This 7-day trip explores the Northern area of Iraq, Kurdistan, taking in the cultural, geographical and historical highlights as well as getting a greater understanding of life in this semi-autonomous region of Iraq. We start in Erbil with its famous citadel. At 6,500 years old, it is one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world and now a UNESCO World Heritage site.
Departing the city, the trip encompasses many natural sights: from blue waterfalls to steep gorges, deep caves and spectacular mountains between Dohuk and Soran. We explore the regions cultural and ethnic diversity by taking in Christian monasteries, and the spiritual home of the Yazidi people as well as places that give us an understanding of modern Iraq including visiting the notorious Red Prison in Sulaymaniyah.
Highlights:
Combine Kurdistan with our Cradle of Civilisation trip!
If you are travelling in March, don’t miss out on the Kurdish Newroz festival!
Arrive in Erbil.
Transfer from airport to the hotel for briefing.
Visit the main square and the bazaar in the evening.
Overnight in Erbil.
Drive from Erbil to Dohuk.
En route we will stop and have lunch in Lalish, the spiritual home of the Yazidi people.
Visit the church in Alqosh and the nearby Raban Hormizd monastery (closed at the time of writing)
Overnight in Dohuk.
Spend the morning exploring Dohuk and its surrounding area, including Duhok dam and Chwarstoon Cave. Continue the drive to the walled town of Amedi and see the mosque ruins in the valley.
Overnight in Amedi.
Drive between Amedi and Soran through the mountains of Kurdistan. Stop in Barzan and see the Barzani Memorial Centre.
There will be a chance to visit the Shanidar cave as well as passing through the Korek Mountains.
Overnight in Soran.
A day visiting the mountains of Kurdistan including Rawanduz canyon, Bekhal and Gali Ali Bag waterfalls. Part of this day includes driving the famous Hamilton Road before arriving in Sulaymaniyah. Enjoy an evening walk in the city centre in Iraq’s most liberal city.
Overnight in Sulaymaniyah.
You will have time to walk the busy streets and visit the Amna Saraka – the museum dedicated to the terrors of Saddam located in the Ba’ath parties old intelligence headquarters. Stop by the Goizha viewpoint before driving back to Erbil.
Overnight in Erbil.
Morning in Erbil with your guide.
Transfer to airport.
End of trip.
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