Caucaseastan

Day 1 Hunter’s Road, Southern Armenia

In the morning meet your tour leader and other group participants for coffee and a briefing on the jeep trip ahead, away from the mundane. Head to the South enjoying the fabulous views of biblical Mount Ararat. We soon get off the roads, and travel by 4WD along the Hunter's Road, a great trail dressed in wildflowers. Breathe the mountain air and relax with nature, continue the jeep adventure winding our way through this spectacular land to arrive at Gnishik village surrounded by towering red rocks. After taking a few moments to freshen up it will be time to watch your hostess Anna prepare local culinary delights in a traditional wood oven in the ground

Overnight: Hotel in Vayk Meal plan: Breakfast, dinner

Day 2 Pristine Lake and Rock Art

 Wake up to the call of hundreds of birds and enjoy your hot coffee. Head further south and jeep to Sisian. Follow the mountain tracks onto one of the unique wonders of the world, ancient rock paintings of Camel Mount. We steer our way up winding through this ancient and awe-inspiring mountain scenery, leave the rocks and alpine flowers behind but our efforts are well rewarded. Pack your imagination and be one of the privileged few to revisit the past and see the amazing rock art from bygone era. After rest in this beautiful place 4WD trip downhill to the finish of the full day of 100% off-road adventure. Back to Sisian for great food and rest.

Overnight: Hotel in Sisian Meal plan: Breakfast

Day 3 Devils Bridge

 After leisurely breakfast we hit the track and drive on the highway up to Shinuhayr village. On to Tatev Monastery, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This mountain trail offers panoramic views you have seen in old movies with a taste of rugged 4WD adventure through a narrow ravine so deep that the sun hardly reaches the bottom. Within the walls of the gorge birds find water and shelter from the heat of the plains. Stop at the Devil’s Bridge to stretch your feet, walk a few steps down, fill your bottle with crystal clear water coming from mountains and, if time allows, soak in the healing mineral bath. As soon as you see the Monastery you will understand what has drawn people to this sacred place for hundreds of years. Continnue to Goris for overnight.

Overnight: Hotel in Goris Meal plan: Breakfast

Day 4 Scenic Drive, Southern Armenia

Breakfast and proceed to explore the lush valley of Her-Her river. Our first stop will be at Shatin observation point where we have a chance to see bezoar goats on the opposite side of the gorge. The day offers a real off-the-beaten-path experience as we drive to Fortress of King Smbat, one of the best-preserved medieval citadels in Armenia. Explore enigmatic Tsakhat Kar, a highly scenic spot and a subject of local legends. Continue across high altitude plains and remote villages followed by hard climbs, the thrill of visiting this land of rugged beauty is ample reward. We are in the agricultural heart of Armenia and do not miss the chance to sample some of the fantastic produce: private wine touring in maran (cellars) of a leading winery in Aghavnadzor, outdoor lunch in tender family atmosphere proceeding with local cheese tasting. Back to our hotel in Yeghegnadzor

Overnight: Hotel in Yeghegnadzor Meal plan: Breakfast, lunch

Day 5 Selim Caravanserai, Silk Road

Early breakfast and head out to Selim. Drive through striking landscapes of jagged mountains and gorges, rivers and muddy roads. The road gradually climbs up over 2,410m in elevation following the historic Silk Route past Selim Caravanseray. This is one of the best places to see what fabled Silk Route looked like centuries ago. Descend to 2,000 m to catch the first glimpse of Lake Sevan, the Pearl of Armenia. If you seek a jeep path less taken and would like a deeper-textured experience then jeep through striking landscapes to lofty mountain peaks of Vardenis ridge, reach beautiful mountain lakes, time to walk around and enjoy the scenery (weather permitting). Transfer to hotel for rest and overnight. A sunset walk for splendid views of Lake and surrounding mountains is a must before dinner.

Overnight: Hotel at Lake Sevan Meal plan: Breakfast

Day 6 Backcountry Ride and Cave Town

Leave the splendor of Lake Sevan and head further north-west into the outback. Get to the real backcountry and escape from civilization driving through small villages of Navour and Itsaqar nestled in mountains with barely 300 inhabitants. Our passing encounters with friendly locals in villages may leave us with some of our strongest memories and the best photos of rural Armenia. Continue by a less traveled route to what locals call "Garlic" Pass (1852 m) with surrounding lash forest hills. Marvel at the natural splendor that surrounds you, when meandering down the wonderful old road leading to Ijevan, cozy town nestled in forests. Transfer to the border, continue to Kutaisi, the second largest city of Georgia founded about 40 centuries ago

Overnight: Hotel in Kutaisi Meal plan: Breakfast

Day 7 Svaneti, Land of Lakes, Glaciers and Towers

Start your tour with a drive to Samegrelo, enjoy the views of graceful region, continue to Zugdidi, short visit to Dadiani Palace. stop to visit Dadiani Palace and Museum, travel back in time and explore rare exhibits from various periods of Georgia's turbulent history and rich culture heritage. Among the exhibits is Napoleon's death mask! On to Svaneti, Georgia's most remarkable historic region offering immense richness of scenery and culture in a rarely visited area. En route we stop at 271-meter Enguri Dam for impressive views. Time to get ready for the most rugged 4WD adventure on mountain trails offering panoramic views of narrow ravines so deep that the sun hardly reaches the bottom. In Svaneti we stop and explore the impressive murals of 8th century Latali and Lenjeri basilicas.

Overnight: Hotel in Mestia Meal plan: Breakfast

Day 8 Ushguli, the highest settlement in Europe

We commence the route today with a visit to traditional Ushguli community located at 2,200 meters at the feet of mighty Mount Shkhara and its awe inspiring glaciers. The village with its unique architecture and cult monuments amidst stern landscapes is a UNESCO Heritage site. We find ourselves among medieval towers set against the towering backdrop of the Great Caucasus Range. Experience the life of these proud People of Mountains, take a spectacular road to Holy Virgin Mary Church church and Svan ethnographic complex. Horse riding to Mount Shkhara (optional). This magnificent land of mountains and thundering waterfalls is certainly a highlight of our journey.

Overnight: Hotel in Mestia Meal plan: Breakfast

Day 9 Five Mountains Day

In the morning it's time to hit the road to famous Mount Zuruldi enjoying stunning views of the Caucasus Mountains including Tetnuldi at 4617m, Shkhara at 5068m, Shkhelda at 3800m and Ushba at 4700m. Unparalleled views, rough terrain, wild nature - an ideal formula for a 4WD trip full of adventures. Get above it all as your jeep climbs over awesome mountain trails to high altitude desert and reaches Mount Zuruldi where we have a bird's eye view of Svaneti's wild vistas. If you still have energy to burn, we will organize short hikes in the area! Evening drive back to Mestia for overnight.

Overnight: Hotel in Mestia Meal plan: Breakfast

Day 10 Tbilisi

Drive to Tbilisi via modern highway and Rikoti Pass at 1440 m. There is an opportunity to stop in Gori to visit Joseph Stalin Museum. Continue to Uplistsikhe, The Lord's Fortress, a huge rock-hewn town on the rocky bank of Mtkvari River. We then come to vibrant Tbilisi where there is time for sightseeing and last minute souvenir shopping

Overnight: Hotel in Tbilisi Meal plan: Breakfast

Single supplement	Low Price: €165
Description This option guarantees you a single room in all the hotels throughout the tour. If you are a single traveller, then you may share a twin room with other single travellers in the group. If we do not have any other single travellers at the time of your booking, then you will need to add this supplement to your tour price (this can be refunded to you later if other people book who you can share with).
Full board (all meals)	Low Price: €175
Description All breakfasts, lunches and dinners included
Half board (all breakfasts & dinners)	Low Price: €100
Description All breakfasts and dinners included

1. Special notes
The information in these Special Notes covers the average range of conditions likely to be found on this trip. In remote destinations unexpected conditions can prevail at any time, and all adventurous holidays can therefore be subject to unexpected changes; in order to enjoy them you should be prepared to be flexible where necessary.

2. Travel health and insurance
No vaccination is required for traveling in the Caucasus. The region's climate is very pleasant, with no health risks. Water is very clean and safe. However, travelers usually prefer bottled spring and mineral water, which can be found in shops and supermarkets.
There are registered pharmacies in all cities and towns with all basic medications. Travelers with special needs are advised to take a supply of those medications that they are likely to require. Medical facilities are numerous with many qualified doctors practicing in all specialties. Doctors and hospitals often expect cash payment for their services. Travelers are advised to consult their medical insurance company prior to traveling to confirm whether their policy applies overseas and covers emergency expenses such as medical evacuation. When selecting a travel insurance policy we require that it cover medical expenses including emergency repatriation and personal liability. We also strongly recommend that the policy cover loss of luggage and personal effects.

3. Driving Conditions
Road conditions are mostly good. In the mountains we use off-road trails developed for this tour and ensuring maximum off-road fun. The environments we travel through are fragile. It is our responsibility as visitors to minimise the impact of our presence.

Conversion Formulas
We have provided some useful conversion formulas below:
To convert Celsius to Fahrenheit
→ multiply by 1.8 and add 32
To convert meters to feet
→ multiply by 3.28
To convert kilometres to miles
→ multiply by 0.62
To convert kilograms to pounds
→ multiply by 2.21
To convert litres to US gallons
→ multiply by 0.26

4. Money
You will need to allow enough money for meals as well as optional activities. An average meal in a restaurant should cost between EUR 8-10. Tipping is customized and not compulsory. You should be aware that Caucasus is still a cash-only economy and credit cards are not accepted in the majority of shops and restaurants. There are several ATM machines in major cities where you can obtain cash.

5. Communication during the tour
If you need to be contacted while traveling we recommend that you set up an email address that can be accessed on the road. Email cafes are common and are the preferred way for our leaders and travelers to stay in touch.
If someone wishes to contact you in an emergency while you are on an AdvenTour trip we recommend that they contact our operator by phone + 374 10 48 22 71 or E-mail: adventour@netsys.am.

6. Accommodation
We choose hotels/guesthouses that combine comfort and great service with unique ambiance and appreciation of the natural beauty of a region. The emphasis is on location and practicality.
Our tours are based on 3 star properties. In capital cities and other places where higher-class accommodation is available you can upgrade if you wish. Your tour leader will help arrange this and the extra cost will be paid by you. In areas where hotels are not available, particularly in small towns in the regions, the group will stay at a local guesthouse (often with shared facilities). Some campsites we stay in are equipped with showers, toilets, electricity and a common eating area. Where no campsites are available we go wild camping (no facilities). These are limited to once or twice a tour and are in areas where you can enjoy the scenery. All other nights will be in campsites/hotels as described above.

Single Supplement
Should you want more privacy during your trip, you can upgrade by the requesting your own room, often at a little extra cost.

Pre / Post-Tour Accommodation
If you require additional accommodation either before or after the trip, we can book this for you. Please contact AdvenTour for current prices.

7. Transport and private transfers
The mode of transport we use is chosen to suit the environmental aspects and local infrastructure. During tours we use comfortable, air-conditioned cars, minibuses and buses as well as some local transport that is well-maintained and supplied with a first-aid kit. In fact, we often use more than one type of transport per trip. And just in case you are wondering - we also travel by foot.

Airport transfers are not included in the cost of the trip. Please, let us know at the time of booking if you would like us to arrange a private transfer for you.

8. Staff and support
While on AdvenTour trips, you will be accompanied by a tour leader/driver. The tour leader is in charge of general organization of your trip making sure that you have a most enjoyable time. He/she has broad general knowledge of the places visited, including historical, cultural, religious and social aspects. The tour leader is able to provide suggestions on what to do and see and can recommend great local eating venues. Local guides are an important part of AdvenTour team, they are trained by us and support our groups in sites and locations where their special knowledge of the trails, particular activities or communities will add to the enjoyment of the tour.

9. Meals
The tour cost includes bed and breakfast in the hotels and guesthouses. Meals, when included, will feature local cuisine. For other meals, you are left to choose what and where to eat, though your tour leader will be on hand to suggest venues and arrange where necessary. This can be one of the great joys of this trip as the food in Armenia is superb. Vegetarians should have no problems on this tour.

10. Laundry
Facilities are offered by most hotels for a charge.

11. Visas
Citizens of EU, USA, Canada, Australia, New Zealand and a number of other countries can obtain Armenian visa upon arrival at the airport or land border. All other nationals are advised to consult Armenian Embassy in their country of residence. Georgian visa is not required for EU, USA, Canada, Australia, New Zealand citizens. All other national are advised to consult the Georgian Embassy in their country of residence. Turkish visa is obtained upon arrival at the airport or land border. Iranian visa support is provided by AdvenTour through local parters in Iran. Visa regulations can and do change without notice. Please check the current regulations in good time to obtain a visa if one is required.

12. Travel luggage
Because of limited luggage space on transfer vehicles, we limit each passenger to ONE main suitcase or frameless backpack (the size not more than 75cm x 45cm x 25cm, the weight no more than 20 kg) and one day bag. The daypack is practical for keeping general items (e.g. camera, books, wallets etc.) at hand when your main pack is out of reach. Please note many hotels in the regions do not have porters and you will need to carry your own luggage.
Travel tip 1: On some tours, if you wish, it is possible to leave surplus clothes and other personal equipment in hotels where you will return after your circular trip. Please bring a small bag to pack excess items in and leave the bag at the hotel. Mark your luggage with your name and arrival date. Please ask your tour leader to advise where this may be possible / advisable.
Travel trip 2: You might be tempted to buy a few souvenirs here and there, so leave a little room for those extra purchases!

13. Safety
We always recommend the use of a neck wallet or money belt while traveling, for the safe keeping of your passport, air tickets, cash and other valuable items. All the hotels we use have safety deposit boxes, which can be used to store your valuables.

14. Responsible tourism
Tourism can be a real help to local communities providing income, positive cultural exchanges and the financial incentive to protect the natural environment. Our trips are designed to use family-based guesthouses in the regions, buy local food, hire local guides, drivers and rent trucks to ensure that as much money as possible is retained within the local economies.

15. Feedback
After your travel, we would like to hear from you. Within two weeks after your departure we will send you a feedback form to complete.

Information in this document has been compiled with care and is provided in good faith. However it is subject to change and does not form part of the contract between the client and AdvenTour.