Registan Square, Samarkand
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Golden Eagle: Caspian Odyssey
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Registan Square, Samarkand
Night views of Tbilisi, Georgia
Flame Towers of Baku Cityscape
Tashkent, Uzbekistan
View of Mount Ararat at Yerevan
Khiva, Uzbekistan
Geghard Monastery, Yerevan
Golden Eagle Train Exterior
Golden Eagle Gold Class
Golden Eagle Imperial Suite
Uzbekistan & more

Golden Eagle: Caspian Odyssey (Tour code: 12627)

Starts and Ends
Yerevan to
Almaty
Travel Periods
14 Sep 2026
Experience
Travel Style
Rail Journeys
Embark on a pilgrimage through paradise, with this 16-day immersive showcase of the mysticised lands of the Caspian Sea.

Highlights

Visit the monastery of Geghard, the cultural centre of medieval Armenia

Sample delicious Georgian wine in the renowned wine-making region of Kakheti

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, Merv, Bukhara and Samarkand

16 days
From
AUD 48,270
per person, twin share
Travelling with kids? Read more 
All services are subject to availability.

Overview

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.

Inclusions

Five-star pre and post tour hotel accommodation
Private ensuite 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)
Freshly prepared meals on board – using the finest local ingredients
Golden Eagle Gala Caviar dinner
Generous drinks allowance, including international wines with lunch and dinner
Arrival and departures transfers
Private chartered flight from Baku to Urgench (for Khiva)
Expertly guided off-train excursions
24-hour cabin attendance service
Services of a UK-registered Doctor and medical facilities on board
All gratuities - on and off the train
Luggage porterage throughout the journey

Day 1 Yerevan, Armenia

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

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. During the tour, visit the Treasury Museum of Etchmiadzin. The exhibition showcases important Christian relics. After Etchmiadzin, 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, 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.

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 six captivating countries of the South Caucasus region and Central Asia.

Why not extend your stay in Yerevan with additional nights before the tour to explore more of the city and region at your leisure?

Dinner
Yerevan, Armenia
Lobby of Hotel Alexander

Day 2 Yerevan, Armenia

Today's touring will take you 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.

You'll also visit the 1st Century pagan temple of Garni, built to worship the Sun God Mitra. Explore the remains of an ancient fortress, palace and baths there. Lunch will also be enjoyed at this stunning location. 

This evening, guests will head to the Armenia Wine Company, located close to Yerevan. Here you will have the 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.

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Yerevan, Armenia
View of Mount Ararat

Day 3 Yerevan & Lake Sevan

This morning, you will 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 you'll be making a short visit.

Leaving Yerevan - the journey takes you to Lake Sevan, where guests will stop for lunch.  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.

After lunch, continue by coach, to Armenian-Georgian border in Bagratashen driving through the spa town of Dilijan well known for its forest landscapes and medicinal mineral water before making a stop at the coffee & brandy stop at Avan Dzoraget Hotel. 

This evening guests will arrive into the Georgian capital of Tbilisi, where you will stay for the next three nights at the Paragraph Freedom Square, a Luxury Collection Hotel (or similar). 

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Yerevan & Lake Sevan
Lake Umria, Armenia

Day 4 Tbilisi, Georgia

Hemmed in by the Surami Range, the city of Tbilisi extends for 27 kms 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 visited today include the 13th century Metekhi church, a cross cupola church which forms part of the Royal Residential complex, the 5th century Sioni Cathedral, the main church of Tbilisi, before exploring the Old Town. You will then depart to Chateau Mukhrani wine estate for a delicious lunch and spend the afternoon tasting local wines.

In the evening, enjoy dinner at a local restaurant accompanied by a traditional Georgian dance performance.

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Tbilisi, Georgia
Houses at Tbilisi, Georgia

Day 5 Tbilisi Gori Uplistsikhe Cave City Mtskheta

Gori is one of the oldest cities in Georgia, founded in the 7th century AD as Tontio. Visit the Stalin museum or guests can choose to visit a local Ceramics Museum, housing the pottery of traditional Georgian ceramicist George Tatulashvili.

The famous cave city of Uplistsikhe dates from the 6th century BC and is first mentioned in the chronicles of the 1st century AD. Like the other cave-towns of Georgia, it is rooted in the prehistoric traditions of the peoples of the Near East. 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. 

Late afternoon, 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.

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Tbilisi → Gori → Uplistsikhe Cave City → Mtskheta
Uplistsikhe, Georgia

Day 6 Tbilisi Baku

This morning, take a visit to the Janashia State Museum of Georgia which houses an extraordinary collection of gold filigree work dating back to 6th Century BC. Later, you will then continue the touring programme of the Old Town with Gabriadze’s Clock Tower, Baratashvili Street and the historic Anchiskhati Basilica.

After lunch at a local restaurant, you will board a private jet for the short flight to Baku. Upon arrival, guests stay for three nights at the Four Seasons Baku.

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Tbilisi → Baku
City of Baku

Day 7 Baku, Azerbaijian

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 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, survived, 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). Tour these historic sights by bus before exploring the Old Town by foot.

After lunch in a local restaurant, enjoy an afternoon of free time to discover Baku independently. Perhaps visit the local Carpet Museum, indulge in a cultural escape at the National Museum, or simply relax and soak up Azerbaijan’s unique atmosphere.

Tonight, you will visit the magnificent Villa Petrolea. Nearly 150 years ago, before the Nobel Peace Prizes were created, the Nobel brothers themselves played a key role in Baku’s first ‘oil boom’. The mansion that they built as their residence in the early 1880s has been preserved, restored, and turned into a fascinating museum. It is here you will be privileged to have a guided tour and treated to champagne, canapes, and a sumptuous dinner within its historic walls.

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Baku, Azerbaijian
Maiden Tower, Baku

Day 8 Baku, Azerbaijian

This morning, tour the UNESCO-honoured 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 Zoroastrian temple before dinner in the Four Seasons Hotel.

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Baku, Azerbaijian
Flame Towes of Baku

Day 9 Khiva, Uzbekistan

Following breakfast - take a morning flight onboard a private plane to Urgench (for Khiva). Founded 2,500 years ago Khiva became one of the Silk Road’s most important trading posts as it lies at the crossroads of the routes between Mongolia, Russia, China and Persia and is now a World Heritage Site.

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, madrassas, bazaars and minarets within the city’s ancient walls.

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Khiva, Uzbekistan
Ancient city of Khiva

Day 10 Bukhara, Uzbekistan

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

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. Today's touring programme will also transport guests 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 pillar-domed galleries and deeply recessed niches and be transported to a bygone era.

Immerse yourself in the lively pulse of the city as you 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, you will enjoy a barbecue on the station platform before our train departs – a unique farewell to an incredible city.

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Bukhara, Uzbekistan
Ark of Bukhara

Day 11 Samarkand, Uzbekistan

Just the mention of Samarkand instantly conjures up evocative images of the Silk Road, more so than any other town. Founded in the 6th 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.

Today, 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, guests 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.

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Samarkand, Uzbekistan
Registan Square, Samarkand

Day 12 Tashkent, Uzbekistan

Tashkent is the capital city of Uzbekistan and you willspend time touring this modern Soviet-style city which was rebuilt following the devastating earthquake of 1966. Enjoy a tour of the city including 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 Qur'an. This is followed by a visit to the Railway Museum and the Museum of Applied Arts.

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Tashkent, Uzbekistan
Alisher Navoi at Tashkent, Uzbekistan

Day 13 Onboard the Golden Eagle

Enjoy a more leisurely pace today as you journey through the striking landscapes of Uzbekistan, before crossing the border into Kyrgyzstan.

Onboard, delve deeper into the region with a fascinating Q&A session led by your expert Tour Leader, and uncover the secrets of your exquisite cuisine during an engaging masterclass with our talented culinary team.

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Onboard the Golden Eagle
Golden Eagle Luxury Train

Day 14 Lake Issyk-kul, Kyrgyzstan

Today, 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 recognised as the second-largest alpine lake in the world. Its name, meaning “warm lake”, reflects its remarkable resistance to freezing – the result of a unique combination of depth, mineral richness, and geothermal activity beneath its surface. Framed by towering, snow-capped peaks, the lake offers a serene beauty.

This morning, you're invited to immerse yourself in the rich nomadic heritage of Kyrgyzstan with a privately arranged cultural event along the lake’s shores. A captivating display of traditional sports and games that have been passed down through generations. While archery may be familiar, few have encountered the spectacle of horseback wrestling, hunting with majestic Golden Eagles, or “ordo” – a strategic game played with cow kneecaps.

This experience is a celebration of steppe culture in all its vibrant detail – from music and dance to intricate costumes and demonstrations of time-honoured crafts. It is a rare and enthralling glimpse into a way of life that continues to flourish in the highlands of Central Asia. This day promises a unique and authentic insight into the cultural heart of the region, offering memories that will linger long after your journey ends.

After the festival there will be the option to visit the outdoor Museum of the Petroglyphs before returning to the Golden Eagle for the Farewell Dinner.

This evening, enjoy a Farewell Dinner onboard the Golden Eagle as you head overnight to your final destination of Almaty.

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Lake Issyk-kul, Kyrgyzstan
Lake Issyk Kul

Day 15 Almaty, Kazakhstan

This morning arrive into Almaty, your final destination and bid farewell to the Golden Eagle. Today 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.

Overnight guests stay for one night at the Ritz-Carlton, Almaty, or similar. 

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Almaty, Kazakhstan
Almaty, Kazakhstan

Day 16 Almaty, Kazakhstan

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?

Breakfast

Accommodation

Golden Eagle

Upgrade available

LIFE ABOARD THE GOLDEN EAGLE

The Golden Eagle has been carefully designed with emphasis on your comfort, relaxation and enjoyment. In addition to our private en-suite sleeping cabins, we offer a beautifully appointed Bar Lounge Car and Restaurant Cars.
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.

SILVER CABIN

Silver Class cabins, which are more compact at 60 sq ft (5.5 sq metres), feature a small double lower bed and a single upper bed as well as DVD/CD player, LCD screen, safe, individual air-conditioning, wardrobe and large picture window.

 

The Silver Class cabins have private en-suite wet room with a washbasin, toilet and shower.

  • Sleeps 2 in lower small double bed or bunk style
  • Remote controlled air-conditioning and heating
  • Recessed lighting and wardrobe
  • Personal safe
  • Private en-suite bathroom with 'wet-room' style shower and toilet
  • Bathrobes, slippers, hairdryer and toiletries provided
  • DVD/CD player with LCD screens
  • Towels and linens changed every second day or daily on request
  • Complimentary tea, coffee and mineral water available at all times
  • Laundry service available at an additional charge
  • Drinks in the Bar Lounge Car included from the Standard Bar List

Room Upgrades

Gold Cabin

At 77 sq ft (7 sq metres) Gold Class cabins are extremely well-proportioned and have everything from a private bathroom with separate power shower cubicle and underfloor heating to a DVD/CD player, LCD screen, safe, individual air-conditioning, wardrobe, large picture window as well as featuring a double lower bed and a single upper bed.

Guests in Gold Class benefit from complimentary drinks off the Standard Bar List in the Bar Lounge Car.

  • Sleeps 2 in either lower standard double bed or bunk style
  • Remote controlled air-conditioning and heating
  • Recessed lighting and wardrobe
  • Personal safe
  • Private en-suite bathroom with full power shower and underfloor heating
  • Bathrobes, slippers, hairdryer and toiletries provided
  • DVD/CD player with LCD screens
  • Towels and linens changed every second day or daily on request
  • Complimentary tea, coffee and mineral water in cabin available at all times
  • Drinks in the Bar Lounge Car included from the Standard Bar List
  • Laundry service available at an additional charge
Gold Cabin

Prices are dynamic based on travel dates. Please proceed to Book Now or Contact Us for details.

Imperial Suite

Imperial Suites are the most spacious cabins available onboard the Golden Eagle measuring 120 sq ft (11.1 sq metres) and benefiting from a large and luxurious double bed as well as a lounge area with dressing table.

Imperial Suite facilities include a private en-suite bathroom with power shower and the luxury of underfloor heating; individual air-conditioning; wardrobe; DVD/CD player with LCD screen; complimentary fully stocked minibar; safe; small library and two large picture windows to watch the world go by.

Exemplary service starts with a complimentary bottle of Dom Perignon champagne when you board the train to toast the start of your wonderful adventure.

A note for Imperial Suite guests:
A private guide and chauffeured car service is included in many of the destinations we visit on your journey, however, in locations where there are a limited number of experienced and qualified tour guides available, we may offer a shared car service among Imperial Suite guests. Imperial Suite guests will also benefit from the inclusion of drinks from the Standard and Premium Bar list in the Bar Lounge Car, a laundry service and room upgrades to the next available category at the hotels which are featured in the itinerary.

  • Sleeps 2 in a large Double Bed (1.5m by 1.9m)
  • Sitting area
  • Remote controlled air-conditioning and heating
  • Recessed lighting and wardrobe
  • Dressing table
  • Personal safe
  • Private en-suite bathroom with full power shower and underfloor heating
  • Bathrobes, slippers, hairdryer and toiletries provided
  • Complimentary minibar
  • DVD/CD player with LCD screens
  • Towels and linens changed every second day or daily on request
  • Complimentary tea, coffee and mineral water available at all times
  • In-cabin dining available on request
  • Drinks from the Bar Lounge Car included from the Standard and Premium Bar List (excluding Premium Wine List)
  • Private car and guide options in selected cities for off-train excursion programme
  • Laundry service included
Imperial Suite

Prices are dynamic based on travel dates. Please proceed to Book Now or Contact Us for details.

Additional information

Departure dates:

  • 14 September - 29 September, 2026

Excluded

  • International airfares and taxes
  • Domestic airfares and taxes, unless otherwise specified in our holiday package
  • Visa expenses, processing, and issuance fees
  • Meals other than as specified in our holiday package
  • Travel Insurance or expenses of a personal nature (mini-bar, phone call, laundry, etc.)
  • Or any other travel expense that has not been included in our holiday package

FAQs

What is included in the price?

All private train and hotel accommodation as per the itinerary; all meals starting with dinner on the first day and ending with breakfast on the last day of the tour (on some tours this may differ slightly, please refer to the specific itinerary); a generous allowance of wine, beer, soft drinks and tea and coffee with all lunches and dinners both on and off the train (except where stated otherwise); all arrival and departure transfers; guided off-train sightseeing excursions; the services of experienced tour leaders; complimentary tea, coffee and mineral water 24 hours a day, all gratuities and the services of an on board doctor.

What happens when I arrive at the airport / train station?

At the point of arrival, you will be met by one of our representatives who will be waiting with a Golden Eagle Luxury Trains sign. If arriving by air, this will be after immigration, once you have collected all your luggage and cleared customs. Our representative will then assist you to your transfer vehicle to the hotel.

What is the average age of the passengers?

Although there are no age restrictions on tours – most travellers are aged 55+. The average age is 65 years. Tours may not be suitable for young children.

Does the train have Wi-Fi?

On the Golden Eagle there is Wi-Fi available on board, powered by a 4G sim. Coverage is limited and will usually be available as we pass through larger cities/towns. However, on all tours – guests are provided with internet access in a local hotel or restaurant at least every other day.

Can you cater to special dietary preferences?

Most dietary requirements can be catered for. Please advise us of your requirements at the time of booking.

What is the dress code on the train?

During the day, the dress code on the Golden Eagle is casual both on and off the train. In the evening guests are suggested to dress smart casual.

For winter tours on the Golden Eagle, we recommend Ski-type jackets and trousers and thermal underwear. Train staff can provide hats, gloves and warm boots (so long as passengers have advised the rail staff of their shoe size). The train itself is always well heated and normal indoor clothing can be worn.

Since every tour requires some walking, it is recommend that passengers pack some comfortable walking shoes. A rubber sole is recommended to avoid possible slipping.

Can I smoke onboard?

The Golden Eagle and the Golden Eagle Danube Express are non-smoking trains, however there is a designated area at the back of each train where people are permitted to smoke.

Is there a recommended time of arrival on the first day?

We recommend arriving between 11.00 and 16.00, in time for the Welcome Dinner, which is normally held between 19.00-20.00. Check in at most our hotels is between 2.00-3.00pm and early check-in is dependent on hotel availability (charges may apply).

Are there luggage restrictions?

There is limited space inside the cabin for luggage storage. Soft-topped luggage is easier to store. Luggage cannot be stored under the beds. There is a dedicated luggage storage area at the end of each carriage. We recommend passengers unpack and store their empty luggage in this area. Cabin attendants will assist guests with this.

Luxury toiletries, including shower cream, shampoo and conditioner are provided in each cabin. A hairdryer, bathrobes, slippers and towels are also provided.

Will I need travel insurance?

As with all holidays and trips abroad, we strongly recommend that you have travel insurance. Please consult with our agents at time of booking and we can assist you with this.

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