Caucasus Chronicles: Georgia & Azerbaijan Expedition 9D/8N

Delve into the heart of the Caucasus on our ✨brand new✨ curated expedition, designed for the adventurous Muslim globetrotter. Crafted in response to the desires of our cherished HTG community, this 9-day expedition promises a blend of cultural richness, historical marvels, and warm hospitality. And while this will be a huge adventure, we are not compromising on comfort, so you'll stay in comfortable 4* hotels throughout the trip. 

Spiritual Insights: Sacred Spaces and Traditions - Explore the ancient history of Christianity and Islam in the region, where both religions share many cultural and historical crossovers, from Georgia's ancient churches to Azerbaijan's beautiful mosques. 

Gastronomic Delight: Halal Flavours of the Caucasus - Indulge in an array of halal culinary delights. Savour the authentic tastes of Georgian and Azeri cuisines, a feast for both the body and soul, mirroring this region's rich cultural diversity and agricultural fertility.

Scenic Majesty: Traverse the breathtaking landscapes along the Georgian Military Highway, witness the majestic Caucasus Mountains, and find serenity in these countries' natural beauty.

Local Encounters: Heartfelt Connections - Immerse yourself in the warmth of local hospitality. Engage with communities, share stories, and build connections that transcend borders.

You'll stay in handpicked 4* hotels strategically located for easy access to key attractions and transportation hubs, ensuring a seamless travel experience. Immerse yourself in the vibrant tapestry of Georgia and Azerbaijan, exploring ancient mosques, architectural wonders, and picturesque landscapes. 

Indulge in authentic culinary delights, from savouring traditional Georgian dishes to relishing Azerbaijani cuisine. Engage in cultural experiences such as baking Georgian bread and crafting local sweets, creating lasting memories.

Join us on this enchanting odyssey as we unravel the secrets and stories woven into the fabric of Georgia and Azerbaijan, promising a journey that goes beyond the ordinary. We can't wait for you to be part of this unforgettable adventure!

Who this trip is for?

For travellers who want to explore the Caucasus, wander through the charming streets of Tbilisi, experience the energy of Baku, enjoy delicious halal food, and discover the region’s rich history and culture.

Who this trip is NOT for?

This trip may not be suitable for those who prefer to stay in one place, aren’t keen on exploring or learning about history, or don’t enjoy discovering local life, food, and culture.

• Tbilisi's Old Town Exploration: Wander through the historic streets of Tbilisi, adorned with colourful houses and patterned balconies, showcasing a blend of ancient charm and modern architecture.

• Cultural and Spiritual Insights: Delve into the religious history and similarities between Orthodox Christianity in Georgia and Islam, enhancing understanding and connection.

• Halal Georgian Cuisine: Enjoy a variety of halal Georgian dishes, offering a true taste of local flavours and culinary traditions.

• Georgian Military Highway Adventure: Travel along this historic route, surrounded by the stunning scenery of the high Caucasus Mountains, including breathtaking mountain views and the serene Tergi River.

• Visit Stalin's hometown of Gori: Learn more about what made this young Georgian man such an infamous ruler across the Soviet Union.

• Yanardagh Fire Mountain Excursion: Witness the natural phenomenon of the continuously burning fire at Yanardagh Fire Mountain, a unique experience in Azerbaijan.

• Sheki's Cultural Richness: Immerse in the picturesque city of Sheki, exploring the Sheki Khan's Palace, Caravanserai, and the Sheki Khans Mosque, reflecting the region's Islamic architectural heritage.  

• Indulge in authentic cuisine with visits to local families, tasting freshly harvested products, and savouring traditional dishes. 

• Visit iconic landmarks like the Heydar Aliyev Centre in Baku and the Caravanserai in Sheki to witness the architectural diversity of the region. 

Sunday 25th October - Monday 2nd November 2026

Arrival Airport:  Tbilisi (TBS)
Departure Airport: Baku (GYD)

Recommended flights:

Arrival
HTG recommends that travellers fly with KLM, taking the 10:40 am flight from Amsterdam to Tbilisi. Numerous connections to Amsterdam from London, Manchester, Birmingham, across Europe and the US will allow you to fly to Amsterdam to make this connection. 

This flight lands in Tbilisi at 17:15. The airport pick-up will be from 17:30 to 18:30.

Departure
HTG recommends travellers take a flight that departs after 1 pm. There is a direct flight with Azerbaijan Airlines at 17:30 on 7th May (to London).

We welcome guests from all nationalities and countries to join the trip and can arrange separate airport transfers, where necessary, for an additional fee. Please enquire should you require this. 

Welcome to Halal Travel Guide! Please take a moment to read these terms before booking. By booking with us, you’re confirming your understanding and agreement with the policies below, which are designed to help ensure a smooth, enjoyable experience for everyone.

1. BOOKING & PAYMENT TERMS

DEPOSIT & PAYMENT SCHEDULE:

● A £100 deposit is needed to secure your booking. This deposit helps us hold your spot and is non-refundable and non-transferable.

● After securing your spot with the £100 deposit, we ask for a further £300 contribution towards the trip cost within 6 weeks. This, too, is non-refundable, but it helps confirm your commitment to joining us on the journey!

FOR INSTALLMENT PLANS:

● If you’d like to pay in instalments, we’re happy to offer up to 3 equal payments at no extra cost. Any payments made after the initial deposit are non-refundable to ensure that your place is set, and all instalments must be completed 8 weeks before the trip.

FINAL PAYMENT:

● For all trips, we kindly ask for the remaining balance no later than 8 weeks before departure.

● For last-minute bookings (within 2 months of departure), we’ll need full payment 6 weeks before departure or within two weeks after booking, whichever comes first.

TRAVEL INSURANCE:

● We strongly recommend purchasing comprehensive travel insurance at the time of booking to protect against any unexpected cancellations, disruptions, or health issues. Halal Travel Guide does not cover these risks, whether or not insurance is purchased. Opting for insurance provides peace of mind that you’re covered in case of last-minute changes to your plans.

2. CANCELLATIONS AND REFUNDS

CANCELLATION TIMELINE & FEES:

● If you cancel more than 10 weeks before your trip, we’ll retain the deposit and any contributions made up to that point, to cover any non-recoverable costs we have incurred up to that point. We will refund you/not charge you the remaining balance of your trip. 

● Cancelling 4 weeks before departure means a 50% charge of the total trip cost, while cancelling within 3 weeks means a 100% charge.

● To keep things simple, we’re unable to offer refunds or credits after your trip has started, as we have already paid our local partners and vendors by this point.

TRANSFERRING YOUR SPOT:

● If something comes up and you can’t join us, you’re welcome to transfer your spot to someone else! Just note that arranging a replacement is up to you, and any payments made to date are non-refundable.

3. PRE-TRIP ESSENTIALS

ENTRY REQUIREMENTS:

● For a smooth journey, please check the entry requirements of your destination, such as visas and health checks. While we’re here to support, it’s ultimately up to you to confirm any requirements. 

SCREENING & HEALTH:

● After booking, all guests go through a quick screening process. If anything prevents your participation, don’t worry—we’ll refund your deposit.

● To help us prepare for any special needs, please let us know about any health considerations when booking. This information is confidential and only helps us better serve you.

4. YOUR TRIP EXPERIENCE

FLEXIBLE ITINERARY:

● The itinerary we provide is a flexible guide. Adjustments may be made by the tour leader to ensure everyone’s safety and enjoyment, especially in the case of changing weather, closures, or health requirements. Any changes will be made with the group’s overall experience in mind.

ROOMING ARRANGEMENTS:

● Accommodation details will be shared in your Booking Voucher. For solo travellers booking a twin/shared room, we will do our best to pair you with another traveller of the same gender.

● Sharing a Twin room: Please note, if we are unable to find a same-gender roommate for you, a Single Room upgrade will be required, and this will incur an additional charge. By booking a twin/shared room as a solo traveller, you acknowledge that this upgrade and its cost may apply if a roommate is unavailable.

FLIGHTS:

● In the event of flight cancellations or delays, we’re here to help where we can, so please keep it touch! Arranging alternative flights will be your responsibility. If a delay means missing part of the trip, please note that we’re unable to offer refunds.

5. RESPOSIBILITY & SAFETY

ASSUMPTION OF RISK:

● Joining our tours means you’re aware of the natural risks that come with adventure travel. These may include, but aren’t limited to, potential injuries, illnesses, or unexpected events.

LIMITATION OF LIABILITY:

● While we strive to create safe and enjoyable experiences, Halal Travel Guide can’t be held responsible for injuries, losses, or disruptions due to factors outside our control, such as natural disasters or unforeseen events.

MEDICAL RESPONSIBILITY:

● If you need medical attention during the trip, we’ll do our best to assist. However, any medical expenses are your responsibility, so travel insurance is a wise choice.

WAIVER OF LIABILITY:

● By joining us, you’re agreeing to waive any claims against Halal Travel Guide, even in cases of possible negligence on our part. We strongly advise insurance to cover these and other risks.

6. PHOTOGRAPHS & MEDIA

MEDIA USE:

● We love to capture the magic of our journeys! By joining us, you agree that any photos or videos taken during the trip may be used for promotional purposes. If you’d rather not appear in these, please let us know before your trip.

● If you’d like access to these photos or videos for personal use, reach out to us—we’ll be happy to share them where possible, either as a courtesy or with a small fee.

Thank you for reading, and for choosing Halal Travel Guide! We’re here to make your trip as enriching and memorable as possible. If you have any questions about these terms or need assistance at any stage, please don’t hesitate to reach out. We can’t wait to travel with you!

Gamarjoba - Hello! That's how you say hello in Georgian, so get used to saying it a lot over the next few days :)

Welcome to Tbilisi, where your journey begins through the ancient historical heartland of the Caucasus, Georgia. 

Once you land at Tbilisi International Airport, we'll take you to your 4* hotel to check in, rest and unwind. 

For flight recommendations, check out our Airport Transfers section.

Later in the evening, set the tone for your trip with a delightful welcome dinner. We have selected a wonderful location where you can enjoy halal Georgian cuisine and immerse yourself in Georgia's flavours, sights, and smells.  

Overnight in Tbilisi.

After breakfast at your hotel, we'll begin exploring the capital of Georgia, Tbilisi, on foot. 

Georgia is an ancient home to Christianity, where it is still practised religiously. It is possible to draw many parallels between the acts of worship, stories and traditions of Orthodox Christianity in Georgia and Islam. Today, with your local Georgian guide, you'll delve into these stories and similarities together. 

Wander in the old districts of the city which are structured like terraces, and take a walk in the narrow streets to enjoy colourful houses, patterned balconies and wonderful samples of modern architecture. We will start the tour from Metekhi church (13th century), facing the magnificent views over old Tbilisi. A stroll along winding little streets takes us to the main sights of the city. Afterwards, enjoy the panoramic views of the whole town and through the ancient Narikala fortress (4th Century).

We'll then take you for a delicious late lunch, after which you'll have free time to rest or explore more of Tbilisi at your own pace. 

Overnight in Tbilisi.

After breakfast, we embark on a soul-stirring expedition along the Georgian Military Highway, a route steeped in history and awe-inspiring beauty. Our first stop is the Ananuri architectural complex, a testament to 17th-century Georgian craftsmanship. Here, you'll marvel at the intricate carvings adorning ancient churches, a true reflection of Georgia's rich artistic heritage.

But it's the journey itself that steals the show. Picture winding through the towering peaks of the high Caucasus Mountains, with every twist and turn revealing breathtaking vistas that seem plucked from a dream. The Tergi River accompanies us, its gentle flow guiding our path towards Stepantsminda, also known as Kazbegi, the region's vibrant heart. 

In Kazbegi, we ascend to the Gergeti Trinity Church, perched majestically at 2170 meters above sea level. Weather permitting, you may be blessed with a sight of the towering Mt. Kazbegi (5047 meters), its icy glacier glistening in the sunlight—a glimpse of nature's grandeur that will stay etched in your memory.

For lunch, we invite you to partake in the warmth of homemade Georgian cuisine surrounded by scenic mountains. Savour authentic flavours that capture the essence of Georgian cuisine. It's a meal that nourishes not only the body but also the spirit.

As the day wanes, we retrace our steps back to Tbilisi, where the vibrant heart of Georgia beckons once more. 

Overnight in Tbilisi.

After breakfast, you'll travel to the ancient capital and religious centre of Georgia, Mtskheta, which is over 3000 years old.  Here you will learn more about the importance of Christianity in Georgia, while being surrounded by stunning panoramic views.  

From the spiritual ambience of Mtskheta, we continue our exploration to the town of Gori. Here, delve into the historical tapestry of the region with a visit to the Stalin Museum, offering insights into the life and legacy of Joseph Stalin.

We'll then head back to Tbilisi for your final evening in the city before we prepare to depart for Azerbaijan tomorrow. 

Overnight in Tbilisi.

This morning, you will check out of your hotel in Tbilisi in preparation for the journey to Baku, Azerbaijan. 

But first, we'll take you to the fertile region of Kakheti, famous for its legendary hospitality. Our first destination is the charming 18th-century town of Sighnaghi. Meander through its cobblestone streets, lined with quaint houses boasting tile roofs and adorned balconies. From this elevated haven, soak in the breathtaking panoramas of the Alazani Valley and the majestic peaks of the Great Caucasus mountains.

Your final meal in Georgia will be in the beautiful countryside and handmade by your local Georgian hosts. 

You'll have the chance to engage in the age-old art of baking Georgian bread and dipping the delectable Georgian sweet, "Churchkhela." 

We'll finish on this sweet note and make our way to Tbilisi Airport to catch your flight to Baku. 

Overnight in Baku.

Important note: Check in advance if you need a visa to enter Azerbaijan, as UK passport holders, among others, require the e-visa. If you don't have the visa, you will not be allowed to enter Azerbaijan. 

Welcome to the Land of Fire! After breakfast, we'll take you straight to the place where it will become clear why Azerbaijan has this nickname. At Yanardagh Fire Mountain, the fire burns continuously, day and night, day after day. Whilst here you'll also have the option to enjoy a segway ride to the mud mountains and try your hand at archery. 

You'll then enjoy a traditional Azeri welcome lunch -  enjoy the natural flavours of saffron, pomegranate, and fresh herbs while experiencing the warm hospitality that defines Azeri dining.

Following lunch, you'll have the chance for a photo stop by the Heydar Aliyev Centre, a modern architectural masterpiece designed by architect Zaha Hadid. We'll then take you around Baku's city centre to familiarise you with the historic old town, before finishing along the Caspian Sea.

This evening is yours to explore at your leisure - your centrally-located hotel is perfect for you to enjoy the vibrant atmosphere in Baku city-centre.

Overnight in Baku.

After breakfast, you'll check out of the hotel in Baku and begin the journey westwards to Sheki, covering a distance of approximately 350 km.  Nestled in the lush foothills of the Greater Caucasus Mountains, Sheki is a picturesque city in Azerbaijan. Renowned for its stunning landscapes, historical sites, and the majestic Sheki Khan's Palace, it's a charming blend of culture and nature. 

Along the route, reflect and pray at the Juma Mosque in Shemakha. Dating back more than 1,200 years, the Juma Mosque is a masterpiece of Shirvan architectural style, characterized by its intricate brickwork, ornate tile patterns, and elegant arches. 

You'll then enjoy a delicious lunch, before continuing the journey to Sheki. 

On arrival, you'll check into your 4* hotel and rest briefly. 

We'll then take you to visit the beautiful Sheki Khan's Palace and Caravanserai, each revealing the cultural tapestry of this ancient city. As the day gracefully transitions, relish a delightful dinner group dinner at one of the local favourite dining spots. 

Overnight in Sheki. 

After breakfast, you'll check out of your hotel room and leave the bags in the bus. 

We'll then take a leisurely scenic hike up Xan Yaylagi Mountain, soaking in the refreshing air and panoramic views of this elevated terrain. Revel in the serenity of the surroundings before exploring the Sheki Khans Mosque, a testament to the region's architectural and Islamic legacy.

You'll then have lunch, followed by a chance to try and buy some Sheki Halva, which is famous across the country and makes a great souvenir to take home for your family. 

We'll then begin the drive back to Baku. 

This evening, you're invited to enjoy a farewell meal at a beautiful Azeri restaurant. 

Overnight in Baku. 

After breakfast, you'll have free time for final shopping or exploration at your own pace (depending on your flight time).

You'll then check out of the hotel and head to the airport for your flight home. 

Thank you for exploring The Caucasus with Halal Travel Guide! 

If you want to stay longer in Azerbaijan, please let us know if you would like assistance.. 

What makes this trip different from a standard tour of Georgia and Azerbaijan?  The route is built around the threads of faith and history that run through the Caucasus — the parallels between Orthodox Christian and Islamic worship explored in Tbilisi's old town, the Juma Mosque in Shemakha, and the mosque and palace complex in Sheki. Halal dining and prayer are built into each day rather than treated as something you have to arrange yourself, and your guides are chosen for their knowledge of this shared heritage.

Who tends to come on this trip?

A genuine mix — solo travellers, couples, friends travelling together, family. First-time solo travellers are well represented. Most guests share an interest in the region's history and a preference for travelling in a way that doesn't compromise on faith or modesty.

Is this a good first solo trip?

Yes. The days are structured, your HTG group leader handles all the logistics across both countries, and the group dynamic means you're never navigating somewhere unfamiliar alone.

Which countries and cities do we visit, and in what order?

You fly into Tbilisi, Georgia, and spend four nights based there, with day trips along the Georgian Military Highway to Kazbegi, to Mtskheta and Gori, and out to the Kakheti wine region. On Day 5 you fly to Baku, Azerbaijan, then travel overland to Sheki for two nights before returning to Baku, from where you fly home.

How do we get from Georgia to Azerbaijan?

By a short included flight from Tbilisi to Baku on Day 5. It's an international border crossing, so keep your passport (and Azerbaijan e-visa — see Visas below) easily accessible for check-in, not packed away in your hold luggage.

How much walking is involved each day?

Most days, expect to be on your feet for around four to six hours. Tbilisi's old town and Sheki's streets involve cobbles and uneven, sloped ground, and Day 8 includes a scenic hike up Xan Yaylagi Mountain. Comfortable, broken-in walking shoes are essential — trainers rather than flat pumps or flip-flops.

Is there any free time built in?

Yes. Day 2 and Day 6 both have an open evening to explore Tbilisi or Baku at your own pace, and Day 9 has free time before your departure flight, depending on timing.

Can the itinerary change?

The programme is a flexible guide. Your group leader may adjust the order or timing of visits if weather, site closures, traffic, or border-crossing delays make it sensible to do so — the aim is always the best possible experience of each stop, not a rigid printed schedule.

What currencies do I need?

Two: the Georgian Lari (GEL) in Georgia, and the Azerbaijani Manat (AZN) in Azerbaijan. Neither is commonly stocked by banks outside the region, so bring cash in USD, EUR or GBP and exchange it on the ground — we'll take you to reliable exchange points in both Tbilisi and Baku. As a rough guide, USD 1 is currently around GEL 2.7 and around AZN 1.7, though rates do move, so check before you travel.

Can I use my card?

Card acceptance is widespread in hotels and city-centre restaurants in both Tbilisi and Baku. You'll want cash for markets, smaller cafés, and more rural stops — particularly in Kakheti and Sheki — so carry some local currency for the day whenever you're out.

Roughly how much spending money do I need?

Most guests budget €150–200 across the whole trip to cover dinners that aren't included, souvenirs, coffees and tips. Both countries are genuinely affordable — a sit-down meal is typically £4–10 a head, and a coffee well under £2.

What plugs do Georgia and Azerbaijan use?

Both countries use European two-pin sockets (Type C), so one adaptor covers the whole trip if you're coming from the UK. Hotel rooms often have only one or two accessible sockets, so a small multi-socket plug is worth packing if you're charging a phone, camera and power bank.

Do I need a different SIM in each country?

If you're using a local SIM rather than an eSIM, yes — Georgian providers don't carry over into Azerbaijan. An eSIM that covers both countries (see the Airalo note on our main FAQ) is the simpler option if you'd rather not swap SIMs partway through the trip.

Is Wi-Fi reliable?

Yes, in all the hotels and most cafés in both Tbilisi and Baku.

What's the dress code for mosque and church visits?

You'll need to cover your head, shoulders, arms and legs — this applies at Georgian Orthodox sites like Gergeti Trinity Church and Metekhi Church as well as at the mosques in Azerbaijan. A pashmina or large scarf you can throw over an outfit and tuck in your day bag is the easiest setup — bring one and you're covered for every site on the trip.

How are the daily prayers organised?

We follow the sunnah of combining and shortening prayers (jam’ and qasr) while travelling — usually timed with our lunch stops. Maghrib and Isha are typically prayed at the hotel. You'll also visit several historic mosques along the way, including the Juma Mosque in Shemakha and the Sheki Khans Mosque, where prayer is naturally part of the visit.

Do I need to bring my own prayer mat?Do I need to bring my own prayer mat?

A small travel mat can be useful when you need to pray in your hotel room or when you're out during the trip.

Is halal food easy to find in Georgia?

Georgia is a predominantly Orthodox Christian country, so halal isn't the default the way it is in Azerbaijan — but Tbilisi has a good and growing number of halal-friendly restaurants, and every included meal on the Georgian leg of the trip, from the welcome dinner onwards, is at a venue we've checked personally.

What's the weather actually like?

Tbilisi and Baku are both warm for most of the year. Kazbegi, on Day 3, is a different story entirely — expect significantly cooler temperatures at altitude, even when it's hot down in Tbilisi. Autumn weather is usually milder and more comfortable for the amount of walking involved.

Do I need waterproofs?

Yes — a light waterproof jacket or compact umbrella.

What clothing should I bring?

Lightweight, breathable layers for Tbilisi and Baku, plus sun protection (hat, sunscreen, sunglasses, lip balm). Add a warm layer and a windproof jacket for the Kazbegi mountain day, and a headscarf or large scarf that's easy to carry for mosque and church visits. Broken-in walking shoes are essential throughout — trainers rather than flat shoes without support.

Is there anything specific I should pack that's easy to forget?

• A large scarf for mosque and church visits

• A warm layer and windproof jacket for the Kazbegi mountain day

• A plug adaptor and small multi-socket extension (one type covers both countries)

• Sunscreen and a hat — the sun is stronger than it is in the UK

• A daypack or light backpack for daily excursions

• Any personal medication you take regularly, with extra supply and a copy of the prescription

Do I need a visa for Georgia?

UK, US and EU passport holders can enter Georgia visa-free for up to a year, so there's nothing to arrange in advance for the Georgian leg of the trip. If you hold a different passport, check with the Georgian embassy in your country, or contact us and we'll point you in the right direction.

Do I need a visa for Azerbaijan?

Yes — this one applies to everyone, including UK, US and EU passport holders. You'll need to apply for the ASAN e-visa online before you travel; it typically takes a few working days to come through (an urgent service is available for an extra fee if you're cutting it close). Print your e-visa and carry it with your passport, and make sure your passport is valid for at least 6 months after your arrival date. You will not be allowed to enter Azerbaijan without it, so sort this well before Day 5.

Other passports: check with the Georgian and Azerbaijan embassies in your country, or contact us and we’ll point you in the right direction.

Are tips expected?

Tips aren't included in your trip price, but they're standard in the region and a meaningful way to thank your driver and guides. As a guideline, around £2/$4 per day for the driver and £4/$8 per day for the local guide, given on their final day with the group.

Drop us a line at hello@halaltravelguide.net and a real person will get back to you, usually within a few working days.