The Abraham Path Initiative's Ibrahim Yolu Culture Guide

The Abraham Path Initiative (API) is a visionary nonprofit organization dedicated to cultivating understanding, connection, and peace through walking trails that trace the legendary journey of Abraham.

By creating and fostering trails across the Middle East—spanning Turkey, Iraqi Kurdistan, Jordan, Palestine, and Egypt—API brings together people of all faiths and backgrounds in a celebration of shared ancestry and cultural heritage.

Since its founding, API has championed local ownership and sustainability, helping communities along the trail develop their tourism infrastructure and supporting them with expertise, storytelling, and strategic resources to ensure long-term success.

At the heart of API’s work are the local communities who host and guide travelers on the Abraham Path. These individuals, along with API fellows who create powerful narratives of hope and resilience, are the lifeblood of the initiative.

API’s role has evolved to support these community-led efforts, responding to local needs and amplifying local voices. The Path is not only a physical journey but a cultural one—filled with stories, traditions, and encounters that foster empathy and global understanding. To further this mission, API is investing in new tools that will prepare travelers to walk with respect and awareness, deepening the experience for both guests and hosts.

With the support of Crooked Trails, API is launching a new project to build a mobile “culture guide” for the Ibrahim Yolu, the Turkish segment of the Abraham Path. This region, having endured years of conflict, a pandemic, and a devastating earthquake, is now recovering and ready to welcome travelers once more.

The culture guide—available through a new website and mobile app—will offer essential information on local etiquette, homestay norms, and language tips in Turkish and Kurdish.

Developed in partnership with local experts, this guide will ensure travelers are well-prepared to engage with communities along the trail respectfully.

Ultimately, this project aims to bridge cultures, strengthen trust with host families, and promote responsible and meaningful travel along one of the world’s most significant heritage routes.