Explore Baku’s UNESCO-listed Old City, Fire Temple & the eternal flames of Yanar Dagh
Discover prehistoric rock engravings in Gobustan National Park
Cross from Azerbaijan into Georgia with a traditional Kakheti family lunch and wine experience
Trek through Svaneti to Ushguli and the Shkhara Glacier beneath the High Caucasus
Visit ancient cave cities including Uplistsikhe and Vardzia along historic Silk Road routes
From the fire-worshipping temples of Azerbaijan to the glacier-carved peaks of Georgia’s Caucasus Mountains, this immersive journey traces the cultural and natural crossroads of the South Caucasus.
Begin in Baku, where ancient caravan routes meet futuristic skylines and UNESCO-listed Old City walls guard centuries of layered history. Travel through Gobustan’s prehistoric rock art, mountain craft villages, and Silk Road towns before crossing into Georgia’s vineyard valleys and sacred capitals.
In Georgia, medieval monasteries crown hilltops, cave cities are carved deep into sandstone cliffs, and remote Svaneti reveals Europe’s highest inhabited villages beneath towering glaciers. Along the way, family-hosted meals, ancient winemaking traditions, bustling local bazaars, and highland trekking experiences offer authentic encounters with daily life. This is a journey through empires, faiths, and landscapes — where East meets West beneath the dramatic skyline of the Caucasus.
Download this tour’s PDF brochure and start your planning offline!
Signature Tour 
Welcome to Baku! Upon arrival, you will be met by your guide and transferred to the hotel. The remainder of the day is yours at leisure.
Baku is the perfect combination of Dubai’s megalopolis and Paris’ chicness with a splash of Soviet history poking its head out. Here, both East and West blend seamlessly. Home to the UNESCO-listed Old City, surrounded by an ancient fortress wall. Tree-lined streets, stone mansions, and elegant boutiques are taking over the depressing Soviet apartment blocks, bringing a romantic air to the city.
Overnight – The Merchant Baku or similar
Following breakfast, you will visit the Ancient Rock Paintings of Gobustan, which date back between 5,000 and 40,000 years. This UNESCO Heritage Site is one of the major and most ancient museums of rock engravings in the world. The site covers three areas of a plateau of rocky boulders rising out of the semi-desert and boasts an outstanding collection of more than 6,000 rock engravings. The site also features the remains of inhabited caves, settlements, and burials, all reflecting an intensive human use by the inhabitants of the area during the wet period that followed the last Ice Age, from the Upper Palaeolithic to the Middle Ages.
In the afternoon, take a walking tour through Baku’s Old City, including a ride on the funicular to Martyrs’ Alley, where sweeping views of the city unfold. Step back in time at the Shirvanshahs’ Palace, a 15th-century architectural gem known as one of Azerbaijan’s finest treasures. View the Maiden Tower, a striking 12th-century landmark, and admire the 11th-century Mohammed’s Mosque. Later, stroll along the scenic seafront promenade, lined with charming cafés and waterfront views. (B)
Overnight – The Merchant Baku or similar
Today, you will visit the Fire Temple, a 17th-century fortress-like religious site built above a natural
gas vent, once used for ritual sacrifices. Then, head to Yanar Dagh, or “Burning Mountain,” where flames continuously flicker across the hillside, fuelled by an underground pocket of natural gas—a phenomenon that has burned for centuries.
After lunch, explore the Carpet Museum, home to the world’s largest collection of Azerbaijani carpets, showcasing intricate designs and centuries-old weaving traditions. Continue to the Museum of History, where more than 350,000 artifacts trace Azerbaijan’s rich heritage from ancient times to 1920. (B)
Overnight – The Merchant Baku or similar
After breakfast, you will depart towards Gabala. Along the way, stop at Juma Mosque, followed by Shirvan Domes, a 15th-century mausoleum and graveyard from the Shirvan Dynasty. Your final stop is Diri-Baba, a unique two-story mausoleum mosque, also dating back to the 15th century. Note: the mausoleum is built into a rock face, and reaching the upper levels requires climbing steep stairs.
Next, travel to the quaint village of Lahidj (also known as Lahij or Lahich), where medieval charm lingers in its stone houses and cobbled streets. A renowned centre for traditional crafts, Lahidj is famous for its skilled copper artisans. Visit local workshops, watch craftsmen at work, and browse for handcrafted souvenirs before continuing to Gabala. Total driving time today will be around 7hrs (220km). (B)
Overnight – Gabala Garden in Gabala or similar
This morning, you will explore Gabala (also known as Qabala), which is a beautiful part of Azerbaijan with a rich and ancient history. Besides visiting the Historical Museum of Gabala, which houses many historic artifacts from the area, you can also see the renowned ruins of the ancient walled city, Chukhur Gabala, which dates back to the 4th century BC. From here, continue to Nij Village and meet the native Udin people, direct descendants of ancient Caucasian Albanians
Later, you will arrive in Sheki (132km, 2hrs) and visit Sheki Khans’ Palace, a magnificent work of Islamic architecture, known for its stunning frescoes and stained glass, as well as the House of Sheki Khans, famed for its beautiful internal decorations. Please note that no photography is allowed inside Sheki Khan’s Palace. You will also travel to the nearby picturesque mountain village of Kish (Kis) with its beautiful Albanian Church.
At the end of the day, you will return to Sheki with a visit to the local bazaar, where there is an amazing display of goods on offer and is a great place to mingle with locals and see how they shop, barter, and banter, as well as gain insight into their rural lifestyles. The bazaar is not a souvenir market, but a place where locals buy fresh produce, spices, and goods. (B)
Overnight – Macara in Sheki or similar
After breakfast, it’s time to continue your journey to the Azerbaijan-Georgia border (115km, 2hrs), where your Azerbaijani guide and driver will accompany you as far as the entrance to the customs area. Here, they will bid you farewell, and you’ll proceed through border control on your own.
Once you exit Azerbaijan, you’ll need to walk about 15-20 minutes through the neutral zone before reaching the Georgian border checkpoint. There, your new Georgian guide and driver will be waiting to welcome you and continue the journey. Please keep in mind, you’ll need to carry your bags through border control for roughly 15-20 minutes.
Once in Georgia, visit the beautiful 18th-century town of Sighnaghi, known for its charming old fences, small houses with tiled roofs, and intricately decorated balconies. From here, take in breathtaking views of the Alazani Valley and the Great Caucasus Mountains.
For lunch, you will visit a local family, where you will learn about local peasant life. You will see the locals’ gardens and vineyards, and then have lunch with delicious homemade food, wine, and Georgian Chacha – a strong brandy-like spirit (40-60% alcohol). Afterwards, drive to Tbilisi (112km, 2hrs). (B,L)
Overnight – Stamba Hotel Tbilisi or similar
Today, you’ll set out on a walking tour to explore the lively capital of Georgia, Tbilisi. First, your private vehicle will take you to the starting point, where you’ll set off on a walking tour wandering through the old districts, structured like terraces, and stroll along narrow streets lined with colourful houses, patterned balconies, and striking examples of modern architecture. Begin at Metekhi Church (13th century), which offers magnificent views over old Tbilisi. A walk through the city’s winding streets will lead you to its main landmarks.
Afterwards, take a cable car up to the ancient Narikala fortress (4th century) to enjoy the panoramic views of the whole town and then walk down to the historical domed sulphur bath area. (Note: The cable car may be closed for maintenance on certain days. If so, walking or a taxi will be the alternative.)
Finally, visit the Golden Fund of the Historical Museum (closed on Mondays), showcasing treasures that confirm Georgia’s legacy as the legendary Land of the Golden Fleece. After a day of discovery, you’ll be driven back to your hotel. (B)
Overnight – Stamba Hotel Tbilisi or similar
This morning, drive to Mtskheta, the ancient capital and religious centre of Georgia, dating back 3,000 years. Explore its historical landmarks, including Jvari Church (6th century) and Svetitskhoveli Cathedral (11th century), where the Robe of Christ is said to be buried. Both Jvari and Svetitskhoveli are UNESCO World Heritage Sites. It is important to note that Mtskheta is a major pilgrimage site, so it can be crowded, particularly on weekends and religious holidays.
Next, head to Borjomi Spa Resort, renowned for its famous mineral water, Borjomi. Visit the small park and taste the fresh mineral water straight from the source. Continue to Akhaltsikhe to visit the multicultural fortress complex of Rabath (closed on Mondays). Total driving time for today is 4-5hrs (235km). (B)
Overnight – Hotel Lomsia or similar
This morning, travel to Vardzia Cave Town, a remarkable 12th-century complex and one of the highlights of your journey. Extending for more than half a kilometre along the Mtkvari River, Vardzia was once home to approximately 3,000 caves arranged across 19 tiers. Today, just over 500 caves remain.
Explore the complex’s fascinating network of living quarters, small churches, refectories and wine cellars. At its heart lies a church carved directly into the rock, featuring remarkable frescoes dating from the 12th century.
Afterwards, enjoy lunch with a local family before continuing to Kutaisi. (B,L)
Overnight – Solomon Hotel, Kutaisi or similar
In the morning, you will visit a local farmers market and then continue to Okatse Canyon (closed on Mondays), which involves a 2–3-hour pedestrian route (approx. 1000 steps) passing through Dadiani Historical Forest, a 780 m hanging trail, and ending with a panoramic viewpoint. Here, you can explore Okatse Waterfall, the Dadiani Forest, and the Satsiskvilo River Valley.
Afterwards, get ready for the most exciting part of your trip – a journey to Svaneti, the region of the highest mountains and glaciers and the most abiding ancient traditions. Arrive in Becho, where you will enjoy dinner and settle into your family-run accommodation for the evening. Total driving time for today is 6- 7 hours (240km). (B,D)
Overnight – Family hotel in Becho or similar
Today, an unforgettable adventure awaits. After breakfast, you will drive to Shikhra village, where your hike to the Ushba Waterfalls begins. The trail first leads through a muddy forest, followed by the roar of the Dolra River, which originates from the Ushba Glacier. As you continue, the first waterfall comes into view – several cascades of water flowing down the mountain slope, creating a breathtaking panorama.
From here, you can either head to the base of the large waterfall, where the powerful spray fills the air, or take a higher route for a stunning view of the Dolra River Valley. The total walking time to the first waterfall is approximately 3-4 hours, with an elevation gain of 450m. If you find the hike too challenging, there is a café close to the walking track where you can take a break and relax while the rest of the group finishes. After completing the hike, you will drive to Mestia, where you will check into your hotel. You’ll then have the opportunity to take part in a traditional Kubdari and Chvishtari-making experience before enjoying a well-earned dinner. (B,Packed Lunch,D)
Overnight – Gistola Hotel or similar
Today, you will walk from Mestia to the enchanting village of Mulakhi, following a scenic route through meadows and forested landscapes for around two to three hours, with 650 metres ascent and 520 metres descent. As you approach, the village’s historic towers come into view, their centuries-old structures shrouded in mystery, giving Mulakhi the appearance of a picturesque drawing. The Svans chose a truly ideal location for this village, nestled in a breathtaking mountain setting. Upon arrival, you will have the chance to savour some of the finest Svanetian cuisine, a well-earned reward after your journey.
Following the walk, continue by road from Mulakhi to Ushguli for dinner and an overnight stay at a guesthouse. Ushguli is declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO. The village is located at 2200m and is the highest continuously inhabited village in Europe. The village is most famous for its abundance of watchtowers, and this is where you get the view of the highest mountain in Georgia – Mt. Shkhara (5068m). (B,Packed Lunch,D)
Overnight – Guesthouse or similar (basic)
This morning, you will set out from your guesthouse in Ushguli on an approximately five-hour trek to the base of Georgia’s highest mountain, Shkhara (5,068m), and the Shkhara Glacier, the main source of the Enguri River, which flows through the heart of Svaneti. The trek involves approximately 320 metres of ascent and descent.
The route takes you through lush alpine meadows, where you’ll have the chance to admire a stunning variety of wildflowers set against the dramatic backdrop of the towering Caucasus peaks. As you make your way to the glacier at 2,500m, you’ll witness the powerful forces of nature that have shaped this rugged landscape. After reaching the glacier, you will retrace your steps back to Ushguli before continuing to Mestia (42km, 2hr). (B,Packed Lunch,D)
Overnight – Gistola Hotel or similar
This morning, depart the Svaneti region and journey towards Kutaisi, stopping in Zugdidi along the way. Enjoy some free time to explore the town and purchase lunch at your leisure before continuing to Kutaisi.
Upon arrival, visit the 11th-century Bagrati Cathedral, an enduring symbol of Georgia’s history and medieval architecture. Later, explore the colourful local farmers’ market before enjoying a guided walking tour through Kutaisi. (B)
Overnight – Solomon Hotel, Kutaisi or similar
This morning, travel to Gori and visit Uplistsikhe Cave Town, an ancient rock-hewn settlement dating from the first millennium BC. Once an important stop along the Great Silk Road, this fascinating complex includes dwelling quarters, wine cellars, bakeries, a three-nave basilica carved into the rock and an ancient theatre.
Continue to Stalin’s Museum for a photo stop before visiting a local family near Kaspi. Here, taste unique organic wines produced using the traditional Georgian Kvevri method, which is recognised on UNESCO’s Intangible Cultural Heritage List. Afterwards, continue to Tbilisi. (B)
Overnight – Stamba Hotel, Tbilisi or similar
This morning is at leisure until it is time to transfer to the airport for your onward departure. (B)
Download this tour’s PDF brochure and start your planning offline!
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**Please note that this tour can be organised on request for private departures.
* Pricing is subject to change at anytime until full payment has been received.
* A minimum of 4 adults is required to guarantee this departure.
A non-refundable deposit of $1000 AUD per person is required to secure your place. Final payment is due no later than 60 days prior to departure. Travel insurance is mandatory for travelling with Crooked Compass. For full terms and conditions, please click here.
Small group tours providing intimate connections to gain a deeper understanding and emotional connection to the community, tribes, cultures and lands explored.
Exploring the world’s most remote reaches and challenging destinations requires a high level of expertise which can only be learned from first-hand experience. We know because we go.
In an ever-changing global landscape of rules, regulations and restrictions, rest-assured you are being looked after by those in the know. Given the remote regions that we explore, our passengers safety is our top priority.
Stay up to date with the latest travel trends and new destinations opening up. To be the first to go, you need to be the first to know.
Travel professionals are welcome. For partnerships or agent enquiries, we recommend contacting us directly.
This category of tours involves light trekking, walking, cycling, rafting or kayaking for a few hours each day with a small amount of inclines and declines. You will require a reasonable level of fitness and good health to participate. It is important to note that due to the nature of some of our trips, they may take place in remote areas (with basic facilities) and can involve long travelling days on various modes of transport.
Suggested preparation : At least 3 months prior to departure, it is recommended that you undertake aerobic exercise (this may include jogging, cycling or fast walking) for 30 minutes, three times a week. It is also advised to walk on variable terrain and in variable weather conditions. For a cycling adventure, road cycling twice a week is recommended and for adventures which involve paddling and kayaking, it is important to gain confidence and rhythm rather than speed prior to departure.
This category of tours involve trekking, kayaking and cycling for period of 6 to 8 hours a day at a fairly consistent pace. Ideal for people looking to slightly increase the heart rate. For our moderately rated tours, you must have a good level of fitness and also be in good health. It is also important to be prepared for variable weather conditions. Altitude may also come into play. This category of tours may involve visiting remote areas where facilities can be quite basic. Accommodation may also involve camping, homestays or basic accommodation where facilities may not be considered of western standards. To enjoy this style of travel, it is suggested for travellers to have a reasonable level of fitness and health, a positive attitude, as well as a fairly active lifestyle. An open mind is also required.
Suggested preparation: At least 3 months prior to departure, it is recommended that you undertake 45mins – 1 hour of aerobic exercise, three to four times a week. Some potential exercises that could be beneficial include hill walking with a backpack on over variable terrain and weather conditions, as well as running and cycling dependent on the activity you plan on undertaking.
This category of tours involves trekking, kayaking, cycling or other adventure activities in remote areas for up to 8 to 10 hours a day. It is important to note that with the remoteness of some regions comes a variety of other challenges such as variable weather conditions, accommodation as well as facilities. You must have an excellent level of fitness and good health to be able to partake in this category of tour. You must have confidence in your own ability and be in good physical condition. Includes extended periods of endurance.
Suggested preparation: At least 3 to 4 months of strenuous exercise, four times a week. When preparing for treks it would be beneficial to participate in hill walks with a weighted day pack (approximately 5-8 kg) once a week for aerobic fitness and strengthening of leg muscles. It is also important to do this on variable terrain to prepare for challenging adventures. When preparing for cycling adventures, regular bike riding (at least 4 to 5 times a week for 1-4 hours is essential). It is also important to cycle on uneven surfaces or even participate in other aerobic exercises such as running or swimming to build up strength and stamina. Altitude may also be a factor in these tours.
This category of tour often involves extreme trekking, cycling or other extreme adventure activities. It is important to expect remote and poorly defined tracks and to be prepared for variable weather conditions for 10 to 12 hours per day (may sometimes be more depending on weather and altitude). These adventures are suitable for travellers who have prior experience in strenuous travel and activities, are extremely fit and have excellent health. It is also important to note that some of the terrain on these adventures will involve trekking in snow, at high attitude levels and may require technical equipment.
Suggested preparation: It is important to note that physical fitness should be an ongoing activity, commencing around 5-6 months prior to departure, or even before if you have no prior fitness. Exercise should focus on building maximum endurance and stamina. Four to five hard sessions of 40-60 mins per week should be completed and can include exercises such as going to the gym, running, swimming or cycling to focus on building aerobic stamina. It could also be beneficial to prepare by hiking on rough terrain, in extreme weather conditions or partake in altitude training.
Our Signature Tours are the cornerstone of the Crooked Compass journey: meticulously designed small-group itineraries that balance authenticity, comfort, and ease. These are destinations where travel can be complex—from navigating evolving logistics to reaching places far from the usual tourist path—yet our expertise ensures your experience feels smooth, effortless, and deeply rewarding.
From the moment you arrive, every detail is handled with care. You’re welcomed personally on arrival and met for a private transfer to your accommodation, where you’ll join the rest of your group. Your guide will walk you through an orientation, helping you understand the rhythm of the journey ahead and settling you in with clear, practical insights from the very start.
Accommodation is selected for both comfort and character, reflecting the richness of its locality through thoughtful design, creative ingenuity, and a genuine sense of place. Whether it’s a boutique property, a sustainable lodge or a homestay, each choice is made to connect you meaningfully with the destination.
Cultural integration sits at the heart of our approach. Every itinerary is crafted with respect for local communities, aligning sensitively with their values and protecting the authenticity of their culture. Through this, travellers experience a deeper connection —stories shared firsthand, traditions encountered in their true context, and moments that shift perspectives long after returning home.
With a maximum of 12 travellers and our most trusted local partners, you explore with confidence, guided by teams who combine deep regional knowledge with an intuitive understanding of Western traveller expectations. Through the powerful medium of storytelling, our journeys inspire personal reflection and spark genuine emotion, turning travel into something transformative.
For travellers seeking even more flexibility or personalisation, our Tours By Design journeys are crafted with the same care — mindfully designed around your interests for a more tailored experience.
Why travellers love our Signature Tours:
More about our Tour Styles.
Our Founders Tours are rare, one-of-a-kind journeys personally hosted by Crooked Compass founder, Lisa Pagotto. Designed for the traveller who seeks more than just adventure, these exclusive small-group expeditions uncover places few have ever seen – experiences not featured in our regular collection, chosen for their depth, beauty, and story.
Each itinerary is hand-crafted by Lisa to offer meaningful connection and unique access built through years of trust and collaboration with local communities. Travelling alongside her gives you an unparalleled perspective into the world of ethical exploration – from the behind-the-scenes partnerships that shape our journeys, to the human stories that inspire them.
With an intimate group size and seamless support from our expert team, a Founders Tour is less a trip, and more a masterclass in discovery.
Why travellers love Founders Tours:
More about our Tour Styles.
Set sail on a rare journey across remote islands, wild coastlines, and untouched ecosystems aboard a small, luxury expedition vessel. Travelling by sea unlocks access to places few travellers ever reach – from isolated villages and pristine reefs to dramatic landscapes that can’t be accessed by land – while each evening, you return to the comfort of your beautifully appointed cabin.
These voyages blend adventure with refinement. Expert-led excursions bring you face-to-face with raw nature and vibrant cultures, while exceptional onboard dining, service, and comfort allow time to unwind and reflect.
To complete your experience, Crooked Compass can seamlessly craft pre- or post-cruise land extensions, ensuring your journey flows effortlessly from sea to shore.
Why travellers love our Expedition Cruises:
More about out Tour Styles.
Our Tours by Design experiences are private journeys curated exclusively for you by the Crooked Compass team. Whether you’re drawn to one of our existing itineraries, wish to adapt a small-group tour for private travel, or want to design something entirely new, we’ll craft a journey that reflects your pace, passions, and sense of discovery.
Why pay for inclusions that don’t fit? With Tours by Design, every detail is intentional – from the destinations and experiences to your style of travel and choice of accommodation. Each itinerary is hand-built through our deep local partnerships and expertise, ensuring authenticity, comfort, and connection in every moment.
Why travellers love Tours by Design:
More about our Tour Styles.
Our Partner Tours are carefully chosen group journeys operated by our long-standing, in-country partners — experts who share our values of authenticity, cultural respect, and meaningful connection. These departures, averaging between 17 and 22 travellers, are designed and delivered by our partners, while Crooked Compass manages your booking and provides full support from start to finish.
Enjoy the reassurance of booking through an Australian-based company, delivering our same personalised service and attention to detail you expect from Crooked Compass. We take care of the logistics, so you can focus on what matters most – the journey itself.
Why travellers love our Partner Tours:
More about our Tour Styles.
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