In summary
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Sports
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Duration16 days
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LevelIntermediate
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DestinationArmenia / Georgia
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AgeFrom 16 - 90 years
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CO₂-Emissions227.07 kg CO2
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Type of stayIn a group
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Languages
French
English
In a few words
This journey takes us to Armenia and Georgia , two exceptional and still relatively unknown destinations. Like open-air museums, these countries boast an incredibly rich cultural heritage. Nature lovers will also adore this trip to the heart of the Caucasus Mountains, a true playground for hikers. We begin our journey in Armenia. Easy hikes allow us to enjoy this well-preserved natural environment. Through visits to churches and monasteries, we discover the richness of the destination's cultural heritage. After a wonderful week of travel, we cross the border at Bagratashen and begin our adventure in Georgia, a small country nestled in the heart of the Caucasus Mountains. We hike at the foot of Mount Kazbek, which rises to over 5,000 meters. We visit Orthodox churches with exceptional stained-glass windows.
The highlights
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A balanced trip between nature and culture.
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Hikes with breathtaking views of the Caucasus Mountains
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Small group of 12 travelers maximum to facilitate interaction with locals
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Photos
Sport
Level
Hiking / Trekking
For those wishing to hike for 4 to 5 hours a day, covering an elevation gain of around 600m on trails. You hike occasionally and are in good physical condition.
In figures
Autre
- Average duration/day: 3h
- Average daily elevation gain: 308 m
- Average daily descent: 350 m
Management
During this stay, a supervisor will be present to guide and assist you.
Band :
1 supervisor for 1 to 6 people
Languages spoken:
French
English
French
English
Supervisor
Supervisor
Your guide is a French-speaking Armenian.
Program
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Flight to Armenia - Yerevan.
- Breakfast included
- Lunch not included
- Dinner not included
Flight to Yerevan. Airport pick-up and transfer to the hotel.Day 1 -
Hiking in the Garni Gorge - Geghard Monastery.
- Transportation 01h30
- Activity Autre
- Positive elevation gain 200 m
- Negative elevation 200 m
- Breakfast included
- Lunch included
- Dinner included
We depart for the pagan temple of Garni, a jewel of pre-Christian Armenian architecture and the only surviving Hellenistic monument from the early days of Armenian Christianity. After the visit, we hike through the Garni Gorge, dotted with striking basalt columns. We stroll through the heart of Khosrov Forest, one of Armenia's five nature reserves. For lunch, we are welcomed into an Armenian family's home. We watch the preparation of lavash (traditional bread baked in a clay oven) and sample local cuisine. In the afternoon, we visit Geghard Monastery, built in the 13th century and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. After the visit, we return to Yerevan. Along the way, we enjoy beautiful views of Mount Ararat, which rises to 5,165 meters. We visit the Matenadaran Museum, the most famous museum in the country. In the late afternoon, explore Yerevan city centre on foot, then have dinner in the city.Day 2 -
Khor Virap - Noravank - Goris.
- Transportation 05h
- Breakfast included
- Lunch included
- Dinner included
Early in the morning, we set off for the south of the country, renowned for its contrasting landscapes. Our first stop is the Khor Virap Monastery, overlooked by Mount Ararat (5165 m). We then continue our journey to the Vayots Dzor region, rich in history, art, and winemaking. Along the way, we stop at a small winery for an optional tasting (15-20 euros per person) to discover the local wine made from the famous endemic Areni grape variety. Afterward, we continue to the Noravank Monastery, one of Armenia's most interesting monuments, both for its architectural design and its location. We have lunch at a local restaurant and then continue south toward Goris, situated amidst a landscape of caves and fairy chimneys.Day 3 -
Goris - Tatev Monastery - Yeghegnadzor.
- Transportation 01h
- Activity Autre
- Breakfast included
- Lunch included
- Dinner included
A short transfer takes us to the village of Chinouhayr, from where we hike to the ancient village of Khot. We begin with an easy descent to the ruins of Chinouhayr, built on a mountainside. The Goris River flows below the village. Further north in the valley, we have a beautiful view of Khot and the fairy chimneys that dot the wooded landscape. We follow a trail along the hillside that winds through the village ruins and then past the foot of the fairy chimneys to reach the ancient village of Khot. After this lovely hike, we return to our vehicle, which takes us to the village of Halidzor. From there, we take the cable car to Tatev Monastery, which rises above the breathtaking Vorotan Gorge at an altitude of over 1,500 meters. This 10th-century monastery is the most important religious building in southern Armenia. After visiting this must-see monument, we take a beautiful mountain road to reach Yeghegnadzor. Overnight stay and dinner at a local's home.Day 4 -
Tshakhat Kar Monastery - Smbataberde Fortress - Lake Sevan.
- Transportation 03h
- Activity Autre
- Duration of the activity 5h
- Positive elevation gain 600 m
- Negative elevation 550 m
- Breakfast included
- Lunch included
- Dinner included
We hike through beautiful landscapes to the 10th-century Tsakats Kar Monastery, nestled in the mountains. After visiting the monastery, we have lunch and then continue our walk to the Smbataberde Fortress, which offers panoramic views of the entire valley. We then proceed to the traditional village of Yeghegis. In the 13th and 14th centuries, this town was the seat of the Orbelian princes. In Yeghegis, we return to our vehicle and head north towards the Lake Sevan region. Along the way, we visit the Orbelian (Selim) Caravanserai, built in 1332, and then the village of Noratus, renowned for its cemetery containing a large concentration of khachkars (Armenian cross-stones), some dating from the 9th to the 15th centuries. We continue our journey along Lake Sevan to reach our accommodation for the night.Day 5 -
Dilijan National Park: Hike from Lake Parz to Gochavank Monastery - Odzun.
- Transportation 03h
- Activity Autre
- Duration of the activity 3h
- Positive elevation gain 300 m
- Negative elevation 350 m
- Breakfast included
- Lunch included
- Dinner included
We leave Sevan heading north towards Dilijan National Park. As soon as we enter the Dilijan region, the change in landscape is striking. We leave behind the lake and pastures of Sevan and arrive in Dilijan, nestled in the heart of forested mountains. We begin our hike on the shores of Lake Parz, surrounded by mountains covered primarily in beech trees. Then, along a peaceful forest path, we gradually ascend to the alpine meadows. We then descend to the village of Gosh. Just before reaching the village, we have a breathtaking view overlooking the entire Goshavank Monastery complex. Dating back to the 12th century, this monastery is considered one of the masterpieces of Armenian architecture. After the hike, we drive to the village of Odzun, where we are welcomed by our hosts, Serguy and Azniv.Day 6 -
Hike from Odzun to Kobayr Monastery – Haghpat.
- Transportation 02h
- Activity Autre
- Duration of the activity 4h
- Positive elevation gain 200 m
- Negative elevation 500 m
- Breakfast included
- Lunch included
- Dinner included
We begin our day with a visit to the church of Odzun. Sculptures depicting biblical scenes and the Christianization of Armenia adorn this sacred building. It also features a unique funerary monument. After the visit, we make a short transfer to a small, ruined chapel dating back to the 10th century. It is located on the Odzun plateau, on the side of the immense cliffs overlooking the Debet Gorge. This is where we begin our hike. Initially, we walk along the plateau, following the cliffs, which gives us a breathtaking view of the Debet Gorge. Then, a small path leads us down into the gorge. Along the way, we sometimes encounter shepherds grazing their animals. We finish our descent at the foot of gigantic basalt cliffs. Below flows the Debet River, which originates in the Armenian mountains and continues its journey towards Georgia. We hike along the mountains and enter the woods where we glimpse the remains of ancient houses and chapels. Then, suddenly, amidst dense vegetation, the northern entrance to Kobayr Monastery appears. This site is rarely visited as it is only accessible on foot. Kobayr is one of the few structures where frescoes are preserved in excellent condition. After the hike, we transfer to Haghpat where we visit its monastery, one of Armenia's major sites and a jewel of medieval Armenian architecture. The monastic complex was built under the orders of Queen Khosrovanouche. Haghpat Monastery is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.Day 7 -
Akthala - Border crossing / Georgia - Visit to Tbilisi.
- Transportation 03h
- Breakfast included
- Lunch included
- Dinner included
Early in the morning, we set off for Georgia. En route, we visit the Akthaka Monastery, located just a few kilometers from the Armenian-Georgian border. Dating back to the 13th century, this monastery is unique for its frescoes. We continue our journey to the border. After clearing customs, we are met by our Georgian team, with whom we continue our journey to Tbilisi. We explore the Georgian capital on foot, situated on the banks of the Kura River. We discover the old town, crowned by the ruins of the Narikala Fortress. We wander through its maze of cobbled streets, lined with small houses with wooden balconies. We take the time to discover the city's magnificent churches. We visit the Metekhi Church (5th-13th centuries) and the famous sulfur baths. We also visit the History Museum.Day 8 -
Tbilisi - Mtskheta - Ananuri Fortress - Kazbegi.
- Transportation 02h30 - 160km
- Breakfast included
- Lunch included
- Dinner included
We depart north to Kazbegi (1750m), a charming little village nestled at the foot of Mount Kazbek (5033m), one of the three peaks over 5000m in the Caucasus Mountains. En route, we visit Jvari, a magnificent 6th-century monastery overlooking the city of Mtskheta, the ancient capital of Georgia. We explore this picturesque city, steeped in history and culture, which has earned it UNESCO World Heritage status. The grand 11th-century Svetitskhoveli Cathedral and the 12th-century Samtavro Church are among Mtskheta's most remarkable sites. We also stop at Ananuri, a 16th-century fortress, before continuing our journey to Kazbegi. Dinner and overnight stay with a local family.Day 9 -
Kazbegui - Hiking in the Trusso Gorge.
- Transportation 01h - 44km
- Activity Autre
- Duration of the activity 5h
- Positive elevation gain 400 m
- Negative elevation 400 m
- Breakfast included
- Lunch included
- Dinner included
We hike up to visit the Trinity Church (14th century), which offers a breathtaking panorama of Mount Kabzek (5,047 m), the second highest peak in Georgia after Mount Chkhara (5,193 m). Then we trek through the Trusso Valley, where the Terek River originates. This is one of the region's iconic excursions. From the small hamlet of Kvemo Okrokana, we follow the Terek River, crossing it several times. After a few kilometers, the landscape opens up to reveal the entire valley. We enjoy splendid views of the verdant gorges. Here, nature is pristine, and the high mountains offer magnificent panoramas. There are also numerous mineral and ferruginous springs that, over centuries, have formed multicolored travertine formations. We return to Kazbegi to visit our hosts. During dinner, we prepare khinkali, a type of dumpling typical of this region. Dinner and overnight stay with a local family.Day 10 -
Kazbegui – Gori - Cave city of Ouplistsikhe - Borjomi.
- Transportation 05h - 295km
- Breakfast included
- Lunch included
- Dinner included
Departure for Borjomi. On the way, we stop in Gori, a former trading city located on the famous Silk Road. In Gori, we visit the Stalin Museum, which includes a large museum, Stalin's birthplace, and his armored railway carriage used for his long journeys. Then, 15 km from Gori, we visit the cave city of Uplistsikhe (1st century). Arrival in Borjomi. Overnight in Borjomi.Day 11 -
Borjomi National Park - Vardzia.
- Transportation 02h30 - 120km
- Activity Autre
- Duration of the activity 5h
- Positive elevation gain 450 m
- Negative elevation 450 m
- Breakfast included
- Lunch included
- Dinner included
Departure for Borjomi National Park. In Borjomi, accompanied by a park guide, we hike through the forest on a trail that crosses part of the park and offers beautiful panoramic views of the town of Borjomi and the park itself. Departure for Vardzia. En route, in Akhaltsikhe, we visit the recently renovated 13th-century Rabati Fortress. Overnight in Vardzia or Akhaltsikhe.Day 12 -
Vardzia - Tbilisi.
- Transportation 04h - 240km
- Breakfast included
- Lunch included
- Dinner included
Visit the splendid 12th-century cave city of Vardzia. At its heart lies the Church of the Assumption, whose frescoes are exceptionally beautiful. We stroll through the underground passages, discovering this mysterious city, before heading back to Tbilisi.Day 13 -
Tbilisi - Visit to the David Gareja monastic complex – Sighnaghi - Telavi.
- Transportation 04h30 - 275km
- Breakfast included
- Lunch included
- Dinner included
Visit the David Gareja Monastery complex, the must-see and arguably the most impressive site in Georgia. It is located in a steppe desert on the border between Georgia and Azerbaijan. The site's origins date back to the 6th century, when David, one of the thirteen Syrian Fathers, settled with his disciples Lucian and Dodo in a cave in this semi-desert region. Over the centuries, the site expanded and became an important pilgrimage destination. Today, the complex is home to only about ten monks. We continue our tour with the Bodbe Monastery, where Saint Nino, the evangelizer of Georgia, is buried. We then stroll through Sighnagi, a recently renovated medieval town with a splendid view of the Alazani Valley and the Greater Caucasus Mountains. Overnight in Telavi.Day 14 -
Telavi – Tsinandali – Ikalto – Alaverdi – Tbilisi.
- Transportation 03h - 165km
- Breakfast included
- Lunch included
- Dinner included
We begin our return journey to Tbilisi, passing through Tsinandali, renowned for producing some of the country's finest wines. We stop at a family-run winery to discover the secrets of Georgian wine, traditionally made in amphorae. With the family, we also learn to prepare some culinary specialties. After a typical lunch shared with our hosts, we depart to visit Ikalto and Alaverdi. Our first stop is the ruins of the Ikalto Academy, where Shota Rustaveli, the greatest Georgian poet of the 12th century and author of the masterpiece of Georgian literature, "The Knight in the Leopard Skin," studied. Our next stop is the 11th-century Alaverdi Cathedral. Overnight in Tbilisi.Day 15 -
Return international flight.
- Breakfast included
- Lunch not included
- Dinner not included
Transfer to the airport and return international flight arriving in Paris the same day.Day 16
Note
Depending on weather and operational conditions, your tour guide reserves the right to modify the travel itinerary for your safety and that of the group.
Walking times are approximate and may vary depending on several factors: participants' walking ability, weather conditions, terrain, group size, etc. Transfer times may also vary as they depend on road conditions and traffic, as well as the size of the vehicle used.
This trip was created in collaboration with our partner Atalante, allowing us to offer you a greater number of guaranteed departures while combining our expertise and travel experience. As a result, you may find other Atalante travelers in your group.
Accommodation
- Days 1 to 15
We use a variety of accommodations throughout the tour:
- Bed and breakfasts
- Staying with a local resident
- Hotels, standard equivalent to 2 or 3 stars in France. Double room with private bathroom.
We stay in private homes and guesthouses for the rest of the trip, for a more convivial experience. Generally, we stay in double rooms with private bathrooms. Bedding is provided by the host families.
Access
Departure
Aéroport D'Erevan
Day 1
: 21h00
End of stay
Aéroport D'Erevan
Day 16
Go to the starting point
The nearest airport isAéroport d'Erevan
Regular flights depart from Paris. Arrival in Yerevan, Armenia, and departure from Tbilisi, Georgia. Few airlines serve both destinations, so our choice is very limited. Note that most airlines arrive in Yerevan and depart from Tbilisi during the night, between 9 pm and 5 am. There is a direct flight between Paris and Yerevan and Tbilisi with Air France, but these flights are not daily: no flights on weekends. Departures from certain regional cities are possible upon request and for an additional fee. Note: this information is provided for guidance only. Depending on availability at the time of your booking, the airlines and flight times may differ from the information mentioned above.
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Price details
The price includes
- Air taxes
- Transfers on site.
- Accommodation.
- Full board.
- Entrance fees to the sites for the visits planned in the program.
- Guided by a French-speaking guide.
- Service of an assistant guide (for a group of more than 6 people).
The price does not include
- Flights Paris / Yerevan / Tbilisi / Paris for departures in 2024
- Air taxes
- Airport/hotel/airport transfers (if you did not book your flights with us)
- Drinks
- Tips for local teams
Options
- Flight booking + Airport transfers : CHF86.91 / person
- Flex fare and insurance
Practical information
Specific formalities
Specifics
Before your departure, check with the embassy or consulate regarding the entry and stay requirements for your destination country. You can also find this information on the France Diplomatie website ( https://www.diplomatie.gouv.fr/fr/dossiers-pays/ ).
In the case of flights with stopovers operated by different airlines, also check the entry requirements of the countries you are transiting through.
It is your responsibility to ensure you are in compliance, particularly regarding the validity of your identity documents (for example, some countries require your passport to be valid for at least six months after your return) , visa requirements, necessary vaccinations, and health recommendations. And don't forget to consider any customs restrictions and other potential requirements of your destination or transit country.
ℹ️ Information may change up to the departure date, remember to regularly check official websites.
Equipment
Equipment to bring
- moistened towels of the "Calinette" type.
- Plastic bags for waterproofing your belongings.
- notepad.
- a toiletry bag and bath towel.
- sunscreen (face and lips).
- headlamp, with spare batteries.
- a water bottle of at least 1 litre, lightweight and insulated.
- Pocket knife, preferably multi-purpose.
Clothing to bring
Clothing, from head to toe:
- Trekking shoes. They are a trekker's best friend. They must combine three qualities: sturdiness, good foot and ankle support (high tops) and waterproofing.
- Light shoes or sandals.
- socks.
- trekking trousers.
- Shorts and light clothing for summer.
- Underwear. This is your first layer of insulation, so make sure it's good. Thin technical fibers, like Carline or Polartec, are very effective, warm, flexible, comfortable, and lightweight. They also dry very quickly.
- A warm sweater or fleece (when we're at altitude). Fleece has the advantage of being durable, warm, lightweight, quick-drying, and soft to the touch. The most suitable fibers, well-known to mountaineers, are Polartec, Carline, and Ulfrotté.
- Mountain jacket (for mountain hikes). The most effective jackets against wind and rain are made of Gore-tex or Micropore, a "breathable" material that allows for the rapid evaporation of perspiration.
- rain cape.
- Hat against the sun.
- good sunglasses.
They traveled with us
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The Paulin team
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For over 30 years, our local partner has been designing adventure walking trips around the world. Specializing in small-group treks, they cater to both casual hikers and seasoned trekkers seeking unspoiled natural environments and a return to the essentials. Their key strength? They own their own agencies in over 30 countries, guaranteeing complete trip creation from start to finish, without intermediaries. This direct, on-the-ground expertise ensures memorable active experiences and total freedom amidst breathtaking landscapes.
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