5

Itinerary

Excellent

4.5

Accommodations

Excellent

4.5

Transportation

Excellent

4.5

Tour Operator

Excellent

4.5

Food

Excellent

4.5

Ann

Traveled, June 2022

07/04/2022

This was a very interesting and enjoyable trip, made more so by our tour guide Nilufer Celeb who did an outstanding job on the Turkey portion of the trip. I would have enjoyed more time exploring Armenia (we only had 2.5 days) and a little less in Georgia which was wonderful but 4 days would have been enough. Azerbaijan was beautiful and I'm sure there are more amazing places to visit there. Overall it was a great trip: I learned a lot and saw some wonderful historic places, beautiful scenery; loved the Caucasus landscapes of forested mountains, river valleys and gorges and of course the Turkish coastline. We were greeted everywhere by hospitable people and our tour mates were fun to travel with.

4.5

Paul

Traveled, May 2023

06/17/2023

The Caucasus tour takes you to three striking cities, deserts, fertile river valleys, mosques, and Monasteries situated on lakes and snow covered mountains. But it also offers an intense history lesson of this turbulent region and an insight into geopolitics at the crossroads of Europe and Asia. It is a must do destination.

Tour Operator

Intrepid Travel is a global adventure travel company, dedicated to providing sustainable, experience-rich travel opportunities. They’ve been the leader in ethical, small-group travel since 1989 - taking people around the world for more than 30 years. They’re the world’s largest travel B Corporation - dedicated to being the best travel company for the world. In 2002, they established The Intrepid Foundation so their travellers could make a lasting impact on the communities they had visited. Although Intrepid Travel absorbs all administrative costs of The Intrepid Foundation, they are separate legal entities, allowing The Intrepid Foundation to grow independently. Intrepid Travel is made up of a collection of tour operator brands and 28 destination management companies all united by one vision: To change the way we all see the world.

In Business Since 1989

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