The city of Erbil in Iraqi Kurdistan, located in the country’s north, is one of the world’s oldest continuously inhabited cities. Next year, the nine-day Iraqi Kurdistan: Land of the Kurds journey from Steppes Traveller (part of the Steppes Travel Group) offers an in-depth exploration of the region’s landscapes, cultures and history. The trip is led by author and broadcaster William Taylor, Ph.D., an expert in Islamic culture and Orthodox churches who chairs the Anglican and Eastern Churches Association and has traveled widely throughout the area.
Highlights of the itinerary begin in Erbil and include the ancient Citadel rising from the city center, the regional Civilization Museum, the distinctive Choli Minaret and the nearby Dwin Castle. From Erbil the tour travels to Dohuk, where visitors explore St. Matthew’s Monastery, examine remains of historic water engineering including one of the oldest aqueducts in the region, and view ancient Assyrian sculptures at Khanis. The journey also visits Rabban Hormizd Monastery, once home to hundreds of cave-dwelling monks, and a series of notable historical and archaeological sites across Kurdistan.
Other significant stops on the route include the battlefield of Gaugamela, famed for Alexander the Great’s decisive victory over Darius III; the ruins of a palace associated with Saddam Hussein; Shanidar Cave, known for its Neanderthal remains and Paleolithic finds; and the ancient Jewish settlement of Koisinjak. The lively bazaar at Suleimaniyah adds a contemporary cultural dimension, offering local products, handicrafts and regional cuisine.
The tour package covers internal flights, a knowledgeable tour guide, accommodations, most meals and gratuities. Prices start from $5,288 per person. Travelers seeking alternative timing or a tailored experience can arrange custom departures and privately arranged itineraries to suit their needs.
This nine-day itinerary balances archaeological sites and historical monuments with opportunities to experience local culture and natural landscapes. Participants can expect guided visits to prominent monuments, relaxed time in regional markets, and transportation between sites that highlights the diversity of Kurdistan’s terrain.
Practical considerations include moderate travel between dispersed sites, visits to locations that may involve uneven terrain or steps, and interactions with local communities and clergy at historic religious sites. Travelers should prepare for variable weather and bring appropriate footwear for archaeological sites and cave visits.
The program is designed for those interested in history, archaeology, religious heritage and regional culture, and it provides a compact yet comprehensive introduction to Iraqi Kurdistan’s layered past—from prehistoric occupations through Assyrian and classical eras to contemporary Kurdish life.
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