A ten-day study and cultural exchange trip through the Kurdistan Region of Iraq from 10 to 19 March 2027.
The Middle East Excursion combines historic sites and impressive landscapes with conversations involving politics, education and civil society. Rather than knowing the region only from the news, participants encounter different perspectives first-hand.
Meetings are planned with representatives of regional institutions, universities and civil-society initiatives. The trip is accompanied by a German- and English-speaking tour leader.
The programme deliberately remains open to current opportunities for encounters and may be adapted to local circumstances.
The stages show the planned sequence. The detailed daily programme and confirmed appointments will be announced before the trip.
The trip begins in Erbil with an introduction to the regional capital, its citadel, bazaar and political life. An excursion takes us to the mountain town of Shaqlawa before returning to Erbil.
In Sulaimaniyya, the focus is on culture, education and the region’s recent history. From there we visit Halabja and Hawraman before returning to Sulaimaniyya.
In Barzan we explore modern Kurdish history and the region’s culture of remembrance. The journey then continues to Dohuk, our base for several destinations in the north.
At the sanctuary of Lalish we learn about the Yazidi religion and its traditions. In Alqosh we visit the rock-hewn Rabban Hormizd Monastery and explore Mesopotamia’s Christian heritage.
The historic towns of Akre and Amediye combine old urban structures with impressive views across the mountains. Via Dohuk, we continue to Erbil International Airport for the return journey to Germany.
Conversations with people from politics, universities and civil society offer insights that go far beyond a conventional tour.
Historic sites and memorials bring the region’s recent history and its significance for the present to life.
Cities, mountain regions and religious sites reveal Kurdistan’s cultural diversity and contrasting landscapes.
The tour leader reserves the right to cancel the trip if there are too few participants. The following cancellation charges apply if you withdraw:
Email us for further information and details on how to apply.