Transcaucasian Trail
- Kandoo Trekking
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Welcome to Armenia! Upon arrival at Zvartnots international airport, we will be met by our guide and driver and transferred to our hotel. We will then have the rest of the day at our own leisure.
After having breakfast at the hotel, we will start this morning with a city tour of Yerevan. During tour, we will visit The Republic Square, where we will see the stone carpet, hiding 3000 years worth of history and the architectural prowess of the Opera and Ballet Theatre, before admiring the enchanting panorama of Yerevan and Mount Ararat from the top of Cascade Monument.
Afterwards we'll visit the treasury of the Armenian manuscripts - Matenadaran. Founded in 1959, Matenadaran has one of the biggest collections of ancient manuscripts in Armenia. We make a stop at Tsitsernakaberd Memorial, dedicated to the victims of the Armenian Genocide before ending the day with a visit to a local Duduk master. Duduk is a traditional Armenian woodwind instrument known for its impressive sound. We will learn about the history of duduk and enjoy the performance whilst endulging in a coffee in the master’s garden. Our pre-trek briefing will then be held this evening at the hotel.
After having breakfast at the hotel, we will set off to the enchanting town of Dilijan, a picturesque settlement in the Tavush Province of Armenia, nestled in the northeastern part of the country. It is often referred to as the "Little Switzerland" of Armenia due to its stunning landscapes, lush forests, and fresh mountain air. After having a short exploration of the town, we will be transferred to Khachardzan village from where our trail begins. Khachardzan is known for its traditional Armenian architecture, charming rural atmosphere, and warm hospitality. From Khachardzan, we embark on a journey through the National Park towards Lake Gosh, a beautiful alpine lake nestled amidst the mountains. The crystal-clear waters and serene atmosphere of the lake provide the perfect backdrop for tonight's camping spot, in the heart of Armenia's wilderness.
After having breakfast, we will set out on the woodland trail from Lake Gosh to Lake Parz. On our way we will visit the majestic Goshavank Monastery, nestled in a picturesque setting, surrounded by lush forests and rolling hills. Goshavank is a medieval monastery dating back to the 12th and 13th centuries. It's intricate stone carvings, cross-stones (khachkars) and architectural elements are all characteristic of religious Armenian architecture. The trail concludes at Lake Parz, another beautiful alpine lake located within Dilijan National Park. From here we can either walk a further 3 kms to get to our camp or we will be collected and transferred in SUV vehicles. Tonight we camp below the tree canopy, in a clearing in the forest.
Today we embark on a scenic journey through the forested trails of Dilijan National Park towards the town of Dilijan. Along the trail, we will be treated to breathtaking views of the surrounding forests, mountain ranges, and meandering streams. Dilijan National Park is home to diverse flora and fauna, including oak, beech, and pine trees, as well as various species of birds and wildlife. Known locally as the Gyolort, we have the opportunity to see an incredible view of a huge alpine meadow blanketed with a rainbow of flowers, bursting into bloom. Here we take time to immerse ourselves in the tranquil beauty of Armenia's wilderness. Upon reaching Dilijan, we visit a local family and are given a masterclass in Tolma - creating a traditional Armenian meal.
After a hearty breakfast, we will be transferred to Jukhtakvank Monastery. Jukhtakvank, meaning "Twin Sisters Monastery," consists of two churches dating back to the 12th century. From here, we make our way through scenic, forested trails to Haghartsin Monastery. Haghartsin is a medieval Armenian monastery located in a secluded valley. Dating back to the 10th century, Haghartsin monastery is renowned for its architectural beauty, intricate stone carvings, and spiritual significance. After the hike we will be treated to some Gata (Armenian sweet pie) and watch as the locals craft it into a delicacy.
After a delicious breakfast, we will be transferred to Hovk village to start today’s trekking. As we ascend from the village, we are treated to breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside. The trail winds through verdant forests, meadows adorned with wildflowers, and rocky terrain, offering a diverse range of landscapes to explore. The highlight of the trail is reaching the summit of Apakeqar Mount. This majestic peak offers panoramic views of the Tavush Province and the surrounding mountains. We will marvel at the stunning vistas and take in the fresh mountain air from this vantage point. We then descend the mount to Hovk Village, where we'll visit a local family to enjoy a cup of tea brewed with locally harvested herbs selected by our host. This evening we are free to sample some of the local restaurants in Dilijan for our evening meal.
Today we cross the Armenia-Georgia border in Sadakhlo. At the border we will be greeted by our local Georgian guide and driver. We will then transfer to the capital – Tbilisi. Here we will have the opportunity to soothe our aching muscles in the ancient Sulphur Baths. These therapeutic waters have been soothing visitors for centuries. We will immerse ourselves in the rejuvenating waters of these iconic bathhouses, nestled amidst the historic charm of Georgia's capital city. We then have the rest of the day at our own leisure.
Today we have the whole day to spend at our leisure in Tbilisi. Explore the enchanting Old Town, a maze of cobblestone streets filled with charming houses and hidden courtyards, visit the Georgian National Museum with its impressive exhibits or sample some Khakali from one of the many delectable restaurants.
This morning, we will embark on a journey northward along the renowned Georgian Military Highway. Our first stop will be at the magnificent Ananuri Fortress, standing proud on the banks of the Aragvi River. At the centre of the fortress is a fortified 17th century church, adorned with captivating carvings influenced by Persian and pagan art. Our next stop will be at the famous Gudauri view-point. Surrounded by the towering Caucasus Mountains, we will be captivated by the awe-inspiring panoramas and embrace the thrill of the sheer drop below. We will then continue our journey to Stepantsminda, where we will take a short hike through the forest to the Gergeti Trinity Church, perched dramatically on a hilltop against the majestic Mount Kazbek backdrop. Returning to the town, we have time to explore before settling into our hotel for the evening.
Today, we drive to the village Juta, taking in the amazing valleys, torrenting rivers and alpine meadows as we drive through. On arrival at Juta, we set off on our hiking trail which leads to the majestic Chaukhi Mountains that are located on the main ridge of Caucasus, standing 3,688 meters above sea level. We continue our trekking route up to the turquoise waters of Chaukhi Lake, a smattering of rocks thrown haphazardly across the water. We immerse ourselves in this stunning panorama before returning to Stepantsminda.
The Truso Valley is a spectacular sight. Here, at the source of the Tergi River, the minerals in the water create vibrant explosions of white and yellow that melt into the crystal clear waters, painting an enchanting picture across the valley floor. We trek along the river bank and up to to Kasari Canyon and the abandoned village of Ketrisi. Here, we discover the remains of the medieval Zakagori Fortress. We then stop for a break by the breathtaking Truso Lake. Revived from our rest, we head deeper into the jagged peaked mountains before looping back to our vehicle and making the return journey to Stepantsminda.
Before leaving the Kazbegi region, we take a refreshing morning hike to the glistening curtain of Gveleti Waterfall. This hiking route is far from difficult and doesn't take much more than an hour, but the scintillating view of the cascading water makes it definitely worth a visit. In the afternoon, we hop back into our transfer vehicle and drive back to Tbilisi, where we have the rest of the day at our leisure.
Depending on your flight time, you may have a chance to explore Tbilisi some more before we transfer you to the airport for your return flight.
This
adventure in the Caucasus is full board whilst trekking. The region's gastronomy consists of rich pastries, meats and cheeses, eaten alongside fresh, vegetable salads. A
continental style breakfast is served at your hotel each morning and whilst camping you will be provided with cereals, cheeses,
cold meats and fruit along with plenty of tea and coffee. Each
day whilst trekking you will receive a picnic lunch for you to carry in your
daypack. Our lunches are all made with
fresh local produce and will include fruit, vegetables, cold meats, cheese and
lovely fresh bread. Evening
meals will be taken at the hotel or in a mess tent whilst camping. There will be a range of starters, main
courses and desserts for you to choose from at the hotels and you will get to try local delicacies such as Gata, Khakali and Chirbuli. Whilst camping, we will provide a three course meal each evening using locally sourced, fresh ingredients. In Tbilisi, Yerevan and Dilijan, your evening meal isn't included. This is an opportunity to head into one of the local restaurants and sample the locals favourites.
If
you have special dietary requirements please inform us as soon as possible
after booking your trip. We will work
with you to ensure your needs are met.
Please
note that Georgia has a very strict anti-drugs policy. This can also cover
prescription and non-prescription medicines commonly available in the UK and
US. For example, non-prescription medicines containing codeine are illegal.
If
you need to bring prescription medication with you to Georgia, please also
bring your signed Doctor’s prescription and the original packaging for the
medicine.
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From | To | Price | Availability | Book | Enquire |
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24/05/2025 | 06/06/2025 | $3,505 £2,699 |
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|
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14/06/2025 | 27/06/2025 | $3,505 £2,699 |
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|
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26/07/2025 | 08/08/2025 | $3,505 £2,699 |
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|
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16/08/2025 | 29/08/2025 | $3,505 £2,699 |
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|
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06/09/2025 | 19/09/2025 | $3,505 £2,699 |
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|
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23/05/2026 | 05/06/2026 | $3,649 £2,899 |
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|
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13/06/2026 | 26/06/2026 | $3,649 £2,899 |
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|
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25/07/2026 | 07/08/2026 | $3,649 £2,899 |
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|
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15/08/2026 | 28/08/2026 | $3,649 £2,899 |
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|
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05/09/2026 | 18/09/2026 | $3,649 £2,899 |
Available
|
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Want to ask us a question or book a private trip? Don't hesitate to contact us!
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