The Next Big Eurasian Loop: Connecting Eastern Turkey and the Caucasus

[Aiden Cooper]

For years, traveling through Eastern Turkey and the Caucasus has meant choosing one or the other, or dealing with massive detours. But as infrastructure projects gain momentum in 2026, we’re seeing the potential for a "dream loop" that could redefine Eurasian travel.

Why this route is the "next big thing":If you look at a map, Eastern Anatolia (Kars, Van, Mount Nemrut) and the Armenian highlands are essentially one continuous, culturally rich landscape. Right now, it's divided by logistics and history. But imagine a future where the seamless transition between these two regions is possible.

The "Hidden Gems" you shouldn't miss if this opens up:

• Ani (Turkey) to Yerevan (Armenia): This is the ultimate "holy grail" for history buffs. These two sites are so close geographically but feel like worlds apart due to border closures.
• Lake Van (Turkey) to Dilijan (Armenia): Lake Van’s unique soda-water landscape paired with Dilijan’s "Armenian Switzerland" forests would make for one of the most diverse cross-country trips in the world.
• The Anatolian-Caucasian Highlands: Whether it’s the ancient cave cities like Dara or the monasteries of Northern Armenia, this entire highland belt is filled with "underrated" spots that are still largely untouched by mass tourism.

Discussion:

• If you could create a "Super Loop" trip across this region, what would be your "must-visit" stop in Eastern Turkey, and what would be your "must-visit" in Armenia?
• Do you think the regional service sector (guesthouses, local transport) is prepared for the shift toward more independent, cross-border travelers?
• Are you already looking at these regions as the "new" frontier for overland adventures?

I’m really interested to hear from people who have already spent time in these "in-between" zones. How do you see the travel experience evolving over the next year or two?