ZMT Wins BGTW Award
In November 2025, the Zagros Mountain Trail (ZMT) was named “Best Wider World Tourism Project” by the British Guild of Travel Writers (BGTW), marking a groundbreaking moment for sustainable and community-based tourism in the Kurdistan Region of Iraq.
The award celebrates not only the beauty of Kurdistan’s mountains, but also the dedication of the communities, guides, and local hosts who have built the trail from the ground up.
“This recognition is a huge honor for everyone involved,” said Barzi Bakir, the Executive Director of the Kurdistan Trails Organization (KTO), which manages the ZMT project. “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.”
The award also signals a new chapter for tourism in the Kurdistan Region, one built on sustainability, authenticity, and community empowerment.
“Kurdistan has always had the potential to be a world-class destination,” the KTO director added. “This recognition shows that people around the world value our nature, our culture, and our warmth. If visitors can fall in love with one mountain, imagine how much they’ll enjoy exploring the many more wonders our region holds. This is more than an award, it’s an invitation to rediscover Kurdistan.”
Looking forward, the KTO sees this milestone as both motivation and responsibility.
“Winning this award means we’re on the right track, but it also challenges us to go further,” Barzi continued. “Our focus now is to make the trail more accessible, expand local participation, and strengthen partnerships that enhance the visitor experience while preserving the trail’s authenticity. We want to see the same success replicated in other parts of Kurdistan, turning one trail into a movement that connects people, cultures, and nature.”
The Zagros Mountain Trail’s win at the BGTW Awards highlights the growing recognition of Iraq’s Kurdistan Region as an emerging hub for responsible and community-driven tourism, a destination where visitors can experience connection, culture, and peace through the simple act of walking.
Emily Garthwaite receiving the Best Wider World Tourism Project award on behalf of the Zagros Mountain Trail team.
