KURDISTAN…The Land Of The Forgotten
November 07 - November 16, 2023
Led by Dr. Barbara Porter Archaeologist and Former Director of ACOR Jordan
Kurdistan, the autonomous northern region of Iraq and predominantly inhabited by the Kurds, is amazingly different from the areas populated by the Arabs. The terrain is the stark opposite of the desert that characterizes middle and southern Iraq. It is an eclectic region that offers a multitude of experiences and chance encounters. Tour the world’s oldest inhabited city with its famous antique museums. Visit monasteries and churches dating back from the 3rd to 7th centuries and the holiest sites of the Yezidis including the cave of the fire worshippers. Drive through breathtaking views of Kurdistan’s mountains, rivers and waterfalls. Explore former Jewish cities and other ancient locations such as Amadiya. Shop in the local bazaars for gold, silver, carpets, spices – you name it. From the great walled city of Erbil to nearly deserted, but still-functioning monasteries and gushing rivers like the Greater Zab and Lesser Zab that feed into the Tigris - the region has much to offer the seasoned traveler.
Can be combined with Iraq tour (October 25 - November 08, 2023)
Tour Cost (Land only): $5,995.00
per person sharing in double occupancy
Single Supplement:$745.00
Price based on group size minimum of 6 participants and maximum of 10 participants
Trip Grade: II Lodging Level: ***
Tour Includes
All transfers with assistance and luggage porterage.
All accommodations mentioned in best hotels available outside of Erbil and moderate 5* in Erbil.
Transportation within the country using modern A/C motor coach.
Meals as mentioned in the itinerary (B: Breakfast, L: Lunch and D: Dinner).
Bottled water on the bus and with meals.
Entrance fees to all mentioned sites and museums.
All activities described in the tour.
Escort of lecturer throughout the trip (provided minimum number of travelers is reached).
Service of a professional local guide.
All Porterage, gratuities to guide, drivers, and porters (provided minimum number of travelers is reached)..
Tour Does Not Include
International airfare in and out of Erbil.
Kurdistan Visa - currently GRATIS - obtainable upon arrival for $75.00 (Subject to change).
Beverages with meals or meals not mentioned.
Any required pre arrival & pre departure PCR tests.
Items of a personal nature, i.e. souvenirs, camera fees, laundry, phone calls, emails, etc.
Dayroom or extra hotel nights necessitated by airline flight schedule changes or misconnections in Europe.
Transfers if not arriving/departing on scheduled flights/tour dates.
Trip surcharge to operate below required minimum participants.
All gratuities to guides, porters, drivers, hotel and restaurant staff etc.
Travel insurance (HIGHY RECOMMENDED)
Trip Grade:
II Active – Some hikes, slightly more demanding walks at or to sites, few elevations, comfortable but busy schedule and some long rides and extensive drives.
LODGING Level:
***Superior: Lodges and hotels with additional amenities, refined service and comfort level acceptable to western standards. (3 or 4 stars)
