Archaeological Paths - Egypt Royal Tour With dr. Zahi Hawass, dr. Mostafa Waziri and a surprise VIP Guest.

Archaeological Paths

  • Armenia and Georgia
  • Unknown treasures of human history
  • Discover Pristine nature and ancient architecture

1. Overview & dates

Embark on a remarkable 14-day journey with Archaeological Paths to delve into the ancient heart of the Caucasus, exploring Armenia and Georgia, lands steeped in history, culture, and natural wonders, away from the usual tourist trails.

 

In Armenia, witness the awe-inspiring rock carvings that date back 10,000 years, offering a glimpse into early human civilization with depictions of hunting, agriculture, and celestial observations, including ancient zodiac signs. Explore Zorats Karer, also known as the Armenian Stonehenge, an ancient astronomical observatory dating back to 7600 BC, predating its more famous British counterpart and the Egyptian pyramids.

 

Journey to Georgia, where you'll marvel at the Prometheus Cave, a subterranean natural wonder, and be captivated by the country's rock-cut cities. Georgia is also renowned as the cradle of viticulture, with an 8,000-year history of wine production that continues to thrive, offering you the chance to taste some of the finest wines in the world.

 

Both countries boast breathtaking landscapes, from lush greenery to dramatic mountain vistas, and are home to exquisite monasteries perched in seemingly impossible locations, providing scenic views that linger in the memory. Experience the genuine hospitality of the local people, savor the organic and flavorful cuisine, and immerse yourself in the rich tapestry of culture and tradition that defines this region.

 

In Armenia, embrace the spiritual heritage of a nation that was the first to adopt Christianity as its state religion, explore the remnants of its glorious past, and gaze upon Mount Ararat, an enduring symbol of Armenian identity.

 

Join Archaeological Paths on this unforgettable journey to Armenia and Georgia, where ancient history and vibrant cultures come alive, set against the backdrop of the stunning natural beauty of the Caucasus. This is your chance to experience the essence of these captivating lands, creating memories that will last a lifetime.

 

Projekt bez nazwy (10)

Tour dates:
Availability:

August 11-24, 2024

Open places

2. Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival in Armenia

 

Upon arriving at Zvartnots International Airport in Yerevan, guests will be greeted by an Archaeological Paths representative and transferred to a premium 5-star hotel in the city. Post check-in, guests will have leisure time to unwind. The stay will be overnight at the hotel in Yerevan.

 

 


 

 

Day 2: Yerevan City Tour & History Museum

 

Enjoy breakfast at your hotel before embarking on a comprehensive city tour of Yerevan. Discover key landmarks such as the Kievyan Bridge, Presidential Palace, National Parliament, and the Opera House. Visit the History Museum to explore a vast array of Armenian treasures across archaeology, ethnography, and art. The tour also includes a visit to a renowned Brandy factory, where you'll sample three types of exquisite Armenian cognac, showcasing the country's reputation in spirits production. Savor lunch during your tour, and after returning to the hotel, enjoy dinner at a traditional Armenian restaurant. Conclude your day with an overnight stay in Yerevan.

 

 


 

Day 3: Yerevan - Echmiatsin - Zvartnots - Garni - Yerevan

 

Following breakfast, embark on a journey to Echmiatsin, revered as Armenia's spiritual heart and home to its oldest Christian cathedral, constructed between 301-303 AD. After exploring this sacred site, your next destination is the Zvartnots archaeological site, featuring the remnants of a 7th-century architectural marvel, including the Temple of St. George and the palace of Katholikos Nerses III. Zvartnots, once envisioned to surpass Echmiatsin's grandeur, presents a fascinating glimpse into early medieval Armenian architecture.

 

 

Enjoy lunch at a restaurant offering splendid views of the Geghard Monastery and a taste of Armenian culinary delights. Next, explore Geghard Monastery, an impressive 13th-century structure hewn from rock, renowned for its historical significance and the legends of sacred relics it houses.

 

 

Conclude your day with a visit to Garni, an ancient temple dedicated to the Sun God Mitra, echoing the architectural style of Greece's Parthenon. After absorbing the day's rich historical and cultural experiences, return to Yerevan for dinner and an overnight stay.

 

  


 

 

Day 4: Yerevan - Goris - Tatev - Karahunj - Goris

 

After enjoying breakfast, your journey continues towards the breathtaking Tatev Monastery, accessible via the world's longest cable car, offering a scenic route 5,300 feet above sea level amidst the mountains. The monastery, dating back to the 9th century, seamlessly blends with its natural environment, originally established on a pagan temple site in the 4th century. During the 14th and 15th centuries, it was home to the University of Tatev, a vital center for Armenian intellectual life, fostering advances in various fields and aiding the preservation of Armenian culture through turbulent times.

 

 

Enjoy a lunch featuring local Armenian dishes in Sisan before heading to the intriguing site of Karahunj, also known as Zorats Karer. Predating both Stonehenge and the Egyptian Pyramids, Karahunj is famed for its megalithic structures, sometimes referred to as the "singing rocks" due to the peculiar sounds they produce when the wind blows. This site, believed to have been an ancient temple and astronomical observatory, consists of over 200 large basalt stones arranged to possibly track celestial events. Recent studies, including one by the University of Oxford, suggest Karahunj might be the world's oldest known observatory, earning it the nickname "Armenian Stonehenge."

 

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Conclude your day with dinner and an overnight stay in Goris, reflecting on the profound history and natural beauty you've experienced.

  


 

 

Day 5: Goris - Ughtasar - Goris

 

Following breakfast, embark on an exhilarating jeep adventure to the Ughtasar petroglyphs, nestled high in the mountains. Discover a serene lake at the summit of Ughtasar Mountain, over 9,000 feet above sea level, which serves as a gateway to Armenia's ancient past. This hidden gem, one of Armenia's most intriguing yet lesser-known attractions, offers breathtaking natural scenery alongside a treasure trove of ancient rock carvings.

 

The area around the lake is scattered with over 2,000 dark volcanic stones, bearing petroglyphs that trace back to as early as 8,000 BC. These enigmatic carvings provide a window into prehistoric life, illustrating scenes of hunting, agriculture, astronomy, rituals, and native fauna, such as goats, deer, and wild cats. These illustrations not only shed light on the daily lives and spiritual practices of an ancient community but also pose intriguing questions, as the full significance of the petroglyphs remains a subject of ongoing research and discovery.

 

 

After a day immersed in the profound history and natural beauty of Ughtasar, return to Goris for dinner and another restful overnight stay, reflecting on the enduring legacy of human creativity and resilience etched into the mountain's ancient stones.

 

 


 

 

Day 6: Goris - Caravanserai - Noratus - Dilijan

 

After breakfast, set off to explore the historic Selim Caravanserai, situated along the famed Silk Route. This ancient rest stop provided shelter for the weary travelers and their caravans, as they transported valuable commodities like spices from China to Europe. The Selim Mountain Pass offers not just historical insights but also breathtaking views, connecting you with the countless traders and adventurers who passed this way centuries ago.

 

Post-lunch, enjoy a picturesque drive along Lake Sevan, a natural marvel that captivates with its vastness and vibrant turquoise hues when kissed by sunlight. As Armenia's largest lake and one of the highest elevated lakes globally, Sevan is a crucial water source, enriching the region's biodiversity and landscape.

 

Your journey continues to the medieval cemetery in Noratus, renowned for its extensive collection of 'khachkars' or Armenian cross-stones. These intricately carved steles, adorned with crosses, botanical motifs, and religious symbols, represent a unique Armenian cultural expression, with some dating back to the 7th century.

 

Conclude your day in the enchanting town of Dilijan, often referred to as the "Armenian Switzerland" for its lush forests and tranquil rivers. Here, amidst the serene beauty of nature, you'll enjoy dinner and an overnight stay, immersing yourself in the restorative atmosphere of this picturesque region.

 

  


 

 

Day 7: Dilijan - Haghpat - Akhaltsikhe - Rabat Fortress

 

In the morning, embark on a journey to the pristine Lori region, where you'll explore the medieval monasteries of Haghpat and Sanahin, dating from the 10th to 13th centuries. Nestled amidst breathtaking landscapes, these monastic complexes stand as magnificent embodiments of Armenia's architectural and artistic heritage, harmoniously blending with their natural surroundings.

 

After savoring a lunch featuring traditional dishes from the Lori region, you'll proceed to Georgia, crossing the border at Bavra. Upon entering Georgia, your first destination is the Rabat Fortress in Akhaltsikhe. Perched on a hill beside the Potskhovi river, this historic fortress, originating in the 13th century, has endured numerous battles and reconstructions, encapsulating a mosaic of cultural and religious influences.

 

Following a comprehensive renovation in 2012, the Rabat Fortress transformed into a vibrant cultural hub within its ancient walls, housing a church, mosque, synagogue, museum, park, shops, and even accommodation facilities, creating a unique blend of past and present.

 

Your day concludes with dinner and an overnight stay at a hotel located within the historical core of Akhaltsikhe, offering the exceptional experience of sleeping within the ancient walls of the Rabat Fortress, surrounded by centuries of history.

  


 

Day 8: Vardzia - Kutaisi

 

Embark on a journey to Vardzia, an astonishing rock-hewn city etched into the slopes of Erusheti Mountain. This architectural marvel reached its zenith in the 12th and 13th centuries under the reign of Queen Tamar the Great, one of Georgia's most revered monarchs. Vardzia's expansive network, comprising over 3,000 rooms and passageways carved across multiple levels, once provided sanctuary for up to 50,000 people during times of siege.

 

Today, visitors can explore the labyrinthine complex, marveling at the intricacy of its cave dwellings, chapels, and tunnels. The site's surviving frescoes and architectural details offer a glimpse into its past splendor, with Orthodox churches still adorned with vibrant, ancient wall paintings. Despite the passage of centuries, a dedicated community of monks continues to inhabit and preserve this significant cultural and historical monument.

 

Post-Vardzia, your journey proceeds to Kutaisi, Georgia's legislative capital and one of its oldest cities, rich in history and culture. Conclude your day with dinner and an overnight stay in Kutaisi, preparing for the next day's adventures in this historic city.

 


 

 

Day 9: The Cave of Prometheus, Gelati, Bagrati, Kutaisi City Tour

 

In the morning, prepare for a captivating journey to the Prometheus Cave, an enchanting natural marvel adorned with a myriad of stalactites and stalagmites. The cave's intricate rock formations, resembling columns and cascades, ignite the imagination, enhanced by a symphonic background and colorful lighting that adds a mystical touch. The legend of Prometheus, said to be punished in the nearby Khvamli Mountain for gifting fire to humanity, enriches the site's mythical allure. A boat ride along the cave's subterranean river offers a unique vantage point to appreciate these geological wonders.

 

Next, you will visit the venerable Gelati Monastery near Kutaisi, a testament to Georgia's rich spiritual and intellectual legacy. Marvel at the stunning frescoes and ancient manuscripts spanning from the 12th to 17th centuries within its walls. The monastery complex, including the luminous Church of the Virgin, serves as the final resting place for King David the Builder and was a renowned scholarly hub, earning it accolades as "a new Greece" or "the second Athos."

 

Your exploration continues in Kutaisi, one of the world's oldest continuously inhabited cities, rooted in the ancient kingdom of Colchis and intertwined with the myth of Jason and the Golden Fleece. The prominent Bagrati Cathedral, a symbol of Georgian resilience and architectural prowess, offers panoramic views of the city and is a treasured UNESCO World Heritage Site.

 

Conclude your day with dinner and an overnight stay in Kutaisi, reflecting on the profound history and cultural heritage that surrounds you in this historic city.

 


 

Day 10: Kutaisi - Gori - Upliscyche - Mtskheta - Tbilisi

 

In the morning, you'll embark on a journey to the village of Mia, adjacent to Chiatura, where you'll encounter the awe-inspiring Katskhi Pillar. This towering limestone monolith, crowned with a quaint church and hermitage, is steeped in legend and was largely unexplored until the mid-20th century. Recent studies have revealed its origins as an early medieval hermitage from the 9th or 10th century, with continued religious significance into the 13th century. Following a period of dormancy, the site saw a revival in the 1990s, culminating in the restoration of its monastery.

 

Next, you'll visit Gori, the birthplace of Joseph Stalin, where you'll explore the dedicated museum, his preserved childhood home, and personal railway carriage. The city is also home to the imposing Gori Fortress, an ancient citadel offering panoramic views and a glimpse into the region's storied past.

 

The journey continues to Uplistsikhe, an ancient rock-hewn town dating back to the 5th century BC. This remarkable archaeological site features an array of structures and artifacts carved from the rock, showcasing Georgia's rich history and the ingenuity of its people. The summit offers a striking 12th-century Christian basilica and breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape.

 

Your day concludes in Mtskheta, Georgia's ancient capital and a spiritual nexus, where Christianity was embraced as the state religion. Here, you'll delve into the country's religious heritage and enjoy dinner with wine tasting at a traditional Georgian restaurant, celebrating the local cuisine and viticulture.

 

Afterward, you'll head to Tbilisi for an overnight stay, reflecting on a day filled with discovery and enrichment in some of Georgia's most significant historical sites.

 


 

Day 11: Tbilisi - Ananuri - Kazbegi - Gergeti

 

En route to Kazbegi, you will make a stop at the historic Ananuri fortress, nestled on a promontory alongside the Aragvi River, roughly 40 miles from Tbilisi. Constructed by the Dukes of Aragvi, the fortress boasts structures that hark back to the 13th century, offering a glimpse into Georgia's medieval past.

 

Your journey then leads you to Kazbegi, set along the historic Georgian Military Road, an area celebrated for its unparalleled natural beauty and breathtaking vistas of the Caucasus Mountains. Here, you will embark on a 4x4 jeep adventure, navigating through verdant forests and past towering rock edifices, ascending to an elevation of 8,000 feet.

 

Your destination is the iconic Tsminda Sameba (Gergeti Trinity Church), perched high above the surrounding landscape and offering one of the most awe-inspiring panoramas in the Caucasus. The image of this solitary church set against the backdrop of majestic mountains has become an emblematic symbol of Georgia, capturing the essence of the nation's natural splendor.

 

The day concludes with dinner and an overnight stay in Kazbegi, where you can relax and reflect on the day's experiences, all while gazing out at the towering peaks that define this remarkable region.

 


 

Day 12: Tbilisi City Tour

 

Departing from Kazbegi, your journey leads you back to Tbilisi, Georgia's vibrant capital, renowned for its unique architectural charm, featuring intricate balconies and wooden galleries that paint a picturesque urban landscape.

 

In Tbilisi, you will visit the iconic Freedom Square, home to the statue of St. George slaying the dragon, a revered symbol of Georgian courage and resilience. Crafted by the esteemed Georgian artist Zurab Tsereteli in 2006, this "Statue of Freedom" stands as a proud testament to the nation's spirit. Nearby, you'll encounter the whimsical leaning clock tower, a creation that seems to spring from the imagination of Salvador Dali. Adorned with colorful mosaics and playful designs, it complements the adjacent Rezo Gabriadze Puppet Theatre, adding a touch of artistic flair to the cityscape.

 

Another highlight of your Tbilisi exploration is the Sioni Cathedral, a spiritual landmark steeped in history. The cathedral houses the revered Grapevine Cross, associated with Saint Nino, who played a pivotal role in converting Georgia to Christianity. This sacred artifact is not only a symbol of faith but also a link to the country's rich religious heritage.

 

Your day in Tbilisi concludes with dinner and an overnight stay, allowing you to soak in the city's vibrant atmosphere and reflect on the captivating blend of history, art, and culture that defines this Georgian capital.

 


 

 Day 13: Tbilisi - Sighnaghi - Tbilisi (Georgia) or Yerevan (Armenia)

 

 

After breakfast, embark on an enchanting journey to the Kakheti region, recognized as Georgia's wine heartland. This eastern part of the country is pivotal in Georgia's wine production, boasting an 8,000-year history of viticulture that has culminated in an exquisite winemaking tradition. Archaeological discoveries in Kakheti have led many to consider it the birthplace of global viniculture.

 

During your visit to the local vineyards, you'll witness the age-old techniques of winemaking using qvevri, large earthenware vessels used for fermenting, aging, and storing wine. This ancient method, unique to Georgia, has been recognized by UNESCO as a significant cultural heritage, demonstrating the deep-rooted tradition and innovation in Georgian winemaking.

 

Kakheti is also celebrated for its warm hospitality, picturesque landscapes, historic fortresses, and splendid churches, all contributing to the region's enchanting character.

 

In the afternoon, you'll return to either Tbilisi or Yerevan, depending on your travel plans. Both cities offer their own unique experiences, so your choice of departure city will cap off your memorable journey through this rich cultural and historical tapestry, enriched with the legendary heritage of Georgian wine.

 


 

Day 14: Departure

 

As your remarkable journey through Armenia and Georgia comes to an end, it's time to bid farewell to these lands rich in history, culture, and natural beauty. The Archaeological Paths team is committed to ensuring your experience has been nothing short of extraordinary, filled with unforgettable memories, insights, and discoveries that will stay with you for a lifetime.

 

For your convenience and preference, your departure can be arranged from either:

 

Tbilisi Airport in Georgia

Zvartnots International Airport in Yerevan, Armenia

 

Whichever airport you choose, we trust you'll carry with you the essence of these enchanting countries, their hospitable people, stunning landscapes, and profound historical legacy. Safe travels back home, and may the memories of your journey inspire you until your next adventure.

3. Travel Map

4. Pricing

Price per person: $9985 in a double room (deposit is only $1200 during booking!). If you are traveling alone, you can share a room with another tour member. If you would like to have a single room, the single supplement costs an extra $2985.

 

Payment Schedule:
- $1200 deposit during booking.
- Full payment is due three months before the tour.

 

Price Includes:

13-night stay at 4/5* hotels; 3 meals a day – breakfast, lunch and dinner; All sightseeing tours; Entrance tickets; English speaking guides; English speaking tour leader; Transfers in air-conditioned buses; Reception at Zvartnots International Airport in Yerevan; Airport Arrival & Departure transfers; Drinks during breakfast, lunches and dinners; Travel Insurance; Government taxes.

 

Not Included:

International flights.

 

5. Registration

 book now

 

To register for the tour, click on the above BOOK NOW button. Next, please make the deposit payment to confirm your place on the tour.

 

Since the number of places is limited, we encourage you to book the tour as soon as possible. Please contact us if you have any questions.

 

E-mail: contact@archaeologicalpaths.com

 

USA phone: 917-724-2772
Other countries: +1 917-724-2772

 

Office hours: 8am–8pm EST Monday–Friday &  9am–5pm EST Saturdays.

 

 

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