Caucaseastan

Day 1 Old Tbilisi

Morning free to relax after your flight early in the morning. Meet other group participants and tour leader in the early afternoon, brief pre-tour orientation meeting. We begin our tour of Tbilisi, the vibrant capital of Georgia with a visit to Art Museum offering an exclusive collection - the icon of Zarzma Monastery, the Chalice of Bedia, Anchistkhati and Khakhuli Triptychs and much more. Providing an excellent introduction to the history of the city, the museum is an ideal place to start your exploration of Tbilisi, new and old. Walk in lively Kala, the medieval city center, small yards encircled by galleries, steep street stairs and houses with patterned balconies create picturesque images of Old Tbilisi. Kala also hosts some of Tbilisi's trendiest restaurants featuring local and international cuisine.Visit The Holy Trinity Cathedral, which is the largest religious building in the area of the South Caucasus. Walk along the Dry Bridge (Mshrali Khidi), open-air exhibition of paintings and artifacts. Optional visit to Nabadi folk theatre where a show of music, dance and song about Georgian legends and culture awaits us.

Overnight: Hotel in Tbilisi Meal plan: Breakfast

Day 2 Old Tbilisi, continued

Breakfast at hotel. Proceed to the tour of old Tbilisi. Best explored on foot our tour includes some of the most colourful sites of this ancient city - Metekhi Temple, Narikala Fortress with a marvelous panoramic view of the city, Sulfur Baths dating back to the time of Arab Khalifs, the Synagogue and Sioni Cathedral. Fine masonry with carved woodworks, arts and crafts workshops offer us an insight into the fascinating cultural diversity of Tbilisi. Continue to open air ethnographic museum of Tbilisi featuring 70 houses with traditional household furniture and utensils from various regions of Georgia. You have a bird's eye view of Tbilisi from Mtastminda Park, the highest entertainment park in city, located on the 800 meters above the sea level. Optional sulphur bath with massage in the evening.

Overnight: Hotel in Tbilisi Meal plan: Breakfast

Day 3 Caucasus Mountains

Travel the famous Georgian Miltary Highway and visit Ananuri Fortress. Arrive at Kazbegi, a lovely town nestled at the base of Caucasus Mountains. Enjoy the wildly beautiful views of Mount Kazbek (5,047m), one of the six 5,000 m peaks of the Caucasus range where Prometheus was said to be chained. Visit magnificent Darial Gorge, Gates of Caucasus, one of the only two crossings of the Caucasus mountain range and on to village Sno where Patriarch of Georgia comes from. Gergeti Sameba (Trinity), a remote but enchanting church dramatically sited at the foot of Kazbek, is a site not to be missed. In order to reach the church we will take a winding road uphill through flower-filled meadows enjoying fantastic vistas of the area (walking about 2-3 hours round trip). We spend the night at a cosy alpine hut style hotel in nearby Gudauri ski resort.

Overnight: Hotel in Gudauri Meal plan: Breakfast, dinner

Day 4 Fortress of God

Travel to Gori, the birthplace of Joseph Stalin. Visit the remarkable Stalin Museum re-creating surreal and revealing scenes from the life of the tyrant. A large statue of the "Leader of the People" used to dominated the square of Gori until last year. Stalin's bulletproof train carriage, which he used to travel to the Potsdam Conference in 1945 lies in the grounds of the museum. Visit Uplistsikhe or Fortress of God, an ancient cave town dating back to I millennium BC. Explore its caves, temples, labyrinth passages and colonnaded streets, all carved out of stone. Wander among the impressive ruins of the amphitheatre, one of the oldest in the world. Afternoon proceed to Mtskheta, the ancient capital of Georgia founded 3000 years ago, Jvari Church built to house the robe of Jesus Christ and Svetitskhoveli Cathedral, major pilgrimage site listed as UNESCO World Heritage site. Arrival Tbilisi.

Overnight: Hotel in Tbilisi Meal plan: Breakfast

Day 5 Wine and Art

Breakfast and departure from Tbilisi. The first stop of our visit is David Gareja cave monastery. Take a light hike up the mountain, the slopes of which lead you to another world. In the footsteps of ten centuries of pilgrims, explore Lavra and Udabno churches for fine frescos and rare examples of cave architecture. Continue deep into the heart of Alazani, a fertile valley boasting three hundred years of wine making. We reach romantic Signagi, UNESCO World Heritage site, cobbled streets and terra cotta tile-roofed homes with colorful carved balconies and breathtaking views of the Alazani Valley give it a very charming character. Time for walking and exploration followed by a visit to a family of winemakers to taste some of the finest red and white wines of the region including Rkatsiteli, a full-bodied dry white wine, Saperavi a deep, rich red wine. We learn first-hand about the local traditions of wine making and sample wines from kvevri, a clay jar kept in the ground. In the evening we make our way back to Tbilisi.

Overnight: Hotel in Tbilisi Meal plan: Breakfast

Day 6 Highlights of Kutaisi, Kingdom of Colchis

Breakfast at hotel and embark on a journey revealing many secrets of the turbulent history of Georgia. On to Kutaisi, capital of ancient Colchis, Western Georgian Kingdom. En route visit Khareba Winery to see every step of the process from fresh grapes to the delicious beverage; the visit concludes with wine tasting. Arrival Kutaisi, time to explore the town and visit 10th c. Motsameta Monastery. Continue to explore Gelati Monastery Complex and Academy founded by King David the Builder and Ubisa Temple with striking examples of Georgian monumental painting. A unique option this afternoon is a visit to Sataplia Caves famous for fine speleothems and dinosaur footprints. Now renovated and open to the public, this 300 m long cave abounds in stalactites and stalagmites. We enter the cave on one hillside, cross the hill underground and then go back on the surface past dinosaur footprints.

Overnight: Hotel in Kutaisi Meal plan: Breakfast

Day 7 On to Svaneti

After breakfast we leave Kutaisi and drive to Zugdidi, 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. Start our 4WD trip to Zemo (Upper) Svaneti boasting several 4000-5000 meter peaks such as Shkhara (5,048m) and Ushba (4,700m). Surrounded by gigantic, white capped peaks of the Caucasus, Svaneti is one of the most remarkable historic regions of Georgia. Among these mountains live the Svans, independent and amazingly friendly people essentially cut off from the rest of the country. Arrive Mestia and start your exploration with a visit to the Margiani open-air ethnographic center. Continue to Khergiani Museum with replica of unique temples of Lagami and Gekhtaga. Proceed to the Church of Prophet John, one of the two unique religious landmarks in the world.

Overnight: Hotel in Mestia Meal plan: Breakfast

Day 8 Ushguli, the Highest Settlement in Europe

Depart to traditional Ushguli community located 2,200 metres above sea level with its unique architecture and cult monuments amidst stern landscapes. We will find ourselves among Svan towers and fortresses, roaring waterfalls and dramatic peaks of the Great Caucasus Range. Step out of time and encounter the traditional lifestyle of these proud "people of the mountains". St. Barbare and St. Kvirike shrines, traditional villages of Ipari and Kala are some of the highlights of the day full of impressions. Evening back to Mestia.

Overnight: Hotel in Mestia Meal plan: Breakfast

Day 9 Back to Tbilisi

After an early breakfast and farewell to our hosts we make our long way to Tbilisi. Arrive Tbilisi in the evening, rest and overnight.

Overnight: Hotel in Tbilisi Meal plan: Breakfast

Day 10 Wildflowers and Rocks

Our final day is dedicated to exploring Birtsvisi, a medieval fortress in limestone cliffs of Algeti gorge, Georgia's best kept secret. A complete change of scene as we venture into this little explored landscape to spend the day walking and enjoying incredible views and marvelous solitude (10 km round trip). Rare wildflowers growing out of the rocks line our route snaking its way to viewpoints where we gain impressive views of the surrounding area. Bizarre rocks and weirdly sculptured erosions add to the visual sensation. Drive through Algeti valley to Tbisi village where we start walking 5 km on a wonderful forested route into the most unspoilt and rugged area of central Georgia heading deep into the canyon to reach rocky slopes of Birtsvisi. We continue through a narrow passage and reach Giant Gates where we take the first break. Another 1-1.5 hours and we reach the ruins of ancient fortress where we make a longer break and enjoy our picnic lunch. From here the most energetic of us will hike 1.5 km to the top of the hill to explore the Mother Fortress (Dedatsikhe). Our walk back takes us to Tbisi and on to Tbilisi to unwind. We end the day with a farewell dinner at trendy Sololakis Kari ethnic restaurant.

Option: A less strenuous option is hiking to Sheupovari citadel (Fearless) through endemic forests, waterfalls, mountain springs and gorges (7 km )

 

Overnight: Hotel in Tbilisi Meal plan: Breakfast, Dinner

Half board (all breakfasts & dinners)	Low Price: US$133($163.29)
Description All breakfasts and dinners included
Single supplement	Low Price: US$220($269.44)
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: US$234($285.76)
Description All breakfasts, lunches 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. Physical preparation and tour grade
There will be no extreme fitness requirements and rough traveling. Some of the natural and historical sites we visit will require fair amount of walking with options for more keen travelers and nature explorers. A normal level of fitness will be expected and will certainly help enhance the opportunities to enjoy the trip.

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.