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 Embarking on an 11-night gay group journey through Azerbaijan, Georgia, and Armenia gives us a chance to dive into the rich culture and stunning landscapes of the South Caucasus. We start in Baku, Azerbaijan, where sleek, futuristic buildings sit right next to the ancient walls of the Old City. We will admire the flaming mountains of Yanar Dag, get a little muddy exploring the volcanoes of Gobustan, and treat ourselves to the unique flavors of Azerbaijani cuisine.
Then it’s off to Georgia, where the charm of Tbilisi draws us in with its winding alleys, colorful balconies, and warm, welcoming vibe. We explore the lush Kakheti wine region and contemplate the towering monasteries of Mtskheta, getting a real feel for Georgia’s deep roots and proud traditions.
From there, we head south into Armenia, a country full of ancient history and dramatic mountain views. In Yerevan, one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world, we discover the Republic Square and reflect at the Armenian Genocide Memorial. We take day trips to incredible monasteries like Geghard and Tatev, nestled in the mountains, and each stop gives us a deeper connection to the country’s spiritual side. Throughout the trip, the shared stories, resilience, and natural beauty of these three nations leave us inspired, moved, and forever changed by the spirit of the Caucasus.
• Exploring Baku’s Old City and the futuristic Flame Towers – a striking blend of ancient history and modern innovation in Azerbaijan’s capital
• Visiting the mud volcanoes and ancient petroglyphs of Gobustan National Park – a surreal and otherworldly landscape
• Wandering through the charming streets of Tbilisi – with its colorful houses, sulfur baths, and lively café culture
• Wine tasting in Georgia’s Kakheti region – one of the oldest winemaking areas in the world, set against scenic vineyards and medieval churches
• Touring Armenia’s ancient monasteries – including Geghard and Tatev, nestled amid breathtaking mountain scenery
• Experiencing the culture and history of Yerevan – from vibrant open-air markets to powerful visits to the Armenian Genocide Memorial
Day 0 - Tuesday, June 30, 2026
Depart the USA, Canada on any regularly scheduled flight to Baku, Azerbaijan (GYD).
Day 1 - Wednseday, July 01, 2026
Upon arrival at Baku International Airport, transfer to the hotel via private luxury vehicle. Baku, the Azeri capital, is a fascinating city where East and West blend seamlessly.
Meals Included: Welcome Dinner
Hotel: Fairmont Flame Towers Hotel , Baku, Azerbaijan, 5*
Day 2 - Thursday, July 02, 2026
Today, experience the best of Baku in style, accompanied by your expert guide and private luxury vehicle. Begin at Martyr’s Alley, a serene memorial with sweeping views over the bay and skyline.
Continue with an exclusive walking tour through the atmospheric Old City, where medieval walls, charming cafés, and carpet boutiques evoke centuries of history. Highlights include the magnificent Palace of the Shirvanshahs, the 12th-century Maiden Tower, and the architecturally striking Carpet Museum.
Enjoy a leisurely lunch at a refined local restaurant before visiting the ancient Fire Temple of Atashgah.
This evening, savor a gourmet dinner featuring vibrant, authentic Azeri cuisine.
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Hotel: Fairmont Flame Towers Hotel, Baku, Azerbaijan, 5*
Day 3 - Friday, July 03, 2026
This morning, journey to Gobustan to explore ancient rock carvings spanning over 14 millennia, depicting scenes of early civilization and extinct wildlife.
On your return to Baku, pause to view 2,000-year-old Latin inscriptions left by Caesar’s troops, a rare historical treasure. Continue to the nearby mud volcanoes, where you’ll get an up-close look at these unique natural wonders with your expert guide. Enjoy a refined lunch featuring fresh Caspian seafood before visiting the iconic Heydar Aliyev Cultural Center, an architectural masterpiece renowned for its sweeping, sculptural curves and avant-garde design.
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Hotel: Fairmont Flame Towers Hotel, Baku, Azerbaijan, 5*
Day 4 - Saturday, July 04, 2026
Today, enjoy a scenic journey across Azerbaijan’s picturesque landscapes in a private vehicle with your expert guide.
En route to Sheki, stop in historic Shemakha, renowned for its rich heritage, vibrant dance traditions, and exquisite Soumak rugs.
Visit the elegant Juma Mosque and the atmospheric Yeddi Gumbaz, the "Seven Tombs". Pause for a leisurely lunch at a charming local restaurant in Gabala before continuing through lush countryside to the enchanting town of Sheki.
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Hotel: Sheki Palace Hotel, Sheki, Azerbaijan, 4*
Day 5 - Sunday, July 05, 2026
Begin your day in Sheki, a timeless jewel nestled amid rolling hills, where history whispers through its cobbled streets. Although founded over 2,700 years ago, Sheki’s preserved elegance shines through its 18th- and 19th-century landmarks.
Discover the Royal Summer Palace of the Sheki Khans — a masterpiece of craftsmanship adorned with delicate frescoes and dazzling stained glass, built in 1762 entirely without nails.
Stroll through the historic Yukhari Caravanserai and explore the rich collections of Sheki’s History Museum, famed for its artifacts celebrating the town’s illustrious silk trade.
After border formalities, cross into Georgia, where your new guide and private luxury vehicle await. Journey to the enchanting hilltop town of Sighnaghi, its 18th-century fortifications offering sweeping vistas of the Caucasus Mountains.
Savor an intimate, homemade lunch with a local family, a true taste of Georgian hospitality.
Visit the sacred Bodbe Monastery, resting place of St. Nino, who brought Christianity to Georgia in the 4th century.
Conclude your afternoon with an exclusive tasting at a traditional wine cellar, sampling wines crafted in ancient kvevri clay vessels — a winemaking tradition honored by UNESCO. Continue your scenic drive to Tbilisi for a restful evening at your hotel.
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Hotel: Stamba Hotel, Tbilisi, Georgia, 5*
Day 6 - Monday, July 06, 2026
Today, discover the charm of Tbilisi, Georgia’s vibrant capital.
Wander through the city’s terraced old districts, where narrow streets reveal colorful houses, ornate balconies, and striking modern architecture.
Begin at Metekhi Church (13th century), offering sweeping views of old Tbilisi. Stroll through winding lanes to the city’s key landmarks, then ascend by cable car for panoramic vistas over the city.
Explore the ancient Narikala Fortress (4th century) and descend into the historic sulphur bath district, integral to Tbilisi’s identity. Enjoy a gourmet dinner at a local restaurant. Overnight in Tbilisi.
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Hotel: Stamba Hotel, Tbilisi, Georgia, 5*
Day 7 - Tuesday, July 07, 2026
After breakfast, journey to Mtskheta, the ancient capital and spiritual heart of Georgia, founded over 3,000 years ago.
Visit UNESCO World Heritage sites, Jvari Church (6th century) and Svetitskhoveli Cathedral (11th century), where the Robe of Christ is believed to be buried.
Continue along the stunning Georgian Military Highway, stopping at the 17th-century Ananuri architectural complex.
After a scenic lunch, drive through the dramatic Caucasus Mountains to Stepantsminda. From here, take a 4X4 excursion to Gergeti Trinity Church (2,170 meters), with breathtaking views of Mt. Kazbegi (5,047 meters) on clear days. Overnight in Stepantsminda.
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Hotel: Rooms Kazbegi Hotel, Stepantsminda, Georgia, 4*
Day 8 - Wednesday, July 08, 2026
In the morning, drive to Gori to explore its historical highlights, including the ancient Uplistsikhe Cave Town (1st millennium BC), a fascinating complex along the Silk Road featuring rock-hewn dwellings, wine cellars, bakeries, and an ancient theater. Visit the museum dedicated to Joseph Stalin, born in Gori, and tour his childhood home. Afterward, return to Tbilisi for an overnight stay.
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Hotel: Stamba Hotel, Tbilisi, Georgia, 5*
Day 9 - Thursday, July 09, 2026
This morning, transfer to the Georgian-Armenian border and begin your Armenian journey with a visit to the medieval Haghpat Monastery, a masterpiece of Armenian religious architecture.
< After lunch at a local restaurant, continue to Dilijan, often called "Armenian Switzerland", renowned for its scenic beauty and artistic heritage.
Stroll through charming 19th-century streets lined with museums, galleries, and cozy cafés. Visit a traditional ceramics workshop and a woodcarver’s studio before exploring the well-preserved Sharambeyan Street. Overnight in Dilijan.
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Hotel: DiliJazz Hotel, Dilijan, Armenia, 5*
Day 10 - Friday, July 10, 2026
After breakfast, depart for Lake Sevan, the largest high-altitude freshwater lake in the Caucasus, renowned for its ever-changing colors.
Continue to Garni village to visit the 1st-century Garni Temple, dedicated to the sun god Mithra. Explore the natural wonder of the "Symphony of Stones" nearby, then enjoy a Lavash baking masterclass and a traditional lunch at a family restaurant. Next, visit the UNESCO-listed Geghard Monastery, a stunning medieval complex partly carved into the mountainside. In the evening, drive to Yerevan for an overnight stay.
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Hotel: Armenia Marriott Hotel Yerevan, Yerevan, Armenia, 5*
Day 11 - Saturday, July 11, 2026
After breakfast, begin your exploration of Yerevan, where ancient heritage blends seamlessly with a vibrant modern spirit.
Stroll from Republic Square to the Cascade and Victory Park, offering sweeping views of the city, then continue to the elegant Opera House and picturesque Swan Lake.
Visit Tsitsernakaberd Memorial, dedicated to the victims of the first genocide of the 20th century. Later, enjoy a private tour and tasting at Armenia Wine Winery, where historic winemaking traditions thrive against the stunning backdrop of Mount Ararat. Continue to Echmiadzin, the spiritual heart of Armenia and home to the world’s oldest cathedral, a UNESCO World Heritage Site dating to 303 AD. Return to Yerevan for a festive farewell dinner at a traditional restaurant. Overnight in Yerevan.
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Hotel: Armenia Marriott Hotel Yerevan, Yerevan, Armenia, 5*
Day 12 - Sunday, July 12, 2026
After breakfast, transfer to the Yerevan airport (EVN) for flights home.
Meals Included: Breakfast
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• Eleven nights’ accommodation
- 3 nights in Baku;
- 1 night in Sheki;
- 3 nights in Tbilisi;
- 1 night in Stepantsminda;
- 1 night in Dilijan;
- 2 nights in Yerevan
• Breakfasts at the hotels, lunches (juice included) & dinners every day
• One drink per person per dinner
• Transportation as per the program in A/C vehicles
• Professional English-speaking local guides throughout the program
• Degustation of wine in Georgia
• 4X4WD transport and drive up to Gergeti Trinity Church
• 4WD drive in the Garni Gorge
• Lavash baking masterclass in Garni
• Degustation of wine in Armenia Winery
• 1 bottle of water per person per day
• Wi-fi in the transportation throughout the whole trip
• Group transfers airport/hotel for arrival/departure; One designated group transfer per tour
• All tours and excursions as per the itinerary, with professional English-speaking guides
• Entrance fees to sites and museums as per itinerary
• Our Representative with minimum participation
• Pre-departure assistance
• Comprehensive Pre-Departure Portfolio
• International airfare including seat assignments & baggage fees
• Private arrival/departure transfers (outside designated group transfer)
• Passport or visa fees (if applicable)
• Any meals not mentioned in the itinerary
• Drinks with meals unless indicated
• Trip cancellation and Interruption insurance (highly recommended)
• Gratuities to guides, drivers, Gay Tour Manager
• Items of a personal nature (laundry, phone calls, etc.)
Fairmont Flame Towers Hotel, Baku, Azerbaijan
Located in the Flame Towers Complex, just a 3-minute walk from the famous Martyrs' Alley, 5-star Fairmont Baku, Flame Towers features picturesque views of Baku City or Caspian Sea.
Modern air-conditioned rooms at Fairmont Baku, Flame Towers include contemporary décor and a flat-screen TV. A spacious work desk, fully-stocked minibar and panoramic windows are also fitted in all rooms. The marble bathrooms come with a glass wall and bidet. Guests are offered rooms with iPod dock station and a coffee machine. Certain rooms offer access to Fairmont Gold Lounge.
A rich variety of dishes is served in Fairmont's Le Bistro Restaurant featuring International Bistro and Local cuisine. Original and traditional cocktails can be enjoyed at Nur Lounge Bar. A selection of desserts as well as salads, sandwiches and sushi are offered at Balcon Cafe.
Luxurious spa treatments are provided in our spa center, including hammam, sauna and massages. Guests can also take a dip into the swimming pool or work out in the fitness centre.
Sheki Palace Hotel, Sheki, Azerbaijan
Offering a restaurant and a fitness centre, Sheki Palace Hotel is located in Sheki, 50 metres from Kahn Palace. The property features a sun terrace. Free Wi-Fi access is available.
Guests can visit Shebeke and Terrace restaurants and taste Azerbaijan cuisine.
All rooms are decorated in classic style and offer a flat-screen TV, air conditioning and a minibar. Featuring a bath, private bathrooms also come with a hairdryer and free toiletries. Extras include a desk and a safety deposit box.
Stamba Hotel, Tbilisi, Georgia
Set in the former publishing house of Tbilisi, Stamba Hotel – lauded as a flawless fusion of vintage and contemporary, is a living, breathing reflection of the city’s growing global significance.
Featuring uniquely designed and generously sized guestrooms, the hotel allures visitors at once. Yet there’s more to it: cloud-like beds, personal McIntosh brand hi-fi systems, La Marzocco coffee machines, gilded free-standing brass bathtubs and showers, minibars, and flat-screen TVs. The bathrooms come with slippers and hairdryers.
On the ground floor, there is Café Stamba - enchanting visitors with quintessential sentiments and style of the previous century and offering a great gastronomic experience: gourmet cuisine prepared with fresh and locally sourced products, signature cocktails crafted and served at the American-aesthetic pink bar, and the outstanding Stamba Chocolaterie – with its artisan chocolate and coffee.
Rooms Kazbegi Hotel, Stepantsminda, Georgia
Located at the base of Kazbek Mountain in Stepantsminda Village, 7 km from the 14th-century Gergeti Trinity Church, Hotel Kazbegi features a lobby bar with a library and free Wi-Fi.
Bathrooms come with a shower.
The Rooms Kazbegi’s stylish restaurant, decorated with wooden furnishings, serves international cuisine. Guests can read a book and have a drink in the lobby bar, while meals can be enjoyed on the terrace with the mountain view.
Tours about local culture as well as culinary masterclasses can be organized at a surcharge.
DiliJazz Hotel, Dilijan, Armenia
DiliJazz Hotel & Restaurant in Dilijan offers family rooms with garden or mountain views. Each room includes a private bathroom, air-conditioning, and free WiFi.
Guests enjoy a swimming pool with a view, sauna, fitness centre, sun terrace, and indoor pool. Additional amenities include a hot tub, outdoor fireplace, and evening entertainment.
Friendly restaurant serves European cuisine with vegetarian, gluten-free, and dairy-free options. Breakfast is a buffet, and meals include brunch, lunch, dinner, high tea, and cocktails.
Additional services include a lounge, outdoor seating, and live music.
Armenia Marriott Hotel Yerevan, Yerevan, Armenia
Centrally located on Republic Square, Marriott Armenia Hotel Yerevan offers soundproofed rooms with classic-style décor and fine international cuisine. A bar and an outdoor summer terrace are also available.
Behind its grand façade, the Marriott Armenia Hotel Yerevan provides spacious rooms and suites with flat-screen TV, minibar and seating area. Guests enjoy views of Mount Ararat or Republic Square.
A modern gym invites guests to keep fit. The seasonal, open air pool is the perfect place to relax after a hectic day.
Marriott Armenia Hotel Yerevan offers 24/7 service at Cristal Bar and Lounge, delicious breakfast at the M-Club, and an amazing outdoor café with a view to the Republic Square.
International Airfare
Turkish Airlines, Qatar Airways, and Lufthansa are among airlines that can be used to book international airfare for this tour. We recommend booking at least 7 months in advance if you want to use Frequent Flyer Miles.
Visas
American citizens need a passport valid for 6 months after your return to the USA, and a visa to enter Azerbaijan. You can obtain the visa through an eVisa application. No visa is required for Georgia or Armenia for American passport holders.
Weather
July is peak summer in Azerbaijan, Georgia, and Armenia, bringing hot and dry conditions across much of the region.
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