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Caspian Odyssey
Discover the lands of the Caspian Sea
Embark on an epic journey from Armenia to Kazakhstan, exploring majestic medieval cities, breathtaking archaeological sites, and stunning Islamic masterpieces along the way. Experience a 16-day journey through paradise as you explore the mystical lands of the Caspian Sea.
Highlights:
- Visit the monastery of Geghard, the cultural center of medieval Armenia
- Sample delicious Georgian wine in the renowned wine-making region of Kakheti
- Private performance of Georgian Polyphonic singing in the ancient cave city, Uplistsikhe
- Stunning 3D Light Show on the beautifully lit Registan Square, Samarkand
- See the Darvaza Burning Gas Crater light up the night sky in the Kara Kum desert
- Explore the historic, UNESCO honored, cities of Khiva, Merv, Bukhara, and Samarkand
Itinerary at a glance
Day 1- Yerevan
Arrive at Yerevan International Airport and be whisked away to the luxurious five-star Alexander Hotel for a two-night stay.
Located in the heart of Yerevan’s historic quarter, the Alexander Hotel offers guests a prestigious central location with a rich history dating back to the 18th century.
For early birds in Yerevan, seize the opportunity this afternoon with a Freedom of Choice option to visit the Mother Cathedral of the Armenian Apostolic Church, known as the Vatican of Armenia. Explore Etchmiadzin, the oldest cathedral in the world built in 301 AD, and marvel at its Treasury Museum showcasing Christian relics like pieces of the True Cross and Noah’s Ark.
Join us for a Welcome Dinner at an authentic local restaurant tonight and meet your fellow travellers before embarking on a journey across six captivating countries in the South Caucasus region and Central Asia.
Consider extending your stay in Yerevan to further explore this vibrant city and its surroundings at your own pace.
Overnight: Hotel Alexander
Day 2- Yerevan
Experience the majestic Yerevan skyline with Mount Ararat as its backdrop, steeped in history dating back to 6,000 BC. Explore the ancient Geghard Monastery, nestled 23 miles away from the city, featuring churches and tombs carved into rocks. Discover the 1st century Garni pagan temple dedicated to the Sun God Mitra, complete with a fortress, palace, and baths. Indulge in Armenian wine making at the Armenia Wine Company, including a tour of the facilities, tasting premium wines, and enjoying an authentic dinner.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Overnight: Hotel Alexander
Day 3- Yerevan & lake Sevan
Today we embark on a journey through Armenia and Georgia to explore stunning landscapes and rich history.
Start your day with a visit to The Cascade, a grand limestone stairway offering breathtaking views of Yerevan and Mount Ararat. Explore the Casfesjian Museum of Modern Art located within the staircase.
Next, indulge in lunch with picturesque views at Lake Sevan, one of the historic Armenian Kingdom’s three great lakes. Travel to the Armenian-Georgian border via Dilijan, known for its forest scenery and healing mineral water. Enjoy a coffee & brandy break at Avan Dzoraget Hotel amidst the scenic Caucasus Mountains.
End your day in Tbilisi, where you will stay at the luxurious Marriott Hotel for three nights.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Overnight: Marriott Hotel Tbilisi
Day 4- Tbilisi
Discover the enchanting city of Tbilisi, nestled between the Surami Range and the River Kura. Explore its historic charm with visits to iconic landmarks such as the Metekhi church from the 13th century and the Sioni Cathedral dating back to the 5th century. Marvel at the grandeur of the Holy Trinity Cathedral and take a leisurely stroll through the old town and Rustaveli Avenue. Don’t miss out on viewing the renowned Great Hall of the Georgian Philharmonia, a masterpiece built in the aftermath of World War II. Uncover the city’s treasures at the Janashia Museum of Georgia during this unforgettable journey through time.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Overnight: Marriott Hotel Tbilisi
Day 5- Tbilisi- Gori, Uplistsikhe & Mtskheta
This morning, we will explore the ancient city of Gori in Georgia, where Joseph Stalin was born and raised. Visit the Stalin Museum to see his birthplace and private railway carriage. Gain a chilling understanding of his controversial legacy.
Discover the historic cave city of Uplistsikhe, dating back to 6th century BC. Roam through echoing halls, corridor-streets, and chambers for pagan worship. Witness Georgia’s oldest theatre with an auditorium and orchestra pit.
Experience Mtskheta, the Old Capital of Georgia and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Immerse yourself in traditional Georgian polyphonic singing for a unique glimpse into local culture and heritage.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Overnight: Marriott Hotel Tbilisi
Day 6- Tbilisi to Baku
This morning we visit a Georgian winery.
After lunch in the city we board our private jet for the short flight to Baku. Upon arrival we stay for three nights at the Four Seasons Baku.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Overnight: Four Seasons Baku
Day 7- Baku
Today, discover the vibrant city of Baku, capital of Azerbaijan, nestled on the majestic Caspian Sea coast. With a rich history and stunning architecture, explore the charming Old Town, known as Icheri-Shekher, featuring ancient walls and iconic landmarks like the Maiden Tower. Marvel at historic sites such as the Palace of the Shirvan-Shahs and Synyk-Kala Minaret and Mosque. Immerse yourself in the bustling streets and modern buildings that dot the hills surrounding the Bay of Baku. Feel the allure of this dynamic city rooted in tradition and innovation.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Overnight: Four Seasons Baku
Day 8- Baku
Join us this morning on a Freedom of Choice tour to Gobustan Rock Art Cultural Landscape, just 40 miles from Baku. Explore over 6,000 pre-historic rock engravings and ancient caves while enjoying lunch with a view of the Caspian Sea.
In the afternoon, choose between free time in the city or a visit to a local theatre before ending the day with dinner at a traditional restaurant.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Overnight: Four Seasons Baku
Day 9- Ashgabat
Embark on a morning flight to Ashgabat, Turkmenistan, dubbed the ‘Las Vegas of the Kara Kum’. Explore this modern city nestled between desert sands and mountains, boasting extravagant fountains and golden domes. Visit the National Museum and Kipchak Mosque for cultural immersion.
Upon arrival, board the luxurious Golden Eagle train. Enjoy lunch in the Restaurant Cars before heading out to discover Ashgabat’s unique charm on a panoramic city tour, including stops at the National Museum and Wedding Palace.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Overnight: Golden Eagle
Day 10- Ashgabat & Darvaza
This morning, we will tour Turkmenistan to explore the ancient Parthian settlement of Nisa, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The Golden Eagle train departs Ashgabat after lunch, stopping at Ichoguz where we venture to Darvaza’s famous burning gas crater. Known as the ‘Door to Hell’, this 70-meter wide crater has been ablaze for over 40 years in the Kara Kum desert. Don’t miss this unique and spectacular experience under the night sky.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Overnight: Golden Eagle
Day 11- Khiva
Embark on a journey from Urgench to the ancient city of Khiva, a 2,500-year-old marvel along the Silk Road. Explore its rich history as a key trading hub and World Heritage Site, surrounded by stunning architecture. Witness breathtaking mosques, bazaars, and minarets within its ancient walls, transporting you back in time.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Overnight: Golden Eagle
Day 12- Bukhara
Experience the allure of Bukhara, a city steeped in history and charm. UNESCO-backed renovations for its 2,500th anniversary in 1999 have preserved its beauty.
Embark on a fascinating tour to The Ark, the fortified home of the Emirs of Bukhara. Discover the majestic Poi-Kalyan Square with the iconic Kalyan Mosque, showcasing traditional Islamic architecture.
Immerse yourself in the vibrant energy of Bukhara as we explore the bustling Trading Domes and gather at Lyabi-Hauz Square, a lively social hub surrounded by mulberry trees and local tea rooms.
End your day with a memorable barbecue on the station platform as our train departs – a unique farewell to this remarkable city.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Overnight: Golden Eagle
Day 13- Samarkand
Today, you will experience the enchanting allure of Samarkand, a town synonymous with the Silk Road. Immerse yourself in its rich history dating back to the 6th century BC, when it stood as a pivotal city in Asia. Discover its architectural marvels from the golden age of the 14th to 17th centuries, during the reign of Timur and his descendants.
Join us on a journey to iconic sites like Registan Square, Bibi Khanum Mosque, and the Ulag Beg observatory – a testament to Islamic astronomy. Be captivated by an evening in Samarkand like no other, as we unveil the illuminated splendor of Registan Square. Witness a mesmerizing light show that narrates the tales of this ancient city’s heritage.
Prepare for a night that will etch unforgettable memories in your heart. Explore Samarkand in all its glory as history comes alive before your eyes.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Overnight: Golden Eagle
Day 14- Tashkent
Explore the modern Soviet-style city of Tashkent, capital of Uzbekistan, rebuilt after a 1966 earthquake. Visit the Old Town with its traditional homes and sacred relics like the world’s oldest Koran. Discover the Railway Museum and Museum of Applied Arts. End the day with a Farewell Dinner onboard the Golden Eagle before heading to Almaty overnight.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Overnight: Golden Eagle
Day 15- Almaty
Embark on a tour of Almaty, our final stop on the Golden Eagle journey. Explore Panfilov Park with its iconic Zenkov Cathedral, a stunning 19th-century Russian Orthodox Church crafted from wood. Spend the night at the luxurious Ritz-Carlton, Almaty.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Overnight: Ritz-Carlton Almaty
Day 16- Almaty
Following breakfast you will be transferred to Almaty Airport for your onward flight.
Why not extend your stay in Almaty with additional nights to explore more of the city and surrounding region at your leisure?
Meals: Breakfast
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