Caspian Odyssey

Upon arrival at Yerevan International Airport you will be met and transferred to the centrally-located The Alexander, a Luxury Collection Hotel, where we stay for two nights.

For early arrivals to Yerevan, do not miss the opportunity to take advantage this afternoon of a Freedom of Choice option to visit the Mother Cathedral of the Armenian Apostolic Church, often referred to as the Vatican of Armenia. Built in 301 AD, Etchmiadzin is considered the oldest cathedral in the world. During the tour, we will visit the Treasury Museum of Etchmiadzin. The exhibition showcases important Christian relics, such as the pieces of the True Cross, a fragment of Noah's Ark, and the Holy Spear that pierced the body of Christ. After Etchmiadzin we make a brief stop at the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Zvartnots Cathedral. Built in the 7th century, the cathedral features a unique circular shape. From here we make a stop at the Tsitsernakaberd Memorial. This expansive complex, which was completed in 1967, was built to honor the 1.5 million Armenians killed by genocide during the 20th century. Today, the hillside memorial serves as a destination for pilgrims who want to pay homage to the fallen.

Tonight, we will enjoy a Welcome Dinner at an authentic local restaurant—the perfect opportunity to meet meet your fellow travelers and look forward to the journey across six captivating countries of the South Caucasus region and Central Asia.

The Yerevan skyline is dominated by Mount Ararat in nearby Turkey, with its snow-covered peak towering in the distance. Yerevan has a rich history; it was occupied as early as 6000 BC and the fortress of Erebuni was erected there in the 8th century BC. Seized by a succession of conquerors, the city later passed back and forth between the Turks and the Persians until 1827, when it was taken by Russia. It became the capital of Soviet Armenia in 1920 and following the demise of the Soviet Union, the capital of the new nation of Armenia.

Our touring will take us 23 miles out of Yerevan to the ancient Geghard Monastery. The beautiful monastery contains a number of churches and tombs, many of them cut into the rock. The complex of medieval architecture is set into a landscape of great natural beauty, surrounded by towering cliffs at the head of the Azat Valley.

We will also visit the 1st century pagan temple of Garni, built to worship the Sun God Mitra. We will have the opportunity to explore the fascinating remains of an ancient fortress, palace, and baths there. Lunch will also be taken at this stunning location.

This evening we head to the Armenia Wine Company, located close to Yerevan. Here we have opportunity to explore the entire process of Armenian wine making technology, walk through the factory cellars, learn about the evolution of Armenian wine making history at the special museum, and try the premium wines followed by authentic and exclusive dinner.

This morning we will visit The Cascade, a giant stairway made of limestone. The stairs afford walkers unobstructed views of central Yerevan and Mount Ararat in the distance. Located inside the staircase is the Casfesjian Museum of Modern Art, where we make a short visit.

Leaving Yerevan, our journey takes us to Lake Sevan, where we stop for lunch with stunning views. Along with Lake Van and Lake Urmia, Sevan was considered one of the three great lakes of the historical Armenian Kingdom, collectively referred to as the Seas of Armenia; it is the only one within the boundaries of today's Republic of Armenia.

After lunch we continue our way, by coach, to the Armenian-Georgian border in Bagratashen, driving through the spa town of Dilijan, well known for its forest landscapes and medicinal mineral water, before we make a coffee and brandy stop at Avan Dzoraget Hotel, nestled among the forest-covered hills and rocky slopes of the Caucasus Mountains.

This evening we arrive into the Georgian capital of Tbilisi, where we stay for the next three nights at the Marriott Hotel.

Hemmed in by the Surami Range, the city of Tbilisi extends for 17 miles along the banks of the River Kura. Despite the wars and fires that caused innumerable changes in the topography of Tbilisi, the old part of the city still retains much of its original layout, a spider's web of narrow winding streets and alleyways.

Historical sites we visit include the 13th century Metekhi church, a cross cupola church that forms part of the Royal Residential complex, and the 5th century Sioni Cathedral, the main church of Tbilisi. We will also visit the recently built Holy Trinity Cathedral, one of the largest Orthodox churches in the world, and take a walking tour of the old town and Rustaveli Avenue. Here we will see the Great Hall of the Georgian Philharmonia. Built between 1969-71, it has been acknowledged as one of the finest public buildings since the Second World War. Moreover, there will be the chance to see the treasures of the city housed in the Janashia Museum of Georgia.

Gori is one of the oldest cities in Georgia, founded in the 7th century AD as Tontio. Joseph Stalin, the Soviet leader, was born here in 1879. He spent his childhood years in the city and later (1888-94) studied at its theological seminary. The small house where Stalin was born is preserved under a canopy outside the huge columned palace-like building that houses the Stalin Museum. To the side of the museum is Stalin's private railway carriage. The museum offers a haunting and fascinating insight into a man responsible for more deaths and suffering than any other human being.

The famous cave city of Uplistsikhe dates from the 6th century BC and is first mentioned in the chronicles of the 1st century AD. Carved into rocky plateau we find huge echoing halls, meandering corridor-streets, chambers for pagan worship, and even the remains of Georgia's oldest theater complete with auditorium, stage, and orchestra pit. Like the other cave-towns of Georgia, it is rooted in the prehistoric traditions of the peoples of the Near East. On one side the fortress was protected by the Mtkvari and an almost vertical rock face; on the other, by powerful fortifications. Its strategic position on the approaches to Gori and its strong defenses made it possible to control the surrounding terrain. There were numerous attempts to destroy Uplistsikhe. Only in the 13th century, however, did the hordes of Genghis Khan's son Khulagu succeed in doing so, after capturing and destroying many fortresses in Transcaucasia with the help of siege machines. The 5,000 inhabitants of Uplistsikhe perished and life ended forever in the fortress.

In the late afternoon, our explorations will take us to the city of Mtskheta, Georgia's old capital. Due to its historical significance and numerous ancient monuments, Mtskheta became a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1994. Today we will also enjoy a private performance of traditional Georgian polyphonic singing—this is an immersive experience that offers a truly unique insight into the beautiful local culture and heritage.

This morning, take a visit to the Janashia State Museum of Georgia which houses an extraordinary collection of gold filigree work dating back to 6th Century BC. We will then continue our touring programme of the Old Town with Gabriadze's Clock Tower, Baratashvili Street, and the historic Anchiskhati Basilica.

After lunch at a local restaurant, we board our private jet for the short flight to Baku. Upon arrival we stay for three nights at the Four Seasons Baku.

Baku, capital of Azerbaijan, lies on the western shore of the Caspian Sea and the southern side of the Apsheron Peninsula, around the wide, curving sweep of the Bay of Baku. The bay, sheltered by the islands of the Baku Archipelago, provides the best harbour of the Caspian Sea, while the Apsheron Peninsula gives protection from violent northerly winds. Baku derives its international importance from its huge oil industry. The core of present-day Baku is the Old Town, or fortress of Icheri-Shekher. Most of the walls, strengthened after the Russian conquest in 1806, survive, as does the 90 ft (27 m) tower of Kyz-Kalasy (Maiden Tower, 12th century). The walled old town is highly picturesque, with its maze of narrow alleys and ancient buildings. These include the Palace of the Shirvan-Shahs, now a museum, the oldest part of which dates from the 11th century. Also of the 11th century is the Synyk-Kala Minaret and Mosque (1078-79). We will tour these historic sights by bus before exploring the Old Town by foot.

After lunch in a local restaurant, enjoy an afternoon of free time to discover Baku independently. Perhaps visit the local Carpet Museum, indulge in a cultural escape at the National Museum, or simply relax and soak up Azerbaijan's unique atmosphere.

Tonight, we visit the magnificent Villa Petrolea. Nearly 150 years ago, before the Nobel Peace Prizes were created, the Nobel brothers themselves played a key role in Baku's first ?oil boom'. The mansion that they built as their residence in the early 1880s has been preserved, restored, and turned into a fascinating museum. It is here we will be privileged to have a guided tour and treated to champagne, canapes, and a sumptuous dinner within its historic walls.

This morning we tour the UNESCO-honoured Gobustan Rock Art Cultural Landscape. Located 40 miles (64 km) from Baku on the west bank of the Caspian Sea, Gobustan is an outstanding archaeological site of more than 6,000 pre-historic rock engravings. The area also features the remains of inhabited caves, settlements and burials. This is followed by lunch overlooking the Caspian Sea.

Returning to the city in the afternoon, you can choose to enjoy free time in the city or visit a local Zoroastrian temple before dinner in the Four Seasons Hotel.

Following breakfast we take a morning flight onboard our private plane to Urgench (for Khiva). Founded 2,500 years ago Khiva became one of the Silk Road's most important trading posts as it lies at the crossroads of the routes between Mongolia, Russia, China and Persia and is now a World Heritage Site.

A truly magnificent sight to behold, it rises out of the desert to reveal a wealth of impressive architecture. Stepping back in time, we discover its impressive mosques, madrassas, bazaars and minarets within the city's ancient walls.

Bukhara is quite simply outstanding. Like Khiva, UNESCO sponsored the renovation of much of the city for its 2,500th anniversary in 1999.

The highlight of this wonderful tour is a visit to The Ark, a fortified residence of the Emirs of Bukhara ? the despotic and ruthless leaders who ruled until Soviet times. Our touring programme will also transport us to the grandeur of Poi-Kalyan Square, home to the iconic Kalyan Mosque, a living relic of traditional Islamic design. Stroll through the mosque's large pillar-domed galleries and deeply recessed niches and be transported to a bygone era.

Immerse yourself in the lively pulse of the city as we explore the bustling Trading Domes of Bukhara and gather at Lyabi-Hauz Square, a vibrant social hub cocooned by a pool and embraced by the soothing shade of mulberry trees and local tea rooms.

This evening, weather permitting, we will enjoy a barbecue on the station platform before our train departs ? a unique farewell to an incredible city.

More so than any other town, just the mention of Samarkand instantly conjures up evocative images of the Silk Road. Founded in the 6th century BC, Samarkand's stunning architecture hints at its former status as one of the most important cities in Asia and is particularly noted for its architectural remains from the 14th to the 17th century, when it flourished as the fabled capital of the Mongol empire of Timur and his successors.

Today we will visit some of its most significant sites including Registan Square, the refined elegance of the beautifully proportioned Bibi Khanum Mosque and the Ulag Beg observatory, one of the earliest Islamic astronomical observatories built in 1428.

Prepare for an unforgettable evening in Samarkand that will leave an indelible mark on your memory. As the sun sets and night descends upon this ancient city, we will whisk you away to the illuminated Registan Square, where an extraordinary spectacle unfolds. From your prime front-row seats, you'll be treated to a dazzling light show that weaves the rich tapestry of Samarkand's history and significance.

Tashkent is the capital city of Uzbekistan and we spend time touring this modern Soviet-style city which was rebuilt following the devastating earthquake of 1966. Our tour of the city includes the Old Town, where traditional homes and religious buildings line the narrow streets and here in a small library we’ll be privileged to see one of Islam’s most sacred relics ? the world’s oldest Koran. This is followed by a visit to the Museum of Applied Arts.

Enjoy a more leisurely pace today as we journey through the striking landscapes of Uzbekistan, before crossing the border into Kyrgyzstan.

Onboard, delve deeper into the region with a fascinating Q&A session led by your expert Tour Leader, and uncover the secrets of your exquisite cuisine during an engaging masterclass with our talented culinary team.

Today, we enjoy an extended visit to the magnificent Lake Issyk-Kul, a true natural wonder nestled in the heart of the Kyrgyz mountains. Stretching over 170 kilometres in length and up to 70 kilometres wide, it is recognised as the second-largest alpine lake in the world. Its name, meaning “warm lake”, reflects its remarkable resistance to freezing ? the result of a unique combination of depth, mineral richness, and geothermal activity beneath its surface. Framed by towering, snow-capped peaks, the lake offers a serene beauty.

This morning, we invite you to immerse yourself in the rich nomadic heritage of Kyrgyzstan with a privately arranged cultural event along the lake’s shores. A captivating display of traditional sports and games that have been passed down through generations. While archery may be familiar, few have encountered the spectacle of horseback wrestling, hunting with majestic Golden Eagles, or “ordo” ? a strategic game played with cow kneecaps.

This experience is a celebration of steppe culture in all its vibrant detail ? from music and dance to intricate costumes and demonstrations of time-honoured crafts. It is a rare and enthralling glimpse into a way of life that continues to flourish in the highlands of Central Asia. This day promises a unique and authentic insight into the cultural heart of the region, offering memories that will linger long after your journey ends.

After the festival there will be the option to visit the outdoor Museum of the Petroglyphs before returning to the Golden Eagle for the Farewell Dinner.

This evening we enjoy our Farewell Dinner onboard the Golden Eagle as we head overnight to our final destination of Almaty.

This morning we arrive into Almaty, our final destination and bid farewell to the Golden Eagle. Today we will take a tour of Almaty including a visit to Panfilov Park, located in the heart of the city, and home to the Zenkov Cathedral, a 19th century Russian Orthodox Church made entirely of wood.

Overnight we stay for one night at the Ritz-Carlton, Almaty, or similar.

Following breakfast you will be transferred to Almaty Airport for your onward flight.