Georgia and Armenia Encompassed
Georgia and Armenia Encompassed
Georgia and Armenia Encompassed
16 Days Starting and ending in Tbilisi
Visiting: Tbilisi, Haghpat, Dilijan, Yerevan, Kutaisi, Mestia, Gudauri, Kakheti
Tour operator:
Tour code:
GAE
Guide Type:
Fully Guided
Group size:
1 - 12
Age range:
18-99
Special diets catered:
Please advise requests
Tour operated in:
EnglishTrip Styles:
Activities:
Private Available:
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Tour Overview
Georgia and Armenia are two of the least known nations of Europe – in fact most people aren’t even sure whether they’re actually in Europe. Hidden away and often eclipsed by their monumental neighbours, these two countries hide a wealth of diverse secrets. This trip encompasses the very best of the region. We spend time in Tbilisi and marvel at the various cultures that have left their mark on this city, from Imperial Russia to Ottoman Turkey and beyond. We travel into the High Caucasus at Kazbegi and walk up to a dramatically situated ancient church. Explore the remote and mystical land of Svaneti, home to an intriguing culture and some of Europe’s most remote villages overlooked by imposing stone built watchtowers and see the cave town of Vardzia. To top it off in Georgia experience local hospitality and taste wine in the charming region of Kakheti. Armenia is the world’s oldest Christian nation with an astounding collection of ancient churches and monasteries which will captivate you. In contrast is the capital Yerevan, a lively and engaging city which embraces modernity yet manages to retain its traditions, and is packed full of some of the best Soviet style architecture to be found anywhere. This is a busy tour with lots of fabulous history, culture and scenery to enjoy. Isn’t it time you learned more about this intriguing region?
Highlights
Itinerary
Day 1 : Arrival In Tbilisi
Location: Tbilisi
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: Hotel Old Metekhi or similar
Arrive in Tbilisi and transfer to the hotel. The rest of the day is at leisure. Overnight Hotel Old Metekhi or similar. No meals are included today.
Day 2 : Tbilisi – Armenia Border - Haghpat
Location: Haghpat
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: Tufenkian Avan Dzoraget or similar
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Travel from Tbilisi to the border with Armenia. After completing border formalities and meeting your Armenian guide, drive to Haghpat monastery, a UNESCO Heritage site. Also visit Sanahin monastery another UNESCO site. For those that wish, it is possible to walk between the two monasteries. Later, take a walk in the village and then transfer to your accommodation for the night. Overnight Tufenkian Avan Dzoraget or similar. (BLD)
Day 3 : Haghpat – Dilijan – Lake Sevan - Yerevan
Location: Dilijan
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: Tufenkian Historic Hotel or similar
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
We begin our day driving through wonderful scenery to Dilijan known as the little Switzerland of Armenia. We have a short stop to have a look around the old part of the town. En route to Dilijan we can visit a village home to the minority Molokan (milk drinkers) people who were exiled to Armenia from Russia in the 19th Century. Visit Haghartsin monastery beautifully nestled in the heart of the forest. We then travel on to the picturesque Lake Sevan and the Sevanavank monastery which is a 9th century monastery founded on the peninsula that used to be an island. The monastery affords a panoramic view of the alpine lake. We then continue to Yerevan. Tonight, we will enjoy some traditional food in a local restaurant in Yerevan. The journey time in the vehicle today is around 3.5 hours. Overnight Tufenkian Historic Hotel or similar. (BLD)
Day 4 : Yerevan Sightseeing
Location: Yerevan
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: Tufenkian Historic Hotel or similar
Meals Included: Breakfast
We start at around 08:30am this morning and enjoy a city tour of Yerevan including visits to a high-scale view point over the city, City Park, Abovyan Street, and Republic Square. Visit the Genocide Memorial and also the museum dedicated to the victims of the Great Genocide that took place in 1915 and the memorial with eternal fire. Then we visit the interesting cascade and the Gafeschian Centre of Art, dedicated to bringing the best of contemporary art from all over the world to Armenia and presenting the best of Armenian culture to the world. Inspired by the vision of its founder, Mr. Gerard L. Cafesjian, this establishment offers a wide variety of exhibitions, the majority of which are derived from Mr. Cafesjian’s own extensive collection of contemporary art. We also have short visit of Matenadaran – a Museum and Scientific Institute of ancient manuscripts, hosting the treasures of Armenian science and around 20.000 ancient manuscripts – the largest collection in the world. The short tour in Matenadaran will be exclusively guided by the most prominent specialists of the Institute. Visit the Yerevan Brandy Factory for a guided excursion to the cellars and a degustation of 2 types of local brandy. Lunch will be at your own leisure and this afternoon is yours to further explore Yerevan. Overnight Tufenkian Historic Hotel or similar. (B)
Day 5 : Yerevan - Khor Virap Monastery – Echmiadzin - Yerevan Afternoon At Leisure
Location: Yerevan
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: Tufenkian Historic Hotel or similar
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch
An early start today at around 08:00am travelling south to the spectacular Khor Virap Monastery which affords excellent views to impressive Mt Ararat. This monastery has long been an important place of pilgrimage for Armenians. After the tour of the monastery we return to Yerevan and discover Echmiadzin home of the mother cathedral and the spiritual centre of the Armenian Church. The driving time today is around 3 hours. Later we enjoy a gastronomic master class of Armenian food followed by lunch on your way from Echmiadzin to Yerevan. We will be back in Yerevan by approximately 2pm and you will have the rest of the afternoon at leisure in Yerevan. Overnight Tufenkian Historic Hotel or similar. (BL)
Day 6 : Yerevan – Geghard Monastery - Garni Temple – Yerevan
Location: Yerevan
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: Tufenkian Historic Hotel or similar
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch
This morning we drive around 1 hour to Kotayk province to explore Geghard Monastery and Garni Pagan temple. Admire the outstanding views of the Armenian Highlands stretched out before you. From Garni, enjoy breathtaking views down into the canyon and to the strategically located Geghard Monastery below. Garni dates back to the 1st century AD and is the only pagan temple that remained after the adoption of Christianity. Attend a lavash-baking master class in the village of Garni. The master-class is held in the yard of a local house where you’ll also have lunch. After exploring these magnificent sites we return to Yerevan and the rest of the day will be at leisure for you to further familiarise yourself with the city of Yerevan. Overnight Tufenkian Historic Hotel or similar. (BL)
Day 7 : Yerevan - Amberd Fortress – Gyumri – Bavra – Vardzia
Location: Yerevan
Accommodation Name: Valodia Cottages or similar
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
An early start around 08:00am and our first stop today is Amberd fortress. The fortress is situated at an altitude of 2300m above sea level which once again affords fine views of Mt Aragats. We may also get the opportunity to meet some of the minority Yazidis who inhabit this area. Continue to Gyumri with its excellent 19th century Tsarist architecture which suffered greatly in the 1988 earthquake. If time allows we will have a short stop in Gyumri before crossing the border into Georgia at Bavra and travelling on to Vardzia. The overall driving time from Yerevan to the Georgia border is approximately 4 hours. The journey time from the border to Vardzia in Georgia is around 2 hours and we aim to arrive by sundown. Overnight Valodia Cottages or similar. (BLD)
Day 8 : Vardzia – Akhaltsikhe – Kutaisi
Location: Kutaisi
Accommodation Name: Family run guesthouse with private bathrooms
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Our first stop today is Khertvisi Fortress built in the Middle Ages before exploring the fascinating cave town of Vardzia dating back to the 12th century. We then travel for 1 hour to visit the recently restored Rabati Castle dating from the 13th century before continuing to Kutaisi. The journey to Kutaisi will be around 3 hours. Overnight in a family run guesthouse with private bathrooms. (BLD)
Day 9 : Kutaisi – Zugdidi – Mestia
Location: Mestia
Accommodation Name: Family run guesthouse with private bathrooms
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
This morning we drive to Zugdidi (journey time 2 hours) passing through the Colkhida lowlands and some typical local villages. We visit Dadiani palace and its museum housing some fine natural exhibits of Georgian culture. From Zugdidi we start climbing through the Enguri river valley and the Enguri reservoir up to Mestia situated at 1400 metres above sea level. Mestia is the provincial centre of Svaneti. On arrival we will visit the iconic Svanetian towers. The journey time from Zugdidi to Mestia is around 4 hours with time for photo stops of the wonderful scenery. Overnight at a family run guest house with private bathrooms. (BLD)
Day 10 : Mestia - Ushguli – Mestia
Location: Mestia
Accommodation Name: Family run guesthouse with private bathroom
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
A morning drive to Ushguli village, the highest permanently inhabited village in Europe at 2400 metres. On the way we visit Nakipari church. On arrival in Ushguli we explore on foot, visiting the stunning medieval towers as well as Lamaria Church. Those who wish can take an easy hike (subject to weather conditions) along the valley leading to the foot of Mount Shkhara (5201m). We return to Mestia in the afternoon. Please note that the road today is of a very poor quality and as such it is necessary to drive very slowly to avoid damage to the vehicle. However, the scenery is worth the effort! The overall travelling time should be around 4 hours but the distance is only 90km in total. Overnight in Mestia at a family run guesthouse with private bathroom. (BLD)
Day 11 : Mestia - Svaneti – Gelati - Kutaisi
Location: Kutaisi
Accommodation Name: Kutaisi Inn Hotel or similar
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
A morning drive of around 3.5 hours to Zugdidi passing through the Colkhida lowlands with some picturesque villages. From Zugdidi we journey to Kutaisi (around 2 hours) along the Enguri River valley. Enjoy some photo stops and great views of the mountain summits. Continue the journey to Kutaisi. Kutaisi, dated back to the Argonauts time, was the capital of old Colchida and later of Western Georgia. We visit the Gelati monastery (UNESCO), founded in the 12th century by Georgian King David the Builder (1073 – 1125). It was here that he founded an academy and monastery, which became the foremost centre of education in Georgia. Unique murals of saints and Georgian monarchs can be found inside the main Cathedral. Overnight at Kutaisi Inn Hotel or similar (BLD)
Day 12 : Kutaisi – Gori – Uplistsikhe - Gudauri
Location: Gudauri
Accommodation Name: Hotel Gudauri Inn or similar
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
This morning we drive to Gori (journey around 3 hours) a town almost entirely known as the birthplace of Joseph Stalin. Visit the museum where you can explore Stalin’s personal train carriage and also see the small house where he spent his early years. Gori train station is also worth a stop for its imposing waiting room. Then we drive a short distance to Uplistsikhe, a cave town dated to 7th Century BC. It is then time to turn on to the Georgian Military Highway and snake our way up into the Caucasus Mountains. Visit the castle complex of Ananauri attractively situated on the Aragvi River. We continue to climb through dramatic scenery until our destination for the evening which is Gudauri. The driving time from Uplistsikhe to Gudauri is approximately 3 hours. Overnight Hotel Gudauri Inn or similar. (BLD)
Day 13 : Gudauri - Kazbegi – Mtskheta – Tbilisi
Location: Tbilisi
Accommodation Name: Hotel Old Metekhi or similar
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
This morning we cross the Jvari Pass at 2395 metres above sea level and into Kazbegi (journey time around 1 hour) situated at 1700 metres above sea level and surrounded by 5000 metre peaks. You will have the opportunity to take the walk up to the Sameba Church (subject to weather conditions) with its stunning setting below Mt Kazbek. For those that do not want to walk it is possible to hire jeeps for an extra charge to go by up via a track. Later we drive to Mtskheta (journey time around 2 hours), the ancient capital of Georgia. Mtskheta is packed full of historical monuments and is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. We explore the 11th century Svetitskhoveli Cathedral and the 6th century Jvari Monastery before taking the short trip back to Tbilisi (journey time 0.5 hours). Overnight Hotel Old Metekhi or similar. (BL)
Day 14 : Tbilisi
Location: Tbilisi
Accommodation Name: Hotel Kalasi or similar
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
A guided walking tour around old Tbilisi, taking in the fascinating history of this long overlooked region. We spend the day discovering sites such as the National Museum, home to many of the treasures that inspired the legend of the Golden Fleece, as well as the Narikala citadel, Metekhi Temple and the Sioni Cathedral, among other sites. A walk across the modern Bridge of Hope (pedestrian only) gives a great perspective of the mix of old and new and fine views. Tonight, enjoy traditional Georgian food at a local restaurant. Overnight Hotel Kalasi or similar. (BLD)
Day 15 : Tbilisi – Kakheti – Tbilisi
Location: Kakheti
Accommodation Name: Hotel Old Metekhi or similar
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch
Visit Kakheti, Georgia’s famous wine district which lies due east from Tbilisi in a land dotted with fine old churches and vineyard after vineyard. First, we visit Signaghi (journey time 2 hours), a beautiful hill-town providing panoramic views of Alazani Valley and the Eastern Caucasus Mountains. Then continue to a local farmer’s house to taste home-made wines. Enjoy a lunch with delicious home-made food. A fitting way to end your time in Georgia. Return to Tbilisi (journey time approximately 2 hours). Overnight Hotel Old Metekhi or similar. (BL)
Day 16 : Departure From Tbilisi
Location: Tbilisi
Meals Included: Breakfast
Pick up from the hotel and transfer to the airport on due time for your flight. (B)
What's Included
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Arrival and Departure Transfers.
Includes both arrival and departure transfers to ensure a smooth journey.
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Overland Transport
Overland transport throughout the tour with a professional driver.
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Accommodation
All accommodation during the tour is included.
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Guided Services
Services of an English-speaking guide / tour leader throughout the tour.
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Meals
Meals as listed in the itinerary (B – Breakfast, L – Lunch, D – Dinner).
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Entrance Fees
Entrance fees for sites listed as part of the itinerary are covered.
What's Not Included
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International Flights
International flights are not included.
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Airport Taxes
Any airport taxes are not included.
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Travel Insurance
Travel insurance is not included and needs to be secured separately.
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Visa Fees
Visa fees are not included for countries where a visa is required.
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Drinks
Drinks are not included and will be an additional cost.
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Personal Expenses
Items of a personal nature such as souvenirs or extra snacks are not included.
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Tips
Tips are discretionary and not included in the tour price.
Mode of Transport
Travelers will be transported across Georgia and Armenia in overland vehicles, driven by professional drivers, ensuring a smooth and scenic journey through the picturesque landscapes of both countries.
Accommodation
Guests will enjoy a variety of accommodations ranging from charming family-run guesthouses with private bathrooms to comfortable hotels in prime locations, ensuring a restful stay throughout the tour.
Check out our Q&As
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What does the tour exclude?
The tour excludes international flights, airport taxes, travel insurance, visa fees, drinks, personal expenses, and tips.
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Is there a guide included in the tour?
Yes, the tour includes the services of an English-speaking guide / tour leader throughout the tour.
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Is accommodation included in the tour?
Yes, all accommodation during the tour is included.
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What is the primary focus of the tour?
The primary focus of the tour is cultural experiences.
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Are entrance fees included in the tour price?
Yes, entrance fees for sites listed as part of the itinerary are covered.
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Where does the tour start and end?
The tour starts and ends in Tbilisi.
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What countries does the Georgia and Armenia Encompassed tour visit?
The Georgia and Armenia Encompassed tour visits Georgia and Armenia.
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What type of activities does the tour include?
The tour includes activities such as small group tours, history exploration, sightseeing, walking, and wine tasting.
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What are some highlights of the tour?
Some highlights of the tour include exploring the mystical cave towns of Vardzia and Uplistsikhe, marveling at the view of Mt Ararat from Khor Virap Monastery, wandering through the delightful streets of old Tbilisi, getting off the beaten track in Svaneti to see some of Europe’s most remote villages, walking up to the Gergeti Trinity Church under the dramatic Caucasus peak of Mt Kazbegi, and enjoying wine tasting and local hospitality in Kakheti.
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I’m a single traveller – will I feel out of place?
In a word, no. We get a good mix of single travellers and couples on our group tours.
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Do you operate a “single share” option and how does it work?
We are happy to allocate a twin room to two single same-sex travellers. If there is no one else to travel
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Can I join the tour once it has departed?
No, sorry this is not possible.
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What happens if I need to change my holiday date once I’ve booked?
We offer fully transferable group tour deposits (excluding any flight payments which are always non-refundable). You can change your group tour booking up to 10 weeks before departure and not lose your deposit – we will put your deposit towards any new group booking as long as you travel within 2 years of the original departure date.
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Can I alter the tour?
On our scheduled departures this isn’t possible, simply due to the fact that you’ll be travelling with other people. However, if you like the look of one of our advertised trips but want to tweak it slightly, then we can offer tailor made itineraries just for you, to accommodate your specific requirements.
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Who will be my travelling companions on the tour?
There are no hard and fast rules about what type of people travel on Undiscovered Destinations’ group tours – we attract people from all ages, nationalities and walks of life. What you are likely to find though is that travellers share a similar outlook about travel. We tend to attract people with a curiosity about the lesser visited corners of our planet.
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How long has the tour company been trading?
We have been going since 2004.
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Free Date Changes
Undiscovered Destinations allows you to make 2 free date changes, as long as the change is made at least 70 days before the start of the tour.
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Transfer as credit to Future Tours
Undiscovered Destinations allows you to transfer existing payments to a future tour to avoid cancellation fees if you can't travel and inform undiscovered destinations, 70 days before departure.
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Low Deposit
Undiscovered Destinations requires a minimum deposit of 350 GBP per person or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 70 days before departure.
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Cancellation Policy
We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of undiscovered destinations charges.
Up to 71 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.
At 70 days before tour starts: Forfeit 40% of booking price.
At 34 days before tour starts: Forfeit 60% of booking price.
At 20 days before tour starts: Forfeit 80% of booking price.
At 7 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.
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