This stage begins in central Akre and climbs stone steps to the remains of an ancient citadel overlooking the plains. The trail then descends into the mountains on an old, wide pass road with scenic views and a natural spring. Caution is advised near a former military site. Do not leave the marked path. The descent into Hashtga is less defined, with loose rocks and foliage. Overnight camping in Hashtga.

Due to current closures, we leave Hashtga by car and transfer to Safti. From here we slowly climb into the hills behind. The valleys here are lush and green all year round and is a maze of streams and waterfalls. Overnight camping in Alka.

This recently scouted stage climbs out of Alka and maintains a steady elevation along a remote ridge, offering sweeping views of the Great Zab River and surrounding valleys. While the trail skirts several villages, it remains isolated, passing shepherd camps and orchards with minimal infrastructure. Carry sufficient water and food. The stage ends in Harbo, where a small shop and a homestay are available.

This long stage begins above the Great Zab River, following it for 5 km before ascending steeply to a ridgeline with panoramic views. The trail then descends to an iron bridge and traces the dramatic “dragon’s back” mountain. A second bridge crossing at Hanary offers small shops and a castle-themed house. The final stretch climbs back up to Khalan, where a homestay is available, as well as one nearby in Qamyran.

This is the longest stage of the trek and will be split over two days. It is one of the most spectacular sections of the trail. First, we will be ascending Bradost Mountain until we reach a mountain road built by Saddam Hussein in the 1970s. From here we will return to Khalan by car for the night. The next morning, we transfer back to the same spot and climb through the mountain forests to reach the city of Soran. Overnight in Soran at local homestay.

Drive from Soran City to natural trial. Today’s trek will bring a welcome change of pace, this is one of the shorter parts of the trail, which allows you to appreciate the stunning scenery that surrounds you. The route takes you through the territory of an old Peshmerga training base and along the ridge of a steep canyon overlooking the town of Rawanduz. Afterwards we will leave Rawanduz by car and head to the start of the nature trail into the Akoyan Valley. It is another long stretch with a steep ascent at the end, climbing 500 meters up old cow paths to reach the ancient village of Saran.Overnight in Saran at local homestay.

Starting in the mountain village of Saran, this stage ascends through orchards to a jeep track leading to a high mountain pass between Karokh and Hendrin peaks, significant in Kurdish oral tradition. The pass exceeds 2,000 meters and may be snow-covered in winter, local guide advice is essential. Descending on the eastern side, the trail passes springs, and ruins of an old church before reaching Dargala, a village known for its historical guerrilla fighters. Accommodation and small shops are available in Dargala.

Leaving Dargala, the route descends along a paved road before crossing a stream and skirting the hillside southward. It passes through Razhukaryan, showcasing a riverside footpath, then climbs 300 meters on a 4×4 track to a highpoint with expansive views. Hikers must remain on the marked trail due to unmarked minefields nearby; local guides are essential. The path continues above the town on Omurawah before crossing a private footbridge (access arranged by guides) and finishes in Rezan village, where a homestay, restaurant, and shop are available.

The route departs Rezan by road, climbing gradually through the dramatic Balakayati region via 4×4 tracks and a small village. After crossing two streams and a small pass, hikers are rewarded with clear views of Halgurd and Sakran mountains, near the Iranian border. The trail descends to Nawdaran village before reaching Choman town, which offers multiple homestays, restaurants, shops, and local guides. Choman serves as a base for trips, including climbs of Halgurd for experienced hikers after completing the ZMT.

This final stage is a continuous ascent, leaving Choman by road for 5 km before transitioning to trails and 4×4 tracks that wind through remote highlands. The route passes streams, waterfalls, and wildflowers, with no resupply pointsbring all necessary food and water. At 2,250 m, warning signs for unexploded ordinance appear; stay strictly on the trail. The stage ends at a broad alpine plateau beneath Mount Halgurd, Iraq’s highest peak.