Zagros Mountain Trail Wins Best Wider World Tourism Project, Celebrating Sustainable Tourism Growth and Community-Driven Travel in Kurdistan, Iraq

It was here that the Zagros Mountain Trail was recognized with the “Best Wider World Tourism Project” award by the British Guild of Travel Writers for this area of Iraq, an important recognition of community-based and sustainable tourism within the Kurdistan Region. Please join in celebrating not just the outstanding natural beauty of the Zagros Mountains but also the commitment of the communities, guides, and hosts who have come together to make this trail an example of responsible travel and cultural tourism.

The Zagros Mountain Trail is a 215 km hiking trail connecting more than 30 villages and towns across the stunningly beautiful Zagros Mountains. From a small idea in 2016 to a full-fledged tourism initiative today, many tourists from around the world come to experience Kurdistan’s diversity in culture, natural beauty, and the friendliness of the people of this region.

Sustainable Tourism in Kurdistan: Empowering Local Communities and Promoting Cultural Heritage

The award highlights the growing importance of sustainable tourism in Kurdistan, Iraq, where tourism development is rooted in community empowerment. The trail not only allows visitors to explore Kurdistan’s natural landscapes, but it also enables them to engage with local people, discover Kurdish traditions, and understand the region’s cultural heritage. This initiative demonstrates how tourism can serve as a tool for economic development while also fostering cultural preservation and environmental sustainability.

According to Barzi Bakir, the Executive Director of the Kurdistan Trails Organization (KTO), “What began as a dream to connect communities has now become a symbol of pride for Kurdistan. Every family along the trail is thrilled to know that the guests they once welcomed into their homes now see their land as a global travel destination.” This recognition underscores the growing role of tourism in Kurdistan’s economic growth, offering new opportunities for local communities and helping preserve their cultural identity.

Tourism Impact: Boosting Local Economies and Promoting Cultural Exchange

The Zagros Mountain Trail has had a positive economic impact on the surrounding regions. The influx of tourists has generated income for local businesses, including homestays, local restaurants, and tourism services. This form of community-based tourism ensures that the economic benefits of tourism are shared across the entire region, from urban centers to rural villages.

Moreover, the tourism economy in Kurdistan continues to benefit from the Zagros Mountain Trail, where local artisans, farmers, and small businesses are directly involved in providing products and services to tourists. This sustainable approach helps create job opportunities and supports local entrepreneurship, providing communities with the means to thrive without compromising the environment or cultural integrity.

Moreover, the ZMT project emphasizes cultural exchange, as visitors not only explore the region’s natural wonders but also learn about the local Kurdish culture through shared experiences with local families. This mutual exchange fosters global understanding and encourages cross-cultural dialogue among tourists and locals, creating lasting connections and memories for both parties.

Expanding Tourism: The Future of the Zagros Mountain Trail

The success of the Zagros Mountain Trail is just the beginning. Bakir expressed his vision for expanding the project, stating, “Winning this award means we’re on the right track, but it also challenges us to go further, dream bigger, and deliver more. Our immediate focus is to make the trail more accessible and engaging for both local and international visitors.”

The Kurdistan Trails Organization (KTO) plans to expand the trail network to other regions in Kurdistan, creating more hiking routes that connect villages, towns, and cultural landmarks. This expansion will offer even more opportunities for visitors to experience Kurdistan’s diverse landscapes, heritage, and local culture, all while supporting the region’s growing tourism industry.

Kurdistan’s Growing Tourism Potential: An Invitation to Rediscover the Region

This award brings global attention to Kurdistan as an emerging tourism destination in Iraq. With its breathtaking scenery, rich cultural history, and welcoming people, the region is gaining recognition as a unique place for eco-tourism, cultural tourism, and adventure travel. As global tourists increasingly seek authentic experiences that provide both adventure and cultural immersion, Kurdistan is poised to become a key player in the global tourism market.

With its award-winning Zagros Mountain Trail, Kurdistan is now positioned to attract more international tourists, eager to explore the region’s untouched landscapes, engage with its local communities, and discover the historical and cultural richness of the area.

Promoting Peace and Stability Through Tourism

In addition to its economic and cultural benefits, tourism in Kurdistan plays a vital role in fostering regional peace and stability. By encouraging tourism development, Kurdistan is promoting cultural understanding and building stronger international ties. The Zagros Mountain Trail acts as a symbol of cultural exchange and peace-building, showing that travel can bridge divides and promote global harmony.

A Sustainable Future for Kurdistan’s Tourism Sector

The win of the Zagros Mountain Trail at the BGTW Awards marks a defining moment in the tourism sector of Kurdistan. This recognition underlines the potential of the region to become one of the leading sustainable tourism destinations, offering unique travel experiences that connect people to nature, culture, and the local community. As Kurdistan proceeds with tourism infrastructure development, success within the framework of the Zagros Mountain Trail will provide an opportunity for future achievements. Emphasizing sustainability and community engagement, Kurdistan is bound to emerge as a tourism destination on the global platform, offering adventure, cultural experience, and responsible travel.

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