Yerevan to Almaty
Caspian Odyssey
By Private Jet & Golden Eagle
YEREVAN – LAKE SEVAN – TBILISI – TELAVI – GORI – UPLISTSIKHE – MTSKHETA – BAKU –KHIVA – BUKHARA – SAMARKAND – TASHKENT – BISHKEK – LAKE ISSYK KUL – ALMATY
Embark on a pilgrimage through paradise, with this 16-day immersive showcase of the mysticised lands of the Caspian Sea.
From Armenia to Kazakhstan, this epic adventure heads east through a magnificent backdrop of majestic medieval cities, breath-taking archaeological architecture, and palatial Islamic masterpieces.
Dates & Prices
All prices are per person and published in US Dollars ($).
We also accept payment in both Euros (€) and Pound Sterling (£). Please note we use a fixed exchange rate that is reviewed quarterly – contact us to receive a confirmed price in your preferred currency.
2026
| USD ($) | Silver Class | Gold Class | Imperial Suite | |||
| Twin ($) | Single ($) | Twin ($) | Single ($) | Twin ($) | Single ($) | |
| Sep 14 – Sep 29 | 30,700 | 46,100 | 39,700 | 65,400 | 69,700 | 139,200 |
| Deposit | 25% | 25% | 25% | |||
2027
| USD ($) | Silver Class | Gold Class | Imperial Suite | |||
| Twin ($) | Single ($) | Twin ($) | Single ($) | Twin ($) | Single ($) | |
| Sep 30 – Oct 15 | 32,300 | 48,300 | 41,700 | 69,600 | 76,700 | 153,100 |
| Deposit | 25% | 25% | 25% | |||
DAY 1 Yerevan
Upon arrival, you are met and transferred to the five‑star Alexander Hotel, where we stay for two nights. Ideally located in the heart of Yerevan’s historic quarter, The Alexander offers an exceptional blend of refined elegance and contemporary comfort. The hotel’s beautifully preserved façade, dating back to the 18th century, provides a fascinating glimpse into Armenia’s rich architectural and cultural heritage.
For early arrivals, enjoy a Freedom of Choice excursion this afternoon:
Freedom of Choice – Option 1:
Visit Etchmiadzin, the spiritual centre of the Armenian Apostolic Church and often referred to as the “Vatican of Armenia.” Founded in 301 AD, it is widely regarded as the oldest cathedral in the world. During our visit, we explore the Treasury Museum of Etchmiadzin, which houses some of Christianity’s most revered relics, including fragments of the True Cross, a piece believed to be from Noah’s Ark, and the Holy Spear said to have pierced the body of Christ.
Continuing our journey, we make a brief stop at the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Zvartnots Cathedral, an extraordinary 7th‑century architectural masterpiece renowned for its distinctive circular design.
Freedom of Choice – Option 2:
Alternatively, join a guided walking tour through central Yerevan, discovering the city’s lively streets, elegant architecture, and key landmarks that reflect its unique blend of ancient heritage and modern life.
This evening, we gather for a Welcome Dinner at an authentic local restaurant — a perfect opportunity to meet fellow travellers and look ahead to an extraordinary journey across six captivating countries of the South Caucasus and Central Asia.
Why not consider extending your stay in Yerevan with additional pre‑tour nights, allowing time to further explore this fascinating city and its surrounding region at your leisure?
DAY 2 Yerevan & Lake Sevan
This morning we explore one of Yerevan’s most distinctive landmarks, The Cascade — a monumental limestone stairway adorned with sculptures, fountains, and terraces. As we ascend, we enjoy sweeping views across central Yerevan, with Mount Ararat often rising majestically on the horizon.
From here, we visit the Tsitsernakaberd Memorial, a deeply moving complex completed in 1967 to commemorate the 1.5 million Armenians who lost their lives during the genocide of the early 20th century. Set on a hill overlooking the city, the memorial provides a powerful and reflective space of remembrance.
Departing Yerevan, our journey continues to Lake Sevan, one of the largest high‑altitude freshwater lakes in the world. We stop here for lunch, enjoying stunning views across the shimmering waters. Along with Lake Van and Lake Urmia, Lake Sevan was historically regarded as one of the three great lakes of the ancient Armenian Kingdom — collectively known as the Seas of Armenia — and is now the only one located within the borders of the modern Republic of Armenia.
After lunch, we return to Yerevan for an optional visit to the renowned Yerevan Ararat Brandy Factory, where Armenia’s iconic brandy has been produced for generations.
This evening, enjoy a dine‑around dinner at a selection of carefully chosen local restaurants located near our hotel, offering the opportunity to savour a variety of Armenian flavours at leisure.
DAY 3 Yerevan
Today’s touring takes us just outside Yerevan to the remarkable Geghard Monastery, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This extraordinary complex of medieval churches and tombs is partially carved directly into the surrounding rock, creating a striking harmony between architecture and nature. Dramatically set amid towering cliffs at the head of the Azat Valley, Geghard is one of Armenia’s most spiritually resonant and visually compelling landmarks.
We also visit the pagan Temple of Garni, dating from the 1st century AD and dedicated to the Sun God Mithra. Perched high above a deep gorge, Garni is Armenia’s only surviving Greco‑Roman colonnaded temple. Here, we explore the remains of an ancient fortress, royal palace, and bath complex before enjoying lunch in this spectacular setting.
Alternatively, guests may choose a gentle walk through Garni Gorge, following the right bank of the Azat River to admire the extraordinary natural formation known as the “Symphony of Stones” or Basalt Organ. This striking geological monument consists of towering hexagonal and pentagonal basalt columns formed by ancient lava flows that cooled slowly over time. Rising up to 50 metres, the perfectly aligned columns resemble the pipes of a giant organ, creating one of Armenia’s most celebrated natural wonders.
After an authentic Armenian lunch, we continue to the airport for our private charter flight to Tbilisi. This evening we arrive in the Georgian capital, where we stay for the next three nights at the Paragraph Freedom Square, a Luxury Collection Hotel.
Tonight, enjoy dinner in the hotel accompanied by a traditional folk performance — a lively and atmospheric introduction to Georgia.
DAY 4 Tbilisi
Hemmed in by the Surami Range, the city of Tbilisi stretches for nearly 17 miles (27 km) along the banks of the River Kura. Despite centuries marked by wars and fires that reshaped much of the city’s landscape, Tbilisi’s Old Town has retained much of its original character — a captivating spider’s web of narrow, winding streets and hidden alleyways.
Our sightseeing includes a visit to the 13th‑century Metekhi Church, a cross‑cupola church forming part of the former royal residential complex and dramatically overlooking the river. We also explore the 5th‑century Sioni Cathedral, the principal church of Tbilisi, before continuing on foot to discover the atmospheric streets of the Old Town.
We then depart the city for the elegant Chateau Mukhrani Wine Estate, where we enjoy a delicious lunch followed by an afternoon of local wine tasting, introducing Georgia’s renowned winemaking traditions in a historic and scenic setting.
After lunch, you may choose to continue exploring the Old Town on foot, visiting highlights such as Gabriadze’s Clock Tower, Baratashvili Street, and the historic Anchiskhati Basilica (approximately a one‑hour walking tour), or return to the hotel to relax at leisure.
This evening, enjoy a dine‑around experience at selected local restaurants, allowing you to savour Tbilisi’s vibrant culinary scene at your own pace.
DAY 5 Tbilisi – Gori, Uplistsikhe & Mtskheta
This morning you may choose between two fascinating touring experiences. One option takes us to Gori, one of Georgia’s oldest cities, founded in the 7th century AD and best known as the birthplace of Joseph Stalin, born here in 1879. During our visit, we see the modest house where Stalin spent his early childhood, now preserved beneath a protective canopy. Adjacent stands the imposing, columned building that houses the Stalin Museum, with exhibits that offer a haunting and thought‑provoking insight into the life of one of the most controversial and consequential figures of the 20th century. Nearby, Stalin’s private railway carriage is also on display. Alternatively, guests may choose to visit a local Ceramics Museum, showcasing the traditional works of renowned Georgian ceramicist George Tatulashvili.
The second option leads to the remarkable ancient cave city of Uplistsikhe, dating back to the 6th century BC and first mentioned in written chronicles of the 1st century AD. Carved into a rocky plateau, this extraordinary site reveals vast echoing halls, winding corridor‑streets, chambers once used for pagan worship, and even the remains of Georgia’s oldest theatre, complete with auditorium, stage, and orchestra pit. Strategically positioned above the Mtkvari River and protected by sheer rock faces and strong fortifications, Uplistsikhe once played a vital role in controlling the surrounding region. Despite numerous attempts to destroy it, the city survived until the 13th century, when the forces of Khulagu, son of Genghis Khan, finally succeeded in capturing and devastating the fortress. The loss of its 5,000 inhabitants marked the end of life here forever, lending the site a profound historical atmosphere.
Lunch today is served at a rustic local restaurant, accompanied by a private performance of traditional Georgian polyphonic singing — an immersive cultural experience that offers a unique and deeply moving introduction to Georgia’s musical heritage.
Later this afternoon, our explorations continue to Mtskheta, Georgia’s ancient capital and spiritual heart. Renowned for its historical importance and wealth of early Christian monuments, the city was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1994.
This evening, enjoy a dine‑around experience at local restaurants, dining at your leisure and sampling Georgia’s rich culinary traditions.
DAY 6 Tbilisi to Baku
This morning, we visit the Janashia State Museum of Georgia, home to an exceptional collection of archaeological treasures. Highlights include exquisite gold filigree jewellery dating back to the 6th century BC, offering remarkable insight into the artistry and cultural sophistication of ancient Georgian civilisations.
After lunch at a local restaurant, we transfer to the airport and board our private jet for the short flight to Baku. Upon arrival in the Azerbaijani capital, we check in for a three‑night stay at the elegant Four Seasons Hotel Baku, superbly located along the Caspian Sea waterfront.
DAY 7 Baku
Baku, the capital of Azerbaijan, occupies a striking position on the western shore of the Caspian Sea, along the southern edge of the Absheron Peninsula, curving gracefully around the wide sweep of Baku Bay. Sheltered by the islands of the Baku Archipelago and protected from harsh northerly winds by the peninsula itself, the bay forms the finest natural harbour on the Caspian. Baku’s international prominence has long been shaped by its vast oil and gas reserves, which transformed the city into one of the world’s great energy capitals from the late 19th century onwards.
At the heart of the modern city lies Icherisheher (the Inner City), Baku’s atmospheric walled Old Town and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Much of the surviving fortifications date from the medieval period and later reinforcements following the Russian conquest in the early 19th century. Dominating the skyline is the enigmatic Maiden Tower (Qız Qalası), rising approximately 27 metres (90 feet) — its origins still debated, though it is generally associated with the 12th century. Within the maze of narrow alleyways stand some of Azerbaijan’s most important architectural treasures, including the Palace of the Shirvanshahs, a former royal residence whose principal structures date from the 15th century, and the Synyk-Kala Minaret, completed in 1078–79, the oldest dated Islamic monument in Baku. We tour these historic landmarks by coach before continuing on foot through the evocative streets of the Old Town.
After lunch at a local restaurant, the afternoon is at leisure to explore Baku independently. Guests may wish to visit the striking Azerbaijan National Carpet Museum, delve deeper into history at one of the city’s national museums, or simply relax along the Caspian waterfront and absorb the city’s distinctive blend of ancient heritage and contemporary ambition.
This evening, we enjoy a truly special experience at the magnificent Villa Petrolea. Built in the early 1880s as the residence of the Nobel brothers, who played a pivotal role in Baku’s first great oil boom decades before the establishment of the Nobel Prizes, the villa has been beautifully restored and now serves as a museum celebrating this remarkable chapter of industrial history. Here, we are privileged to enjoy a guided private visit, followed by champagne, canapés, and an elegant dinner within its historic interiors — a fittingly refined conclusion to a day immersed in Baku’s past and present.
DAY 8 Baku
This morning we explore the UNESCO-listed Gobustan Rock Art Cultural Landscape, one of Azerbaijan’s most important archaeological sites. Located near the shores of the Caspian Sea, Gobustan preserves an extraordinary concentration of more than 6,000 prehistoric rock engravings, some dating back over 40,000 years. These evocative petroglyphs depict scenes of ritual, hunting, dancing, and daily life, offering a rare and compelling insight into early human civilisation. The landscape also contains the remains of ancient caves, settlements, and burial sites, underscoring its long history of human habitation.
Following our visit, we enjoy lunch overlooking the Caspian Sea, taking in the expansive coastal views before returning to the capital.
Back in Baku, the afternoon is at leisure. Guests may choose to relax and explore the city independently, or alternatively visit the Ateshgah Fire Temple, the historic Zoroastrian place of worship on the Absheron Peninsula, long revered for its natural gas-fed eternal flames and its role in ancient fire-worship traditions.
This evening, we reconvene for dinner at the Four Seasons Hotel Baku, enjoying refined cuisine in elegant surroundings to conclude the day.
DAY 9 khiva
Following breakfast, we board our private plane for a morning flight to Urgench, gateway to the extraordinary desert city of Khiva. With a history spanning more than 2,500 years, Khiva rose to prominence as a vital Silk Road oasis, strategically positioned along caravan routes linking Central Asia with Persia and the wider Islamic world. Today, its perfectly preserved historic centre, Ichan-Kala, is recognised as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Emerging dramatically from the surrounding desert landscape, Khiva is a truly arresting vision — a living museum of Islamic architecture enclosed within formidable mud-brick walls. As we step inside, time seems to slow. We explore a remarkable concentration of ornate mosques, elegant madrassas, bustling bazaars, and soaring minarets, their turquoise tiles and carved wooden columns bearing witness to centuries of scholarship, trade, and devotion. Wandering through its atmospheric streets offers an immersive journey into one of Central Asia’s most beautifully preserved historic cities.
DAY 10 BUKHARA
Bukhara is quite simply outstanding — one of Central Asia’s most complete and atmospheric historic cities. Like Khiva, Bukhara’s exceptional heritage was celebrated internationally during events marking its 2,500th anniversary in 1997, supported by UNESCO, which helped draw global attention to the conservation of its extraordinary architectural legacy. Today, the city remains a living repository of Islamic culture, scholarship, and trade.
The highlight of our touring programme is a visit to the Ark of Bukhara, the immense fortified citadel that once served as the seat of power for the Emirs of Bukhara, who ruled with absolute authority until the city’s incorporation into the Soviet state in 1920. Rising dramatically above the surrounding streets, the Ark is a powerful symbol of Bukhara’s political and cultural dominance across the centuries.
We also explore the grandeur of Poi-Kalyan Square, home to the iconic Kalyan Mosque and its towering minaret — among the finest surviving examples of classical Islamic architecture in Central Asia. Wandering through the mosque’s vast pillared galleries and deeply recessed niches evokes the spiritual and intellectual life of a great Silk Road metropolis.
Immersing ourselves in the vibrant rhythm of the city, we continue through the historic Trading Domes, once the beating heart of Bukhara’s commercial life, before gathering at Lyabi-Hauz Square. Shaded by ancient mulberry trees and centred around a tranquil reflecting pool, this elegant ensemble of madrassas and teahouses remains one of the city’s most evocative social spaces.
This evening, weather permitting, we enjoy a barbecue on the station platform before our train departs — a distinctive and convivial farewell to one of Central Asia’s most enchanting cities.
DAY 11 SAMARKAND
More than any other city, the very name Samarkand conjures the romance and splendour of the Silk Road. Founded in the 7th century BC, this legendary crossroads of civilisations rose to become one of the most important cities in Central Asia. Its breathtaking architectural legacy is particularly associated with the 14th to 17th centuries, when Samarkand flourished as the glittering capital of Timur (Tamerlane) and his successors during the Timurid Empire, attracting scholars, artisans, and merchants from across the known world.
Today we explore some of the city’s most celebrated monuments. At the heart of Samarkand lies Registan Square, one of the finest public spaces in the Islamic world, framed by three majestic madrassas adorned with intricate tilework and soaring portals. We also visit the monumental Bibi-Khanum Mosque, once among the largest mosques in the Islamic world, whose vast scale and refined decorative details reflect the ambition of Timur’s imperial vision. Our touring continues at the Ulugh Beg Observatory, built in 1428–29 by the astronomer-ruler Ulugh Beg and regarded as one of the most advanced astronomical observatories of the medieval Islamic world.
This evening promises to be truly unforgettable. As dusk falls, we return to Registan Square, now dramatically illuminated. From exclusive front-row seating, we witness a spectacular light and sound show that brings Samarkand’s extraordinary history to life, weaving together the stories of empire, science, and Silk Road exchange against the breathtaking backdrop of its illuminated monuments — a magical and deeply moving conclusion to our time in this timeless city.
DAY 12 TASHKENT
Today we arrive in Tashkent, the capital of Uzbekistan. Much of the city was extensively rebuilt following the devastating 1966 earthquake, resulting in its distinctive blend of broad avenues, monumental architecture, and Soviet-era design, which we explore during our guided tour.
Our sightseeing begins in the Old Town with a visit to the Khast-Imam Complex, an important centre of Islamic scholarship, where we are privileged to view one of Islam’s most revered relics — the Uthman Qur’an, widely regarded as the world’s oldest surviving manuscript of the Qur’an.
The tour continues with a visit to the Museum of Applied Arts, housed in the richly decorated former residence of Imperial Russian diplomat Alexander Polovtsev, followed by time in Independence Square, a symbol of modern Uzbekistan.
DAY 13 ONBOARD THE GOLDEN EAGLE & BISHKEK
Enjoy a more leisurely day of scenic rail travel, as we traverse the wide-open landscapes of Uzbekistan before crossing the border into Kyrgyzstan. In the late afternoon, we arrive in Bishkek, the capital of Kyrgyzstan, where we disembark for a short introductory tour of the city.
Our guided sightseeing reveals Bishkek’s distinctive Soviet-era character, shaped during its development as the capital of the Kirghiz Soviet Socialist Republic. We visit Ala-Too Square, created in 1984 to commemorate the 60th anniversary of the Kirghiz SSR, and stroll through several of the city’s leafy parks, which lend Bishkek a notably relaxed and spacious atmosphere. These public spaces provide a compelling window into the country’s 20th-century history, featuring monuments and memorials associated with the Soviet period, including statues of Karl Marx and Friedrich Engels, as well as the Memorial to the Red Guards.
DAY 14 LAKE ISSYK-KUL
Today, we enjoy an extended visit to the magnificent Lake Issyk-Kul, a true natural wonder nestled in the heart of the Kyrgyz mountains. Stretching over 170 kilometres in length and up to 70 kilometres wide, it is celebrated as the second-largest alpine lake in the world. Its name, meaning “warm lake,” reflects its remarkable resistance to freezing — a result of its depth, mineral-rich waters, and underlying geothermal activity. Framed by towering, snow-capped peaks, the lake offers a scene of serene and breathtaking beauty.
This morning, we immerse ourselves in the rich nomadic heritage of Kyrgyzstan with a privately arranged cultural celebration along the lake’s shores. Witness a captivating display of traditional sports and games passed down through generations. While archery may be familiar, few have seen the extraordinary spectacle of horseback wrestling, eagle hunting with majestic Golden Eagles, or “Ordo”, a strategic game played with cow kneecaps.
The festival is a vivid celebration of steppe culture, complete with music, dance, elaborate costumes, and demonstrations of traditional crafts. It offers a rare and enthralling glimpse into a way of life that continues to flourish in the highlands of Central Asia — a day designed to leave lasting impressions.
After the festivities, there is the option to visit the open-air Petroglyph Museum, where ancient carvings trace the region’s long human history, before returning to the Golden Eagle for dinner.
DAY 15 Almaty
This morning, we arrive in Almaty, our final destination, and bid farewell to the Golden Eagle. Our guided tour introduces us to the highlights of this vibrant city. We visit Panfilov Park, located in the heart of Almaty, where the park’s serene avenues and monuments honour Kazakhstan’s heroes. At its centre stands the Zenkov Cathedral, a striking 19th-century Russian Orthodox Church renowned for being entirely constructed of wood without the use of nails, and for its vibrant, colourful façades.
Following our tour, we transfer to the Ritz-Carlton Hotel, Almaty, where we stay overnight in refined comfort, marking a memorable conclusion to our journey through Central Asia.
DAY 16 Almaty
Following breakfast you will be transferred to Almaty Airport for your onward flight.
Why not extend your stay in Almaty with additional nights to explore more of the city and surrounding region at your leisure?
Tour Inclusions
Accommodation
- Five-star pre and post tour hotel accommodation
- Private en-suite accommodation on the Golden Eagle train
- 2-night hotel stay at the five-star Alexander Hotel, Yerevan (or similar)
- 3-night hotel stay at the five-star Paragraph Freedom Square, Tbilisi (or similar)
- 3-night hotel stay at the five-star Four Seasons, Baku (or similar)
- 1-night hotel stay at the five-star Ritz-Carlton, Almaty (or similar)
Service
- 24-hour cabin attendant service
- Experienced Tour Management team
- Services of a UK-registered Doctor and medical facilities on board
- Arrival and departure transfers
- All gratuities – on and off the train
- Luggage porterage throughout the journey
Excursions
- Expertly guided off-train excursions as detailed in the itinerary
- Freedom of Choice touring option
Dining
- Freshly prepared meals on board, using the finest local ingredients
- Authentic dining experiences in local restaurants
- Generous drinks allowance, including international wines with lunch and dinner
- Golden Eagle Gala Caviar dinner
- 15 Breakfasts, 14 Lunches, 15 Dinners
Tour Highlights
- Visit the monastery of Geghard, the cultural centre of medieval Armenia
- Sample delicious Georgian wine in the renowned wine-making region of Kartli
- Private performance of Georgian Polyphonic singing in the ancient cave city, Uplistsikhe
- Stunning 3D Light Show on the beautifully lit Registan Square, Samarkand
- Explore the historic, UNESCO honoured, cities of Khiva, Bukhara and Samarkand
GOLDEN EAGLE
The Golden Eagle, comprising three categories of cabins, featuring state-of-the-art amenities and en-suite facilities, is the only private train of its kind operating in these regions of the world.
UNESCO WORLD HERITAGE SITES
- Cathedral and Churches of Etchmiadzin and the Archaeological Site of Zvartnots
- Monastery of Geghard and the Upper Azat Valley
- Historical Monuments of Mtskheta
- Walled City of Baku with the Shirvanshah’s Palace and Maiden Tower
- Gobustan Rock Art Cultural Landscape
- Itchan Kala (Historic Inner Town of Khiva)
- Historic Centre of Bukhara
- Samarkand – Crossroads of Cultures
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