Kurdistan: Living the Village Life
In the heart of Kurdistan, step into the serene life of its villages where hospitality knows no bounds. Guests are welcomed into local homes, sharing meals that are a testament to Kurdish generosity. Experience the simplicity and beauty of everyday life through activities like horse riding, hiking through breathtaking landscapes, and engaging with the local culture and traditions. Kurdistan's hospitality is an open invitation to become part of a community that cherishes its guests as one of their own. However, your accommodation depends on your plans, you can stay for weeks for personal purposes such as research or break, etc.
Samawa: Indigenous Warmth and Tradition
Journey to the Pacific islands of Samawa and immerse yourself in the rich cultural heritage offered by its indigenous communities. Samawan hospitality is legendary, offering visitors a unique opportunity to stay in traditional fales, enjoy the islands' natural beauty, and participate in age-old customs. From the ceremonial Kava drink to vibrant dances and storytelling sessions, Samawa's indigenous people open their hearts and homes, providing a profound connection to their ancestral ways.
Iraqi Marshes: A Glimpse into Marshland Life
Discover the unique way of life in the Iraqi Marshes, where traditional houses are built on water and life thrives in harmony with nature. Visitors can explore the marshes in traditional mashoof boats, savor local cuisine, and experience the music and dance that reflect the soul of this ancient land. The Marsh Arabs offer unparalleled hospitality, sharing their homes and their stories, allowing guests to witness a lifestyle that has persisted for millennia.
Desert Safari: Nomadic Traditions Unveiled
Embark on a safari in the vast deserts of Iraq to experience the nomadic way of life. The desert communities welcome travelers with open arms, offering a chance to stay in traditional tents, enjoy local food prepared over open fires, and listen to tales under the starlit sky. Activities like camel riding and exploring the desert landscape reveal the resilience and warmth of the nomadic people, offering insights into their customs, music, and dance.
Halgurd Mountain Trail
Embark on a thrilling adventure with the Halgurd Mountain Trail, a challenging 3.92-mile loop that promises breathtaking views and a rewarding ascent. This trek boasts a technical difficulty level marked as "Difficult," making it ideal for seasoned hikers seeking an exhilarating experience.
Trail Statistics:
- Distance: 3.92 mi
- Elevation Gain: 1,837 ft
- Elevation Loss: 1,837 ft
- Max Elevation: 11,818 ft
- Min Elevation: 10,185 ft
- Trail Type: Loop
Timing:
- Moving Time: 2 hours 22 minutes
- Total Time: 3 hours 58 minutes
TrailRank: 30
Coordinates: 1156
Discover the beauty of nature as you ascend to the peak, reaching a maximum elevation of 11,818 feet. The challenging terrain ensures a thrilling journey, rewarding you with a sense of accomplishment upon completion.
Camping Options:
Camping facilities are available for both individuals and groups, providing the perfect opportunity to extend your adventure and immerse yourself in the serene surroundings. Wake up to the crisp mountain air and continue your exploration of Halgurd Mountain.
Whether you're a seasoned hiker or an adventurous spirit, the Halgurd Mountain Trail promises an unforgettable experience amidst nature's grandeur.
Trail Information for Piramagrun mountain:
- Location: Near Sulaymaniyah, Iraqi Kurdistan.
- Visibility: Prominent rocky massif visible from the main highway.
- Trailhead: Small rest area with huts, water taps, and toilets at an elevation of 1680 m.
- Trail Type: Scramble with moderate scrambling challenges and loose terrain.
- Route Guidance: Utilized a Wikiloc route for guidance; GPX track recommended.
- Distance: Approximately 1000 m ascent from the rest area.
- Elevation Gain: Summit elevation of 2611 m.
- Terrain Features: Vertical cliffs, rock towers, small caves, overlapping folded strata, and coarse breccia.
- Weather Considerations: Limited visibility at the summit due to dense clouds and a thin layer of snow.
- Cautionary Notes: Loose rocks in the gully require attention; hiking poles recommended.
- Landmarks: Small sign at the summit with the mountain's name in Kurdish.
- Overall Experience: Despite obscured views, the ascent and descent offered a fantastic experience in the majestic landscape of Iraqi Kurdistan's mountains.
Camping Options:
Camping facilities are available for both individuals and groups, providing the perfect opportunity to extend your adventure and immerse yourself in the serene
surroundings. Wake up to the crisp mountain air and continue your exploration of Halgurd Mountain.
Whether you're a seasoned hiker or an adventurous spirit, the Halgurd Mountain Trail promises an unforgettable experience amidst nature's grandeur.
Bekodyan, the highest tourist attraction in the Kurdistan Region with the altitude of 3198 m above the sea.
To see the highest tourist site in the Kurdistan Region, you need to drive three hours from Erbil to Choman and then walk seven to ten hours on foot. Then you will reach Bekodyan Pond, the highest natural tourist site in the whole region.
Bokodyan Pond is located on the Sakran Mountain, which is part of the Zagros Mountains chain, in Erbil’s Choman district.
The pond is named after the Bekodyan family who dwells in the Rezena village, which is in the Sarkapkan subdistrict in Ranya town. The Bekodyan family takes their herd for pasture during the summer. They were the first ones to discover the pond.
The pond is now a well-known site for local and international tourists.
Bekodyan Pond is popular in summer because there is always snow, even in summer days of July and August.
Kani Bast: The highest waterfall in the Kurdistan Region
Locally called Kani Bast (“frozen waterfall”), the waterfall is 36 meters high, making it the highest among the waterfalls of the Kurdistan Region. It is 1,700 meters above sea level.
The name comes from the fact that its water freezes in winter.
Kani Bast is located between Choman town and Soran city, it needs one hour hiking to reach the waterfall.
Kani Bast is so special that it is depicted on the 50,000 Iraqi dinar note.
Chair Rock or Darda Kursi
In Choman it takes around 1 hour to hike it , it's wonderful scenery and landscape makes it a unique destination for hiking and take photos on the top
Paragliding on Goizha Mountain is both exhilarating and inherently risky. Participants, known as paragliders, rely on their own strength and weight to launch themselves from a high point, gliding through the air by maneuvering an arched parachute above them. Seated in a harness connected to the parachute's lines, the paraglider steers and controls their direction. By running against the wind, they fill and open the parachute before taking off. The Sulaimani Paragliders’ Club, established in 2008 by enthusiasts led by Nouri Ahmad, gained official approval from the Iraqi government in 2009. It remains the sole paragliding group in Sulaimani, with ten active members who regularly fly from the summit of Goizha Mountain, offering a view over the city.
Tangi Tabeen
Located in the mountain of the famous Dukan resort, Tangi Tabeen is yet another wondrous waterfall hidden from most tourists. Its freshwater, green and rocky landscape makes it unique. It is gradually becoming more popular among local tourists.
Sazan
Located near Halbja city by one hour drive its between the border of Iran and Kurdistan
Javaran
An awe-inspiring rock relief, nearly 4,200 years old, lies hidden in a remote, hard-to-reach location. It raises the question of why anyone would create such a remarkable piece of art in such an isolated spot. To get there, you’ll need to drive for 15 minutes on rough dirt roads—having a four-wheel-drive vehicle is a plus. After that, there’s a 20-minute hike through rugged terrain, including some sections that require climbing. The journey is challenging, but absolutely worth it! Just be sure to register with the local police beforehand.
Tangi Tabeen
Located in the mountain of the famous Dukan resort, Tangi Tabeen is yet another wondrous waterfall hidden from most tourists. Its freshwater, green and rocky landscape makes it unique. It is gradually becoming more popular among local tourists.
CONTACT US TO BOOK A TOUR
wanderiraq@outlook.com | +9647715740776 via WhatsApp