The 17th century Narikala Fortress overlooks the eclectic architecture of Tbilisi's Old Town.

Bizarre bubbling mud volcanoes in Gobustan National Park, Azerbaijan.

French stained glass, Russian timber, Ottoman ceramics & Iranian mirrorwork decorate the Palace of Shaki Khans, Sheki.

The dramatically sited Gergeti Holy Trinity Church, Georgia

Baku, the cosmopolitan capital of Azerbaijan, where ancient Zoroastrian fire temples meet modern glass sky scrapers.

The monastery of Sevanavank on the shores of Lake Sevan was founded in 874.

The colourful rooftops of Tbilisi, Georgia

Khor Virap Monastery in Armenia looking across to Mt Ararat

Azerbaijan, Georgia & Armenia Explorer

Name: Azerbaijan, Georgia & Armenia Explorer
Brand: World Expeditions
SKU: AGA
Rating: 4.70 (20 reviews)

A fascinating cultural journey from Baku, via Tbilisi to Yerevan

Azerbaijan, Georgia, Armenia

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20 reviews

17 Days from

Trip Code: AGA

View dates to Book

Essential Information

Duration

17 Days

Activities

15 days adventure touring

Accommodation

16 nights hotel

Meals

14 Dinners
9 Lunches
16 Breakfasts

Difficulty Grading: Adventure touring
These adventure tours sometimes may visit remote areas where facilities are often basic. These adventure tours will often involve long journeys and rough roads. To enjoy these adventures we suggest reasonable fitness and health, a moderately active lifestyle and have a positive attitude. Suggested preparation: Two or three times a week, we recommend you walk on undulating terrain for an hour or more, for at least 3 months prior to departure.
2 / 10
Adventure touring

Carbon Footprint

66kg of CO₂-e PP per day

(988kg of CO₂-e PP entire trip)

Trip highlights

Wander Baku’s UNESCO-listed Old City in Azerbaijan, where medieval mosques and caravanserais sit alongside the eternal flames of Yanar Dag
In Azerbaijan, admire 40,000 years of rock art at Gobustan and discover the nation’s deep tradition of carpet weaving at the National Carpet Museum
Taste your way through Georgia’s famed Kakheti wine region, learning the ancient qvevri method in a vineyard setting
High in Georgia’s Caucasus Mountains, walk to the panoramic Gergeti Trinity Church and take in views of soaring Mt Kazbegi (5054m / 17,060ft)
In Armenia, visit the pagan Garni Temple and the acoustics of the remarkable rock-carved Geghard Monastery
Visit Lake Sevan, Armenia’s high-altitude freshwater lake, and explore the 9th-century Sevanavank Monastery perched above its shore

Overview

Uncover the extraordinary diversity of the Caucasus on this expertly guided cultural journey through Azerbaijan, Georgia and Armenia.

Explore Baku’s striking mix of medieval heritage and futuristic architecture before stepping back in time among ancient petroglyphs, cave cities, and Silk Road caravanserais.

Wander through Georgia’s vibrant capital Tbilisi before venturing beyond to ancient churches, alpine peaks, and vineyard-dotted valleys.

Then on to Armenia, where Silk Road history, volcanic lakes and cliffside monasteries unfold beneath vast open skies.

Sample traditional cuisine and regional wines, and meet the people whose stories bring these lands to life.

This trip offers a rewarding balance of history, nature, and local life.

With engaging guides, welcoming hosts, and scenic walks in dramatic landscapes, this three-country journey offers a deep and rewarding insight into one of the world’s most fascinating regions.

Itinerary

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Azerbaijan’s capital, Baku, sits on the coast of the Caspian Sea. At its heart is a well preserved, UNESCO-listed medieval walled old city, containing the Palace of the Shirvanshahs, a vast royal complex, and the iconic stone Maiden Tower. Surrounding the old city are elegantly illuminated stone mansions and pedestrianised boulevards and squares filled with exclusive boutiques. Wooded parks and the Caspian-front promenade make it feel a million miles away from the surrounding desert. The more recent oil boom has flooded the city with breathtaking contemporary landmarks such as the Zaha Hadid–designed Heydar Aliyev Centre, and the Flame Towers, 3 pointed glass skyscrapers. Baku is rapidly changing, and now is the perfect time to visit whilst it remains relatively under most tourist radars. Overnight: Mercure Hotel or Midtown Hotel or similar

Meals: Nil

Today we take our time to see the sights of Baku, including the UNESCO-listed, medieval Old City, a treasure trove of Azerbaijani history. We'll explore the ancient city walls, bathhouses and mosques, Maiden Tower and caravanserais which make up the impressive, Palace of the Shirvanshahs. Other highlights include viewing the panoramic cityscape at Highland Park. and a visit to the Absheron Peninsula. When Marco Polo visited the then-Persian city of Baku in the 13th Century, he mentioned numerous mysterious flames throughout the region, most notably in the Absheron Peninsula. These fires are considered to have played a crucial part in the creation of Zoroastrianism and gave rise to the moniker, Land of Fire. We’ll visit the Ateshgah of Baku, often referred to as the “Fire Temple”, Gala archaeological and ethnographical museum complex and Yanar Dag, where a 10m long wall of fire burns continuously. Overnight: Mercure Hotel or Midtown Hotel or similar

Meals: B,L,D

Just a short, hour long drive south from Baku brings us to the remarkable Gobustan National Park which is rich in archaeological monuments. The expansive site features over 6,000 petroglyphs, covering some 40,000 years pf rock art. The engravings depict scenes of the daily lives of the local inhabitants of the time, animals, battle-scenes, ritual ceremonies, bullfights, naval ships, camel caravans, images of the sun and stars. The site also contains once inhabited caves, settlements and burials, illustrating the intensive human habitation of the area during the wet period that followed the last Ice Age, from the Upper Paleolithic to the Middle Ages. Home to nearly a third of the world’s mud volcanoes, Gobustan is also famous for the bizarre mud volcanoes which bubble and erupt, sometimes in flames across the landscape. Many locals believe the mud has a special healing quality and it is common practice to apply the mud to the skin. We will also visit the striking Bibi Heibat Mosque and the Azerbaijan National Carpet Museum. Applied arts, particularly carpet weaving, hold a special place in the cultural history of the people of Azerbaijan. Due to their aesthetics, fleecy and pileless carpets, adorned with various patterns and symbols are used to decorate the walls and floors of marquees, huts, homes, nomads' tents, and other buildings, turning them into a symbol for the nation. Overnight: Mercure Hotel or Midtown Hotel or similar

Meals: B,L,D

Today we drive west to the beautiful town of Sheki, one of the oldest towns in Azerbaijan. Medieval Sheki was once a stop-over on the fabled Silk Road, connecting travellers and cultures from east to west. Nestled on the southern slopes of the Greater Caucasus, Sheki's main attraction is its blend of small town charm, fresh mountain air and attractive historic architecture. The Sheki Khans Summer Palace is said to be one of the most beautiful buildings in the Caucasus. We'll spend the afternoon and evening wandering the charming streets and sites of Sheki. Overnight: Macara Hotel or similar

Meals: B,L,D

This morning, we will cross the Balakan/Lagodekhi border into the renowned wine-making region of Kakheti in eastern Georgia. We will explore the surrounding countryside with forests and views of the Caucasus Mountains, and taste the local wine which makes this the premier wine region of Georgia. We will visit the Winery Khareba which stores its wines in a 7.7km underground tunnel, that is carved into the Caucasus rock massif with ideal storage temperatures ranging from 12-16C. Wine lovers will enjoy learning about the ancient Georgian wine-making process using clay pots (qvevri) which gives the wine an amber tint, and also tasting these unique wines. The Qvevri wine-making tradition has been included on the UNESCO Cultural Heritage list. Overnight: Chateau Schuchman or similar

Meals: B,L,D

This morning we will explore the town of Telavi – once the royal residence of King Erekle II. We will visit the agricultural market, see the 900-year old plain tree and the statue of Georgia’s beloved king Erekle II. Continue to Pankisi Valley, nestled in Georgia’s Kakheti region, which offers a unique and deeply enriching cultural encounter with the Kist tribe - descendants of Chechen settlers who arrived in the 19th century. This valley is a tapestry of Sufi mysticism, mountain landscapes, and community-led hospitality. The Kists are known for their hospitality, stoicism and strong family ties. Many speak both Georgian and a Chechen dialect, and their traditions blend Sunni Islam with ancient folk customs. Visitors are welcomed warmly, especially when showing respect for local dress and customs. We will visit a local family to see how Kist dishes are made and enjoy a delicious home-made lunch and taste local non-alcoholic beer. We can also witness some local Kist traditions, such as hearing some Kist songs sung by local women, or if possible a Zikr ceremony. We will observe daily life by walking through one of the Kist villages and also visit the old mosque in Duisi. Return to Kisiskhevi in Kakheti for dinner and overnight. Overnight: Chateau Schuchman or similar

Meals: B,L,D

This morning we will have a transfer to Tbilisi, the capital of Georgia. Upon arrival, we set off on a walking tour of Old Tbilisi, which is a blend of Asian and European influences. Located in the gorge of Mtkvari River it’s shaped out in accordance with the terrain and forms a very beautiful city with Mt. Mtatsminda embracing the entire town, Narikala Fortress overlooking the oldest quarter of Tbilisi; and Metekhi Church overlooking Mtkvari River from a rocky plateau. In this classic tour of Tbilisi you’ll see the highlights of the Old Town with its beautiful Orthodox Christian churches, mosques & synagogues; the famous and refreshing sulphur baths; narrow cobbled streets with hanging wooden carved multi-coloured balconies and houses following the architectural styles of 19th century Europe; and the wonderful city views from Narikala Fortress and the statue of Mother Georgia. Overnight: Clocks Hotel or similar

Meals: B,D

Free day at leisure to explore Tbilisi (note – there are no guide services today). Overnight: Clocks Hotel or similar

Meals: B

We will drive to visit the ancient 3000 year old capital and religious centre of Georgia, Mtskheta to see its historical sites. Jvari church (6th century) and Svetitskhoveli Cathedral (11th century) where the Robe of Christ is buried are both UNESCO World Heritage sites. We will also explore the Great Caucasus Mountains and visit Ananuri Fort (17th century), which is located along the Georgian Military Highway connecting Georgia to Russia and on top of the Jinvali water reservoir. In the late afternoon, we will arrive in Kazbegi and marvel at one of the highest and most picturesque peaks of the Great Caucasus – Mt Kazbegi (5054m). We will drive up to Gergeti Church (14th century) and enjoy the marvellous views of the huge mountains surrounding us. Accommodation: Hotel Porta Caucasia Kazbegi or Intourist Hotel or similar.

Meals: B,D

Today’s adventure takes us to the stunning and remote Sno Gorge and Truso Valley, nestled in the heart of the Greater Caucasus Mountains. In Sno Gorge, we’ll drive through dramatic landscapes and visit isolated mountain villages, offering a glimpse into life in one of Georgia’s most secluded regions. From there, we continue to Truso Valley—a place where nature, geology, and history converge in a surreal and timeless setting. Situated at an elevation of 2000 to 2400 metres, Truso Valley is carved by the Tergi River and flanked by towering peaks of the Caucasus. It’s a fantastic destination for hiking, with spectacular views and an ever-changing landscape. One highlight is the Abano Mineral Lake, a small yet captivating pool where carbon dioxide bubbles rise from underground springs. Along the route, you’ll pass abandoned villages such as Keterisi and Abano, now home to only a few seasonal residents. These ghost settlements offer a hauntingly beautiful look into the past. The Truso Valley hike is approximately 20 kilometres round-trip and takes about 5–6 hours, allowing time for photo stops, a picnic lunch, and exploration. Along the way, you'll encounter mineral springs, surreal landscapes, and colourful terrain shaped by centuries of natural activity. After the hike, we return to Kazbegi for dinner and overnight. Walking time: Approx. 5-6hrs (approx 20kms, can be shortened if we return from an earlier point); Ascend/Descend 200m; Grade: easy. Accommodation: Hotel Porta Caucasia Kazbegi or Intourist Hotel or similar

Meals: B,L,D

This morning we will visit the Uplistsikhe Cave Town (1st millennium BC), which is where the Great Silk Road used to pass. This is an old and interesting complex with dwelling quarters, wine-cellars, bakeries and a three-nave basilica church hewn out in rock. Afterwards we will visit the town of Gori - Stalin’s birth place; and the famous mineral water town of Borjomi. Its warm climate, mineral water springs, parks and forests made Borjomi a favourite summer resort for the aristocracy, and gave it its popular name of "the pearl of Caucasus". Overnight: Crowne Plaza Borjomi or similar

Meals: B,D

Today we will drive to Akhaltsikhe and visit the 9th century Rabati Castle fortress. We will also explore the fascinating cave city of Vardzia (12th century). The underground fortress and monastery of Vardzia was originally constructed to protect against outside invaders and consisted of many levels, rooms, chambers, chapels, dwellings, wine cellars and tunnels. Afterwards we cross the Bavra border into Armenia and drive to Gyumri for overnight. Overnight: Araks Hotel/Alexandropol Hotel in Gyumri, or similar

Meals: B,L,D

Today we will be making several sightseeing stops on our way to the capital of Yerevan, including exploring the city of Gyumri; the natural surroundings of Mt. Aragats, the highest mountain in Armenia (4090m); and the medieval ruins of Amberd Castle. Overnight: Ani Plaza Hotel or similar

Meals: B,D

Today we will have a tour of the capital. Our tour will start from the Victory Park, at Mother Armenia monument, from where you will behold a panoramic view of the city. We will then visit other sights of the capital, including the Republic Square, the Opera house, the Cascade where you will see the statue of the world-famous sculptor Fernando Botero “The Black Cat”. We will visit the Genocide Memorial Complex with the museum. Visit Matenadaran museum, which hosts the biggest collection of medieval Armenian manuscripts. In the afternoon we will tour the UNESCO World Heritage listed sites of Echmiadzin and Zvartnots Cathedral. *Please note that our trip itinerary will depend on current opening times (and days) of the museums/historic sites and therefore the order of sights visited may vary accordingly. Return to Yerevan for dinner & overnight. Overnight: Ani Plaza Hotel or similar

Meals: B,D

Today is a full day exploring more of the stunning natural and cultural sights of Armenia. We will drive to the Ararat Valley which is located at the foot of Mount Ararat. Here we will visit the Khor Virap monastery; this complex embodies the adoption of Christianity in Armenia in 301 AD. Other highlights include visiting the Noravank Monastery nestled within a red rock canyon, and the Areni 1 Cave which is purportedly where Armenian wine was first produced. We will also drive to Lake Sevan, which is the “blue eye of Armenia” or the “Pearl of Armenia”. This fresh–water lake of volcanic origin at an altitude of 1900m has magnificent panoramic views from the Sevanavank Monastery. The crystal–clear transparent water changes colour several times during the day; it is turquoise in direct sunlight, then turns a greenish shade, and finally becomes gray by the evening. Return to Yerevan. Overnight: Ani Plaza Hotel or similar

Meals: B,L,D

Today we will visit Geghard Cave Monastery and Garni Temple. We soak up the medieval Armenian architecture of Geghard; some chambers of the monastery were carved out of solid rock. The monastic complex received its name after the Holy Lance which was kept here in the middle ages. The cave enclosures of this cultural and architectural wonder are notable for amazing acoustics. Then we drive to Garni village where we'll enjoy a short walk (approx. 3km; 1.5 – 2hrs) down to the Garni gorge where we will admire volcanic basalt formations. We will visit the 1st Century A.D. Garni Temple, a unique example of Armenia's pagan past. At one time this was the summer residence of the Armenian kings located in a picturesque place overlooking a deep canyon. Apart from the ruins of the royal complex, you will also see a bathhouse with an interesting mosaic. Return to Yerevan for dinner and overnight. Overnight: Ani Plaza Hotel or similar

Meals: B,L,D

After breakfast, trip concludes with transfers to the airport for onward travel. Should you wish to extend your stay in Yerevan, please discuss post tour arrangements with your World Expeditions consulltant.

Meals: B

Ready to start your adventure?

5 scheduled departures between 18 Apr 2027 and 5 Sep 2027.

Departs 18 Apr 2027 – ends 4 May 2027 (17 days)
Departs 9 May 2027 – ends 25 May 2027 (17 days)
Departs 4 Jul 2027 – ends 20 Jul 2027 (17 days)
Departs 1 Aug 2027 – ends 17 Aug 2027 (17 days)
Departs 5 Sep 2027 – ends 21 Sep 2027 (17 days)

View dates to Book

What's included?

Included

2025 - 15 breakfasts, 8 lunches, 13 dinners (2026 - 16 breakfasts, 9 lunches, 14 dinners)
Accommodation in hotels/guesthouse on a twin share basis
Local sightseeing & entrance fees to monuments
All internal transport by private vehicle
English speaking local tour guides
Airport transfers (day 1 and 16/17 only)

Not included

International flights
Visas
Travel insurance
Meals not indicated in the itinerary
Bottled water, aerated and alcoholic drinks
Items of a personal nature such as laundry, etc.
Tips

Reviews (20)

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We were impressed with the excellent organization, the good quality of hotels provided, excellent transportation and generally high quality guides. The trip incorporated most of the important things to see in the Caucasus at a perfect pace for us. We particularly liked the small group nature of the trip.

John|France

4 Jul 2026

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Very interesting & enjoyable trip with excellent guides, good accommodation & meals.

Kevin|NSW, Australia

13 Oct 2025

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Wonderful itinerary. Excellent guides.

Jack|Florida, United States

9 Oct 2025

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We loved our time in Azerbaijan. Baku was surprisingly cosmopolitan and the people very friendly. The landscape and history of the region was fascinating. Our guide Arif was outstanding, often doing much more than was required to ensure we enjoyed ourselves. Would thoroughly recommend Azerbaijan as an interesting destination.

Marilyn|NSW, Australia

12 Aug 2025

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WHAT I ENJOYED

The beautiful city of Baku with its Paris like boulevards and Dubai inspired architecture.

The wineries of Georgia including the beautiful grounds, fascinating wine making process and of course the tasting…. excellent reds and whites!

The many old churches, monasteries and forts, each with amazing history, frescoes, ancient stonework and soaring domes.

The beautiful capital city Tbilisi, with its bustling old city and stunning beauty by night.

The mountains of Georgia with snow capped mountains upon which were perched magnificent old churches (I’m still wondering how the congregation got there!).

The beautiful poppies in the grass-fields of Armenia making a colourful landscape when combined with the many other spring flowers.

The food was magnificent, healthy, well organised for a group, and plentiful.

WHAT I DIDN'T EXPECT

The honest and confronting history of Georgia and Armenia.

The old-fashioned methods of extracting oil which makes Azerbaijan rich.

How buildings in Baku must be finished on the outside before the inside to avoid lengthy building sites interrupting the beauty of the waterfront.

Snow-capped mountains in Georgia.

Beautiful and extensive landscapes of Armenia.

Such ancient history.

HIGHLIGHTS FOR ME

Hiking the mountains Kazbegi, Georgia.

Stunning architecture and waterfront promenades of Baku.

Enjoying the hospitality of local families for dinner local style.

The Armenian Genocide Museum was extremely moving and eye opening.

Georgian wine.

The old towns of Baku and Tbilisi.

The extensive history lesson across all three countries.

Diane|Melbourne VIC Australia

16 Jun 2025

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Discovering the long history, culture, and culinary delights of each country of the Caucasus was an amazing and unique experience. The variety of the Georgian countryside was the biggest surprise. The majestic mountains and alpine regions were absolutely beautiful and a highlight of the trip.

Cheryl|Melbourne VIC Australia

15 Jun 2025

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Well run. Efficient and friendly staff. Covered the 3 countries well

John Poulton|Dapto, NSW Australia

27 Aug 2024

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This was an exciting and incredibly informative travel experience. The guides and drivers were terrific and passionate about their countries. If you are interested in history and being introduced to this fascinating part of the world, then I would recommend this tour.

Stephen Brand|Torrens, NSW Australia

31 Jul 2024

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We found that this trip exceeded our already high expectations. The itinerary was well planned and we saw many wonderful sites. The guides were all knowledgeable and very friendly and helpful. Particular attention was paid to food and we had many delicious meals. We had absolutely no concerns about safety. Would highly recommend this trip for someone who is interested in some less well known destinations

Bernadette White|Kensington, VIC Australia

6 Jul 2023

Extra trip info

Accommodation Will My Trip Run?

Crowne Plaza Borjomi

Located 350m from the Kura River and surrounded by thick coniferous forest, the luxurious Crowne Plaza Borjomi features a spa and wellness centre with indoor pool, sauna, hammam massage, hot tub and beauty treatments. Free WiFi and free private parking are available on site. The rooms offer air conditioning and a flat-screen TV. The bathrooms provide a hairdryer, bathrobes and slippers. Guests can dine in the hotel’s restaurant or order room service and breakfasts in the room.

Ani Plaza Hotel Yerevan

Ani Plaza Hotel is situated in the heart of Yerevan, one of the most historic and modern cities in the world. Located only one block away from the National Opera and Ballet Theatre, and a 10-15 minute walk from Republic Square and the Cascade Complex, this centrally-located hotel offers guests spectacular views over the city and Mount Ararat. The hotel also has on-site restaurants, cafes, bars, spa and beauty salons, a swimming pool and a fitness centre.

Clocks Hotel Tbilisi

Clocks Hotel is a modern hotel, situated 15 minutes walk from the Old Town of Tbilisi and 400 metres from Avlabari metro station. Free WiFi, buffet breakfast and bar are available on site. The rooms offer air conditioning, electric kettle, bar fridge, safe, TV with cable channels, hair dryer, toiletries, bath robe and slippers. The upstairs terrace offers a spectacular view of the city.

Midtown Hotel Baku

Midtown Hotel in Baku is located 1.7 km from Fountains Square in the Nasimi district. The hotel has a spa & fitness centre with Turkish and Russian baths, sauna, massage, steam bath and gym. Other services include free WiFi, restaurant, bar, room service and buffet breakfast. The rooms offer air-conditioning, toiletries, bathrobe, hairdryer, flat-screen TV with cable channels, kettle, bar fridge, a seating area as well as city views.

Every departure date advises whether the date is confirmed, and roughly how full it is. Here is what each one means.

Is the departure confirmed?

Guaranteed to go This departure has reached its minimum number and will run.
It is the point travellers should wait for before booking any non-refundable flights.

Close to guaranteed This appears only when a date is close to reaching minimum numbers. If it shows 1 or 2 to guaranteed, book as a pair on a date needing two and it reaches its minimum. Your booking confirms the date for everybody already booked.

How full is the date I am looking at?

Space is filling or Space is filling fast This date has bookings and places are still open. Filling fast means limited spots available, so don't leave your decision too late.

Closing soon Down to its last few places, or close enough to departure that we are finalising numbers. Still bookable online.

Closed Not bookable online - either full, or inside the notice we need to arrange permits, flights and logistics. Ask us anyway, you never know!

Availability questions answered

Will this trip actually go ahead, or could it be cancelled?

If a date shows Guaranteed to go, it runs regardless of further bookings.

What does 2 to guarantee mean?

It means two travellers are enough to confirm the departure. It could be 2 more to add to the group, or the date only needs 2 people to run. Either way, if you book for two people, the date will become guaranteed to run.

What happens if my departure does not reach minimum numbers?

You will know the status before you book. Every date on this page is labelled, and dates marked “Guaranteed to go” are running regardless of further bookings. Where a date has not reached its minimum we either offer a surcharge to operate for a smaller group size so it can still run, or we cancel it. We contact you directly either way.

Will I get my money back if you cancel a departure?

If we cancel a departure due to not meeting minimum trip numbers, you receive a full refund of everything you have paid us less any non recoverable costs, where insurance may cover you. We cannot refund money committed elsewhere – additional non refundable deposits advised at the time of booking, flights, visas, vaccinations, gear - which is why it is worth waiting for “Guaranteed to go” before booking other arrangements around this trip date. Please read our Booking Terms and Conditions before you book.

Why can't I book some dates online?

Each trip closes online a set time before departure. Permits, internal flights and hut or campsite bookings all have to be arranged before we take payment. Call or enquire as it might still be possible to organise last minute places.

The date I want is closed. What are my options and why does it say to enquire?

Cancellations happen and places do open up on closed dates, so it is worth being on our list. We can also tell you which nearby date on the same trip has space, which is usually the faster route.

None of these dates suit me. Can you run this trip on another date?

Yes, as a private departure. We can run this trip on a date you choose, for your own group - family, friends, a club, or in many cases, just for the two of you. Tell us when you want to travel and who is coming, and we will build it around that.

Guaranteeing A Great Azerbaijan Trip

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Quality equipment

Quality accommodations

Innovative itineraries

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Azerbaijan, Georgia & Armenia Explorer

Trip highlights

Overview

Itinerary

Ready to start your adventure?