- See Mount Ararat towering over Yerevan
- Explore spectacular monasteries in Armenia including Khor Virap
- Visit Unesco-listed churches and fortresses in Georgia
- Walk among the pre-Christian cave houses in Uplistsikhe
- Experience cafe culture in Tbilisi
- Citizen Science departures available on this trip
Highlights of Georgia & Armenia
Expert Local Guides
Culture
A fascinating cultural journey through the heart of the Caucasus
The monasteries, churches and cathedrals of Georgia and Armenia are among the oldest in the world. Many are built in stunning locations, surrounded by gardens and forests, perched on top of dramatic gorges or silhouetted before snow-capped mountains. The range of scenery is immense, from Mount Ararat towering majestically over the skyline of Yerevan, to the lush valleys of ancient vineyards across the lowlands of Georgia. Here, wine has been produced for almost 10,000 years and there is the opportunity to visit one of its most famous wine cellars.
This trip includes a few of our Citizen Science Departures. These special departures offer you the opportunity to be involved in the collection of freshwater samples during the trip. The environmental DNA information derived from this sample will contribute directly to the eBioAtlas; the world’s largest repository of flora and fauna species data, contributing to the conservation and restoration of biodiversity both locally and globally. To book onto one of these special departures, see the Dates & Prices tab. For more information on these departures and the eBioAtlas, click here.
Highlights
Key Information
- 12 nights staying in hotels and one night in a guesthouse
- Group normally 4 to 16, plus leader. Minimum age: 16
- Travel by private minibus
- Option to travel by train to your adventure
- Countries visited: Armenia, Georgia
What's Included
- All breakfasts, seven lunches and four dinners
- All accommodation
What's Not Included
- Travel insurance
- Visas or vaccinations
- Single supplement
- Azerbaijan extension
Itinerary
Fly to Yerevan
Fly to Yerevan; transfer to city centre.
Accommodation: Hotel Europe (or similar)
Start Yerevan
Our trip begins in the hotel in Yerevan. There will be a welcome meeting this evening, in which we’ll meet for the first time as a group and the leader will go over the adventures to come.
Accommodation: Hotel Europe (or similar)
Garni Pagan Temple, Geghard Monastery and traditional baking
We have the morning at leisure. At midday we take a trip to the Kotayk region to see the Hellenistic temple of Garni and Geghard rock Monastery.
Garni was built in the 1st century AD and served as a summer residence for Armenian kings. It is the only pagan temple on the territory of modern Armenia, others were destroyed after the adoption of Christianity. Here in one of the traditional houses we will have the chance to observe the traditional methods of baking national Armenian flat bread called “lavash”. This demonstration also includes tasting local cheese and greens and is a good opportunity to meet local people.
Geghard – was initially known simply as Ayrivank (Cave Monastery). The present buildings, which are carved right into the solid rock, date back to 10th – 13th centuries AD, at which time it was renamed Geghard meaning “lance” in Armenian. The name refers to the biblical lance used by a Roman soldier to pierce Christ’s body. The Monastery is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Return to Yerevan.
Accommodation: Hotel Europe (or similar)
Yerevan, Zvartnots and Tsitsernakaberd Genocide Memorial
A short drive through the city takes us to the impressive seventh-century ruins of Zvartnots Cathedral, the churches of Hripsime and Gayane and then Echmiadzin. The main cathedral sits among hedges and lawns, where clergy in dark robes sit in theological debate with Mount Ararat as the backdrop. In the gardens, there are many fine khachkars (carved cross stones) and bell towers. Due to renovation works, the cathedral may continue to be closed during 2023 and so we may only be able to view it from outside. Next stop is Echmiadzin cathedral, the religious centre of the Armenian Apostolic Church.
We’ll have lunch at Machanents House, on one of the oldest streets of Echmiadzin and part of cultural heart of the town.
Back in Yerevan we will have a sightseeing tour of the capital along major avenues and squares visiting the most popular public buildings and monuments. Amongst all the sites visited we will have a short stop at the fruit and vegetable market.
Next, we will visit the Tsitsernakaberd Genocide Memorial and Museum. The site is dedicated to the victims of the Armenian genocide committed by Ottoman Turks during World War I. The visit will help us understand why a huge Armenian diaspora developed across the world.
Accommodation: Hotel Europe (or similar)
Matenadaran; Khor Virap and Noravank Monasteries and wine tasting
Today begins with a visit to Matenadaran Museum – one of the richest book-depositories in the world, and recognized as such by UNESCO. Its collection of about 17,000 manuscripts includes almost all areas of ancient and medieval Armenian culture and sciences as well as manuscripts in Arabic, Persian, Greek, Syrian, Latin, Ethiopian, Indian, Japanese and others.
We continue the day by heading south to Khor Virap – one of the holiest sites in Armenia, the site of the underground pit where Gregory the Illuminator was imprisoned before converting King Tiridat III to Christianity. The monastery has a spectacular view to Mount Ararat. Next is Noravank – a unique monastery situated in Noravank canyon. The road to Noravank monastery is an adventure itself. The high rocks on both sides of the route almost block out the sky above until the picturesque view of one of the most remarkable monastery complexes in Armenia appears.
We’ll have lunch in Noravank then head back towards Yerevan stopping on the way for some wine tasting at Vayots Dzor, the best know of Armenia’s wine producing regions, home to Areni wine.
Accommodation: Hotel Europe (or similar)
Lake Sevan, Noraduz, Dilijan and a Molokan tea
Our first visit today is to Noradouz – the “Forest of Khachkars” (cross-stones) which date back to the 10th century. The Khachkar is unique to Armenian tradition, incorporating both pagan and Christian symbols into a spiritual and artistic form that endures to the present day. Noraduz itself is an old graveyard with approx. 900 khachkars from various periods and of various styles.
We’ll meet a local artisan, a sculptor who carves khachkars. We’ll receive a demonstration on how the carvings are made.
We continue to Lake Sevan – the largest lake in Armenia and one of the largest high-altitude freshwater lakes in the world. Its surface is at an altitude of 1,950 m above sea level. Along with Lake Van and Lake Urmia, Sevan was one of the three great lakes of the Armenian Kingdom, referred to as the seas of Armenia, and it is the only one within the boundaries of present-day Armenia. While at Sevan we will visit Sevanavank – one of the most significant historic sites near the lake. We’ll have a fish lunch by the shore of the lake.
Our next stop is the resort town of Dilijan famous for its thick forests and subtropical climate. Besides being a resort town, it has also gained fame for the streets in its old centre where handicrafts are produced.
The last highlight of the day is a stop at Fioletovo village for a tea break with a difference. Fioletovo is inhabited by an ethnic minority of Russian origin – the Molokans. This small community was forced from Russia centuries ago because of religious conflict. In Armenia they live in villages producing their own dairy products, meat and vegetables and lead a traditional lifestyle. We’ll enjoy homemade food and tea served from special vessels called “samovars”.
Accommodation: Hotel Europe (or similar)
To Gyumri and Haghpat
We check-out of our hotel this morning and drive to Gyumri, Armenia’s second largest city. By the end of the 19th century, when the city was known as Alexandropol, it was one of the largest cities of Eastern Armenia with a population similar to that of Yerevan. It was renamed to Leninakan during the Soviet period and regained its name of Gyumri after gaining independence. Gyumri is known for its crafts and art. We will visit the Dzitoghtsyan Museum of Social Life and National Architecture of Gyumri – an old mansion, housing collections related to both history and the everyday-life of Gyumri, as well as paintings and other works of art. We have a brief stroll along the streets of Gyumri and then continue to Lori Region and Haghpat Village where we check into our hotel.
Accommodation: Hotel Qefo (or similar)
Visit medieval churches at Haghpat and Sanahin before crossing into Georgia; to Tbilisi
We make our last stops in Armenia this morning, visiting the two monastic complexes of Sanahin and Haghpat, representing the pinnacle of religious architecture in Medieval Armenia. Both sites are Unesco recognized. Between visits we’ll visit a local house and have a drink with the family who live there.
We continue to Sadakhlo border, say goodbye to our Armenia leader and driver and walk about 10 minute across the border into Georgia, where we will be met by our new guide, and travel onto the capital, Tbilisi. Our hotel is a short walk from the wonderfully restored historic centre with its relaxing pavement cafes and bars.
Accommodation: Tbilisi Inn (or similar)
Walking tour of Tbilisi; free afternoon; Georgian folk show
Much of Tbilisi can be visited on foot. In the morning, we explore the old town to see the ancient sulphur baths, Sioni Cathedral and the beautifully decorated synagogue, built in the early 20th century. We also visit Rustaveli Avenue, the main artery of the city, and the Treasury of the State Museum, which has a fantastic collection of pre-Christian gold artefacts and jewellery. The rest of the afternoon will be free, with time to explore the art galleries, handicraft and painting markets, and the enormous new Holy Trinity Cathedral, all within a reasonable distance of our hotel. Or you may choose to relax in one of the many cafes that line the old town streets. This evening, we enjoy dinner at a local restaurant and a Georgian folk show.
Accommodation: Tbilisi Inn (or similar)
To Kazbegi village for views of Mount Kazbek; alpine walk to Gergeti Trinity Church; onto Gudauri
We take a long drive up the Georgian Military Highway after breakfast, through the great Caucasus Mountains via Ananuri Church. Our goal is the town of Stepantsminda (formerly Kazbegi) where we walk up through the village of Gergeti after lunch to the landmark Holy Trinity church. The walk takes two to three hours in total; alternatively, you can usually rent a 4×4 for a reasonable cost. If the weather is clear, we have spectacular views of Mount Kazbek, the third highest of the Georgian Caucasus Mountains, soaring to 16,560ft (5,047m). We then drive back to the ski resort of Gudauri, where have dinner and spend the night in a cosy, alpine hut-style hotel.
Accommodation: Hotel Alpina (or similar)
To Uplistsikhe pre-Christian cave town; onto Gori, birthplace of Stalin; finish Kutaisi
Today is our longest day. We drive three hours to Uplistsikhe, once an enormous rock-hewn town with pre-Christian roots. It sits by the Mtkvari River and is notable for its unique rock-cut style and the co-existence of pagan and Christian architecture. Ancient temples and theatres can still be identified, and we walk up sandstone steps for a view across the river and plains.
We then take a short drive to the town of Gori, birthplace of Joseph Stalin. Visiting Stalin Square, where a huge statue of him used to stand, we take a guided tour of the fascinating museum about his life and the role he played in the Soviet Union. Stalin’s bulletproof train carriage, which he used to travel to the Potsdam Conference in 1945, lies in the museum grounds. It is worth a visit for its simple but elegant interior. The small wooden house where he was born is also here in a temple-like structure – there are still people in Georgia who greatly admire Stalin. We then continue to Kutaisi where we spend the night.
Accommodation: Kutaisi guesthouse
Explore Sataplia Cave; visit Unesco-listed Gelati Monastery; finish in Borjomi
After breakfast, we drive to Sataplia Nature Reserve (about 20-25 minutes to the west), where the footprints of herbivorous and raptor dinosaurs are found. Easy walkways take us to the conservation building of dinosaur footprints, an exhibition hall, unique karst caves, Colchic Forest and the wild bee habitat area. There are also beautiful views of the Imereti region to enjoy. After, we take the road back to Kutaisi and continue to Gelati Academy and Monastery.
Founded by King David IV in the 12th century, Gelati was inscribed in the Unesco World Heritage List in 1994. It is no surprise he chose this superb location for this monastery, whose monks were members of the royal court. After, we drive to the lovely mineral town of Borjomi.
Accommodation: Old Borjomi Hotel/Borjomi Palace (or similar)
Visit Borjomi-Kharagauli National Park and Mtskheta; drive back to Tbilisi; free evening in the Georgian capital
After breakfast, we visit the lovely Borjomi-Kharagauli National Park and take a guided walk (one to two hours). Afterwards, we travel back to Tbilisi, stopping at Mtskheta, the former capital of Georgia, where we can see the 11th-century Sveti-Tskhoveli Cathedral, the largest functioning cathedral in Georgia. However, the main reason people visit Mtskheta is to see the sixth-century Jvari Church, built where Saint Nino set up her cross in the fourth century, which converted the town from paganism to Christianity. Continuing to Tbilisi, we have free time to enjoy this historic capital.
Accommodation: Tbilisi Inn (or similar)
Visit Sighnaghi and the wine region of Kakheti; lunch and wine tasting with a local family; return to Tbilisi
We leave Tbilisi after breakfast, driving east to the wine region of Kakheti, where we visit the recently renovated royal town of Sighnaghi. We have lunch with a local family, who will prepare specialities paired with wine, and we continue with a visit to Tsinandali Family Estate and its wine cellar, which once belonged to the 19th-century aristocratic poet Alexander Chavchavadze. The residence consists of a summer home, garden and winery, featuring several vintages of white wine. We make our way back to Tbilisi for our final night in Georgia.
Accommodation: Tbilisi Inn (or similar)
Fly to London
Fly to London.
Finish Tbilisi
Our tour ends after breakfast. You can begin your return home, but if you’d prefer a little longer to explore Tbilisi, speak to your sales representative about extending your stay.
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Hotels and Guesthouses
We spend 12 nights in hotels and one night in a guesthouse. The hotels in Yerevan and Tbilisi are modern city centre properties, within walking distance of all the main sites. Each offers buffet breakfast and wifi. The Tbilisi hotel has a small indoor swimming pool and a terrace bar offering panoramic views of the Georgian capital. At Lake Sevan, the hotel is resort-style with a large pool and beautiful views across the lake. The one night spent in the countryside is in more basic accommodation but the guesthouse is family-run and offers a very warm welcome.
Reviews
Add your own reviewVery Disappointing
This is a ‘coach tour’, little free time, a quick glimpse as you drive past particularly in Armenia. Far too much emphasis on monasteries and churches. There is more to be explored in this country. Overnight in Lake Sevan or Dilijan (a 10 minute stop to visit 3 workshops when the area is known as the Switzerland of Armenia was disappointing) should be part of the itinerary to explore this stunning area instead of every night in Yerevan. In Georgia, the itinerary needs an overhaul, overnight in Kutaisi was pointless, a long drive to poor accomodation and drive off the next day! Bonjormi looked brilliant in the dark after a late arrival, next day left after only a walk in the forest. More time needs to be allocated for the wine region of Kakheti instead of a day trip.
Most Inspirational Moment
Thoroughly enjoyed Tbilisi. I enjoyed extra time here after the tour. The Armenian food was amazing, great variety of food and differed each day at interesting venues. The final lunch in Georgia at a local winery showcased the exceptional food I found in restaurants in Tbilisi I discovered outside of the tour. Otherwise the meals included in Georgia were mediocre.
Thoughts on Group Leader
The Armenian leader was knowledgeable and passionate. Unfortunately more like an academic tour on Christianity. A 9-5pm guide only. No recommendations for evening restaurants or the wonderful water fountain show with lights coordinated with music in the nearby square we stumbled upon after dinner. No orientation tour, group introduction or travel insurance collected. Whilst the Georgian leader, Sofia was excellent, vibrant and faultless. Incredibly helpful with recommendations for evening and free time.
Advice for Potential Travellers
I could not recommend this trip. It is vastly overpriced for the standard delivered. Endless driving to pointless destinations, or those not explored at all or to poor accomodation. Both of these countries have exceptional scenery, interesting cities, great food and are well worth visiting but not with Exodus.
Suggestions
This has been my 7th trip with Exodus. The first 4 were brilliant while the last 3 the standard has significantly dropped. This trip was the worst. I will not be travelling with Exodus in the future.
Nice tour, but we could have seen more
Lovely trip with lots to see, but there’s lots more that we didn’t
Most Inspirational Moment
Spectacular scenery
Thoughts on Group Leader
Both were very engaging. Though the lovely Armenian guide, was actually a teacher, rather than a guide, so her information talks were perhaps a little more in depth than needed. We had to ask to have time to walk up the Cascade fountain as the info talk went on so long we were running out of time
Advice for Potential Travellers
Bring layers.. weather is very changeable throughout the day
Suggestions
This was heralded as a Citizen Science trip.... but we did nothing ???????? It would have a benefit to have had another day in Tbilisi. Disappointed that we didn't get to see the Monument of Georgia whilst we were over at Gori The trip should be extended to include Batumi The "Wine day", our last day was excellent, the sumptuous lunch provided by the local family at their little winery was excellent and because we weren't back in Tbilisi till very late, it made for an excellent last group meal. The visit to the Tsinandali estate afterwards lovely. Pre trip contact with Exodus was rather haphazard.. our assigned rep was often out of office which meant delays in getting info. The add on extension to Azerbaijan was inordinately expensive .. a lot more than the brochure price, once various supplements were added and you only get two full days there, not four. The transfer arrangements were very vague. In the end we cancelled. Someone else on the trip did go and was somewhat underwhelmed , so we felt we made a good call there. We plan to go there for a long weekend break instead, for much less cost. The hotel in Tbilisi is very nice and in a good location for exploring the city, however, its opposite a very noisy nightclub AND their Customers revelling in the street at all hours every night, there were several guests in the hotel also yelling and banging room doors throughout the night Guest House in Kutaisi is dire. Somewhat dirty...cobwebs in the corners, dust under the furniture. One girl had ants in her bed. Linens and drapes were out of the '70s and thread bear. The bathroom was grim... soap scum all over the dispenser & taps... the loo seat was too small for the bowl. Being upstairs it was totally unsuitable to be a wet room... needed a proper shower cubicle. The staff were sullen and grumpy. Why are you taking clients there? Its too far out of town.. there were many many places to stay in town near the fountains. The hotel in Yerevan was lovely and in a good location The city was enchanting
Two wonderful countries
This is not a trip for the ‘moaning myrtles’ of this world. These countries are not ‘first world’ and things don’t often work as maybe expected. Be prepared for a 2 hour wait to clear through Yerevan Airport, broken plumbing and beds in hotel rooms and itinerary changes (especially in Armenia) due to weather, road conditions and other operational difficulties.
Take all these and more in your stride and you will have a great trip, see lots of stunning countryside, meet some wonderful warm friendly people, eat some amazing fresh foods, drink great local wines and see stunning frescos and ancient architecture in seemingly inaccessible places.
Most Inspirational Moment
At my request our guide kindly added a brief visit to an artists home and gallery in the village of Garni. We had a tour of the gallery, met the artists, discussed their work and methods and had a quick tour of their old family home. One of the artists was a tapestry weaver, her work was amazing in design and colour and now back home, has inspired me to dig out my weaving loom. It was very interesting side excursion and made a nice change from churches and monasteries. Maybe something that could be added to future tours.
Thoughts on Group Leader
Both our leaders were exceptional, Sahakanush (Armenia) and Nino (Georgia). Quite different in their approaches but both very knowledgeable and were happy to inform us of all parts of their cultures, giving us an insight into their respective countries and talking on topics such as history, education, economics, and all sorts of social aspects and taboos. Sahakanush even introduced us to different types of Armenian music with CD's for the long bus journeys. Both had lovely terms of address, Sahakanush ‘my dears’ and Nino ‘ladies & gentlemen’, they were always polite, friendly and helpful.
Advice for Potential Travellers
Be prepared for long bus journeys, maps, books and music helped while away the time; churches and monasteries do tend to blur into one after a while. Maybe there are a few too many! Long, full-on days mean little downtime at the end of the day. Take advantage of the included lunches, several hotels outside of the cities had no nearby facilities eg; cafes, bars, restaurants. By having a large lunch, we found that a hotel soup would suffice in the evening. Be warned that Armenia doesn’t have a no-smoking policy, and as well as bars, restaurants, smoking is also allowed in some hotel bedrooms. In Georgia there is ban due to be imposed in a couple of years, but many businesses already adhere to their own no-smoking policies and don’t allow it inside. Hotel Diana in Goris had a lovely café at the back of it’s carpark, amazing kebobs, borsch & pilaf. Dilijan - Tea with the ‘Molokan Family’ was a lovely experience, but the arts and crafts of Dilijan (apart from 1 woodcarver) seemed nothing more than tourist ‘tat’. In Yerevan take a walk around the Kond area of the city, lovely (pre-soviet) tumbledown houses and winding streets. Visit the cascade at dusk as it all lights up, there are plenty of restaurants and cafes here and a real bustling atmosphere as the whole city seems to come out for an evening promenade. Tbilisi is a lovely city, we didn’t go on the museum tour, preferring to explore more of the city, be sure to visit the Flea market, the Dezerter market and the Kaleidoscope House and if you feel brave take a bath in one of the many bath houses. Enjoy the wine tasting excursion and family hospitality. Beware of tiled floors in the showers, some are very slippery when wet.
Suggestions
Having a large coach (16 people to 50+ seats) enabled us to spread out and move around and change seats as required, which made the long journeys more comfortable. Surprisingly, all our hotels & guesthouses were of a very good standard, some quite luxurious and others more basic but clean and functional. The bad weather made the cable car trip very disappointing as you couldn’t really see much, however this wet misty cloud added great atmosphere to the view and exploration of the Tatev Monastery. We would have liked more time in Kutaisi, half an hour to explore the city centre was not enough and disappointedly we drove from there to a motorway service station where we stopped for an hour for lunch!
Highlights of Georgia and Armenia 2019
This is an very good tour if you are fascinated by ancient churches and monasteries. You will see many on this tour. Although some are situated in amazing locations there are far too many to remember them all. I felt that the tour could benefit for a little variation in itinerary. The food and wine were excellent as were the very friendly people and our superb tour guides. All of which made this a very memorable trip to what is an interesting and relatively undiscovered part of the world for western tourists.
Most Inspirational Moment
I was very impressed with Tibilisi. Clean city with lots of open spaces and a mix of modern and old architecture. Especially like the cafe culture. The food throughout trip was excellent and very reasonably priced. Really impressive scenery in the Causcasus mountains
Thoughts on Group Leader
Armenia is developing it's tourism industry and I suspect that is why our tour leader wasn't a tour guide by profession. Taguhi was by profession an English lecturer at the University in Yerevan and you could tell. She had done lots of research and sometimes delivered her commentary like a lecture with far too much detail. Having said that, she was competent and kept on schedule, organising meals as we went along. It was actually nice to have a leader who wasn't a trained guide, just a local who is passionate about her country, it's history and culture. Taguhi is intelligent and she will quickly learn how to refine her skills as a guide. I had no problems. Just a little less detailed information please. In Georgia, our guide was Ia Mikiashvili. . Ia was in her early twenties and not long out of University where she studied tourism . Ia said she was little nervous at first as this was her first English group but she proved to be an excellent tour leader in every sense. She is a very friendly person with good English and she got on well with everyone. Ia has a good knowledge of the itinerary and can advise on places to visits, restaurants etc. She made herself contactable at all times and she has good organisation and problem solving skills . I think she will do very well in the tourist industry. Very well done Ia.
Advice for Potential Travellers
If you are interested in Georgian and Armenian churches and monasteries you will love this trip but be prepared for some long days travelling. Make sure you check in on line. Either print your boarding pass or download to your phone
Suggestions
1. Coach transport in both countries was very good. Both coaches were clean tidy and comfortable with good microphone systems. WiFi and USB charging on the Georgian coach was very well received by everyone. 2. We had free water in Armenia but none in Georgia as we were told it was Exodus policy. Confused? 3. Hotels were very good throughout. I was expecting some standard and budget accommodation but all hotels were good, clean and with full amenities. 4. The food included as part of the tour was very good in both countries. It's a good idea to have group meals provided especially early on as it brings the group together. 5. The itinerary in Georgia was fine but in Armenia there is a need to introduce some variation so guests can experience other aspects of the history and culture other than churches and monasteries. Perhaps needs to be more balanced.. for example we spend what seemed a long time looking at ancient manuscripts and books, which wasn't so interesting and not a lot of time in the genocide museum which was. We seemed to be rushed sometimes trying to cover everything in the itinerary. On the last day we asked if we could miss out the last part of the itinerary other wise we would have been back for our final meal around 9.30pm. Perhaps need to revise the itinerary and introduce some more free time en-route. 6. Our hotel in Tibilsi was very nice but not good for those who are a little infirm and have difficulty difficulty walking uphill. There is also disturbance from a disco across the street which goes on until 5 am. 7. In Armenia we were asked by the tour leader for copies of our passports. Taguhi didn't know why her company wanted this just that she had been asked to get copies. Privacy and security are big issues in the West and so without any explanation I don't think anyone provided their passports.
A nice holiday in a beautiful region
This is an enjoyable trip to a beautiful region. There is a combination of stunning mountain scenery, church architecture, and an overview of the history of these two interesting countries. It’s a comfortable trip with decent hotels, nice transport, and not too much waking (although it would not be a good option for travellers with limited mobility). The days, particularly in Georgia, are long and there isn’t much ‘downtime’.
Most Inspirational Moment
My favourite places were the monasteries of Sevanovank, Norovank and Haghpat in Armenia. The Armenian scenery in particular is really impressive.
Thoughts on Group Leader
The trip has two leaders, one for Georgia, one for Armenia. Both were very competent and well organised and ensured the trip ran smoothly throughout.
Advice for Potential Travellers
There are lots of long drives. These are on good roads in a comfortable bus so aren't difficult, but take something to do e.g. a book or ipod. The walk up to the Gergeti monastery is steep on rough paths and requires a small amount of scrambling. I managed it despite being unfit (but otherwise physically able), but it's not one for people with limited mobility. The walk itself doesn't really offer much in terms of things to see, it's just about the physical challenge and exercise, so don't worry about missing out if you're not sure. The penultimate day finishes mid afternoon so you get free time in Tbilisi afterwards - this is most useful if you travel when the days are longest. The last full day is very long and we didn't get back until nearly 10pm, so don't expect to do anything then. However the most common flights used don't leave until late afternoon so you do get the morning free on the day you go home.
Very interesting, and lots of churches
A pair of countries from the deep beginnings of world Christianity.
Early architecture predominantly religious based is the mainstay of the holiday. However it’s easy to look beyond this at the beautiful landscapes, friendly people, tasty food and vibrant towns & cities
Most Inspirational Moment
I was surprised and enjoyed thoroughly the cities of Yerevan and Tibilisi
Thoughts on Group Leader
We had 2 group leaders. Rafik for Armenia and Nino for Georgia. Both leaders were different. Rafik was not religious and concentrated on the art and history of the buildings. He ran a tight ship and everything was like clockwork. His country was very leisurely and relaxed. The walks were very easy. The older travelers found him to be quite charming. Nino in Georgia was organised but lead the trip through the tougher stage of strict dress codes in churches and more walking with many stairs. Some travelers found this a bit tough. I think as she was religious some of the groups slack adherence to dress code and behaviour did frustrate her a bit, and frustrated some of the group too. I will mention more below.
Advice for Potential Travellers
Packing for trips is tricky and not knowing a dress code is confusing. Most churches have an English rule guide or a pictorial poster outside explains how to dress in their venues. In Armenia it was less strict. For men and ladies No shorts above knee and no vests. Ladies cover head with scarf. In Georgia men’s rules are exactly as Armenia. And sometimes there was a sarong/skirt at a rack by church door for you to wear. But not many so don’t rely on it. For ladies in Georgia churches. No shorts above knee, no vests, no trousers, jeans or leggings. But you could put a skirt or sarong over top (locals carried sarong with them to cover leg wear when they popped into pray). Behaviour in churches should be respectful. Please don’t photograph or film on your phone, people praying, having blessings, monks or priests. Take pictures of the building and frescoes and don’t interfere with locals going about their religious practice. It seems obvious but on holiday many tourists seem to forget their manners.
Suggestions
In Yerevan there is a musical fountain display every night 9-11. Very popular with locals and good atmosphere. We thoroughly enjoyed it. In Tbilisi there are big queues for cable car about 1 hour before sunset. But it’s worth it. You need a travel card loaded with credit for cable car and underground. And to save 60 pence you can buy one travel card between a group and pass it back as you tap in. It’s normal, most people do that. Carry a Sarong for churches that way if it’s hot you can wear shorts. And we went in June and the meadow flowers and poppies were beautiful. Most importantly enjoy the trip.
Highlights of Georgia & Armenia
An excellent introduction to both countries that left me wanting to investigate them further.
Most Inspirational Moment
Several of the monasteries were truly breath-taking and exuded a sense of history and devotion. Listening to small choir singing in one was wonderful. The scenery could have been taken from a geography textbook.
Thoughts on Group Leader
Both the leaders were good but the knowledge of architecture and cultural history of Armenia shown by Rafik really added to the tour.
Advice for Potential Travellers
Be prepared for some long journeys and not spending as much time in some sites as you might like and be prepared for 4 seasons in 1 day. Don't bother with water purification tablets (as per trip notes) - they are not required!
Suggestions
The food in both countries is wonderful!
A trip of 2 halves
Loved Armenia, Georgia itinerary needs improvement
Most Inspirational Moment
Everything in Armenia was beautiful.
Thoughts on Group Leader
Rafik in Armenia was amazing. The group leader in Georgia did not give enough information about timings, did not organise vegetarian main courses for the vegetarian as the starters which are plentiful are mainly vegetarian.
Advice for Potential Travellers
Make sure you book in on line and print your boarding pass to avoid a fee on checking in at Gatwick. Be prepared for your check in luggage to be broken in to. 3 out of 11 of our group had their bags opened and rifled through. Get a customs lock so they don’t cut the lock. Consider getting your bag wrapped. You do not need water purification tablets. Bottled water is supplied and easily available. Day 13 is a at least 12 hours so have your last dinner together the day before. Get the jeep as the alpine walk is hard work.
Armenia Georgia and Azerbaijan
The whole trip was really interesting and the timetable excellent and well organised. Breakfast at 8am and off at 9am
The transport was very comfortable with excellent drivers and guides
It was nice to have a trip where very many of the meals were included, unlike the usual breakfast only
I felt that I had a very good overlook of the country
I was disappointed on the overnight train to Azerbaijan. It was old and continually stopped all the time. The distance from Tblisi is just over 450 miles and took over 13 hours. Why could we not have gone on the modern Stadler trains which we saw all the time. I would happily have paid more to have done this
Most Inspirational Moment
I found the whole trip inspirational I didn’t know what to expect and felt that I know much more now Glad I added on the extension to Azerbaijan as it was totally unexpected with wonderful buildings and not Just the old town
Thoughts on Group Leader
Guides were superb. Rafik in Armenia was excellent with unsurpassed knowledge. We all loved his humor and sense of fun Nino in Georgia was very knowledgeable and gave us a really good insight to the country Aida in Azerbaijan was also excellent with knowledge and even if she didn’t eat with us came to the restaurants to help us select Can honestly say three of the best guides ever
Advice for Potential Travellers
A really good trip and super I sight into the three countries. Do add on Azerbaijan as well worth the visit
Suggestions
Most of the hotels were very good except for the two in the mountains. Very much ski hotels and a bit faded and needing refurbishment It would be good to remind the guides that when traveling on the coaches the clients should be reminded to swap around the coach. We did have two people for the whole trip who hogged the two front seats every time and country and nothing was said. It can be awkward for the others on the coach to bring it up I did find this unusual as have always been used to swapping around on other trips
Three wonderful countries not to be missed
Don’t wait to visit Armenia, Georgia and Azerbaijan. Now is the time. This very interesting and thorough tour covering a large geographical area gives an in-depth experience into each of these three former Soviet republics. In Armenia, one travels from Yerevan in the centre, then south, back to Lake Sevan and on to the north to the cross the border. In Georgia, from Tbilisi, one radiates out from the capital to the North, West, East and South. In Azerbaijan, which is only for two days only Baku and a small area around can be covered. The only downside was a lot of coach travel albeit extremely comfortable as we had a 51 seater for 14 of us! I loved Armenia the best with Yerevan and its lovely Republic square, the brown dry barren scenic hills to the south, the vast expanse of Lake Sevan and the complete change of scenery to the north where it was green trees and UK type countryside.
For me this trip, semi-completed a journey started three years ago. As in 2016, I visited the Baltic countries, Estonia, Latvia, and Lithuania. Then in 2017, three of the five Stans – Uzbekistan, Kazakhstan and Kyrgyzstan. And finally this trip. It is so interesting being able to look back and reflect on the difference between these countries, each one of which appears to be at a different developmental stage. What I notice the most having visited all nine, is the effect of their geographical location, the West to East/Europe to Asia influence on their individual progress, along with their proximity to their friendly or not-so-friendly neighbours. I would definitely recommend visiting these three and some of the other former Soviet republics as the more you see the more one starts to understand their history.
Most Inspirational Moment
In Armenia, the food and wine was amazing and tasted as food should. Each day we stopped for lunch at a small out of the way restaurant in a picturesque location and were experted dined to wonderful fresh salads, BBQ trout or meat along with freshly cooked lavash (flatbread). In Georgia, taking the cable car in Tbilisi just before sunset up to the fort and then having a beer in a small café overlooking the city all lit up.
Thoughts on Group Leader
All three group leaders were amazing. In Armenia, we had Rafik whose command of English was outstanding. As was his ability to impart in-depth knowledge about his beloved country. In Georgia, we had Nino who was equally good at imparting knowledge about her country and its numerous churches along with their saints. Then in Azerbaijan, Rizwan. We only had him for a short time, two days but he also excelled in his knowledge delivery.
Advice for Potential Travellers
For ladies, do take dresses and skirts. In Armenia and Georgia in late September/early October, it was warm, in the late 20C or early 30C with beautiful warm sunny days. I realise that most Exodus travellers wear trousers, but if you like wearing summer frocks, this would be your opportunity. You may be concerned about the churches but as long as your dress/skirt is at least below the knee you will be fine. For quite a few churches in Georgia, ladies without skirts had to don one from a basket at the church door! In fact this statement goes for all nine of the former Soviet republics, where you can wear exactly the same clothes as the UK. I made a big mistake when travelling to the Stans, as I thought ladies would have to cover up, long sleeves, long dresses but it’s not true. Also do think about taking sandals both for ladies and men. Some of the men on the trip were very envious that I had my walking sandals as they mentioned they wished they had brought theirs. If you want some presents, look out for the lovely pale blue moonstone jewellery. You can find these both in Armenia and Georgia. They make lovely presents. Also when visiting Signagi in Georgia, do venture up the main street and over the top, through an arch towards the city walls where there are a couple of shops selling cotton rugs (very similar to kilims) in beautiful colours and designs and ever so cheap. I bought two, one 4’ x 2 1/2’ for £5 and the other 3’ x 2’ for £3. I wish I’d bought more as they make great bedside rugs. Do seriously consider the Azerbaijan extension, which although being very expensive for what turned out to be only two full days touring, was certainly extremely worthwhile as it did complete the story between the three countries.
Suggestions
Go now before things change too much. Georgia is on the waiting list to join the EU; Armenia elected a new prime minister in May 2018 who they hope will provide them with a brighter future; Azerbaijan has a massive building programme to increase tourism. They have been advised that oil will run out by the end of the century, and they need to provide the country with an alternative source of income.
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