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| From Iraq to Iran : The Hamilton Road |
Took the Hamilton Road from Arbil (Iraq) to Orumiye (Iran). Long ass journey for a short distance because most of it is on winding mountain road built by Kiwi engineer Archibald Hamilton from 1928-1932. Read about the spectacular scenery from LP and scenery did not disappoint. Sun baked mountains, lush blonde pastures (looking like they’ve been shampooed & conditioned), rich brown soil. Landscapes reminiscent of Bolivia – endless land and rippling mountains.
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| Earthy yellow and brown painted landscapes |
Border crossing was pretty straightforward but felt a little tense… like a scene from recent news showing freight trucks crossing between Pakistan & Afghanistan (and Taliban attacks on NATO convoys). People here actually thought we were from Afghan, that’s something new.
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| Shampooed & conditioned pastures |
Was asked what I thought of Iran by one of the border guards. I don’t know yet… But having dreamt of seeing this country since 5 yrs ago (though lacking the guts to do so) I can only say I’m hella excited!!
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| Emerging from the Gali Ali Beg canyon |
Travel Info
A daily bus departs from Arbil at 7am to Orumiye (Iran). US$30 per person, expect a 7-8 hour journey with 1-2 hours for border crossing. A prearranged Iranian visa is required. The bus company is called Federal Company (Tel: 0750 4475222 or Email: federal_col@yahoo.com)
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| Approaching the city of Piranshahr on the Iranian side |
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Amazing scenery!