Erbil
A local documents and guides tourists through Balakayati’s natural terrain
BALAKAYATI — A resident of Qasre area in Balakayati, part of Erbil’s Soran Autonomous Administration, has been offering voluntary mountain guiding services to tourists and hiking groups for five years.
Hiwa Qasrayi told 964media he began this work to better serve visitors and introduce the area’s natural beauty which once described by renowned Kurdish poet Sherko Bekas as “the daughter of God.”
“In addition to guiding tourists and hiking groups, I’ve made it easier for many media outlets to report on the area’s nature,” he said, explaining that his goal is to help promote the region through visits and media coverage.
The Balakayati area is known for its fertile soil, favorable water supply, and productive agricultural terrain, which has made it a key supplier of summer crops. Large tracts of land in the area are dedicated to farming, helping to meet the market demands for locally grown produce.
Qasrayi noted that during his work as a guide, he has discovered many previously undocumented natural sights in the region. He said few people are aware of these areas, and he has recorded many of the locations himself, as he initially started out with a passion for photography.
He also provides logistical support to visiting hikers and tourists, including overnight accommodations when needed.
