Caspian Odyssey by Private Jet, Luxury Train & Tajikistan – LUXURY RAIL

Welcome to Armenia! Upon arrival at Yerevan International Airport, you will be met and transferred to the five-star Alexander Hotel, where you will stay for two nights.

Boasting a prestigious central location the Alexander, a Luxury Collection Hotel, is located in the heart of Yerevan’s historic quarter and allows guests a relaxing stay in luxurious surroundings. Even the hotel’s facade with a history dating back to the 18th century presents a unique glimpse into the country’s fascinating past.

For early arrivals to Yerevan, do not miss the opportunity to take advantage this afternoon of a Freedom of Choice option to visit the Mother Cathedral of the Armenian Apostolic Church, often referred to as the Vatican of Armenia. Built in 301 AD, Etchmiadzin is considered the oldest cathedral in the world. During the tour, we will visit the Treasury Museum of Etchmiadzin. The exhibition showcases important Christian relics, such as the pieces of the True Cross, a fragment of Noah’s Ark, and the Holy Spear which pierced the body of Christ. After Etchmiadzin we make a brief stop at the UNESCO World Heritage Site Zvartnots Cathedral. Built in the 7th century, the cathedral features a unique circular shape. From here we make a stop at the Tsitsernakaberd Memorial. This expansive complex, which was completed in 1967, was built to honour the 1.5 million Armenians killed by genocide during the 20th century. Today, the hillside memorial serves as a destination for pilgrims who want to pay homage to the fallen.

Welcome dinner

Tonight, enjoy a Welcome Dinner at an authentic local restaurant – the perfect opportunity to meet your fellow travellers and look forward to the journey across seven captivating countries of the South Caucasus region and Central Asia.

Accommodation

Alexander Hotel or similar

Meals

Dinner

The Yerevan skyline is dominated by Mount Ararat in nearby Turkey, with its snow-covered peak towering in the distance. Yerevan has a rich history; it was occupied as early as 6,000 BC and the fortress of Erebuni was erected there in the 8th century BC. Seized by a succession of conquerors, the city later passed back and forth between the Turks and the Persians until 1827, when it was taken by Russia. It became the capital of Soviet Armenia in 1920 and following the demise of the Soviet Union, the capital of the new nation of Armenia.

Geghard Monastery

Travel 23 miles (37 km) out of Yerevan to the ancient Geghard Monastery. The beautiful monastery contains a number of churches and tombs, many of them cut into the rock. The complex of medieval architecture is set into a landscape of great natural beauty, surrounded by towering cliffs at the head of the Azat Valley.

Garni

You will also visit the 1st century pagan temple of Garni, built to worship the Sun God Mitra. You will have the opportunity to explore the fascinating remains of an ancient fortress, palace, and baths there. Lunch will also be taken at this stunning location.

Armenian Wine Company

This evening, head to the Armenia Wine Company, located close to Yerevan. Here you have opportunity to explore the entire process of Armenian wine making technology, walk through the factory cellars, learn about the evolution of Armenian wine making history at the special museum and try the premium wines followed by authentic and exclusive dinner.

Accommodation

Alexander Hotel or similar

Meals

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

This morning, visit The Cascade, a giant stairway made of limestone. The stairs afford walkers unobstructed views of central Yerevan and Mount Ararat in the distance. Located inside the staircase is the Casfesjian Museum of Modern Art, where we make a short visit.

Lake Sevan

Leaving Yerevan your journey takes you to Lake Sevan, where you stop for lunch with stunning views.  Along with Lake Van and Lake Urmia, Sevan was considered one of the three great lakes of the historical Armenian Kingdom, collectively referred to as the Seas of Armenia; it is the only one within the boundaries of today’s Republic of Armenia.

Dilijan

After lunch, continue by road, to the Armenian-Georgian border in Bagratashen driving through the spa town of Dilijan well known for its forest landscapes and medicinal mineral water before we make a coffee & brandy stop at Avan Dzoraget Hotel. nestled amongst the forest-covered hills and rocky slopes of the Caucasus Mountains.

This evening, arrive at the Georgian capital of Tbilisi, where we stay for the next three nights at the Marriott Hotel.

Accommodation

Marriott Hotel Tbilisi or similar

Meals

Breakfast, Lunch

Hemmed in by the Surami Range, the city of Tbilisi extends for 17 miles (27 km) along the banks of the River Kura. Despite the wars and fires which caused innumerable changes in the topography of Tbilisi, the old part of the city still retains much of its original layout, a spider’s web of narrow winding streets and alleyways.

Historical sites you will visit include the 13th century Metekhi church, a cross cupola church which forms part of the Royal Residential complex, and the 5th century Sioni Cathedral, the main church of Tbilisi. You will also visit the recently built Holy Trinity Cathedral, one of the largest Orthodox churches in the world, and take a walking tour of the old town and Rustaveli Avenue. Here you will see the Great Hall of the Georgian Philharmonia. Built in 1969-71, it has been acknowledged as one of the finest public buildings since the Second World War. Moreover, there will be the chance to see the treasures of the city housed in the Janashia Museum of Georgia.

Accommodation

Marriott Hotel Tbilisi or similar

Meals

Breakfast, Lunch

Gori is one of the oldest cities in Georgia, founded in the 7th century AD as Tontio. Joseph Stalin, the Soviet leader, was born here in 1879. He spent his childhood years in the city and later (1888-94) studied at its theological seminary. The small house where Stalin was born is preserved under a canopy outside the huge columned palace-like building that houses the Stalin Museum. To the side of the museum is Stalin’s private railway carriage. The museum offers a haunting and fascinating insight into a man responsible for more deaths and suffering than any other human being.

Uplistsikhe

The famous cave city of Uplistsikhe dates from the 6th century BC and is first mentioned in the chronicles of the 1st century AD. Carved into rocky plateau we find huge echoing halls, meandering corridor-streets, chambers for pagan worship and even the remains of Georgia’s oldest theatre, complete with auditorium, stage and orchestra pit. Like the other cave-towns of Georgia, it is rooted in the prehistoric traditions of the peoples of the Near East. On one side the fortress was protected by the Mtkvari and an almost vertical rock face; on the other, by powerful fortifications. Its strategic position on the approaches to Gori and its strong defences made it possible to control the surrounding terrain. There were numerous attempts to destroy Uplistsikhe. Only in the 13th century, however, did the hordes of Genghis Khan’s son Khulagu succeed in doing so, after capturing and destroying many fortresses in Transcaucasia with the help of siege machines. The 5,000 inhabitants of Uplistsikhe perished and life ended forever in the fortress.

Mtskheta

Late afternoon, our explorations will take you to the city of Mtskheta, Georgia’s Old Capital. Due to its historical significance and numerous ancient monuments, Mtskheta became a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1994. During today you will also enjoy a private performance of traditional Georgian polyphonic singing – this is an immersive experience which offers a truly unique insight into the beautiful local culture and heritage.

Accommodation

Marriott Hotel Tbilisi or similar

Meals

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

This morning you will visit a Georgian winery.

After lunch in the city, board your private jet for the short flight to Baku. Upon arrival, you will stay for three nights at the Four Seasons Baku.

Accommodation

Four Seasons Baku or similar

Meals

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Baku, capital of Azerbaijan, lies on the western shore of the Caspian Sea and the southern side of the Apsheron Peninsula, around the wide, curving sweep of the Bay of Baku. The bay, sheltered by the islands of the Baku Archipelago, provides the best harbour of the Caspian Sea, while the Apsheron Peninsula gives protection from violent northerly winds. Baku derives its international importance from its huge oil industry. The core of present-day Baku is the Old Town, or fortress of Icheri-Shekher. Most of the walls, strengthened after the Russian conquest in 1806, survive, as does the 90 ft (27 m) tower of Kyz-Kalasy (Maiden Tower, 12th century). The walled old town is highly picturesque, with its maze of narrow alleys and ancient buildings. These include the Palace of the Shirvan-Shahs, now a museum, the oldest part of which dates from the 11th century. Also of the 11th century is the Synyk-Kala Minaret and Mosque (1078-79).

Other notable historic buildings are the Law Court (Divan-Khan), the Dzhuma-Mechet Minaret, and the mausoleum of the astronomer Seida Bakuvi. Around the walls of the fortress, the regular streets and imposing buildings of modern Baku rise up the slopes of the amphitheatre of hills surrounding the bay.

Accommodation

Four Seasons Baku or similar

Meals

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

This morning we offer a Freedom of Choice tour to Gobustan Rock Art Cultural Landscape. Located 40 miles (64 km) from Baku on the west bank of the Caspian Sea, Gobustan is an outstanding archaeological site of more than 6,000 pre-historic rock engravings. The area also features the remains of inhabited caves, settlements and burials. This is followed by lunch overlooking the Caspian Sea.

Returning to the city in the afternoon, you can choose to enjoy free time in the city or visit a local theatre. Dinner will be held in a traditional local restaurant this evening.

Accommodation

Four Seasons Baku or similar

Meals

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Following breakfast, take a morning flight onboard your private plane to Ashgabat. The capital of Turkmenistan is known as the ‘Las Vegas of the Kara Kum’. Situated between the Kara Kum desert and the Kopet Dag mountain range, Ashgabat is a relatively modern city built upon the ruins of the Silk Road city of Konjikala and the Soviet city built after the devastating earthquake of 1948.

Ashgabat

The city’s extravagant fountains, golden domes and towering modern buildings appear strangely incongruous in this desert setting. Highlights on our visit include a trip to the National Museum and Kipchak Mosque.

Upon arrival, you will board the Golden Eagle. Once settled into your cabins, lunch will be served in the Restaurant Cars. This afternoon, you have the opportunity to explore Ashgabat and highlights on our panoramic city tour includes visits to the National Museum and Wedding Palace.

National Museum of History and Ethnography of Turkmenistan

Visit the National Museum of History & Ethnography. The museum has a rich collection of ancient artefacts from Turkmenistan. More than 500,000 exhibits are displayed here. It has 9 halls, each dedicated to a certain period or theme. The museum reveals the variety of Turkmenistan’s landscape its flora and fauna, fossils and rare geological finds. The Hall of Independence illustrates the modern development of the country. The Hall of Ancient History presents a collection of flint tools from the Mesolithic era (50,000 years B.C.), used by primitive people in Western Turkmenistan, along with Neolithic ceramics and ornaments from the first human settlements along the northern slopes of Kopet-Dag

Kipchak Mosque

The Kipchak Mosque, one of the largest in Central Asia which stands as a symbol of national pride, with its gleaming white marble facade, adorned with golden domes and towering minarets that dominate the desert skyline. It serves as a tribute to the nation’s late president and is surrounded by an impressive courtyard and the final resting place of the first president of Turkmenistan.

Wedding Palace

The Wedding Palace contrasts with its modernist, futuristic design. Resembling a gigantic, intricate star, this iconic structure represents a blend of contemporary style and national symbolism, and it stands as a vibrant hub for Turkmen celebrations.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Accommodation: Golden Eagle Train

A further morning of touring in Turkmenistan features a visit to nearby Nisa.

Old Nisa

This morning, you will explore the archaeological site of Old Nissa (a UNESCO World Heritage-listed site) Nisa is described as one of the first capitals of the Parthians. It was founded by Arsaces I (reigned c. 250 BC – 211BC), and is reputedly the royal necropolis of the Parthian Kings, although it has neither been established that the fortress at Nissa was a royal residence nor a mausoleum.

The Golden Eagle departs Ashgabat at lunch and makes a scheduled stop tonight at Ichoguz. You leave the train and make a short journey to Darvaza gas crater located in the middle of the Karakum desert. Known as the ‘Door to Hell’. The Darvaza area is rich in natural gas. While drilling in 1971, Soviet geologists tapped into a cavern filled with natural gas. The ground beneath the drilling rig collapsed, leaving a large hole with a diameter of 70 metres. To avoid poisonous gas discharge, it was decided the best solution was to burn it off. Geologists had hoped the fire would use all the fuel in a matter of days, but the gas is still burning today. In the evening, watch the spectacular and fascinating view of the gas crater flame away into the remoteness of the Karakum desert.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Accommodation: Golden Eagle Train

Your train travels towards Urgench, from where you will transfer to the ancient city of Khiva.

Khiva

Khiva is a city of approximately 50,000 people located in the Xorazm Region of Uzbekistan. According to archaeological data, the city was established at the beginning of the Christian era. It is the former capital of Khwarezmia and the Khanate of Khiva. As one of the Silk Road’s most important trading posts and now a World Heritage Site, it lies at the crossroads of the routes between Mongolia, Russia, China and Persia. A truly magnificent sight to behold, it rises out of the desert to reveal a wealth of impressive architecture. Stepping back in time, discover its impressive mosques, bazaars and minarets within Khiva’s ancient walls.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Accommodation: Golden Eagle Train

Bukhara is quite simply outstanding. Like Khiva, UNESCO sponsored the renovation of much of the city for its 2,500th anniversary in 1999.

The Ark

The highlight of this wonderful tour is a visit to The Ark, a fortified residence of the Emirs of Bukhara – the despotic and ruthless leaders who ruled until Soviet times. Your touring program will also transport you to the grandeur of Poi-Kalyan Square, home to the iconic Kalyan Mosque, a living relic of traditional Islamic design. Stroll through the mosque’s large maksura rooms, pillar-domed galleries, and deeply recessed niches, and you will be transported to a bygone era.

Immerse yourself in the lively pulse of the city as we explore the bustling Trading Domes of Bukhara and gather at Lyabi-Hauz Square, a vibrant social hub cocooned by a pool and embraced by the soothing shade of mulberry trees and local tea rooms.

This evening, weather permitting, we will enjoy a barbecue on the station platform before our train departs – a unique farewell to an incredible city.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Accommodation: Golden Eagle Train

More so than any other town, just the mention of Samarkand instantly conjures up evocative images of the Silk Road. Founded in the 6^th century BC, Samarkand’s stunning architecture hints at its former status as one of the most important cities in Asia and is particularly noted for its architectural remains from the 14th to the 17th century, when it flourished as the fabled capital of the Mongol empire of Timur and his successors.

Samarkand City Tour

Today you will visit some of its most significant sites including Registan Square, the refined elegance of the beautifully proportioned Bibi Khanum Mosque and the Ulag Beg observatory, one of the earliest Islamic astronomical observatories built in 1428.

Prepare for an unforgettable evening in Samarkand that will leave an indelible mark on your memory. As the sun sets and night descends upon this ancient city, you will be whisked away to the illuminated Registan Square, where an extraordinary spectacle unfolds. From your prime front-row seats, you’ll be treated to a dazzling light show that weaves the rich tapestry of Samarkand’s history and significance.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Accommodation: Golden Eagle Train

Tashkent is the capital city of Uzbekistan and you will spend time touring this modern Soviet-style city which was rebuilt following the devastating earthquake of 1966. Your tour of the city includes the Old Town, where traditional homes and religious buildings line the narrow streets and here in a small library you’ll be privileged to see one of Islam’s most sacred relics – the world’s oldest Koran. This is followed by a visit to the Railway Museum and the Museum of Applied Arts.

This evening, enjoy your dinner onboard the Golden Eagle as your travel overnight to your next destination of Almaty, Kazakhstan.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Accommodation: Golden Eagle Train

This morning, arrive into Almaty, Kazakhstan our final destination onboard the Golden Eagle Train. Bid farewell to the Golden Eagle. Today you will take a tour of Almaty including a visit to Panfilov Park, located in the heart of the city, and home to the Zenkov Cathedral, a 19th century Russian Orthodox Church made entirely of wood.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Accommodation: Ritz Carlton Almaty or similar

Following breakfast you will transfer to the airport for your flight to Dushanbe, Tajikistan. Dushanbe, on the Varzob River, is the capital of Tajikistan.

Upon arrival, meet with your guide and driver before setting off on a city tour.

Dushanbe City Tour

Ismail Samani monument

Visit the Ismail Samani monument, honouring the first king of Tajiks and the founder of the Samanid State, whose influence extended across Central Asia, Afghanistan, and Iran during the 9th and 10th centuries.

State Flag Square

Located in the centre of the city, to the left of the Nation Palace, this flagpole entered the Guiness Book of Records as the tallest flagpole In the world. Standing at 165, with an area of 1800sqm, the width is 30m by 60m.

Botanical Gardens

Visit the Botanical garden with its many old trees – a favourite place for the Tajiks. Later, you will visit the local bazaar – Mehrgon, where you will feel the real spirit of Tajikistan and see the oriental art of trading.

Enjoy dinner this evening in a local restaurant.

Meals: Breakfast, Dinner

Accommodation: Serena Dushanbe or similar

This morning you will travel to Iskandarkul Lake. Iskanderkul is a mountain lake of glacial origin in Tajikistan’s Sughd Province. It lies at an altitude of 2,195 metres on the northern slopes of the Gissar Range in the Fann Mountains. The area of the lake is 30000 ha. Today you will also see Niagara Fanns – a waterfall from which water falls from 35m.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Accommodation: Local guesthouse or similar

Distance & Duration: 130km, 2-3hr of driving

Continue your journey this morning to Penjikent.

Orientation tour

Visit the Museum of Rudaki. Penjikent is the birthplace of Abu-Abdallah Rudaki, who is considered by many to be the father of Persian Poetry. You will also visit the local bazaar and mosque.

Following lunch in a local restaurant, this afternoon explore ancient Penjikent – the ruins of the old Sogdian town founded in the 5th century and abandoned in the 8th century by Arabs. Foundations of houses, a citadel with a couple of Zoroastrian fire temples and city bazaar are visible in the excavated ruins. Sarazm ruins – one of the ancient settlements in Central Asia with a 5500 – year civilisation. In 2010, Sarazm was added to the list of Human Heritage by UNESCO.

Dinner this evening is in a local restaurant.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Accommodation: Local guesthouse or similar

Distance & Duration: 160km, 3-4hr of driving

Haf Kul-Seven lakes

Drive to Seven Lakes. Explore Haf Kul-seven lakes of different colours in the Fann mountains of Tajikistan. You will visit the following lakes: Mijgon, Soya, Hushyor, Nophin lakes (2139m), Khurdak, Marguzor, and Khazorchashma (2400m). Lake Khazorchashma in Marguzor valley is the most beautiful and clean lake in this valley.

Enjoy a walking tour between 6 lakes – Marguzor to Khazorchashma lakes, located at altitudes from 2000 to 2400 m. Hiking time is 2-3 hrs.

Enjoy lunch at a local house during your hiking adventure.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Accommodation: Rudaki guesthouse or similar

Distance & Duration: 80km each way

After breakfast drive back to Dushanbe. Upon arrival, check into your hotel before setting off to explore the National Museum.

Tajikistan National Museum of Antiquities

Start your guided city tour with a visit to the Tajikistan National Museum of Antiquities which exhibits primarily from Tajikistan’s pre-Islamic civilizations: the Greek, Bactrian, Buddhist, Hindu, and Zoroastrian periods. The most notable piece in the museum is the largest, fifteen-hundred-year-old reclining Buddha statue.

Hissar Fortress

Lastly, you will visit Hissar Fortress, a historic site dating back to the 18th century and occupied until 1924. Nearby, you’ll discover two plain Madrassahs—one from the 18th century and the other from the 19th century. Further, a 16th-century mausoleum graces the landscape. In the evening, indulge in a delightful dinner at a restaurant, complete with an engaging show program to cap off your day of exploration.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Accommodation: Serena Hotel or similar

Distance & Duration: 230km, 4-5hr of driving

Today following breakfast, the day is yours at leisure until it is time to transfer to the airport for your onward flight.

Meals

Breakfast