Georgia, Armenia & Azerbaijan

• Return international full-service flights (economy class), departure city surcharges may apply

• 19 nights of 4-star hotel accommodation
• 3 nights of mountain lodge accommodation

• Enjoy 28 meals including daily breakfast and a traditional Georgian cooking class

• English-speaking tour leaders and guides
• Water (two bottles per person daily)
• All entrance fees and local taxes
• Airline taxes and surcharges

• Transportation by private air-conditioned vehicles
• 4x4 private vehicle to Gergeti and Ushguli

• Return airport transfers

Today depart from Australia for Baku, Azerbaijan.

Please note: Some customers may require long layovers in connecting cities. Please be assured that lounge passes or overnight accommodations will be provided if required.

Meals included: In-Flight

After breakfast, depart towards the Sadakhlo border (approx. 1.45 hours). From here, drive to Haghpat where you will visit the Sanahin and Haghpat monasteries. The monasteries of Sanahin and Haghpat which are UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Literally the name ’’Sanahin’’ in Armenian means "this one is older than the other," which probably means that this monastery is older than Haghpat. These two monasteries are very close to each other and can be easily seen from one to the other. Both are located on an uneven plateau, separated by a deep crack formed by a small river that flows into the river Debed. Haghpat Monastery was one of the largest religious, cultural and educational centres of medieval Armenia.

Afterwards travel onwards to the beautiful resort town of Dilijan, also known as ‘Little Switzerland’ where you will visit the old centre of Dilijan and Sharambeyan street, full of handicraft stores, souvenir shops and historical buildings.

Overnight: Sapphire Bayil or similar, Baku, Azerbaijan

Meals included: None

This morning after breakfast you will head out on a city tour of Baku. First, you will visit Memory Alley (Martyr’s Lane), which is a cemetery and memorial dedicated to those killed by the Soviet Army during Black January and also for those killed in the Nagorno-Karabakh War. Continue onwards to Upland Park where you may enjoy a panoramic view of Baku Bay. Afterwards, enjoy a walking tour in the beautiful Old City area (a UNESCO heritage site). See historical and cultural sites such as the Maiden Tower, Shirvanshah’s Palace, Medieval Caravanserai, the hammams (bathhouses), Market Square, carpet shops, art studios and souvenir stalls.

After lunch (not included) visit the world class cultural center named after Heydar Aliyev, Azerbaijan’s third president. The Heydar Aliyev Centre consists of various exhibitions and is recognised as one of the world's most famous buildings, the masterpiece of Zaha Hadid has become an architectural landmark of modern Azerbaijan.

Finish the day with a walk along the Seaside Boulevard, the longest promenade in Baku, before returning to the hotel for an evening at leisure or alternatively you can enjoy a traditional Azeri Dinner and Folk Show (not included- $40 USD per person paid on tour).

Overnight: Sapphire Bayil or similar, Baku, Azerbaijan

Meals included: Breakfast

Today is free at leisure, alternatively you may take part in an optional tour (not included).

Optional Activity: Gobustan Archaeological Reserve & Mud Volcanoes - $145 per person (minimum 4 people)
This morning after breakfast you will travel to some mud volcanoes (approx. 70 km from Baku). Mud volcanoes are a unique natural phenomenon with almost half of the mud volcanoes on our planet located in Azerbaijan.

Afterwards continue to Gobustan Reserve, an open-air archaeological museum where you can observe the caves and petroglyphs of the Neolithic period (Stone Age). Gobustan has outstanding universal value, its rock art images depict hunting, fauna, flora and lifestyles in pre-historic times.

In the afternoon travel onwards to the Absheron Peninsula where you may explore the Fire Worshippers Temple – Ateshgah. Until the late 19th century, it was the Zoroastrian pilgrimage place. Admire the flaming mountain nearby – Yanardag, where natural gas comes to the surface and has been burning since ancient times, attracting fire worshippers throughout many centuries. Return to Baku where you may enjoy the remainder of the day at leisure.

Please note: This optional tour is a shared service with a max of 40 people per vehicle.

Overnight: Sapphire Bayil or similar, Baku, Azerbaijan

Meals included: Breakfast

This morning after breakfast check out and travel onwards to Sheki in the North-West of the country (approx. 330km from Baku). Snoozing amid green pillows of beautifully forested mountains, Şəki (Sheki) is Azerbaijan’s loveliest town, dappled with old houses with tiled-roofs and topped off with a glittering little Khan’s palace. Along the way you will visit Diri Baba Mausoleum in Maraza Village and the ancient Juma Mosque in Shamakhi, the medieval capital city. You will also cross a river canyon through the beautiful Muganly mountainous pass.

Upon arrival in Sheki this afternoon you will enjoy a short city tour. See the city fortress, Sheki Khan Palace, Caravanserai, artisans’ stalls including: stained glass – Shebeke, silk and embroidery shops, potters, confectioners, hatters and numerous souvenir shops. This evening check into the hotel for an evening at leisure.

Overnight: Sheki Palace Hotel or similar, Sheki, Azerbaijan

Meals included: Breakfast

This morning check out and continue onwards to the neighbouring country of Georgia. Along the way visit the village of Kish and observe the ancient temple called “the mother of churches”.

Once you have completed border formalities and crossed the border you will meet your Georgian guide who will drive you onwards to Kvareli and visit Khareba wine cellar located in a tunnel dug out of the flank of Caucasus Mountains and taste amazing Qvevri wines. The temperature in the Tunnel stays ideally at 12-14 degrees throughout the year. It consists of two main tunnels, which are linked by 13 galleries. The total length of the tunnels is 7.7 km. Check-in for an evening at leisure.

Overnight: Holiday Inn Telavi or similar, Telavi

Meals included: Breakfast

After breakfast, visit Batonis Tsikhe Castle in Telavi. Batonis Tsikhe castle served as the residence of Kakhetian Kings between 17th and 18th century. The castle encloses two churches, the ruins of a royal bathhouse and the Persian style Palace of King Erekle II.

Afterwards, drive to Tsinandali village and visit the 19th century residence of Kakheti nobleman, poet and public figure, founder of the first wine factory Alexander Chavchavadze. Explore the house-museum and sample a glass of the finest Tsinandali cellar wine.

Next, head to Shumi winery located just a few minutes’ drive from Tsinandali. Here you’ll enjoy a tour of the winery which presents a collection of wine related exhibits, a history and culture department and a wine-tasting area. Here you will enjoy a taste of Shumi botted wines with light snacks.

Continue onwards to Tbilisi for the evening. On the way, stop in a Badiauri village famous for its Guda cheese (not to be mistaken for dutch Gouda), a hard mountain cheese with sheep’s or cow’s milk. There are also numerous Georgian bread bakeries along the road. Upon arrival in Tbilisi check into your hotel.

Overnight: Holiday Inn Express Tbilisi or similar, Tbilisi

Meals included: Breakfast

After breakfast at the hotel, enjoy a full day tour of this historic capital city. First drive to Tbilisi Funicular Mtatsminda Park, which is located at the top of Mount Mtatsminda and overlooks the city. The park has carousels, water slides, a roller-coaster, funicular and a big Ferris Wheel at the edge of the mountain which offers splendid views. Continue onwards to see the Metekhi Church of Assumption which rests upon the top of the hill. The church was built by the Georgian King St Demetrius II between 1278-1284.

Continuing the tour, you will visit Shardeni Street and Meidan Square, which are known for their outdoor cafes, galleries and souvenir shops where you can enjoy a refreshing drink before continuing on to Rustaveli Avenue. The avenue starts at Freedom Square and extends for about 1.5 kms. Rustaveli is often considered the main thoroughfare of Tbilisi due to the large number of governmental, public, cultural, and business buildings located along and near the avenue.

Afterwards, travel up to Narikala Fortress by aerial cable car and take in magnificent panoramic views over Tbilisi and the Kura River. Comprised of two walled sections on a steep hill between the sulphur baths and the botanical gardens of Tbilisi, Narikala Fortress dates back to the 4th century. Enjoy a stroll to the Legvtakhevi Waterfall, located in the centre of Tbilisi, and also take a walk through the luscious botanical gardens.

Finish the day back at the hotel and enjoy the remainder of the day at leisure or alternatively you can enjoy a traditional Azeri Georgian dinner and folk show (not included - $35 USD per person payable on tour).

Overnight: Holiday Inn Express Tbilisi or similar, Tbilisi

Meals included: Breakfast

Today is free at leisure to explore this amazing city. Alternatively, you may choose to join an optional activity (not included).

Optional Activity: Ethnographic Museum of Georgia & Turtle Lake - $80 per person (minimum 4 people)
The tour begins at the Ethnographic Museum of Georgia. The museum combines examples of folk architecture of houses from all the regions of Georgia. It consists of over 70 buildings and more than 8000 implements and artifacts from traditional Georgian life. The museum is divided into ten zones, each depicting a different aspect of Georgian ethnology. The buildings have been brought from all over Georgia and painstakingly re-erected.

There is an example of a guard tower from Northern Svanetia and a Kachetian winery as well as houses and other buildings from Abkhazia, Ajara and other regions. Each building has its own relevant display of costumes, ceramics, tools and items from daily life. At the Kartli house, arrive before 16:00 and when you step inside, look up as he museum also has great views over the city.

Next, take a nice walk around Turtle Lake, located on the top of the hill. Here you will find many cozy cafes and you can enjoy panoramic views of Tbilisi with some leisure time.

Overnight: Holiday Inn Express Tbilisi or similar, Tbilisi

Meals included: Breakfast

After breakfast depart to Mtskheta - the ancient capital of Mtskheta which functioned as the capital of Eastern Georgia – Iberia – from the 3rd century BC to the 5th century AD. Mtskheta was a site of early Christian activity and the location where Christianity was proclaimed the state religion of Kartli in 337 AD. It remains the headquarters of the Georgian Orthodox Church. The Mtskheta historical monuments, which includes the Jvari Monastery of the 6th century and the Svetitskhoveli Cathedral of the 11th century, are recognised as UNESCO World Heritage Sites.

Continue onwards to Ananuri Fortress. The complex consists of fortifications and residential buildings of Aragvi Dukes. The purpose of the monument was to control the trade route and to guard the country from the North.

Next, drive to Gudauri village deep in the Caucasus mountains at 2,200 meters above sea level and enjoy a breathtaking view at the Gudauri Viewpoint overlooking Devils Valley and the Caucasus Mountains. From here you will continue to check into your hotel.

Overnight: Gudauri Inn or similar, Gudauri

Meals included: Breakfast; Dinner

After breakfast, drive to Gergeti mountain and iconic Gergeti Trinity church overlooked by Mt. Kazbegi. Gergeti Holy Trinity Church is an important altar of the 14th century, located on the slope of Mount Kazbegi. The church facade preserves stone decorations depicting ancient rituals and beliefs. If we are lucky with weather, we will see the magnificent Mount Kazbegi (5047 m. above sea level). According to legend Amirani, a cult hero and a prototype of Greek Prometheus, was punished by Gods and chained on the mountain.

Next, drive to Gveleti and enjoy a walk to the Gveleti waterfall. You must first drive through the stunning Dariali Gorge, from which a short, leisurely hike up a narrow footpath leads the way to the Gveleti Small waterfall.

Afterwards, return to Gudauri for the evening.

Overnight: Gudauri Inn or similar, Gudauri

Meals included: Breakfast; Dinner

After breakfast, drive to Gori where soviet dictator Joseph Stalin was born and spent his first four years. Nowadays his former home functions as a museum with items related to his life. The museum contains the dictator’s personal train carriage, as well as a museum building and the small house where he was born.

Continue onto Uplistsikhe, an ancient rock-hewn town in eastern Georgia where you will enjoy a walk through the narrow streets carved into sandstone rock.

Next, drive to Kutaisi - the legislative capital of Georgia and capital of the western region of Imereti - via the Rikoti Pass. Historically one of the major cities of Georgia, it served as the capital of the Kingdom of Georgia in the Middle Ages, and later as the capital of the Kingdom of Imereti. The Parliament of Georgia moved to Kutaisi in 2012 in an effort to both acknowledge the status of the city, and to decentralise the Georgian government. On the way to the hotel, enjoy a few stops along the way to visit pottery and farmers' markets. Arrive at the hotel and enjoy the rest of the day at leisure.

Overnight: Kutaisi Inn or similar, Kutaisi

After breakfast, drive to Sataplia karst caves and take a walking tour of Sataplia national reserve. The place is famous for containing dinosaur footprints, which are conserved on the territory of the museum. Sataplia cave is 900m long in total and contains stalactites and stalagmites. Colourful visual effects and lights enrich the natural beauty of the caves.

Next, visit the Gelati Monastery, a UNESCO world heritage site. For a long time, Gelati Monastery was one of the main cultural and intellectual centres of Georgia. The complex included an Academy where some of the most renowned Georgian theologians, scientists and philosophers have graduated from.

Afterwards, return to Kutaisi and enjoy a stroll through the city from the drama theatre on Agmashenebeli Square and towards the Kutaisi Historic district. Afterwards, cross the white bridge and go to the farmer's market. Finish the tour at Kutaisi Central Garden "Boulevard". Here we can see the white stone statues of the famous folk quartet Debi Ishkhnelebi.

Overnight: Kutaisi Inn or similar, Kutaisi

Meals included: Breakfast

Today depart Kutaisi and travel onwards to Martvili - a small town in the Samegrelo-Zemo Svaneti province of Western Georgia. Martvili Monastery was Samegrelo's clerical centre in the Middle Ages. Visit one of the unique natural attractions of Georgia - Martvili Canyon. Over millions of years, the Abasha River has created a magnificent gorge in limestone rocks, reaching a depth of 40m, with canyons, caves and waterfalls. The total length of the canyon is one kilometre and there are stretches of quiet water for boating and swimming, and also steep rocks to climb, spectacular waterfalls to enjoy and caves to explore. In the upper part of the canyon, you will take a short boat trip up to a 7m high powerful waterfall.

Afterwards, drive to the beautiful mountain village of Mestia (1500m above sea level) deep in the Svaneti region of the Caucasus (approx. 3.45 hours) where you will check into the hotel for the night.

Overnight: Hotel Lahili or similar, Mestia

Meals included: Breakfast; Dinner

Today you will explore the beautiful Svaneti Region, which is surrounded by mountains, glaciers, high peaks and waterfalls. Be driven in 4x4 vehicles to Ushguli Village which is a community of four villages at the head of Enguri Gorge. It’s considered one of the highest continuously inhabited settlements in Europe at 2100m above sea level and due to its particularly inaccessible location, it has kept a timeless feel. The road to Ushguli passes by the villages of Ipari and Kala. The small churches in these villages contain beautiful frescos and murals dedicated to the history of the region.

From here you will enjoy a walk where you may view the Shkhara Glacier. The surrounding villages contain old Svan Towers and buildings that make Ushguli part of the UNESCO World Heritage-listed sites in Upper Svaneti. In the evening you will return to the hotel (approx. two hours) where you will spend the rest of the evening at your own leisure, with dinner included.

Overnight: Hotel Lahili or similar, Mestia

Meals included: Breakfast; Dinner

After breakfast, enjoy a tour to see one of the many Svan Towers, the symbol of Svaneti and many of which date back to medieval times. These defensive structures were built as protection from invaders and natural disasters. Afterwards continue to the Svaneti Museum, where you will find unique icons and manuscripts from the 4th to 6th centuries, as well as ethnic artifacts associated with Svaneti and its people. After your visit to the museum, you will travel back to the hotel where you can enjoy the rest of the evening to explore at your own leisure, with dinner included.

Optional Activity: Hatsvali Cable Car - $10 USD (paid on tour)
Ride the Hatsvali Cable Car to enjoy magnificent panoramic views of the surrounding area (weather dependent - subject to closures).

Overnight: Hotel Lahili or similar, Mestia

Meals included: Breakfast; Dinner

After breakfast, depart to Zugdidi (approx 3 hours). Here you will visit the Enguri Dam, the second largest arch dam in the world. Next visit Sisa Tura where you will enjoy lunch and a cooking class. The ethnographic village Sisa Tura is located in Chkhoria, near Zugdidi. The history and traditions of the Samegrelo region are collected and revived here. There are traditional facilities and unique household items located under the open sky.

A small farm allows you to put yourself in the shoes of a farmer and prepare traditional dishes, grind maize, and get involved in other different activities. There is an artificial lake in the ethno-village too, where you can fish, walk in nature, taste traditional dishes, and enjoy the Kolkhic peace.

Next, drive to the Neo Gothic Dadiani Palace. The Dadiani Palaces History and Architecture Museum is considered to be one of the most eminent palaces in Caucasus. Later return to Kutaisi for the evening.

Overnight: Kutaisi Inn or similar, Kutaisi

Meals included: Breakfast; Lunch

After breakfast, drive to Chateau Mukhrani, former estate of Ivane Mukhranbatoni Royal family (approx. 3 hours). Here you will have a guided tour of the estate, gardens, stable and old wine-cellars, learn the history of the Georgian royal family, visit the contemporary winery and factory and find out how Château wines are made. The excursion will be followed by a tasting of the finest Château Mukhrani wines with snacks.

Afterwards, drive to Tbilisi for the evening.

Overnight: Holiday Inn Express or similar, Tbilisi

Meals included: Breakfast

After breakfast, depart towards the Sadakhlo border (approx. 1.45 hours). From here, drive to Haghpat where you will visit the Sanahin and Haghpat monasteries. The monasteries of Sanahin and Haghpat which are UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Literally the name ’’Sanahin’’ in Armenian means "this one is older than the other," which probably means that this monastery is older than Haghpat. These two monasteries are very close to each other and can be easily seen from one to the other. Both are located on an uneven plateau, separated by a deep crack formed by a small river that flows into the river Debed. Haghpat Monastery was one of the largest religious, cultural and educational centres of medieval Armenia.

Afterwards travel onwards to the beautiful resort town of Dilijan, also known as ‘Little Switzerland’ where you will visit the old centre of Dilijan and Sharambeyan street, full of handicraft stores, souvenir shops and historical buildings.

Overnight: Dilijan Resort, Dilijan

Meals included: Breakfast

Today depart Dilijan to Yerevan with stops along the way. On the way to Yerevean you'll have the opportunity to stop at Lake Sevan, often referred to as a "pearl of Armenia" by locals, and one of the largest freshwater high-altitude lakes in Eurasia. You will also visit Sevanavank, a monastery complex on the Sevan peninsula. Currently, a religious seminary functions here, which is not readily open to the public, the peninsula can be named the very point from where the whole beauty of Lake Sevan is seen.

Afterwards, take a trip to Garni. This Pagan temple was built in the 1st century AD. It is the only temple that has been preserved from the Pagan times in Armenia. It was devoted to the god Mihr, who was the god of cleanness. In 1679 it was destroyed by an earthquake but in 1975 the Temple was restored. Then we will continue our trip to Geghard Monastery. Its name came from the legendary lance that was used to pierce the body of Christ. It has been kept here for centuries. Though the exact foundation of the monastery is unknown, the present complex was built in the mid–13th century.

Afterwards visit a local house where you will have the chance to see and participate in the preparation of the Armenian national bread: lavash. This bread is very thin and sold in very large forms. It is usually cooked in a ground oven: “tonir''. In 2014, "Lavash, the preparation, meaning and appearance of traditional bread as an expression of culture in Armenia" was inscribed in the UNESCO Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity. Here we will enjoy “Armenian fast food” with lavash and cheese.

Finally arrive in Yerevan, the capital city of Armenia where you will check into your hotel and enjoy an evening at leisure.

Overnight: Ani Central Inn or similar, Yerevan

Meals included: Breakfast

After breakfast, embark on a tour of Yerevan, the capital of Armenia. The city is known by locals as the ‘pink city’, due to the colour of stone commonly used on the buildings. In the city centre, you will visit Republic Square and Mashtoc Avenue, where you will see some of the most prominent buildings and attractive structures. Next, you will see the gorgeous Yerevan Cascade, a giant multi-level stairway built of limestone and adorned with modernist sculptures. The stairs direct visitors’ gaze to views of central Yerevan and Mount Ararat. At the base of the Cascade is a garden courtyard with statues of contemporary sculptures such as Botero.

Continuing onwards you will visit the Yerevan Theatre of Opera and Ballet which officially opened in 1933, with Alexander Spendiaryan's Almast opera performance. The next stop is the Mesrop Mashtots Institute of Ancient Manuscripts, a museum and repository of ancient manuscripts.

Afterwards, drive to the Manuscript Museum of Matenadaran. The official name of the museum is the Mesrop Mashtots Institute of Ancient Manuscripts, and it houses more than 20,000 ancient manuscripts and scrolls, and over 500,000 various types of documents. The collection of Matenadaran includes manuscripts from different historical periods – from antiquity to modern times – that cover various subjects, such as religion, theology, history, mathematics, geography, medicine, alchemy, music etc.

Next, Visit a brandy factory in Yerevan and taste Armenian brandy, before enjoying an excursion to the Ejmiatsin Monument and Zvartnots Temple, two UNESCO heritage sites. Zvartnots Temple was built in the 7th century by Nerses Builder Catholicos. The Cathedral of Ejmiatsin, founded in 303, is the official residence of the Catholicos of Armenia.

Afterwards, return to Yerevan for an evening at leisure or alternatively, you can enjoy a traditional Armenian Dinner (not included- $25 USD per person paid on tour).

Overnight: Ani Central Inn or similar, Yerevan

Meals included: Breakfast

After breakfast, you will take a trip to Khor Virap Monastery - which translates as “deep dungeon”. Located in the Ararat Plain, near the closed border with Turkey, the monastery was host to a theological seminary and was the residence of Armenian Catholicos, Gregory the Illuminator. Here enjoy the spectacular view of the sacred Ararat Mountain - an immortal symbol of Armenia with the monastery being surrounded by green pasture lands and vineyards.

You will then continue to Noravank, an Armenian monastery built in the 13th century and nestled in a gorge by the Amaghu, amongst amazing sheer rocks on the twisted bends of the river. The monastery is best known for its two-storey Surb Astvatsatsin (Holy Mother of God) church, which grants access to the second floor by way of a narrow stone-made staircase jutting out from the face of the building.

Afterwards, visit the village Areni which is considered to be an important center of wine production industry and which has a history of more than 6000 years. Here you will also visit Areni cave. As a result of studies, metal knives, fruit seeds, grain residues, rope, dishes, clothing, dried grapes and plums, dated to 4200-3500 BC, were found in the cave. The oldest leather shoe of the world was found right here. It is more than 5500 years old. Also, in the same area, there were found world’s oldest women’s skirt (3900 BC), as well as the first winery in the whole world. Nowadays the mentioned winery is considered to be the ancient one and it is referred to 4th millennium BC.

Afterwards travel back to the hotel where you will have the rest of the day to spend at your own leisure.

Overnight: Ani Central Inn or similar, Yerevan

Meals included: Breakfast

Today is free to explore Yerevan at leisure. Alternatively, you may join an optional tour of the Aregi Factory with lunch (not included).

Optional Activity: Aregi Factory Lunch with Master Class - $145 per person
Drive to Aragatsotn region where you will visit the "Aregi" Dry Fruit and Eco-Snack Factory where incredible combinations of fruits and vegetables await you. "Aregi" products are exclusively without sugar and additives, and the factory operates by receiving solar energy through special stations. Thanks to the latter, ecologically clean dry fruit and vegetable snacks-chips are produced, and there will be an opportunity for you to taste the produce. Afterwards, visit a local house for lunch where you can participate in the preparation of Armenian pasta “Arishta”. Upon conclusion of the tour return to Yerevan and enjoy the remainder of the day at leisure.

Overnight: Ani Central Inn or similar, Yerevan

Meals included: Breakfast

Today at the appropriate time you will be transferred to the airport for your flight back to Australia.

Please note: Luggage storage will be available at reception for travellers with evening departures.

Meals included: Breakfast

Please note: Some flights may arrive + 1 day.

After purchase, you will receive a receipt and a Purchase Confirmation, directing you to an online Passenger Information Form. You must complete the Passenger Information Form within 72 hours of purchase.
 
Any special requests, preferences and optional extras MUST be clearly stated in your Passenger Information Form. Any change requested after submitting your Passenger Information Form cannot be guaranteed, is strictly subject to availability and will incur surcharges as outlined in the Schedule of Fees below.
 
On purchasing this Travel Offer, you are bound by the General Terms and Conditions and the specific terms and conditions outlined in this Important Information. 
 
Please note: All countries and territories have different entry requirements in relation to vaccinations, quarantine/isolation periods and travel restrictions. Due to the evolving nature, we would ask all of our customers to monitor, meet and adhere to the specific requirements of their intended destination(s) in the lead-up to and immediately before travel, as well as any requirements post-travel upon their return. 
 
CANCELLATION POLICY
Tour packages are non-refundable. If your tour package is affected by Covid-19 related travel restrictions and you are unable to travel, you will receive either a free date change (credit that is specific to your original package and purchase value) or an open credit less any non-recoverable supplier fees to the value of your original purchase for use on any other tour or package available via the TripADeal website.
Please note: Date change credits are subject to availability and not guaranteed until confirmed by TripADeal, not the tour operator you are due to stay with.
We recommend you consider purchasing travel insurance with Covid-19 protection. The standard cancellation policy will apply if you cannot travel because you have tested positive for Covid-19.
Please note: All additional charges are payable in AUD (unless otherwise stated). 

This travel offer is valid for travel on selected dates until the 24th of October 2024.
 
This travel offer is priced per person based on a twin share. 
 
Single Traveller Supplement
For solo travellers, a mandatory single supplement of $1100 applies
 
Departure Dates
2024
April: 25
May: 9, 23
June: *6, ^27
July: ^11, *25
August: *8, *22
September: *5, ^19
October: *3, 10, 24
Please note: See checkout for live dates and availability.
 
Surcharges
Please note: 
• Dates/months with a * incur a high season surcharge of $300 per person.
• Dates/months with a ^ incur a high season surcharge of $700 per person.
 
Departure Cities
Sydney, Melbourne, *Brisbane, *Adelaide, Perth, *Auckland
 
Departure City Surcharges
*Adelaide or*Brisbane: $250 per person
*Auckland: $450 per person

Full-Service Airline(s) Used

• Cabin Class: Economy Class

• Airlines: Turkish Airlines, Thai Airways Qatar Airways, Emirates, Singapore Airlines, Cathay Pacific, Korean Air, Asiana Airlines, ANA, Malaysian Airlines and partners

Please note: TripADeal cannot accommodate one-way flights. Travellers must take all included flights within the package, and any flights intentionally forfeited will result in later flights being subject to cancellation. 

 
Arrive early in Baku, Azerbaijan
$300 per person, subject to availability 
High season dates range up to $700 per person, subject to availability
Please note:
• This fee does not include extra nights' accommodation, meals or airport transfers.
• Arrivals before your selected departure date can only be booked up to one month before check-out. If you wish to arrive earlier than 30 days before your tour departure date, please call our friendly staff for availability and pricing. Additional costs may apply
• No flight booking changes or cancellations are permitted after air tickets have been issued.
• Flight changes are subject to availability at the time of booking.
• A high season arrive early can be purchased for up to $700 per person, subject to availability.
• High season surcharges apply to flights departing between the below date ranges (only available for purchase over the phone): 
23rd June 2023 - 23rd July 2023
14th September 2023 - 14th October 2023
1st December 2023 - 9th February 2024
18th March 2024 - 30th April 2024
1st June 2024 - 14th August 2024
23rd September 2024 - 20th October 2024
6th December 2024 - 31st January 2025

 
Stay behind in Yerevan, Armenia 
$300 per person, subject to availability 
High season dates range up to $700 per person, subject to availability​​​​​​​
Please note:
• This fee does not include extra nights' accommodation, meals or airport transfers.
• A stay behind can only be booked up to one month after your package end date upon check-out. Should you wish to stay later, please contact us to request availability. *Additional costs may apply.
• No flight booking changes or cancellations are permitted after air tickets have been issued.
• Flight changes are subject to availability at the time of booking.
• A high season stay behind can be purchased for up to $700 per person, subject to availability.
• High season surcharges apply to flights departing between the below date ranges (only available for purchase over the phone): 
23rd June 2023 - 23rd July 2023
14th September 2023 - 14th October 2023
1st December 2023 - 9th February 2024
18th March 2024 - 30th April 2024
1st June 2024 - 14th August 2024
23rd September 2024 - 20th October 2024
6th December 2024 - 31st January 2025

 
Stopover Packages
Dubai
Doha
Twin share: $1000 per person/one way
Solo Traveller: $1500 one way
Includes:
• 2 Nights in superior accommodation
• Daily breakfast
• Return airport transfers 
Please note: 
• When a pre and post-tour stopover is chosen, the same stopover location must be chosen each way, due to the airline used
• When selecting an Arrive Early or Stay Behind in conjunction with a Stopover Package, the stopover will take place after the departure date you select for your Arrive Early or Stay Behind
• Stopover packages are subject to availability.
• Blackout dates apply to flights departing between the below date ranges:
• 1 January 2024 - 1 March 2024
15 March 2024 - 30 April 2024
10 June 2024 - 10 August 2024
10 September 2024 - 10 October 2024
10 November 2024 - 31 December 2024
 
Flight Class Upgrades
• Business Class: For pricing, please refer to payment cart on checkout.
Please note: 
• All Business Class upgrades are subject to availability (if we cannot fulfil your request, the upgrade cost will be refunded).
• On any upgrade purchase, short-haul flights and domestic flight sectors are not guaranteed in a Premium or Business cabin; subject to aircraft configuration.

Accommodation Used:

4-Star Properties 

Baku: Sapphire Bayil or similar

Sheki: Sheki Palace Hotel or similar

Telavi: Holiday Inn Telavi or similar

Tbilisi: Holiday Inn Expres Tbilisi or similar

Gudauri: Gudauri Inn or similar

Kutaisi: Kutaisi Inn or similar

Yerevan: Ani Central Inn or similar 

 

Mountain Lodge Accommodation (Unrated)

Mestia: Hotel Lahili or similar

Please note: Accommodation/rooms offered are based on a lead-in room type and are subject to availability based on seasonality. In the instance a property is not available, a similar standard of accommodation will be provided. Properties will be confirmed and included in your travel pack, which you will receive 4-6 weeks before travel.

 
Extra Nights
Not available at check-out. 
Please note: If you are interested in booking additional nights of accommodation pre or post-tour, please wait until you receive your travel documentation approximately 4-6 weeks before departure for the confirmed list of hotels. If booking your own additional accommodation directly with the hotel, please be aware that you may be required to change rooms at the start/end of your tour. 
 
Maximum Room Capacity
2 people.
 
Child Policy
• No child discounts. The full price applies to all children travelling with their parents.
• Valid for Children 8 years old and over.
Please note: Children must be accompanied by a responsible adult 18 years old and over to travel. No unaccompanied minors are allowed.
 
Triple Share
Not available
 
Bedding Configuration
Twin or double bedding (subject to availability).

Minimum group size 10, maximum group size 20 per vehicle.
 
Optional Tours / Activities
Day 4: Gobustan archaeological reserve & Mud Volcanoes - $145 per person 
Day 9: Day trip to Ethnographic Museum & Turtle Lake - $80 per person 
Day 23: Aregi Factory lunch with Master Class (Extension Only)
Please note:
• Prices are based per person, are subject to availability, time permitting and weather conditions
• The optional tours listed above must be purchased on checkout or over the phone before submitting your passenger information form (subject to availability). 
• The above tours require a minimum of 4 pax to operate. 

• Visa fees and requirements 
• Domestic transfers and flights not stated in the deal offer
• Meals/beverages not stated in the deal offer
• Optional gratuities/tipping 
• Optional activities/tours 
• Personal expenses
• Travel insurance

 
TOUR GUIDE VS. TOUR LEADER
Tour Guide
Often locals with intimate knowledge of an area, its culture, and history. Their role entails providing commentary, routing the tour, and seeing that people have a good time. They are a licensed, qualified expert who supplies specific information on the history, art, architecture and culture of the city/village/attraction where they are guiding the tour. The guide meets the group at the required place and leaves it at the end of the tour; they do not travel with the group. 
 
Tour Leader
An experienced person tasked with ensuring the smooth operation of tours, as well as providing practical support to passengers throughout the whole trip. Their role primarily includes assisting with accommodation, transportation between locations, and communication with tour guides at each stop. A tour leader may provide general guidance around a city or village and offer information on the place visited on the bus. However, they are not required to have specific art, architecture, or historical knowledge. They are not allowed to provide a guided tour or commentary of a city/village/attraction once there and, if caught doing so, can be fined. 
Please note: Tour leaders/guides are not a standard inclusion in all travel offers. Tour leaders/guides will only be made available when required to enhance the experience of the destination featured. 
 
CLIMATE & AVERAGE TEMPERATURES
Baku, Azerbaijan
Baku has a temperate semi-arid climate with hot and humid summers, cool and occasionally wet winters, and strong winds all year long.
 
Tbilisi, Georgia
The city experiences very warm summers and moderately cold winters. Like other regions of Georgia, Tbilisi receives significant rainfall throughout the year with no distinct dry period.
 
Mestia, Georgia
The climate of Mestia is humid and is influenced by the air masses coming in from the Black Sea throughout the year. Average temperatures and precipitation vary considerably with elevation.
 
Yerevan, Armenia
Yerevan features a continental influenced steppe climate with long, hot, dry summers and short, but cold and snowy winters. This is attributed to Yerevan being on a plain surrounded by mountains and to its distance from the sea and its effects.
 
FLIGHTS
Seat Selection & Frequent Flyer Points
At TripADeal, we do not arrange seat selection. It is essential to highlight that some airlines do not allow pre-selected seats. We strongly suggest you contact the airline directly with seating allocation requirements and/or arrive at the airport earlier to arrange your seating. While we do not add frequent flyer member details to bookings, you can do this directly with the airline once you have your flight information.
 
Passport Validity
Customers must provide valid passport details either at the time of purchase or no later than 45 days before the departure date. Failure to do so may result in the cancellation of the booking. Customers will be responsible for any costs and fees incurred in this instance.
 
COACH TOUR
Meals
28 meals in total are included in the package. For meals not included, the tour leader (when available) will offer assistance with reservations, suggestions and directions to local restaurants. It is your responsibility to notify us of of any dietary requests/requirements. Please note: We will do our best to meet your requests/requirements; however, we cannot guarantee that we will always be able to.
 
Luggage
You will be responsible for all your personal belongings whilst on tour. You must carry your own luggage from the vehicle to the hotel room and back to the vehicle. The driver will assist with the uploading and offloading of bags from the vehicle.
 
OTHER
Mobility
If you require wheelchair access please contact our friendly sales and service team to inquire on your behalf.
 
Fitness Level Required
A leisurely level of fitness will be required. 
Leisurely is described as light walking, including up multiple stairs, and occasional hiking, may involve uneven surfaces. Able to travel unassisted and get on and off vehicles and small boats. Suitable for most fitness levels and mobility. 
Please note: If you have any concerns please consult your healthcare provider prior to purchase/travel.
 
Gratuities / Tipping
- Gratuities (tips) are not included in the tour price for services of the tour leader (when available) and driver throughout the tour. The recommended tip is $4 USD per person per day this covers the guide/leader and the driver, which will be collected whilst on tour. 
- Tipping for all services provided on tour is always a matter of personal discretion, however please be aware that tipping is considered by many locals to be a part of their normal remuneration and they may approach you for payment and there is no need to be intimidated by the request.
Please note: Tipping for services provided is always a matter of personal discretion; however, please be aware that many locals consider tipping part of their normal remuneration, and they may approach you for payment; there's no need to be intimidated by the request.
 
Sightseeing
Please note: If the entrance to a site is affected by changes in operating hours or public holiday closures, your itinerary, where possible, may be adjusted, or a similar activity will be offered in its place (subject to availability).
 
Shopping
Shopping overseas can be a daunting and confusing experience, especially when there is a language barrier. Please be very cautious when foreign currencies and prices are involved. If paying by credit card, please pay close attention to the amount you are being charged and keep all your receipts. 
Do not make any purchases you are not comfortable with or feel pressured into. If you are uncertain or need assistance with the language barrier, please seek assistance from your Tour Guide/Leader.
Please refer to our Terms and Conditions regarding shopping for further information.

Georgia

Australian passport holders can visit Georgia without a visa for periods of up to 12 months.

 
Azerbaijan
A tourist visa is required for Azerbaijan if travelling on an Australian passport. Electronic visas (e-visa) are for single entry, 30 day stays are available online through Azerbaijan's State Agency for Public Service and Social Innovations here: https://evisa.gov.az/en#. Allow at least three business days for online applications to be processed and ensure your passport is valid for at least three months from the expiry date of the e-visa.
If your passport contains visas/stamps from the disputed territory of Nagorno-Karabakh, you'll likely encounter difficulties at Azerbaijan border control points and could be refused entry into Azerbaijan.
  
Armenia 
Australian passport holders can visit Armenia without a visa for up to 180 days per year.
Important: 
Visa rules may have changed since Covid-19. 
Some countries and airlines may require you to obtain an additional visa before arrival. Please check with the nearest embassy, consulate or immigration department of the destination you're entering.
Please note: Passengers who are not Australian citizens must also check with the respective consulate or visa agency to determine what their visa requirements are and what personal identification is required.
It is also important to note that some areas of employment, such as journalism, government authorities and charity organisations, may have additional restrictions in applying for Visas. This may, in turn, affect the type of application required.

This includes booking changes requested by you, including but not limited to those changes requiring an airline ticket or a Purchase Confirmation reissue.
• Changes - $100.00 per booking and any additional charges applied by the airline/cruise company/accommodation/other travel providers.
 
Name Changes Due To Passenger Error
• If the incorrect name has been provided, charges of $100.00 per booking and any additional charges applied by the airline/cruise company/accommodation/other travel providers.
 
Supplier Fees
In the event the tour package you have purchased is unable to proceed, and/or a travel Supplier is unable to fulfil the Qantas Tour due to external circumstances (Limitation of Liability e.g. a Force Majeure event), there may be a fee or amount of money that is withheld by our Suppliers and is unrecoverable. This may be due to non-refundable airline tickets, cancellation penalties with cruise cabins or unrecoverable payments with our land/accommodation partners. If refunds are not available from Suppliers, we will endeavour to obtain a travel credit on the best terms available and communicate these outcomes to you. In the event we are unable to obtain a refund or travel service credit, or part thereof, this cost is passed on to the customer as a Supplier Fee.