18 Days | 25 Sep – 12 Oct, 2025.
$AU8,113 joining in Baku, end in Yerevan.
The Caucasus, a region of profound historical and cultural richness, remained largely obscured behind the Iron Curtain until recent decades. Now increasingly open to discerning travellers, it offers a captivating blend of architectural grandeur, dramatic landscapes, and enduring artistic traditions. This carefully designed programme balances visits to major historical sites and museums with exclusive encounters with master artisans preserving age-old crafts such as embroidery, silk weaving, and metalwork. Thoughtfully selected accommodations, exceptional regional cuisine, and a well planned itinerary ensure both comfort and depth of experience.
Programme Overview
In late 2019, we carefully devised an in-depth journey through the Caucasus, a region of astonishing cultural richness and historical depth. For much of the 20th century, Azerbaijan, Georgia, and Armenia lay behind the Iron Curtain, but in recent decades, they have opened their doors to inquisitive travellers. The global pandemic delayed our planned exploration, but now, at last, we can embark on this remarkable adventure.
Our recent travel experience in the ‘Stans in 2024, has only reinforced our fascination with regions shaped by the great movements of history. In the Caucasus, a land still largely untouched by mass tourism, we encounter extraordinary landscapes, venerable traditions, and exquisite artistic heritage.
The itinerary balances major historical sites, museums, and architectural wonders with private visits to master artisans working in embroidery, silk carpet weaving, ikat, wood carving, and metalwork. These encounters offer rare insights into the skills and traditions that have flourished here for centuries. Few, if any tour programmes to the region offer this element.
Accommodation is carefully selected for character, comfort, and location, with meals showcasing the rich regional gastronomy. Thoughtfully structured routes avoid unnecessary backtracking, allowing ample time to absorb the scenery and enjoy spontaneous discoveries.
This is a journey of deep cultural immersion, guided by specialists, in a region that is, in many ways, rediscovering itself. Emerging from its Soviet past, the Caucasus can be likened to alpine meadows in bloom—a place of renewal, resilience, and remarkable beauty.
Dates and Cost
18 Days | 25 Sep to 12 Oct, 2025 | $AU8,113 per person twin share.
From Baku to Yerevan. Minimum of 8 guests, maximum of 14
Highlights
- Visit World Heritage sites and towns
- Be impressed by ancient buildings and palaces, along with Soviet era extravaganzas
- Explore excellent and eccentric museums, galleries, cultural and religious sites
- Experience numerous craft ateliers such as ceramics, silks, ikat, wood and metal working.
- Meet artisans at their workshops and ateliers
- Travel in comfortable vehicles
- Experience authentic and genuine local hospitality at our selection of smaller hotels
- Participate in cooking experiences
- Discover the everyday life as you wander markets, villages, and small towns
- Indulge in decent home-cooked traditional meals
- Be charmed by our guides, drivers and locals found throughout this friendly region.
- This tour offers an expertly curated blend of cultural depth, artistic discovery, and seamless travel, designed for those who seek a deeper understanding of the world’s artistic and historical traditions.
Itinerary: 18 days travelling through the Caucasus region
Day 1: Thu , 25 Sep: Arrival in Baku (Azerbaijan)
Upon arrival in Azerbaijan’s captivating capital, Baku, a group transfer transfers us to our centrally located hotel. While no formal activities are scheduled today, our tour leader will be on hand to provide suggestions for independent exploration, offering insights into the city’s vibrant atmosphere and rich cultural tapestry.
Days 2-3: Discovering Baku’s Rich Heritage
Our exploration begins with a panoramic ascent to Upland Park, affording sweeping views of the iconic Flame Towers and Baku Bay. We then embark on an in-depth walking tour of Baku’s UNESCO-listed Old City, uncovering architectural gems such as the 12th-century Maiden Tower and the exquisite 15th-century Palace of the Shirvanshahs. Strolling through narrow, cobbled lanes, we encounter historic caravanserais, traditional hammams, and artisan workshops that speak to Baku’s enduring cultural heritage. A highlight includes a visit to the Azerbaijan Carpet Museum, home to an outstanding collection of traditional woven masterpieces, followed by an opportunity to observe skilled artisans at a local weaving studio.
Venturing to the Absheron Peninsula, we explore the mesmerizing natural phenomenon of Yanardag, or the “Burning Mountain,” where flames have flickered for centuries, and the Ateshgah Fire Temple and UNESCO listed Gobustan National Reserve.
Day 4: Baku – Shamakhi – Sheki
Leaving Baku, we travel to Shamakhi, a former capital of the Shirvan Empire. Here, we visit the splendid 8th-century Juma Mosque, an architectural testament to Azerbaijan’s Islamic heritage. Our journey continues to Sheki, a town of exceptional charm nestled in the foothills of the Greater Caucasus. A guided visit to the Sheki Khans’ Palace showcases its intricate stained-glass windows, known as ‘Shebeke’, a technique that uses no nails or glue. We also visit a local craftsmen’s workshop to witness the meticulous skill required to create these masterpieces before exploring the ancient Kish Albanian Church, a vestige of early Christianity in the region.
Days 5-6: Sheki – Lagodekhi – Telavi – Tbilisi
Crossing into Georgia, we proceed to Telavi, the heart of the Kakheti wine region. A stroll through Nadikvari Park presents breathtaking vistas of the Alazani Valley and the Caucasus Mountains. Upon reaching Tbilisi, our exploration begins with a guided tour featuring the Metekhi Church, Narikala Fortress, and Anchiskhati Basilica, each bearing witness to Tbilisi’s layered history. A visit to the National Museum of Georgia offers a deeper appreciation of the region’s ancient and medieval past, with its renowned Archaeological Treasury and poignant exhibits in the Soviet Occupation Hall.
Days 7-8: Tbilisi – Mtskheta – Ananuri – Kazbegi
Our journey leads us to Mtskheta, Georgia’s spiritual heart and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. We explore the revered Jvari Monastery and Svetitskhoveli Cathedral, steeped in early Christian history. Continuing along the Georgian Military Highway, we visit the 14th-century Ananuri Fortress and ascend to Gergeti Trinity Church, perched dramatically beneath the towering peak of Mount Kazbegi. Awesome views greet us.
Days 9-10: Kazbegi – Signaghi – Kakheti’s Wine Culture-Tbilisi
In the picturesque town of Signaghi, we meander through charming streets framed by 18th-century defensive walls, before visiting the Bodbe Monastery, a site of spiritual importance. The afternoon is devoted to exploring Kakheti’s storied wine traditions, with a visit to a local winery to experience the ancient Qvevri method of winemaking.
Days 11-12: Tbilisi – Armenian Heritage – Dilijan
Crossing into Armenia, we explore the UNESCO-listed monastic complexes of Haghpat and Sanahin, set against a backdrop of rolling hills. In Dilijan, Armenia’s “Little Switzerland,” we delve into local artistry with a jewellery and also batik masterclasses.
Day 13: Dilijan – Sevanavank -Yerevan
On our way to Yeravan, we walk to Sevanavank Monastery, one of the most historical and cultural sites in Armenia, and the stunning Lake Sevan. After we delve into a modern textile manufacturer before arriving into Yerevan.
Days 14-17: Yerevan: Exploring Armenia’s Sacred and Artistic Legacy
Our final days are busy exploring Armenia’s cultural and spiritual heritage, visiting the revered Khor Virap Monastery with its stunning views of Mount Ararat together with a visit to Zvartnots Cathedral showcasing the grandeur of medieval Armenian architecture. Our time encompasses the city’s architectural landmarks, the evocative History Museum of Armenia, and a visit to the famed Ararat Brandy Distillery. Hands-on workshops in traditional textile arts provide insight into Armenia’s rich artistic legacy, including hair ornaments, lavash baking, carpet weaving, amongst others.
Our final dinner will be hosted at the celebrated Megerian Carpet Museum. A time to reflect on a superb exploration of this little visited region.
Day 18: 12 Oct, 2025: Depart Yerevan – Onward Travels
Our journey concludes in Yerevan with a final breakfast together, reflecting on the wonderful cultural encounters and breathtaking landscapes experienced throughout our travels. A group transfer to the airport marks the end of our adventure through the Caucasus.
What’s Included in your Caucasus Programme:
- Carefully selected 4-star hotels, offering comfort and character in prime locations. Accommodation is based on double or twin rooms; a single supplement is available (AUD 1,152 TBC).
- Meals – Breakfast daily, along with two lunches and two dinners, featuring regional specialties and local flavours. Bottled water provided daily during travel for your convenience.
- Expert-Led Experiences – Exclusive master classes with leading artisans and craftspeople, offering deep insights into traditional techniques. Opportunities to observe and engage with local crafts, including Shebeke glass artistry, Caucasus batik, carpet weaving, jewellery-making, Armenian ‘tsametal’ music, and regional culinary traditions such as lavash bread-making.
- Entrance Fees & Visits – Admission to historical and religious sites, museums, and cultural landmarks as detailed in the itinerary.
- Accomplished Tour Leaders & Guides – The services of Christine Pearson, Tour Concierge from Intentionally Different Travel, alongside experienced local guides, ensuring expert commentary and seamless travel throughout.
- Group Airport Transfers – A scheduled group transfer from the airport on Day 1 and to the airport on the final day. Individual transfers on other days can be arranged at an additional cost. Ask for details.
- Private Transport – Comfortable and well-equipped private transport for the duration of the tour
- Comprehensive Tour Notes – A carefully prepared information dossier to enhance your understanding of the destinations visited.
Not included in the tour price:
- International Flights – Travel arrangements to Baku (Azerbaijan) at the start of the tour and from Yerevan (Armenia) at the end are not included, allowing you flexibility in choosing your preferred airline, booking class and route.
- Early Check-In & Late Check-Out – If you wish to check in before 6:00 AM, a full night’s room rate applies; check-in after 6:00 AM is charged at 50% of the room rate. For late check-outs, departures before 6:00 PM incur a 50% charge, while those after 6:00 PM are charged at 100% of the room rate.
- Gratuities – Tipping for local guides and drivers is not part of your tour price, and is collected by your Tour Concierge on Day 01. We will provide directions on suitable amounts.
- Travel Insurance – Mandatory for all travellers, ensuring peace of mind throughout your journey. If you have insurance through a credit card provider, we recommend confirming that your coverage is sufficient.
- Personal Expenses – Costs for phone calls, internet usage, and other communication services are not covered.
- Beverages – Alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks beyond what is included in meals are at your own expense. Typically, these are inexpensive in the countries through which we travel.
The Details
Hotel Selection for our Journey
Our selection criteria include central location, charm, cleanliness, cultural integrity, uniqueness, and standard of service. All rooms have private western-style bathrooms and comfortable beds.
Currency and Price
Prices are listed in Australian dollars, as the majority of our guests are based in Australia. However, as our partners operate in Euro’s, fluctuations in the AUD–EUR exchange rate may necessitate price adjustments should they exceed our projected range.
Road Travel
We utilize comfortable, air-conditioned vehicles and strive to ensure ample seating for all guests. While most of the roads we travel upon are well-maintained, others may resemble those found in remote regions with some bumps, potholes and other challenges. This is to be expected in a less developed region.
International Air Travel
Convenient flight options are available into Baku and out of Yerevan, with opportunities for enroute stopovers. International flights are not included in our program. We are well connected with experienced airfare specialists who can offer tailored options to suit your budget, style and airline preferences. They can also suggest and manage extensions to Europe, the Middle East, or stopovers in Asia. Please contact us for further details.
Our Approach and Style
We take pride in providing personalized attention and insightful, relevant information. This includes recommendations on dining options when meals are not included – ensuring guests enjoy both choice and variety – as well as guidance on purchasing textiles and local crafts. Additionally, we offer in-depth explanations on ethnic minorities and their artistic traditions, alongside thoughtful responses to the many questions our guests bring.
Beyond expert knowledge and immersive hands-on experiences, our journeys feature carefully selected accommodations, enriching sightseeing opportunities, and meaningful encounters with local communities. While we curate exceptional dining experiences, ranging from renowned restaurants to charming local cafés, we also recognize the value of independent exploration. Our itineraries incorporate well-planned periods of free time, allowing guests to rest, explore at their own pace, or simply relax with a coffee.
Past travellers have greatly appreciated our approach, and we trust that you will find it equally rewarding.
Is this Program right for you?
This journey is ideal for those with a passion for crafts and textiles, but its scope extends far beyond, making it equally enriching for anyone with a general interest in East European and Central Asian history and culture. The itinerary includes opportunities for short to moderate walks, so a reasonable level of fitness is beneficial. A useful benchmark being the ability to ascend two flights of stairs unaided. While this is not an outdoor or adventure-focused tour, a spirit of curiosity and adaptability will enhance your experience.
Additional Travel or Optional Add-On
Extra nights can be reserved, either pre or post‐tour in Baku or Yerevan. Please advise us of your preferences well in advance.
Reservations
Questions? Contact us or email either robert@intenttravel.com.au, or christine@intenttravel.com.au with any questions you may have.
To secure your place, please email your intention to join our Caucasus Journey. You will then receive a reservation form to complete. Your option is held for seven days secured by receipt of a non-refundable deposit of $750 per person. Deposit is refunded if minimum numbers are not reached.
“The Paperwork”
Your deposit will be acknowledged. We keep you informed as to the status of bookings and advise you when minimum numbers are reached. Then, we send you a confirmation kit and invoice. Now is the time to start booking international flights and other travel arrangements. Final payment is due 60-days prior departure. When our group is complete and after final payment, travel documents will be sent out. Then it is only a short time before your wonderful journey begins!
Your Acclaimed Tour Concierge: Christine Pearson
With over 45 years of travel experience, spanning more than 70 countries, Christine knows the ins and outs of every journey. Whether it’s packing for an adventure, navigating local markets, tending to a sick guest, or unearthing a hidden café, Christine’s got it all covered. Along with her husband, Robert Fletcher, she founded Intentionally Different Travel, crafting journeys to unique destinations for those seeking something a little off the beaten path.
Christine’s passion for arts and crafts, especially textiles, ceramics, jewellery, and folk art, drives her explorations, and her extensive knowledge is shared with guests who are eager to learn. Holding a BVA from the Australian National University (ANU), her love of culture and creativity ensures that every trip is not just an adventure but an immersive experience.
Together with our fantastic local guides and drivers, Christine makes sure every aspect of your journey is seamless and tailored to your interests. She’s the expert at discovering hidden gems—those quirky cafés, back-alley markets, and unique souvenirs that capture the essence of the places you visit. With Christine, your travels are bound to be nothing short of extraordinary!