Is Iraq safe to travel to for this event?

Iraqi Kurdistan — the region the entire route passes through — is a stable, semi-autonomous region with its own government and security forces. It has been accessible to international visitors for years. Tim has deep on-the-ground relationships built over a decade. We work closely with local authorities, community leaders, and security advisors. Every participant receives a full safety and security briefing. Comprehensive travel insurance with appropriate cover is advisable. The honest answer: Tim ran this route solo in 2025. He would not open it to others if he had any doubt about participant safety.

What exactly does the $8,500* USD include?

Everything from the moment you arrive at the airport and are escorted to Soran to the moment you cross the finish line in Erbil. Expedition organisation and permits, all in-country transport, 6 nights accommodation, medical and safety support throughout, the Erbil Marathon entry fee on Day 4, the full 3-month training programme, cultural guides and community access, event photography and video, and your commemorative finishers pack. International flights, visas, insurance and travel to and from Erbil are your responsibility. A $2,000 USD deposit secures your place, with the balance due 90 days before the expedition.

What is the Erbil Marathon on Day 4?

The Erbil International Marathon is an established city marathon that takes place annually in Erbil — one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world. On Day 4 of IRAQ200x, after 160km across canyon, desert and mountain, you join thousands of local and international runners on the official marathon course. You don't finish IRAQ200x alone at a checkpoint. You finish it in a city celebrating, surrounded by people, running the final 42.2km as a parade. It is the most extraordinary finish line in ultramarathon running.

Is this a competitive race or and expedition?

IRAQ200x is designed as an expedition experience — the communities you pass through, the history beneath your feet, the cultural experiences and evening gatherings with locals, crew members and 11 other extraordinary people — are as much the event as the running. You are not here finish fast or beat the clock or other competitors. You are here because Iraq called to you.

What if dates or programming changes due to regional circumstances?

We plan for this. Operating in Iraqi Kurdistan means working within a region that has its own political rhythms, cultural calendar, and occasionally shifting conditions. The Erbil Marathon — our Day 4 anchor — is subject to its own annual scheduling. Tim has spent a decade building relationships with government officials, community leaders, and local stakeholders that allow us to navigate these realities with confidence. If adjustments to dates or programming are needed, we will communicate them early, with full transparency and practical options for participants. What will not change under any circumstances: the route, the depth of the experience, and our commitment to your safety.