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Full Iraq before Ramadan

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This is the most complete expedition into Iraq, where you’ll travel from southern Iraq to the Kurdish lands in 11 days, visiting highlights like the Mesopotamian Marshes, Karbala, Babylon, Baghdad, Mosul , Lalish, Erbil and more.

From visiting the center of Yazidism to the holiest place for Shia devotees, while learning everything about the ISIS legacy, this is the most comprehensive itinerary into the most diverse country in the Middle East .

February 18th to 28th, 2025

Lead by Leti Lagarda

travelers who joined us say

Note that we always keep the itinerary flexible, and it may be subject to change, depending on the political situation.

Day 1 – Arrival in Baghdad Day 2 – Babylon, Saddam Hussein Palace and Karbala Day 3 – Karbala, Ziggurat of Ur & Nasiriyah Day 4 – Mesopotamian Marshes Day 5 – Full day in Baghdad Day 6 – Samarra, Hatra & Mosul Day 7 – Full day in Mosul Day 8 – Mar Mattai, Lalish and Duhok

Day 9 – Saddam Hussein Palace, Amedi and Barzan Day 10 – Full day in Erbil Day 11 – Erbil & departure

Day 1 – Arrival in Baghdad

• We will be welcoming you throughout the day, picking you up at the airport, and checking in at the hotel.
• Since the bus will already be available, we’ll certainly organize something in the late afternoon.
• Overnight in Baghdad.

Day 2 – Babylon, Saddam Hussein Palace and Karbala

• Ancient Babylon used to be the first great civilization in the world, believed to be the first city to ever reach a population of more than 200,000.
• World wonders such as the Hanging Gardens and the Tower of Babel used to be within these walls.
• Today, Babylon is an archaeological site, featuring a mind-blowing replica of the Ishtar Gate and an actual Lion of Babylon.
• We will also visit the former Saddam Hussein Palace, today overlooking the ancient city of Babylon.
• After lunch, we will head to Karbala, the holiest city in the world for Shia Muslims, a surprisingly touristic city visited every year by, literally, millions and millions of pilgrims.
• The best time to visit Karbala is after sunset, which will do while checking out the two jaw-dropping shrines.
• Overnight in Karbala.

Day 3 – Karbala, Ziggurat of Ur & Nasiriyah

• There’s so much going on in Karbala so, in the morning, we will take things slowly, wandering around town, checking the places which we probably missed from the night before, and then, we will head for Nasiriya, a good 4 to 5-hour drive, with checkpoints included.
• Before Nasiriyah, however, we will enjoy sunset Ziggurat of Ür, one oldest cities in the world (3800BC) – even older than Babylon – and believed to be the birthplace of Abraham.
• Nasiriya is the largest city in southern Iraq, a high-secured city, home to the American-built Al-Hoot prison, a maximum-security prison today filled with ISIS fighters. Nasiriya is also the gateway to The Mesopotamian Marshes. Overnight in Nasiriya.

Day 4 – Mesopotamian Marshes

• This is going to be one of the most exciting days of our trip, since we will head for Chibayish, home to the Arab Marshes, a wetland ecosystem in south Iraq, an aquatic landscape in the middle of the desert, home to a distinct cultural group named the Marsh Arabs.
• We will spend the entire day getting immersed into their culture by visiting their villages, islands and eating masgouf with them, an old Mesopotamian dish consisting of a giant grilled fish.
• After lunch, we will head back to Baghdad.

Day 5 – Full day in Baghdad

• The capital of Iraq is a chaotic, yet a lively and fascinating city in the Middle East , packed with historical and cultural sites.
• We will start our tour with a traditional breakfast only found in Baghdad and then, we’ll visit the National Museum of Iraq , containing some of the oldest artefacts in the world.
• We will discover the old book market, the leather and copper bazaars, the historical Shabandar café, and all the old city highlights. We will also visit the Martyr’s Monument and, depending on the political situation, we might also try to get into the Green Zone, let’s see.
• In the evening, we will all go to Dar Al Atraqchi Heritage Cafe, a traditional but pretty modern café and restaurant.

Day 6 – Samarra, Hatra & Mosul

• Samarra is a city controlled by a Shia Militia, a city practically impossible to visit for independent travelers but thanks to our expert local guides, hopefully, we won’t be running into any issues.
• The city is famous for holding the spiral minaret of Malwiya, a UNESCO Heritage Site and one of the most famous landmarks in Iraq , absolutely stunning.
• Then, on our way to Mosul, we will stop in Hatra, a very well-preserved ancient Mesopotamian city, located in the middle of nowhere, and also a former ISIS training camp. We will have the chance to see actual ISIS graffiti.
• Overnight in Mosul .

Day 7 – Full day in Mosul

• Mosul is Joan Torres’ favorite city in Iraq.
• Mosul is the second most important city in Iraq and one of the oldest cities in the world, the place where ancient Niniveh was found.
• In 2017, the city was liberated from ISIS, and people already started to come back.
• Yes, we will explore the war-torn old city and all its destroyed buildings, but we will also discover Mosul’s most human side by witnessing all the reconstruction, getting to know kind-hearted locals, and also checking out all the lively bazaars.
• Overnight in Mosul.

Day 8 – Departure

• Early morning, we’ll head for the region of Kurdistan.
• Upon arrival at the border/checkpoint, we will say goodbye to our friends from Baghdad, and we’ll be welcomed by our brand-new Kurdish team, who will take care of us while we are in the region of Kurdistan.
• We will first go to the historical Christian monastery of Mar Mattai, located only 20km from Mosul , and very close to the former front line against ISIS.
• Then, we will go to Lalish, the holiest place for Yazidis, a religious group who mainly live across the Middle East, the Caucasus, Turkey, and Russia but Iraq has the largest population.
• We will visit their temple and meet the Yazidi community.
• We will finish our day in Dohuk, one of Kurdistan’s main cities.
• Dinner and overnight in Dohuk.

Day 9 – Saddam Hussein Palace, Amedi and Barzan

• In the morning, we will drive to Amedi , my favorite town in Iraqi Kurdistan , built on the top of a flat mountain, with incredible views of the valley.
• It’s a 5,000-old historical village and believed to be the home of the Three Wise Man, who made a pilgrimage to Bethlehem to see Jesus Christ after his birth.
• On the way, we will stop at one of the several abandoned palaces that Saddam Hussein had across Iraq .
• After lunch, we drive towards Erbil through the most scenic road in all Iraq, stopping on the way in Barzan, a village epicentre of Kurdish nationalism.
• Dinner and overnight in Erbil.

Day 10 – Full day in Erbil

• Erbil is a 7,000-year-old city, one of the oldest in the world, filled with historical sites and inhabited by some of the most hospitable people in the Middle East, the Kurds.
• For sightseeing, this is my favorite capital in the Middle East .
• During our visit, we will visit the Old Citadel, the bazaar, Jalil Khayat mosque and, in the evening, we can all go for drinks to the Christian district of Ankawa.
• Lunch, dinner and overnight in Erbil.

Day 11 – Erbil & departure

• After enjoying breakfast altogether, we will take care of your transfer to Erbil International Airport.
• If your flight is later in the afternoon or evening, we’ll also take care of your transfer, no problem.

Gallery of photos

10 nights of accommodation (twin shared) in hotels mentioned in FAQ

Private transportation and driver around Iraq

Lunch (not on day 1 & 12)

Clearance for all checkpoints

English-speaking knowledgeable local guide

International tour leader

Entrance fees to all sites listed in the itinerary

Airport transfer in Baghdad and Erbil

Fast-track visa service upon arrival in Baghdad

Not Included

International flights

Visa fees (80USD)

Single supplement. Having your own private room for 10 nights costs €450.

Which hotels do we stay in?

These are the hotels we always stay but not that once in a while, they might be subject to availability.

• Baghdad :  Uruk Hotel
• Karbala : Damas Hotel
• Nasiriyah :  Zaitoon Hotel
• Mosul :  Modern Plaza
• Duhok: Krystal Hotel
• Erbil : Erbil View Hotel

How does the room distribution work?

Price of the tour includes accommodation in a twin room.

If you are a solo traveler, you will be sharing the room with another like-minded traveler from the group. We always try to group people of same gender and age together but note that this can’t always be the case.

Moreover, in the hypothetical case there weren’t perfect pairs, one of the rooms would be a triple room.

If you wanted to have your own single room, you will have to pay an additional €450.

How to get a visa?

There is a visa on arrival available at Baghdad International Airport. It costs $80.

This visa will be valid for both Federal Iraq and Kurdistan.

Which nationalities can get a visa on arrival?

All European Union passport holders, and also the United States (yes, Americans can travel to Iraq ), United Kingdom, Russia, China, Japan, South Korea, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, and Switzerland

What about the rest of nationalities, can they join?

If your passport is not on the lucky list, we can get you a Letter of Invitation, with which you’ll be able to apply at your nearest embassy.

How many people will attend this tour?

We will be a group of maximum 12-13 people.

What’s the minimum number of people required for this tour?

All our Iraq expeditions have a guaranteed departure, that’s for sure.

However, in the hypothetical and unlikely case we didn’t reach a minimum number of 8 people, the Western Tour leader would not join, but you’d just be traveling with the local guide.

Where does the trip start from?

Starting point: Baghdad

Ending point: Erbil.

This means that, ideally, you should fly to Baghdad and fly out from Erbil. Both have international airports with loads of connections.

If you are coming from anywhere in Europe, the best is to come via Istanbul (either Pegasus or Turkish Airlines), and those coming from the American continent, also have the option of coming via Doha or Dubai.

Is it safe?

The situation is getting better and better by the day, plus we will be traveling with a group of local experts who know the latest security updates. Moreover, we will always stick to the stable areas of Iraq.

For more information, check my Iraq safety guide .

How does payment work?

In order to secure your spot on the tour, we require a deposit.

All details will be shared upon booking your spot.

What about the cancellation policy?

Please refer to our Terms & Conditions .

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• Travel Stories

Iraq - A Journey to the Cradle of Civilization

After years of political turmoil and military crisis, Iraq is slowly rising from the ashes. The country is now open to travelers and is ready to show its historical and cultural heritage to the world. And being home to some of the world’s earliest empires - the Sumerians, the Babylonians, the Assyrians - it sure has a lot to show. Traces of those ancient civilisations can be found all over the country in places like the city of Babylon - where the iconic “hanging gardens of Babylon” once stood, the ancient city of Ur – known as the birthplace of prophet Abraham and Uruk - the place where writing is thought to have originated and developed. Some of the holiest places in Islam can also be found here - like the Imam Husayn Mosque in Karbala and the city of Najaf.

♦ Baghdad - capital and largest city of Iraq; ♦ The ruins of the ancient city of Babylon; ♦ Karbala - one of the holiest cities for Shia Muslims; ♦ The ancient Sumerian city of Ur , also believed to be the birthplace of Abraham.

Day 1. Arrival in Baghdad. Baghdad City Tour After arrival at the hotel ans short break, we will start our tour around Baghdad. We will visit the Archaeological Museum of Iraq which preserves important objects representing the last 7000 years of the region's history. We will then have a walk along the famous Al-Mutanabi Street - the site of the first book traders' market in the metropolis that was once Baghdad and the copper market Souk al-Safareen. We will pass by Mustansiriya Madrasah (schoold) - in the 13th century it was the most prominent centre for Islamic studies in the region and has since become the most iconic architectural masterpiece of Baghdad. -/-/-

Day 2. Baghdad - Samarra - Baghdad Today we will visit Samarra Archeological City, which used to be the capital of the Abbasid Caliphate during Medieval times. The Great Mosque of Samarra, which dates back to the 9th century, was once the biggest ones in the world. Famous for its unique spiraling minaret, the mosque is now one of the symbols of Iraq. Although it's quite close to Baghdad, there are a few checkpoints along the way so it might take us up to 2-3 hours to get there. Upon arrival back in Baghdad, we will have some free time in the city.  B/-/-

Day 3 . Baghdad - Babylon - Karbala Today we will visit the legendary city of Babylon. Although very little is left of its actual ruins, it is still impresive to walk the same streets that the rulers of one of the most prominent ancient empires once did and where Alexander the Great died. The city prospered under the reign of Nebuchadrezzar II - one of the most powerful monarchs of the Neo-Babylonian Empire. In the 20th century, Saddam Hussein, who saw himself as a modern reincarnation of Nebuchadnezzar, sponsored a reconstruction of the city. The construction was rather modern and didn't take into consideration the actual ruins and was thus derided by the archelogical world. We will get the chance to walk through a reconstruction of the glorious Ishtar Gate - constructed of vibrant blue tiles and adorned with depictions of fantastic animals. We will then proceed to the Karbala - a holy city for the Shia Muslims. It's the place of one of the largest religious gatherings in the world. Every year hundreds of thousand of Shia Muslims come here to mark the holy day of Ashura and commemorate the martyrdom in battle of the Imam Hussein, a grandson of the Prophet Muhammad, in 680AD. Overnight in a hotel in Karbala. B/-/-

Day 4. Karbala - Najaf - Karbala Today we continue our tour with a visit to another holy Islamic city - Najaf. Here we will visit the Holy Shrine of Imam Ali - prophet Mohammad’s cousin and son-in-law and the fourth caliph (656-661). Some Shia Muslims believe that here, next to the tomb of Imam Ali are burried the remains of Adam and Noah. Thousands of pilgrims come here every year to pray by the gold-doomed shrine and spend time with their families. On the way there we will stop for a visit to another important pilgrimage site - the tomb of the old testament prophet Ezekiel in the city of Al Kilf. What makes this place special is its shared history and importance for both Muslim and Jewish devotees. The site is esentially an encient Jewish shrine enclosed in an Islamic mosque. Both Hebrew and Arabic inscriptions are visiblle on the walls of the tomb and serve as a reminder of Jewish, Chstistian and Muslim's shared Abrahamic roots. In the evening we will get back to our hotel in Kerbala for overnight. B/-/-

Day 5. Kerbala - Uruk - Nasiriya We will are heading to Uruk - the site of one of the largest settlements in Mesopotamia existing in around 3200 BC. It was around that time that the cuneiform writing was developed. It is logo-syllabic script inscribed in clay tablets and is considered one of the first forms of writing in the world and the most significant cultural contributions of the Sumerians.We will then proceed to Nasiriya where we will stroll around the bustling markets before settling in our hotel for overnight. B/-/

Day 6. Nasiriya - Ur Today we will visit the ancient city of Ur - a Sumerian city-state built in 3800 B.C. It is also believed to be the biblical "Ur of the Chaldees" - the birthplace of Abraham.We will tour the famous Ziggurat of Ur - a stone temple complex built in honour of the moon God Nanna, the patron deity of the city. In the afternoon we will go back to Nasiriya and explore its busy markets. Overnigh in the hotel. B/-/- 

Day 7. Nasiriya - Marshes – Basra Today we will spend our day canoeing along the Marshes - one of the largest wetland ecosystems in the Middle East and explore their incredible wildlife. We will get to learn more about the Ma'dan people, also known as Marsh Arabs - who have lived on those wetlands for thousands of years and have managed to sustain their traditional lifestyle to present days. Their lifestyle and culture was centered on their natural surrounding: a great example of that are the traditional reed houses, built from the reed growing in the wetlands.Here we will discover yet another biblical reference -as many people believe that the Marshes were the inspiration for the Bible's Garden of Eden. In the evening we continue to Basra where we will spend the night in a hotel. B/-/

Day 8. Basra Today we will explore Basra - the second largest city in Iraq. We will walk around the old town and get to see the beautiful old houses built in the 16th and the17th century. Although most of them are unfortunately uninhabited now and slowly crumbling away, they are still telling the story of the town's glorious past. We will then finish our tour properly with a sunset boat ride down the magnificent Shatt al-Arab river. Afterwards, we will return to Basra for our last overnight in Iraq.  B/-/-

Day 9. Departure Breakfast at the hotel and group transfer to the airport for departure.  B/-/-

Click here for practical pre-departure information.

Airport arrival/ departure transfers Arrival transfer Baghdad Airport - Baghdad Hotel:

23 March 2024 @05:00am. 29 September 2024 @05:00am.

Departure transfer Basra Hotel - Basra Airport: 31 March 2024 @05:00am. 07 october 2024 @05:00am.

Note: Please note the time for the group airport transfers and make sure you book your flight accordingly. If your flight arrives at different time, you can contact us for instructions how to get to the hotel/aiport on your own or refer to the prcatical information above. Due to the specific security requirements at the Iraqi airports, we can not help with pre-paid additional transfers, but our local partners can help you with arranging a taxi on the spot.

Currency fluctuations might cause correction of price at any time.

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Let's Explore Iraq with Safraty!

Our Background

 Welcome to our travel agency in Iraq, founded in late 2020 by the passionate couple, Ahmed and Aya. With a deep love for their country's rich history, breathtaking landscapes, and diverse cultural heritage, they embarked on a mission to introduce foreign tourists to the wonders of Iraq. Our team is dedicated to providing exceptional Iraq tours travel experiences, showcasing the hidden gems and ancient treasures that make Iraq a captivating destination. Whether you're interested in exploring the ancient ruins of Babylon, wandering through the bustling bazaars of Baghdad, or marveling at the natural beauty of the Kurdistan region, we are here to curate unforgettable journeys tailored to your interests and preferences. Come join us on an adventure of a lifetime and discover the enchanting beauty of Iraq through our expertly guided tours. 

Our Services

 Discover Iraq's enchanting wonders with our tour operator. Choose between private tours for a personalized experience or join our group excursions to connect with fellow travelers. We assist with Iraq and Kurdistan visas, offer hotel bookings, and provide reliable airport pick-up and drop-off services. Our dedicated team ensures a seamless and unforgettable journey, allowing you to immerse yourself in the beauty, history, and culture of Iraq. Embark on a remarkable adventure and let us handle the logistics while you create lifelong memories in this captivating destination.

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Young Pioneer Tours

Iraq Tours 2024 and 2025

After many years of turmoil Young Pioneer Tours are pleased to announce our full program of Iraq Tours to the whole country, including both Federal Iraq, as well as Iraqi Kurdistan.

Before the country becomes a tourist hot-spot, now is the perfect time to visit this country with a recent and ancient past that is unlike any other. Now is the time to visit Iraq.

GROUP TOURS TO IRAQ 2024 – 2025

Our Iraq Tours are split into “mainland”, or Federal Iraq Tours, Whole Iraq Tours (Iraq and Kurdistan), as well as standalone tours to Iraqi Kurdistan.

Our group tours to Iraq are on fixed numbers and tend to fill up fast, so we recommend booking in advance.

Federal Iraq Tours

Southern Iraq Ultimate Tour March 10th-16th 2025 $2795

Southern Iraq Spring Tour May 10th-16th 2024 $2795

Southern Iraq Autumn Tour October 17th-23rd 2024 $2795

Whole Iraq (Iraq and Iraqi Kurdistan Tours)

Whole Iraq Ultimate Tour – March 10th-22nd 2025 $3695

Whole Iraq Spring Tour – May 10th-22nd 2024 $3695

Whole Iraq Autumn Combo October 17th-29th 2024 $3695

Iraqi Kurdistan Tours

Iraqi Kurdistan Newroz Festival March 16th-22nd 2025 $1145

Iraqi Kurdistan Spring Tour May 16th-22nd 2024 $1145

Iraqi Kurdistan Autumn Tour – October 23rd-29th 2024 $1145

INDEPENDENT TOURS TO IRAQ

If a group tour does not fit your calendar, you require something more specific for yourself or group then YPT can arrange a bespoke Southern Iraq tour for you.

Prices genuinely depend on the number of people and what level of accommodation you require, but YPT can arrange everything you need for a perfect independent tour to Iraq.

Tours to Iraq can also be combined with trips to other places in the region, such as Iraqi Kurdistan, Iran, or Kuwait.

EXAMPLES OF INDEPENDENT TOURS TO IRAQ

We do not list all of our bespoke Iraq itineraries, but can offer some examples, such as the following which can be arranged into a personalized tour of Iraq:

Iraqi Cultural Tour – explore the bustling markets of Baghdad, the ancient cities of Kufa and Najaf, and meet with locals throughout the country as you understand this ancient and fascinating culture. 

Ancient Iraq Tour – take advantage of our independent tours which are truly unique catered to your requirements. We can arrange for you to see as many of Iraq’s 20,000 archaeological sites as your heart desires. 

Combined Kuwait Tour – we can arrange an itinerary from the North to the South of Iraq, where you experience crossing overland to Iraq’s neighbour, and once-enemy Kuwait . Just this year, Iraq and Kuwait have re-established relationships, and the border between Basra and Kuwait have reopened. Be one of the first tourists to cross between the two countries.

Culinary Tour of Iraq – As Iraq is home to the first known cookbook, dating from 1700 BC, the country is the literal cradle of culinary exploration. Its ancient cities and trade routes mean that flavours from around the world have become central to Iraqi cuisine. Therefore, why not try a culinary tour of Iraq?

Iraq Photography Tour – Newly opened to tourists after decades of war, this is the best time for photographers to come and explore this often-misunderstood country. Iraqis are known for their outstanding hospitality, and the country is generally open to photography and is excited to be presented in a new light. We can create a bespoke itinerary for all your media needs.

SAMPLE IRAQ TOUR ITINERARY

The following is our sample independent itinerary for Iraqi tours. This can be done in its entirety, adapted, or combined with other destinations, such as Kurdistan to create your perfect bespoke Iraqi tour.

Day 1 – Baghdad, Iraq

• Arrive at your convenience into Baghdad – the capital city of Iraq which is well connected from many countries within the Middle East and most of Europe.
• Transfer to hotel using registered Airport taxis that can be arranged at the airport.
• Meet at the lobby of the hotel to discuss tour itinerary and to meet your fellow travellers and YPT guide.
• Explore Firdos Square – named after the Persian word “paradise”, this was the very square where the Coalition forces toppled Saddam’s statue in 2003.
• We begin the tour by visiting Al-Mutanabbi street located near the old quarter – this particular street is well known for bookselling and has often been referred to as the very heart of the Baghdad literacy and intellectual community.
• Visit the incredible and well renovated Al – Mustansariya School – this is commonly known as the oldest school in the world.
• Walk through the adjoining Al Safafeer copper market. First opened in the 800s, it is the oldest continuously operated market in the world. A wonderful place for souvenirs and photography.
• Visit the Iraq Museum which contains precious relics from the Mesopotamian, Persian and Islamic civilization. The museum was looted during and after the 2003 Invasion of Iraq but despite international efforts, only some of the stolen artefacts have been returned.
• Lunch break in town to try local popular Iraqi dishes such as Kubba and Manti
• Visit Tahir Square which translates to Liberation Square – it’s Baghdad’s largest and most central square which commemorates the 1958 establishment of the Republic of Iraq.
• Al Shaheed Monument – the most iconic structure in Baghdad commemorating all the wars held in Iraq.
• See the former Camp Al-Adala from the outside – where the execution of Saddam Hussein took place in 2006, and the execution of his cousin Ali Hassan al-Majid, most famously known as Chemical Ali. The camp is known these days as Camp Justice.
• From outside the Green Zone, we’ll finish off today’s tour by seeing the Victory Arch – also known as the Hands of Victory or the Crossed Swords. Built to commemorate the Iran–Iraq War and approved by Saddam himself, this monument stands 40 meters high and is located on the very edge of the green zone.
• Dinner in town and overnight in Baghdad

Day 2 – Baghdad – Ctesiphon – Agargouf Ziggurat – Karbala

• This morning we head out straight after breakfast for the drive north to Ctesiphon. We pass through multiple checkpoints along the route driving by many villages recently destroyed during fighting against ISIS.
• Arrive at the ancient city of Ctesiphon. These days all that’s left is the palace archway which is the largest single span vault of unreinforced brickwork in the world.
• Located opposite was a former panoramic Museum of Ctesiphon. During the war against ISIS the museum was used as a fortification. We’ll enter inside and up to the rooftop where you’ll find many bullet shells, bullet holes, and debris leftover from those days.
• Continue 100km southwest of Baghdad to Iraq’s holiest city of Karbala – the shrines of Imam Husayn and Al Abbas are considered incredibly holy for Shi’ite Muslims, the same way as Mecca, Medina and Jerusalem.
• Before arriving at Karbala we’ll stop at Abu Ghraib – not to be mistaken as the prison which is long gone, but it’s abandoned and ancient site of Agargouf Ziggurat.
• In the evening, we’ll go out and explore the city and stop by the Al Abbas Mosque and Imam Husayn Shrine – tens of millions of Shi’ite Muslims visit this sacred site twice a year, rivalling Mecca and Mashhad by the number of pilgrims annually. At night, the shrines comes alive, and we’ll rub shoulders with thousands of Shia pilgrims who have come to pay their respect.
• Dinner and overnight at Karbala.

Day 3 – Karbala – Babylon – Najaf

• Breakfast at hotel and begin our drive to Babylon – once the largest and most important city in the world. Here we’ll tour the ancient ruins with our local expert and explore what’s left of the hanging gardens.
• Lunch break on the way
• Explore Saddam Hussain’s Palace – Perched right on top of Babylon, the dictator made sure he had the best view of the site. Here you’ll be able to walk through the abandoned palace and discover the looted remains of one of his many former palaces.
• Continue driving to Najaf – the third holiest city in Shia Islam. We’ll take in its most important site – the Imam Ali shrine.
• Dinner and overnight in Najaf

Day 4 – Najaf – Ur – Marshes – Basra

• Breakfast at hotel and begin walking tour of Najaf, including Imam Ali’s house, the very spot where Imam Ali was killed, and the Kufa Mosque.
• We’ll head to the UNESCO heritage site of the Wadi-e-salam cemetery, also known as the Valley of Peace. This is the largest cemetery in the world with over 6 million corpses. It attracts millions of pilgrims annually.
• Drive south to visit the Moon Ziggurat of Ur, a neo-Sumerian construction first built over in the year 2000 BCE and which has gone through various restorations throughout history.
• Visit to the Mesopotamian Marshes – we’ll take a bout trip through the maze of marshes stopping by local villages for lunch and tea. The marshes once engulfed the whole swathe of Southern Iraq with numerous floating villages. Today the receding waters have led most families to change their livelihoods but we’ll still see and experience the few that remain.
• Continue driving onto Iraq’s southernmost city of Basra – most famous for its port.
• Dinner and overnight in Basra

Day 5 – Basra – Baghdad

• Breakfast at hotel
• Visit the Ashar and Shanashil Al Basra area to catch a glimpse of the old Basra: traditional style merchant houses with balconies leaning over the narrow streets.
• Take a cruise across the Shatt Al Arab river to see some shipwrecks from the Iran-Iraq War from the 1980s as well as Sadam’s Yacht which at the time of being built in 1980 was the largest in the world.
• Here we’ll also have another opportunity to see yet another Saddam Hussain’s palace in Basra.
• After lunch in town we’ll begin our longest drive of the tour back north to Baghdad with plenty of rest stops along the way for refreshments, toilet breaks and photos.
• Before arriving in Baghdad, we’ll visit the vast Basra British War Memorial – the memorial commemorates over 40,000 Commonwealth forces members who died during the Mesopotamian Campaign, from 1914 to 1921.
• Arrive in Baghdad and check into your hotel room
• Dinner and overnight at hotel

Day 6 – Baghdad – Samarra – Mosul

• We’ll begin making our way north of Iraq passing multiple checkpoints again passing many villages returning to life after the destruction ISIS had left behind.
• Samarra is famous for its Minaret (also known as the Great Mosque of Samarra). We will climb the spiralling staircase all the way to the top for the 360 degree view. Not for the faint hearted!
• Continue north and stopping for lunch on the way
• Explore the UNESCO sites of Hatra – a religious and trading centre of the Parthian empire, it had once flourished during the 1st and 2nd centuries BCE. This city survived multiple invasions before being completely destroyed in 241 CE. Permission is only granted on the day and notice can be rather last minute.
• Arrive in Mosul – Iraq’s second largest city and is considered one of the most culturally significant cities of the Arab world due to its strategic location. The city was captured by ISIS in 2014 and reclaimed again by the Iraqi forced in 2017. The city mostly remains in destruction by the locals are determined to rebuild and move on.
• Head out for dinner and explore the nightlife of the city.
• Overnight in Mosul Hotel

Day 7 – Mosul – Bakhdida – Erbil

• Explore the remains of the Al-Nuri Mosque – the most famous landmark of Mosul for its leaning minaret which earnt the city its nickname “the hunchback”.
• Walk through the neighbouring streets and encounter some thousands of men who are working to restore the heritage of Mosul, as the entire area is under reconstruction following the massive destruction caused by ISIS.
• We’ll explore the nearby church of Mar Toma, or St. Thomas. Believed to be situated at the site of the Apostle Thomas’s home in Mosul, this 7th century church is being carefully restored.
• Visit the Al Tahira Church – it started construction in 1938 and is the largest church in Iraq.
• Walk around the Bash Tapia Castle – built in the 12th century as one of seven castles within Mosul’s city wall. A missile fell near the castle on during the war against ISIS and damaged its walls.
• We’ll have lunch before departing Mosul as we head for the Christian village of Bakhdida – this village was largely destroyed by ISIS, but has completely been restored.
• Stop by the Church Square – Pope Francis held a mass on his historic visit to Iraq in March 2021 where he famously said “Terrorism and death never have the last word”
• Whilst this village is full of many churches we’ll visit the one not to be missed – the Immaculate Church. Ridden with bullet holes.
• Continue on and arrive in Erbil – the capital of the Kurdistan region of Iraq.
• Tour concludes – YPT is able to arrange post-tour accommodation or advice for flights.

Tours to Iraqi Kurdistan

As well as our trips to mainland, or “Federal Iraq”, Young Pioneer Tours can also arrange travel to Iraqi Kurdistan, as well as the wider Kurdistan regions of Turkey, Iran and even Rojava in Syria.

Click the following link to check out our Kurdistan Tours.

Getting to Iraq

Getting to Iraq is now much easier than it used to be, with flights from hubs such as Istanbul now much more common.

Getting to Erbil and Kurdistan is even easier with regular flights from throughout Europe and beyond. YPT can also arrange entrance to the country through its various land borders. To discuss your options for travel to Iraq please get in touch.

IRAQ PHOTO GALLERY

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS ABOUT IRAQ TOURS

What are your iraqi tour guides like, how do you get an iraqi visa, how do you get a visa for iraqi kurdistan, is iraq safe for tourists, is it ethical to travel to iraq, what currency do they use in iraq, are there atms in iraq, is iraq a religious country, is it safe for females to visit iraq, what should i wear to iraq, can you drink alcohol in iraq, is iraq friendly towards the lgbt community, what are the toilets like in iraq, can you interact with locals from iraq.

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Entire Iraq Tour

• Sept 24 - October 8th, 2023

What's it all about?

The second half of the Iraq Tour takes us to the autonomous region of Iraqi Kurdistan. Northern Iraq offers not only safety, but stunning mountain ranges with more than 3000 archaeological sites and some of the most friendly and welcoming people on the planet.

September 24th - Basra - Arrival Day

• Arrival into Basra at your own leisure. Airport transfers provided to our hotel.
• Today is mainly an arrival day so you’ll have free time before we meet up in the hotel lobby at 6pm.
• Meet & greet / discuss the itinerary before heading out for a group dinner.
• Overnight in Basra.

September 25th - Basra

• Breakfast at the hotel before exploring Basra for the day.
• Visit the Ashar and Shanashil Al Basra area to catch a glimpse of the old Basra: traditional style merchant houses with balconies leaning over the narrow streets.
• Take a cruise across the Shatt Al Arab river and see some shipwrecks from the Iran-Iraq War from the 1980s.
• See the famed Tree of Knowledge – the same tree, according to local legend, that Eve ate from in the Garden of Eden.
• Traditional Iraqi Lunch.
• We’ll also have the opportunity to explore  one of Saddam Hussain’s palaces’  – the now converted Basra Museum.
• After we’ll stop by the Souq and the historic old Central Railway Station.
• Dinner and overnight in Basra.

September 26th - Chibayesh | Ur | Uruk | Najaf

• Up super early for sunrise in Mesopotamian Marshes!  We’ll take a boat trip through the maze of marshes stopping by local villages for tea. The marshes once engulfed a whole swathe of Southern Iraq with numerous floating villages. Today the receding waters have led most families to change their livelihood but we’ll still see the few that remain.
• It is also home to the Maʻdān population who over the centuries have adapted to life on the water. Stop by a traditional house for lunch and tea.
• Tour the local market of Chibayesh and have lunch in a traditional reed house.
• Continue to visit the Ziggurat of Ur , a neo-Sumerian construction built in 2000 BC. This used to be the capital of Mesopotamia during the Sumerian time and it is a UNESCO world heritage site since 2016.
• Drive to Ancient Uruk – home of the world’s oldest civilisation and first alphabet. 
• Drive to Najaf.
• Dinner and overnight in Najaf.

September 27th - Najaf & Karbala

• Najaf tour, including Imam Ali’s house (the very spot where imam Ali was killed) and the Imam Ali Shrine itself.
• Visit the Wadi-Us-Salaam – the world’s largest graveyard. It is said to contain tens of millions of bodies. Many shiites request to be buried here in one of the numerous catacombs.
• After lunch head to Karbala and visit the holy city’s famous Al Abbas mosque and Iman Husayn shrine at dusk.
• It’s also home to some of the best baclava in Iraq!
• Dinner and overnight in Karbala.

September 28th - Babylon & Baghdad

• Drive to Babylon , once the largest and most important city in the world. We tour the ancient ruins with our local expert and see what’s left of the hanging gardens.
• Saddam Hussain Palace – Perched right on top of Babylon, the dictator made sure he had the best view of the site. We spend some time exploring the looted remains of one of his many former palaces.
• Trip Highlight – *We’ll have a picnic lunch inside Saddam’s abandoned palace!*
• After extensively exploring Babylon, continue onto the ancient city of Ctesiphone.
• These days all that’s left is the palace archway which is the largest single span vault of unenforced brickwork in the world.
• Drive an hour to Baghdad.
• Visit the Save Iraqi Culture Monument.
• Dinner and overnight in Baghdad.

September 29th - Baghdad

• After a delicious local breakfast, it’s a full Baghdad city tour starting with the Liberation Square monument in Tahrir Square , which commemorates the establishment of the Republic of Iraq.
• Visit to the National Museum of Iraq . Reopened in 2015 after notorious looting during the war, it contains various treasure from the Mesopotamian and Babylonian periods.
• Stroll along the Tigris River and cross over the water on a boat.
• Visit the incredible and well renovated Al–Mustansariya School. This is commonly known as the oldest school in the world.
• Walk through the book market and adjoining copper market . A great place for souvenirs and photography.
• Take a well deserved break in the  Shabinder cafe  for tea and Shisha.
• Lunch in the famous Kubba restaurant next door.
• The Al Shaheed Monumen t is the martyr’s memorial spot for people who died during the Iran-Iraq War. These days it’s a highly controversial monument, as it was originally built during the Saddam era.
• Traditional Fish Masgouf dinner and overnight in Baghdad.

September 30th - Baghdad - Samarra - Mosul

• Hit the road and drive north to Samara . We pass through multiple checkpoints along the route.
• Samara is famous for its huge Minaret (also known as the Great Mosque of Samara). We’ll climb the spiral staircase all the way to the top for the 360 degree view. Not for the faint hearted!
• Visit the Jawsaq al-Khaqani – otherwise known as the Caliphal Palace . It’s one of the largest of its kind in the Islamic world.
• After lunch drive towards Hatra , an important historic religious center with a strategic position along caravan trade routes. Hatra was one of the first Arab states to be established outside of Arabia. We’ll see the incredible refurbishment efforts underway here after its liberation from ISIS.
• Continue driving to Mosul and overnight.

October 1st - Mosul - Erbil

• Start the day with a local breakfast before we start discovering the reconstruction of the old city including the Al-Nuri mosque and Al Tahira church.
• See the Bash Tapia castle with its amazing views over the city and Tigris river.
• Lunchtime with the “Kubba of Mosul” the area’s most popular dish.
• Before sunset we head to Erbil in the Kurdistan region of Iraq.
• Farewell dinner to those leaving us in Erbil and meet up with those joining us for the Kurdistan tour.
• Overnight in Erbil.

October 2nd - Erbil

• Free morning to sleep in or walk through the main bazaar. Pick up a few souvenirs or just take in the atmosphere. Stop for Kurdish tea/coffee inside the market.
• In the afternoon we’ll visit the citadel – the oldest continually inhabited place in the world. Take in the views over the city from the top of the Citadel.
• Check out the textile museum, Minaret Park & the Jalil Khayat Mosque.
• Rest up in the hotel before going out for dinner with the rest of the group in the Christian district. Plenty of Kurdistan cuisine options here!

October 3rd - Sulaymaniyah

• We hit the road early and drive to the second major city of Iraqi Kurdistan – Sulaymaniyah.  
• We’ll stop at the old Jewish town of Koya along the way before lunch. Visit the ancient and crumbling Caravanserai here.
• On arrival in Sulaymaniyah we head straight to the the infamous “Red prison” – once a torture centre for Saddam Hussein’s regime. The prison is now a fascinating museum.
• Walk through the bustling central Bazar right next to our hotel
• Tea in a traditional tea house.
• At sunset we’ll drive up Goyzha Mountain for the stunning views overlooking Sulay.
• Get the cable car back down the mountain!
• Dinner and overnight in Sulaymaniyah.

October 4th - Halabja

• We drive one hour to Halabja.  This was the scene of a chemical attack on the Kurdish people, perpetrated by the Baathist regime towards the end of the Iran/Iraq war. Here we’ll tour the memorial and mass grave sites.
• We head to Tawela on the Iran border, and previously the front line in the Iran/Iraq war.
• Lunch by the border.
• Drive onto Ahmed Awa waterfall.
• We head back to Sulaymaniyah for some leisurely time around the bazaars.
• Group dinner and drinks.
• Overnight in Sulaymaniyah.

October 5th -Sulaymaniyah - Rawunduz

• We depart Sulay this morning and head west towards Lake Dokan. Weather depending we’ll take tea, snacks and a boat ride here.
• Drive the famous Hamilton road.  The road was built by AM Hamilton in the 1930’s for what he hoped would unify the peoples of the region. It linked Iran with Iraq and was an engineering marvel of the time.
• Stop by the Bekhal waterfall.
• Continue driving through incredible mountain ranges stopping at various points for photos.
• Overnight in Soran.

October 6th - Duhok

• Drive to the historic Shanidar cave.
• Amadiya – the stunning mountain top village. Walk through the quiet streets and visit the mosque and church here.  See the ancient gateway to the town.
• Qubahan School – the fascinating ruins of an ancient madrassa
• Drive to Saddam Hussein’s former mountaintop palace. You’ll know instantly why he choose this site. Explore the ruins and admire the views.
• Continue towards Duhok
• Tour the Duhok Bazaar and visit a tea house dedicated to Martyrs killed at the hands of ISIS.
• Dinner and overnight in Duhok.

October 7th - Lalish - Erbil

• Depart Duhok for one of the world’s oldest monastery’s – Alqosh is built into the mountains and is technically part of Mosul and Iraq “proper”.
• We then drive one hour drive to Lalish for Autumn Assembly celebrations. This is the most sacred town for the Yazidi religion. We’ll tour the temple, meet the locals on pilgrimage here and learn about their recent dark history with ISIS.
• Spend the afternoon here mingling and joining in on the festivities. 
• Drive to Erbil.
• Final group dinner and overnight in Erbil.

October 8th - Erbil

• End of tour, we can arrange additional accommodation or transport to the airport.

Southern Iraq Tour

October 2 - 8th, 2023

Iraqi Kurdistan Tour

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14 nights in Iraq

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Iraq and Kurdistan- between the Tigris and Euphrates – 15 days

history, culture, sightseeing

An exceptional expedition to the places considered to be the cradle of our civilisation. During the tour, we will visit the fascinating heritage sites of ancient Babylon and Assyria and newer ones – dating back to the Arab and Ottoman eras.

We will have an opportunity to see the cultural and religious diversity of Iraq, numerous branches of Christianity, Yazidis, and also Iraqi Sunni and Shia Muslims. We will visit little-known regions of the south Iraq. Furthermore, we will have an opportunity to admire the Ahwar Marshlands and we will take a boat tour along the Shatt al-Arab River. Moreover, we will see some absolutely enchanting mountain landscapes and, last but not least, we will get to know the very hospitable and friendly inhabitants of the Iraqi Kurdistan.

DAY 1 | Basra - Shatt Al.-Arab

Arrival at the Basra  airport and transfer to the hotel. After short rest  we will walk around Basra – a town whose history starts with the first caliphs. At those times, it was a harbour and an important military garrison. Although Basra suffered considerable destruction in the 20th and at the beginning of the 21st century, numerous monuments and structures dating back to the Ottoman era can be seen there. In the afternoon, to end our trip, a very special attraction – a motor boat sunset cruise along Shatt al-Arab, i.e. a river formed by the confluence of the Tigris and Euphrates Rivers, flowing into the Persian Gulf. Dinner and night rest at the hotel

DAY 2 | Ahwar - Ur - Nasiriyah

We will start the sightseeing in early morning. We will set off to the north. To start with, we will visit the unique Ahwar Marshlands. This is an area where people have lived from time immemorial. The culture and traditions of the local inhabitants are exceptional and include many elements from pre-Islamic times. In 2016, the marshland region and the culture of its inhabitants were entered into the UNESCO World Heritage List. After lunch, we will continue our journey to the ruins of legendary Ur. At the beginning, the ziggurat in Ur which might have been a model for the Biblical Tower of Babel. Then we will have a walk among the remainders of a town which was the birthplace of Abraham according to the Bible. In the evening, arrival in Nasiriyah. Dinner and night rest at the hotel.

DAY 3 | Uruk – Kufa – Najaf

In the early morning, we will set off from Nasiriyah to the site where ruins of the ancient Babylonian town of Uruk are located. Next we will go to Kufa, where we will visit the house of imam Ali (the son-in-law of the Prophet Muhammad). After lunch and a short walk around Kufa we will continue the drive to Najaf, the most important place for Shia Muslims apart from Karbala – a town and sanctuary. We will see (if possible) the place where Imam Ali, the most faithful companion of the Prophet Muhammad, the husband of the only daughter of the Prophet, Fatima, and the fourth caliph, was murdered. We will visit the sanctuary and the town. Dinner and night rest at our hotel.

DAY 4 | Karbala – Al Ukhaidiri

In the morning we will drive to the exceptionally well preserved remains of a fortress from the times of Abbasid caliphs, Al Ukhaidir. The fortress was finished in 775 AD but the history of this place dates back to much older times, which is indicated by numerous artefacts from the Sasanian and Parthian times. Next we will go to Karbala – a sacred place of Shia Muslims. The town was founded at the place of death of Imam Hussain ibn Ali – grandson of the Prophet Muhammad, killed at a battle in 680. It is the location of the most sacred Shia sanctuary that attracts thousands of pilgrims, not only from Iraq. Dinner and night rest at the hotel.

DAY 5 | Babylon – Ctesiphon – Baghdad

After breakfast, we will set off to see the ruins of the ancient Babylon Visiting the Babylon ruins – we will walk through the reconstructed Ishtar Gate and visit the museum. Another stop on our trip will be the Euphrates shore where one of the most impressive palaces of Saddam Hussein is located. Next we will go to capital of the Persian Parthian Empire – Ctesiphon. The ruins are located on the Tigris shore. Our sightseeing will include a visit to the remains of the palaces of the first rulers from the Sasanian Dynasty. Afterwards, we will go to the excavation site where the. In the afternoon, we will drive  to Baghdad. Dinner at our hotel.

DAY 6 | Baghdad

From the morning, we will start visiting the fascinating city of Baghdad. At the beginning, we will see what is left from the formerly priceless and vast collection of the National Archaeological Museum of Iraq. In the afternoon, a drive through Baghdad – we will see some of the most important sites: the Freedom Square and the al-Shaheed Monument, also known as the Martyr’s Memorial – a memento of the Iran–Iraq War that lead to the fall of Iraq in 1980s.  In the evening, transfer to the hotel, dinner and rest.

DAY 7 | Samarra – Malwiya – Minaret – Mosul

In the morning, we will set off to the one-day trip to Samarra – one of the oldest towns of Iraq. The most important sights will be the remaining structures of the Great Mosque of Samarra, with their most prominent “snail shell minaret”. Construction of the 33 m minaret was started in 848 and finished 851, in the times of Abbasid caliphs. In 2007, the Malwiya Minaret was entered into the UNESCO World Heritage List. After lunch, we will continue our journey to one of the most ancient city in Iraq – Mosul  In the evening, transfer to the hotel, dinner and rest.

DAY 7 | Mosul

After breakfast, a full day tour of the city which was one of the capitals of the Ancient Assyrian. At the beginning, we will visit the Bash Tapia fortress, ruined in 1393 by the Tamerlane army. The fortress was rebuilt in the Ottoman times. Then we will go for a walk through the old town dolls of one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the Middle East. We will visit the Cathedral Al. Tahira and the Great Mosque Al. Nuri. Both facilities are under reconstruction as they were destroyed during the ISIS occupation of the city. Dinner and overnight in Mosul.

DAY 9 | Mosul – Lalish – Dahuk

In the morning we will depart for Dahuk. En route we will visit the Dayro d-Mor Mataya Orthodox monastery, one of the oldest monasteries in the Middle East. Next we will drive to the area of Gaugamela, the site of a famous battle between the army of Alexander the Great and the Persian forces of Darius III. That battle finally decided about the fate of the Achaemenid Empire. We will also see Jerwan where ruins of one of the oldest aqueducts are located. After the walk, we will have lunch at a traditional Kurdish restaurant. After the meal, we will depart for Lalish, one of the most important sanctuaries of Yazidis. It is the place where a tomb of the founder of the Yazidi religion, Sheikh Adi (1070-1162), is located. We will also have a walk through the nearby village and learn about the life of Yazidis. In the afternoon, we will depart for Dahuk. Dinner in restaurants.

DAY 10 | Dahuk – Zakho

Breakfast at the hotel. On this day, we will visit Al Quosh – a tomb of an Old Testament prophet living in the 7th century BC. Next we will go to the Mar Mekha Orthodox monastery dating back to the 3rd century and a large Rabban Hormizd Monastery which is a home for over 600 monks. In the mountains near the monastery there are still some hermitages where monks live. After the visit, we will go to the Syrian border to see Christian church on the edge of the Tigris river. We will able to see Syrian village. In Zakho we will see Dalal bridge which was built by Romans. In the afternoon, return to Dahuk.

DAY 11 | Amadiya - Mout Gera

In the morning, we will set off to visit Amadiya, a town founded by Assyrians. There is a fortress located 90 km from Dahuk, at 1,400 m above the sea level. We will admire the Bab Zebar gate and the remains of a fortress located at this exceptional site. We will also see an impressively tall minaret (more than 30 metres high) in Amadiya. The minaret and mosque were built by Sultan Hussein Wali. Moreover, we will see the synagogue and madrasa, founded more than 100 years ago by the University of Cairo. After lunch we will drive near Mount Gera, to see a former residence of Saddam Hussein. In the afternoon we will arrive in Erbil. Dinner and night rest at the hotel.

DAY 12 | Erbil

After breakfast, we will visit Erbil, one of the oldest towns of the world, with a documented history of more than 7000 years. To begin with, a citadel constructed on ruins of a Sumerian town called Urbellum or Arbella, which means “four gods”. The streets of Erbil were walked by Abraham, Alexander the Great and many other famous persons. While visiting the fortress, we will see a jewellery museum. Next we will go to a market where we will have lunch at a restaurant. After the meal, we will set off to visit the Choli minaret constructed in the 12th century only from bricks imported from Egypt. At the end, we will visit a monument to one of the most famous Kurdish poets and historians – Ibn al-Mustafi (1169-1239). Dinner in one of local restaurants.

DAY 13 | As Sulaymaniyah - Dokan

Breakfast at the hotel restaurant. Cable car ride to the parking lot. Next we will drive to As Sulaymaniyah. En route we will visit the town of Dokan where we will stop for lunch. In the afternoon, we will arrive in As Sulaymaniyah where we will see the famous Red House – a place of incarceration and tortures in the Saddam Hussein times. Next we will go to a market where we will visit a traditional tearoom. Dinner and night rest at the hotel.

DAY 14 |As Sulaymaniyah - Halabiyah - Ahmed Awa

We will start the sightseeing in As Sulaymaniyah in the morning from a visit in the Kurdistan museum where we will see collections from different historical eras, including the oldest artefacts from the beginnings of civilisation. After the visit at the museum, we will drive to Halabiyah – a town that fell victim to a gas attack on 16 March 1986. During the attack of the Iraqi army more than 5,000 people were killed, and 10,000 were injured and hospitalised. Despite its tragic past, the town is still inhabited – the Genocide Monument and Museum are currently located there. In the afternoon, we will set off for the mountain regions near the border with Iran. We will visit the Ahmed Awa Waterfalls, where we will have lunch in the mountain scenery. In the afternoon, return to As Sulaymaniyah. Dinner and night rest at our hotel.

DAY 15 | Ravanduz - Hamilton road- Erbil

In the morning we will depart for As Sulaymaniyah. After tree and half hours of drive we will visit spectacular Rawanduz canyon Then we will go along the old Hamilton Road. where we will be able to admire the unspoiled mountain scenery and the engineering skills of the builders of this road. We will stop on the way at the Gali Ali Big Waterfall. In the evening we will drive to  Erbil.  Transfer to the airport.

If the departure is on the next day, overnight stay in Erbil (not included in the price)

Practical information

Tour description.

• the length of the tour : 15 days in Iraq;
• start of the trip: Basra;
• end of the trip: Erbil;
• the highlights of this expedition:  ancient architectural remains of the towns of Ur and Uruk, Babylon Samarra and Ctesiphon. A very important element of the tour will be the sightseeing of Baghdad and Shia sanctuaries in Najaf and Karbala. Another attractive feature of this tour will be the possibility to see the local natural sights and to admire beautiful mountain sceneries. The close encounter with the culture and traditions of Kurdistan inhabitants may prove an unforgettable experience.

The close encounter with the culture and traditions of Iraq inhabitants may prove an unforgettable experience.The tour will be a sightseeing trip to a Middle East area that is historically and culturally exceptional. It will be oriented on sightseeing and cultural tourism. Because of the special nature of the visited places and of the expedition features, the travellers should be able to participate in walking tours of towns and historic sites as well as in short hikes to vantage points or in motor boat cruises. Accommodation is planned in hotels and we will use passenger cars and minibuses for transfers. No long hikes or activities that require strenuous physical effort are planned during the tour. The itinerary was designed to enable best possible viewing of the places away from mass tourism routes, while meeting basic safety standards and ensuring comfort to the travellers. Bear in mind that Iraq and Kurdistan are mostly inhabited by Shia and Sunni Muslims, which means the need to respect cultural differences and adhering to the appropriate dress code.

Depending on the political situation, the length of the tour and the order of visited places may change. In a situation of a serious threat to travellers’ safety, the tour may be cancelled. We will keep you updated as to whether the expedition is possible.

Visas and documents

• Your passport must be valid for at least 6 months after the planned end of the tour.
• Visa can be obtained at the airport upon arrival for most for UK and  European Union citizens. If you travel with a passport of a non-EU country, contact the BTP Adventure office
• You should take with you for the trip a photocopy of your passport (the photo page) and an additional ID document

Health and vaccination

• Before departure, we recommend a consultation with a family physician and a tropical medicine specialist.
• Vaccination against tetanus, diphtheria, viral hepatitis A and B and typhus is recommended.
• The risk of malaria is very low.
• We recommend visiting https://travelhealthpro.org.uk/countries .
• During our expedition, we will drink only bottled water. You should avoid ice in your beverages and eating raw or undercooked foods. Medical care is at a good level, especially in Baghdad. Medical services are provided for a fee.
• insect repellents
• high sun protection cream (recommended SPF 50)
• disinfectants, wound dressing materials
• analgesics and antipyretics
• anti-diarrhoeals, electrolytes and vitamins

Insurance is not covered by the tour price. Having valid insurance is a condition for taking part in the trip. We recommend taking out insurance that will be appropriate for the planned itinerary and for your individual state of health and needs. Please send us the proof of your insurance contract.

You can purchase insurance on your own on the website of Axa or any other insurance company: https://www.axa.co.uk/travel-insurance/ .

BTP Adventure may help you obtain adequate insurance cover. If you want our help, please contact us.

• The Republic of Iraq is a country characterized by political instability and a major risk of an armed conflict. For the time being, actual terrorist threat and armed conflict risk exist in this country. We design our itineraries so as to avoid places that are potentially most dangerous (some districts of Baghdad and towns where armed struggles continue).
• Despite the difficult situation, expeditions to southern Iraq are possible and conducted with the adequate precautions.
• The Iraqi Kurdistan territory, although officially belongs to Iraq, is in fact a separate country. Except for the regions at the border with Turkey and Syria, it is a very calm and safe area. The actual terrorist threat or armed conflict risk is nowadays low. We design our itineraries so as to avoid places that are potentially dangerous (border regions)
• Owing to the good relations we have with local contractors, we keep following the news to be aware of any potential threats and safety risks. We also recommend you to read the latest news on the Foreign & Commonwealth Office website: https://www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice .
• During the tour, please take seriously the instructions of our contractors, guides and tour leader.
• It is very important to respect local customs and abide by local laws and regulations. You will receive the necessary information on an on-going-basis from your local guides and the tour leader.
• It is strictly prohibited to take photos and make video recordings at military and police installations and at airports. You are also not allowed to take photos where people in military/police uniforms are present!!!
• Photographing people is possible only when they expressly agree to it. Taking pictures when the subjects have not allowed it often ends up with escalating aggressive behaviours.

The legal tender in the Republic of Iraq is the Iraqi dinar. Currency exchange is possible at the Basra airport, in most towns, in banks, in authorised foreign exchange points and in hotels. Using payment cards is possible in hotels and in some shops and restaurants. The best foreign exchange rate is for US dollars and euros.Prices in restaurants, hotels or shops are given in US dollars. It is advisable for you to take dollars in small denominations or 100-dollar bank notes issued after 2006.

For current foreign exchange rates see www.xe.com or install xe.com on your phone.

The official language in south Iraq is Arabic, in the Iraqi Kurdistan is Kurdish. The command of English and German, especially among restaurant or hotel employees, is satisfactory.  For self-guided tours, you must speak Arabic, while English-speaking travellers must hire a local guide with a command of English.

Customs, culture, religion

Iraq is a multi-ethnic and multi-religious country. The southern part of Iraq is mostly inhabited by Shia Muslims. We will also visit Sunni regions. Because of cultural considerations and for safety reasons, it is advisable to learn about the recommended dress code. Visiting places of worship, especially sanctuaries in Najaf and Karbala, is possible only to a limited extent.

Women do not have to wear headscarves. When visiting some mosques and other places of worship, women may be asked to put on a chador that may be borrowed free-of-charge at the entrance to the building. You should bear in mind that there are considerable differences between the conservative province and relatively liberal large towns.

Men are not allowed to wear shorts. During official encounters, women do not give their hand to a man, and men do not give their hand to a woman. This custom is still observed in the province but is increasingly abandoned in large towns. Discussions about political subjects should be avoided. Iraqi people are curious about the world and tourists and are ready to take up such conversations.

The Iraqi Kurdistan is a multi-ethnic and multi-religious area. Most of the inhabitants are Sunni Muslims. Moreover, there are Christians of different Eastern rites and also Zoroastrians and Yazidis living in Kurdistan. Women do not have to wear headscarves. Kurdistan inhabitants have a very liberal attitude toward religious imperatives.

It is very important to respect local customs and abide by local laws. You will receive the relevant information from your local guide or the tour leader.

The tour dates are proposed in periods of the best possible weather conditions at the sites included in the itinerary. The best time for expeditions to Iraq is the period between September and the end of March.

• South Iraq temperatures rarely exceed +30°C during the day and may fall to about +12°C at night. Rainfalls may occur occasionally and are usually transient. High density of dust particles is a major issue. Sandstorms may appear. In the southern regions – Basra – the air is very humid which increases the sensation of heat.
• Kurdistan temperatures exceed +25°C during the day and +10°C at night. They may fall to +5°C in the mountain regions. Rainfalls may appear only very rarely during the planned time of the tour.

For detailed information see  https://www.meteoblue.com/en .

Communication, Wi-Fi, electricity

There is mobile network coverage practically in the majority of areas included in our itinerary. It is possible to purchase a local SIM-card with an Internet package at the airport or in Baghdad. Before the trip, please enquire with your mobile network operator whether they have a contract signed with operators in Iraq and what the prices of call and SMS roaming are. To avoid a nasty surprise, we recommend disabling mobile data usage.

• Wi-Fi is available at most hotels and restaurants.
• Additionally, we recommend taking a capacious power bank.
• Power sockets of type C, D and G. Voltage 220 V, frequency 50 Hz.

Useful equipment

For climatic and cultural reasons, loose garments will be most appropriate: long trousers, long skirts, long-sleeved shirts, which can be easily washed and will quickly dry. The most comfortable footwear for the tour will be lightweight boots. Palladium brand boots are recommended. Wearing open sandals is possible. Hiking boots are not necessary. The following are worth taking:

• sachet for documents and money
• wet wipes for body cleaning and antibacterial gels
• polar fleece jacket or warmer blouse, especially useful at evening and night times
• head cover and sunglasses – mandatory, the sun is no joke!
• comfortable summer clothes, useful during practically the whole trip
• light T-shirts/shirts
• useful odds and ends: torch, Swiss Army knife, sewing kit (usually is not needed but is not heavy and does not take much place), chargers, mug (for special occasions); inflatable neck pillow, useful on the plane and during car rides; small wallet for the local currency; books to pass the time on flights and car rides

Price: £ 45 90 p/p

During the expedition, we will travel by passenger cars or minibuses. Depending on the daily agenda in the itinerary and the current situation as regards traveller safety, we will spend 4 to 8 hours travelling every day. Speed depends on the road surface conditions, terrain characteristics and number and length of stops. Moreover, our itinerary includes motor boat cruises on Ahwar Marshlands in the southern region of Iraq and a voyage on a small cruise ship on the Shatt Al-Arab River.

Accommodation

We are not able to guarantee a uniform accommodation standard at each of the planned sites during the stay in Iraq. Our priorities are your comfort, safety and appropriate location. We always place emphasis on the support of local community when selecting the sites for our accommodation. In general, rooms will be assigned on the assumption of two people sharing a twin room (rooms with individual bathrooms). The surcharges for single rooms are quoted in the “Price” section.

• Two overnight stays in 4-star hotels are planned during the trip.

Meals are included in the tour price, as specified in the itinerary. B – breakfast, L – lunch, D – dinner. Breakfasts will be usually offered in hotels. We will go for lunches and dinners to local restaurants. The cuisine of southern Iraq is a typical for Middle East – very tasty and varied. For information about the local costs of living see https://www.numbeo.com/cost-of-living/ .

Services of local guides and security guards – if necessary

Entrance fees and permit charges

Admission tickets for the visited sites and national parks

Trip preparation

Trip preparation, visa mediation, the invitation (if it is would be necessary) to obtain a visa

Main flight

Costs of the main flight to and from Iraq

Costs of flight tickets are not covered by the tour price. BTP Adventure does not directly arrange and buy tickets for international flights. However, we may suggest the best connections and airlines. For this purpose, contact us by e-mail or call us.

Iraqi visa cost for UK and UE citizen is 75 USD

Travel isurance

Expedition participants should arrange insurance on their own.

Travel insurance

The price does not includes the cost of tips and porters’ fees.

Additional meals and drinks

Meals other than those listed in the final itinerary.

Personal expenses

Personal expenses and souvenirs.

Surcharge for a single room: 550 £

Additional accommodation

supplementary payment for the additional accommodation  In the case of  arrival or departure on a different date,

FINAL NOTES

We will keep updating the detailed information on the safety and final itinerary of the tour. Before you decide to submit the booking form, please learn about the current political and sanitary situation in Iraq and Kurdistan.

It is possible to organize an individual trip without a tourguide, please contact the office.

Trip to Iran can be combined with trips to Iran and  Pakistan  If you are interested, please contact the office.

The planned expedition is an exclusive proposal prepared on the basis of our experience and knowledge of the local peculiarities and major sightseeing attractions of Iraq and Kurdistan.

We are committed to ensure the best possible and safe and, as far as feasible, comfortable travelling through this little-frequented and extremely interesting country with a fascinating history.

With any questions please contact BTP ADVENTURE.

It is possible to shorten the tour to two options

• South Iraq 9 days from Basra to Mosul.
• Iraqi Kurdistan 9 days start and end in the city of Erbil

If you are interested, please contact the office to arrange the route and the price of the trip.

Trip to Iran can be combined with trips to  Iran or  Pakistan and . If you are interested, please contact the office.

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Central African Republic 10 days – the Green Heart of Africa,

Guinea, Liberia, Sierra Leone – 14 days

Libya – the jewel of North Africa – 7 days

Malawi, Zambia and the Democratic Republic of the Congo – 12/16 days

Yemen – Socotra Island 8 days

Turkmenistan – Legends of the Silk Road, – 8 days

Tajikistan – a Country of a Thousand Lakes – 12 days

The Democratic Republic of the Congo & Republic of the Congo – the Heart of Africa -15 days

Angola – Unexplored Africa – 10 days

Ghana, Benin, Togo – 12 days

Senegal Gambia Guinea-Bissau – the Gateway to Africa – 12/16 days

Iran – north-western part – 14 days

Iran – south-east – 10 days

Iran – Persian Classic – 12 days

Cameroon – Colours of Africa, 16 days

Ivory Coast – 8 days

Nigeria – African Kaleidoscope – 12 days

Mauritania and Western Sahara – 9 days

Pakistan – a land of fairy tales on the roof of the world 14 days

Pakistan – Unknown History, 15 days

Uganda, Rwanda,Burundi, Democratic Republic of the Congo – Pearls of Africa, 14 days

Niger – Gerewol Festival 2024 – 11 days

Eritrea 7 days

South Sudan The Youngest Country of Africa – 12 days

Somalia – Mogadishu- 3 days

Niger – Mysteries of the Sahara 15 days

Djibouti-Somaliland – 9 days

Afghanistan – 10 days

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• 5 days tour
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• 14 days tour
• 5 days tour – Federal Iraq
• 6 days tour – Kurdistan
• 7 days tour
• Mainland Yemen – 4 days
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• Grand Angola Tour
• West Congo & Cabinda Tour
• Burundi, DRC & Rwanda Tour
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• Founding of the Party Tour
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• Iraq Highlights Tour
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Kurdistan NYE Tour

• Yemen Hadramaut
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Iraq – Group Tours

Group tours to iraq + kurdistan.

Take a tour to Iraq! Our group tours visit northern Kurdistan as well as the rest of Iraq. Both regions are totally different from each other and both also require different visa applications. With a group tour we assist you with the visa preparation and provide the right guides, one local and the other an international guide. They have years of experience in travelling through Iraq and will make sure that you will have the best possible group trip. The group itself usually consists of a diverse group of like-minded international travellers.

At the moment we offer the following group trips to Iraq:

May Iraq Highlights Tour

Date: 10 – 16 May 2024

Price: € 2,595

Join us on our annual summer trip to Iraq. During this period the temperature is at its most pleasant across the country. On our tour we will visit all the famous places of Iraq, from the past to the present. The programme includes a visit to Samarra, Babylon, Baghdad, Basra and the Ctesiphone. We will also visit the holy cities of Karbala and Najaf. During the trip we have an amazing guide with us who will tell you a lot about the cradle of our civilisation: Iraq.

Iraq & Kurdistan May Highlights Tour

Date: 16 -22 May 2024

Price: € 1,195

Travel to Kurdistan in the summer. This part of Iraq feels completely different from other regions of the country. During the tour we will take you along all the Kurdish highlights. From the big cities of Erbil and Sulaymaniyah to the mountains of Rawandas and the unique culture of the Yazidis.

October Iraq Highlights Tour

Date: 17 – 23 October 2024

Join us on our annual autumn trip to Iraq. During this period the temperature is at its most pleasant across the country. On our tour we will visit all the famous places of Iraq, from the past to the present. The programme includes a visit to Samarra, Babylon, Baghdad, Basra and the Ctesiphone. We will also visit the holy cities of Karbala and Najaf. During the trip we have an amazing guide with us who will tell you a lot about the cradle of our civilisation: Iraq.

Iraq & Kurdistan October Highlights Tour

Date: 23 – 29 October 2024

Travel to Kurdistan in the autumn. This part of Iraq feels completely different from other regions of the country. During the tour we will take you along all the Kurdish highlights. From the big cities of Erbil and Sulaymaniyah to the mountains of Rawandas and the unique culture of the Yazidis.

Date: 26 December 2024 – 1 January 2025

Looking for an unforgettable way to ring in the New Year? Look no further than our tour of Iraqi Kurdistan during New Year’s Eve! This adventure-packed tour will take you to some of the most beautiful and culturally rich areas of the region, including Erbil, Sulaymaniyah, Duhok, and Lalesh. But the real highlight of the tour is spending NYE in Erbil, one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world. With its ancient citadel and bustling bazaar, Erbil is the perfect place to welcome in the new year with your new travel friends. And with our expert guides leading the way, you’ll have an experience you’ll never forget.

Iraq & Kurdistan Newroz Tour

Date: 16 – 22 March 2025

Kurdistan feels like a world apart from the rest of Iraq. The province has an autonomous status within Iraq and therefore has also it’s own rules (to a certain extend). During our tour you will experience Kurdish hospitality and see all the highlights that this province has to offer. From big cities like Sulaymaniyah and Erbil to the unique culture of the Yazedis. On top of this, you’ll join the Newroz Festival, the biggest holiday in Kurdistan.

March Iraq Highlights Tour

Spring is the perfect time for a tour to Iraq. It’s not yet as hot as you might imagine during the summer, and people go out and about again after the winter break. During our tour we will cover all the famous places of Iraq, including visits to Babylon, Baghdad, Basra and Samarra. On top of this, we will also visit the holy cities of Najaf and Karbala.

I am more interested in individual tours to Iraq

I’d like to know more about iraq, already know what you are looking for.

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Re-writing the concept of tourism and taking you on adventure tours to Iraq, Morocco, Afghanistan, Yemen, Persia, Lebanon, Saudi, Libya, Uzbekistan.

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5-day Iraq tour to Baghdad, Karbala, and Najaf

On this 5 day trip to Iraq , you will be able to visit the famous cities of Baghdad, Najaf, and Karbala. On this 5 day Iraq tour departing from Baghdad , we propose visiting the one-of-a-kind shrines in Karbala (Imam Husayn Shrine) and Najaf (Imam Ali Shrine).

Dive into some of southern Iraq’s most profound religious spots and historical places, such as Babylon. Traveling to Iraq is always a great experience. Join us on this private tour around the country.

Imagine exploring the rich cultural and historical sites of Iraq on a 5-day journey starting from the bustling city of Baghdad. Known as the capital of Iraq, Baghdad has a long history dating back to the 8th century and has been a center of culture and learning.

On this tour you’ll have the opportunity to visit the famous cities of Najaf and Karbala. Najaf is known for its unique shrines, such as the Imam Ali Shrine which is the tomb of the first Shia Imam, Ali. After you visit Karbala which is also known for its unique shrines, such as the Imam Husayn Shrine , which is the tomb of the grandson of Prophet Muhammad.

Both shrines are considered important pilgrimage sites for Shia Muslims. Immerse yourself in the spiritual atmosphere of southern Iraq as we take you to some of the most profound religious and historical places, including the ancient city of Babylon . This ancient city known for its impressive ruins and historical significance was once one of the most powerful cities of the ancient world.

This is a private tour, so you’ll have the flexibility to tailor the itinerary to your interests and preferences. Don’t miss this chance to experience the beauty and diversity of Iraq.

5-Day Iraq Tour to Baghdad, Karbala, and Najaf

Iraq private tour starting 966 USD p/person. Pick up & drop off Baghdad airport - Visit Najaf, Karbala, Babylon. Driver + English-speaking guide.

Product SKU: IRQ5/BGW/BGW

Product Brand: RJ Travel - Tour Operator

Product Currency: USD

Product Price: 966

Product In-Stock: InStock

Recent review on Trip Advisor

5-day iraq itinerary.

Arrival at Baghdad international airport. Meet and greet with our transfer operator, that will take you directly to the hotel. Suppose you choose the Baghdad morning arrival. In that case, you will have included a full-day Baghdad city tour, from the airport directly to visiting the city’s most important monuments.

This is the day you visit the renowned site of the old city of Babylon. After a guided tour of the archeological complex, you will drive up the hill to the abandoned Saddam Hussein palace. Before heading to Karbala, you visit the Borsippa Ziggurat, also known as Birs Nimrud. Borsippa was an important ancient city of Sumer. The temple to Nabu at Borsippa was destroyed in 484 BC during the suppression of a revolt against the Achaemenid king Xerxes. Drive to Karbala.

From Karbala, you will travel toward Najaf, stopping at Al Kifl to visit Ezekiel’s Tomb. In Najaf, visit the most important religious sites of Iraq, Imam Ali Mosque and the Wadi Al-Salam Cemetery, one of the largest cemeteries in the world.

Full-day visit to Baghdad.

Get your things ready, have breakfast, and prepare to fly back home. Airport transfer at the time convenient to your flight, and agreed with the local guide.

•  This is a private  Iraq tour package .
•  We can pick you up at Baghdad airport or at Najaf international airport. If the tour starts in Najaf, the order of the itinerary will differ.
•  European Union citizens, United States, United Kingdom, Russia, China, Japan, South Korea, New Zealand, Canada, Australia, and Switzerland, can make the Iraq visa on arrival with our tour voucher.
•  Your passport must be valid for at least six months.
•  We were in Iraq preparing this trip for you. Our destination manager was in Iraq recently preparing this tour, so you can safely enjoy your holidays in Iraq. This way, we know what to expect and ensure the best service with reliable, updated information.
• Multi-day private tour in Iraq.
• Baghdad airport pick up and drop off.
• Iraq road check-points clearance.
• Iraq visa on arrival at Baghdad airport.
• English-speaking guide.
• 5 days in Iraq.
• Airport transfers.
• Entrance and departure taxes.
• All transportation with driver.
• English-speaking guide at all times.
• All accommodations in 4* hotel with breakfast.
• All documents to get visa on arrival (only permitted nationalities).

Not included

• International flights.
• Travel insurance (optional and available).
• All lunches and dinners (optional as extra).
• Tips and other gratuities.
• Drinks, personal expenses.
• Admission fees to museums and monuments ($20 Usd to $25 Usd per monument paid on the spot).
• English-speaking guide (optional as extra).
• All not mentioned as “included”.

You can send your enquiry via the form below.

• Arrival City Baghdad
• Departure City Baghdad
• Accommodation 4-star hotels
• Transportation Sedan or SUV
• Highlights Baghdad, Karbala, Najaf, Babylon
• Destination Iraq Tours in Asia
• Trip Type Private Tour

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Iraq Travel and Tours

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Iraq Travel and Tours offers a team of professional trip curators, and knowledgeable, experienced, and local guides. Our guides are passionate about finally having a window open for Iraq to be seen for its bountiful landscapes and cultural diversity. We are honored to have the opportunity to shine a light not only on some of the planet’s most ancient and grand archaeological sites but also the perhaps the most hospitable people you will come across in your travels. Post decades of turbulence, war, and conflict Iraq and Iraqis are opening their arms, country, and in some instances even their homes to those willing to open their minds to the true Iraq. We offer a variety and wide range of tours and services through both the south Federal Iraq and northern region of Iraqi Kurdistan. Services also include private and VIP transportation where required or requested. With experience in production coordination we have the resources and access to obtain required filming permits and requests, sourcing availability and general fixing options in Iraq.

Years of experience of guiding tours in Iraq will allow you to enjoy your time thoroughly while not worrying about the logistics that can be quite cumbersome in particular locations. Allow us to ensure the appropriate permits, authorizations, and transportation are in place. Traveling within Iraq also means a number of checkpoints that can take quite a lot of time in some instances, however we can ensure a smooth transition and liaise with the guards on your behalf over the course of the tour.

Decades of conflict in Iraq, religious sectarianism, and being labeled as one of the most dangerous countries in the world, as you can imagine, has not put Iraq at the top of tourist destination lists. Thankfully, however, the stability in Iraq is shifting and the opportunity to visit the country known to be the cradle of modern civilization is here. Located in the heart of the Middle East, the country is officially known as the Republic of Iraq, consisting of 19 governorates, Basra and Baghdad being the oldest standing among them. Within the borders of Iraq is also Iraqi Kurdistan, technically part of Iraq but recognized as an autonomous region essentially operating as their own country within Iraq. Iraqi Kurdistan consists of Erbil (the capital), Dohuk, Sulaymaniyah, and Halabja. Although Iraq as a whole is known as a vast desert the diversity both geographically and culturally is a treat that is not so widely known. A range of mountainous regions, hills, lowlands, and marshes also make up large portions of the landscape. There are an abundance of adventurous and outdoor activities to experience in Iraq. These include climbing Halgurd Mountain, spending the night in the traditional reed home in the Mesopotamian Marshes, or camping overnight with 4x4s in the desert. While outdoor activities are rich the historical sites including a number that are classified as UNESCO World Heritage Sites are next to none. From the holy shrines in both Karbala and Najaf, pilgrim towns, ancient site of Ur, the spiral Minaret in Samarra, Ishtar Gate of Babylon, to the streets of Baghdad it will not be long until you realize and can feel where the title of cradle of civilization stems from.

• Overnight trip to Babylon from Baghdad
• Mesopotamian Marshes Overnight from Nasiriyah
• Mesopotamian Marshes Overnight from Basrah
• 3 Day Tour Baghdad, Babylon, Samarra
• 4 Day Tour – Sulaymaniyah, Erbil, Dohuk
• 4 Day Tour From Erbil
• 5 Day Federal Iraq Express Tour
• 5 Days – Baghdad, Babylon, Nasiriyah, Basrah, Mesopotamian Marshes
• 7 Day Tour From Baghdad
• 10 Day Federal Iraq Tour
• 10 Day Iraq Tour From Baghdad to Erbil
• 2 Week Iraq Tour From Baghdad to Erbil
• Highlights of Kurdistan: 3-Day Halgurd Mountain Trekking Adventure
• Best of Iraq: 4-Day Southern Iraq Cultural and Historical Tour
• Historical Iraq: 5-Day Journey to the Cradle of Civilization Cultural Heritage Tour
• Highlights of Northern Iraq: 6-Day Kurdistan Region Cultural Heritage Tour
• Highlights of Southern Iraq: 6-Day Basra to Baghdad Cultural Heritage Tour
• Classic Northern Iraq: 7-Day Iraqi Kurdistan Historical Tour from Erbil
• Best of Southern Iraq: 7-Day Baghdad to Basra Cultural and Historical Tour
• The Land Between the Rivers: 8-Day Southern Iraq Historical Tour from Baghdad
• The Land Between the Two Rivers: 8-Day Journey to the Cradle of Civilization Historical Tour from Baghdad
• Best of Northern Iraq: 8-Day Ultimate Kurdish Adventure from Erbil
• Best of Iraq: 9-Day Baghdad to Erbil Cultural and Historical Tour
• Best of Iraq: 13-Day Ultimate Iraq Adventure from Baghdad to Erbil
• Journey to the Holy Cities of Iraq: 5-Day Karbala and Najaf Cultural Heritage Tour from Baghdad
• Highlights of Northern Iraq: 7-Day Iraqi Kurdistan Newroz Festival Tour
• Highlights of Sacred Iraq: 3-Day Journey to the Holy Cities of Karbala and Najaf Tour
• Highlights of Northern Iraq: 7-Day Iraqi Kurdistan Yazidi Festival Tour
• Highlights of Northern Iraq: 9-Day Iraqi Kurdistan Newroz Festival Tour
• Best of Southern Iraq: 10-Day The Land Between the Rivers Tour from Baghdad
• Best of Iraq: 7-Day Baghdad to Erbil Cultural Heritage Tour
• Ultimate Kurdish Adventure: 9-Day Highlights of Iraqi Kurdistan Tour
• Best of Kurdistan: 9-Day Halgurd Ski Adventure
• Ultimate Southern Iraq Experience: 9-Day Journey to the Cradle of Civilization from Baghdad
• Day Tour Baghdad
• Day Tour Samarra
• Day Tour Babylon from Baghdad
• Day Tour Babylon from Karbala
• Mosul Day Tour from Erbil
• Day Tour Najaf + Kufa from Karbala
• Day Tour Mosul to Hatra
• Day Tour from Nasiriyah – Ziggurat of Ur
• Day Tour Mesopotamian Marshes (Al-Ahwar)
• Day Tour Erbil
• Airport Transfers
• Iraq Private Security Services
• Iraq Private Vehicle and Driver Hire
• Welcome To Iraq
• Traveling In Iraq
• Is It Safe To Travel To Iraq?
• Nine Must Visit Destinations In Iraq
• The Sixteen Most Beautiful Destinations To Visit In Iraq
• Ten Reasons Why You Should Travel To Iraq
• Ten Most Beautiful Destinations In Kurdistan
• Baghdad: A City Full Of Wonders
• The Best Places To Visit In Baghdad
• Erbil: The Capital Of Kurdistan: Why You Should Add Erbil On Your Bucket List
• Erbil City Guide: The Best Places To Visit In The Capital Of Kurdistan
• What To Visit In Kirkuk, Iraq?
• The Most Beautiful Destinations In Sulaymaniyah
• The Mythical City Of Babylon
• Iraq Travel Guide: FAQ
• Iraqi Cuisine: Everything You Need To Know!
• Iraq: Everything You Need To Know
• History Of Iraq

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The Best Iraq Travel Itinerary for 2024 (Map included)

This post may contain affiliate links. This just means I may receive a small commission at no extra cost to you for helping them promote their product or service. I don’t endorse any services I don’t personally use or recommend.

Iraq is not a country that requires a month-long stay. With the southern 3/4s of the country covered in barren flat desert your time in “federal” Iraq or the non-Kurdish region can be accomplished rather quickly. We decided, albeit a little ambitiously, to traverse the entire country (including Iraqi Kurdistan) in a little over 2 weeks. Unfortunately, that left little room for weather deviation, food poisoning, or just general exhaustion— but it can be done. If you’re short on time but want to experience the very best Iraq has to offer, here’s my 2-week Iraq travel guide complete with add-ons for travelers with more time. 

Obviously, the more time you have the better…but I know a lot of you are working with a two-week vacation time window. So I’m here to help.

Your Complete Iraq Travel Itinerary

If you’re planning on visiting all of Iraq in one visit, you should stay for no less than 2 weeks. This Iraq travel itinerary will assume you have 2 weeks (maybe more) in Iraq. If you have less consider sticking to either Federal Iraq or Iraqi Kurdistan. Not both.

Before you dig into this Iraq itinerary be sure to browse my other guides covering budget travel in Iraq, everything you need to know before you go, + tips for staying safe as a solo woman.

Is Iraq Safe? Tips From an American Woman Traveling Iraq

Is Iraq safe? For Americans? For solo women? Well, honestly, it’s a little complicated.…

Everything You NEED to Know Before Visiting Iraq (+ Iraq Travel Tips)

Iraq can give even full-time travelers/travel experts a run for their money. These are…

Overview of Our Iraq Itinerary

• Baghdad – 3 Days
• Samarra – 1 Day
• Karbala + Babylon – 1 Day
• Basra – 1 Day
• Iraqi Marshes – 1 Day
• Najaf – 1 Day
• Mosul – 1 Day
• Iraqi Kurdistan – 5 to 6 Days

Iraq Travel Itinerary Map

I’ve gone ahead and created a map for you all with my favorite Iraq sights, hotels, and eats.

For the Kurdistan attractions (outside of Erbil) check out my Iraqi Kurdistan Road Trip map .

Baghdad (Day 1 + 2)

If you’re planning on visiting Federal Iraq as an American or European this is where you’ll want to fly for visa purposes. 

 Baghdad reminds me a lot of Cairo . Dusty, polluted, filled with crowded outdoor street markets, and studded with colorful domed mosques. It’s not a particularly good walking city so you’ll have to rely on taxis to get around. My favorite days in Baghdad were spent sipping sweet Iraqi tea in cafes surrounded by shisha smoking men & wandering random street markets. Also, be sure to try both the Raisin & Apricot juice.  

What to see in Baghdad

It’s good to have a few things in mind that you want to see. But Baghdad is best when you just pop into mosques and markets. 

Martyrs Monument or Al-Shaheed Monument

These dramatic blue bell-shaped structures are great for iconic Iraq photos. The entrance fee is 3k IQD or $2 per person. It’s a little outside of town so I recommend getting a Careem.

Al Rashid Street, Al Mutanabi Street or Book Street , Abu Nawas Street

These are the three main walking streets. Al- Mutanabi is by far the most interesting. Known as “Book Street” it really comes alive at night as all the vendors display their wares.

“Cairo Writes, Beirut Prints, but Baghdad Reads”

Haji Zbala Juice Shop.  

They have been serving fresh made juice for well over 100 years. The grape is the staple (or raisin). But sour apricot is also great.

Shebandar Cafe.  

This cafe is special. At first, it looks just like the rest of the tea shops in Baghdad. But the tea here is great + it’s been around for generations. The owner actually lost all 3 sons and 2 grandsons in a car bombing during the war.

Darbunah Restaurant.

If you’re looking for high-quality traditional Iraqi food…this is it. It’s a little on the higher end of the food spectrum but that does not mean small portions. If you walk here be prepared to show your passport at various street checkpoints.

Al-Kadhimiyah Mosque, Ramadan Mosque, Mustansiriya Madrasa

The mosques in Baghdad are incredible. In all of Iraq really. Explore any + all that you can.

Copper Market

A love a good market. The copper market holds far more than simply copper. This market is your traditional Middle Eastern market filled with spices, housewares, food, and yes, hand-made copper goods.

Where to Stay in Baghdad: Royal Garden Hotel 

60,000 IQD or $41 for a double suite. Tell them you’re a member of Iraqi Travelers Cafe to get this discounted price. Breakfast is included. There are some cheaper places to stay in Baghdad on the outskirts of town but since you’ll have to deal with taxis and finding your own breakfast (not super easy in Iraq) I recommend splurging on this one instead. 

WhatsApp Number: +964 751 155 8090 (Shaima)

Another Cheaper Option: Kwestaan Hotel

This was recommended by a friend and fellow traveler. It should cost only 35,000 IQD for two people.

All hotels in Iraq are super expensive online. Don’t bother booking anything ahead of time either. You can arrange things via WhatsApp or just show up for a room.

Budget Travel Tip:  Getting to/from Iraq is expensive. Pegasus is a low-cost Turkish airline that flies from Istanbul & Ankara to Iraq for super cheap. Consider combining your Iraq visit with a long stay in Istanbul to enjoy its incredible cafes. Check out my blog post filled with more Iraq budget traveler tips! 

Add on Samarra (Day 3)

If you hate Baghdad (some people do) and are ready to leave after a single day or you have an extra day in Iraq you can visit the ancient city of Samarra and climb the spiraling minaret on a day trip. It takes about 2 hours one-way via minibus or shared taxi. Entrance tickets are about $17 pp. 

Karbala + Babylon (Day 4) 

Karbala. The holiest city for Shia/sunny Muslims in all of Iraq. You 100% cannot miss visiting the two shrines of Karbala. There are two holy cities in Iraq (Karbala + Najaf) & if you’re short on time and can only choose one…Karbala is the way to go.

Babylon is only a 40-minute bus ride from Karbala so the two destinations can easily be combined in a single day. Be sure to visit Saddams Palace while you’re in Babylon. It’s only a short taxi ride from the main gate.

For this Iraq travel itinerary, I recommend…

You leave early from your Baghdad hotel + head to the South Garage. Garage Allawi. From there, get on a bus to Hillah. This is the closest station to Babylon. From here, you’ll get a taxi to Ancient Babylon. It should cost you around $6. The main office or one of the guards at Ishtar Gate can watch your bags for an hour or two while you explore the city. Then take another taxi back to the Hillah Bus station (to Karbala). Grab a minibus to Karbala for $1.50 per person.

UPDATE: I’ve been told by a fellow traveler that while on the bus to Hillah you can inform the driver that you plan to go to Babylon and they will drop you off at a slightly closer point than Hillah station. You’ll still need to grab a taxi to the gate but it will be cheaper.

You could also take a minibus straight from Baghdad to Karbala, drop off your stuff at your hotel, & then head to Babylon and back to Karbala all in one day with no problem. 

What to see in Karbala: 

Imam hussein’s shrine + holy shrine of al abbas.

It’s best to visit these attractions late at night when they are fully lit. That’s what really makes them incredibly impressive. They are both open 24/7 and will be filled with other visitors at all times of the day. We went at 10 PM. But you could go as late as 3 AM if you’re inclined.

If you’re visiting during Ramadan, Eid, or another Muslim holiday Karbala is going to be packed. Book your accommodation way in advance. 

Eat fatty coconut sweets + fresh juice.

All around the area of the shrines are dessert shops. Find the busiest one and try a few things. Desserts are a big deal in Iraq (all of the Middle East really) + you should sample all kinds of things you don’t recognize.

Where to stay: Jennet Al- Kawther

This place is a great budget option and should be $20 or less for a couple.

WhatsApp Number: +964 783 419 3970

Or Burg Karbala. This place is a good backup if it’s a holiday and everywhere else is full. Or if you are looking for something a little fancier. Due to its close proximity to the shrine, you must wear an abaya at all times if you’re a woman.

Women Visiting Karbala?  To enter the shrine as a woman you’ll need to be dressed in a full abaya, not just a headscarf. You also can’t wear makeup, can’t bring in makeup (chapstick included), no nail polish, must wear socks, & must enter from the female inspection entrance. No cameras, bags, or phone power banks are allowed inside. Being a woman traveling independently in Iraq can be complicated. Read my whole blog post on tips for female travelers to Iraq for more information. 

Add Najaf (Day 5) 

If you have extra time catch a bus to the other holy city of Iraq. In a single day, you can visit the incredible shrine, the world’s largest cemetery (the second largest is in Peru ), & get a good feel for the small town. 

Where to Stay: Hotel Al-Maqam

I did not stay overnight in Najaf. But this place was recommended to me by many other travelers as a solid budget-friendly option.

I’ve been told that Najaf + Kufa are both excellent places to visit (specifically the mosque in Kufa) so be sure to fit them into your itinerary if you can!

Mesopotamian Marshes (Day 6) 

This is without a doubt the most unique & soon-to-be-famous attraction in all of Iraq. A must for your Iraq travel itinerary. If you visit Federal Iraq you must make it all the way south to the marshes. 

Depending on how long you want to stay, visiting can be a little bit complicated, however. You essentially have two options. 

Option 1: Day Trip w/ 1 Night stay in Nasiriyah 

Nasiriyah isn’t much in itself but it’s the closest town with lodging to the marshes. From here you can arrange a marsh tour with a street vendor or with Bilweekend (a company we used & highly recommend). A day visit should run about $30 for two and last 4-5 hours. 

Option 2: Overnight stay in the Marshes. 

This is the route we chose + have no regrets. Instead of staying in Nasiriyah, we arranged to go straight to the marshes with Bilweekend. You’ll get a sunset cruise, dinner, campfire, breakfast, & a morning tour of the marshes. Bilweekend is a well-known name in Iraq travel and they are super well-connected so expect to pay more than from other vendors. But I think the experience is worth it.  I’ve been told that other vendors will take you into the marshes overnight for around $75 for two.

Should you stay overnight in the marshes? This is not for everyone. The marshes are remote, swampy, & you’ll have primitive sleeping conditions at best. I detailed the entire experience in another blog post you can read here to help you decide if this is your kind of adventure. 

If you prefer to contact them via WhatsApp instead of Instagram… Bilweekend WhatsApp: +964 790 431 0853

Add Ziggurat of Ur

If you find yourself with a little extra time in Nasiriyah hire a taxi out to the Ziggurat of Ur! This massive structure is 4,500 years old and you can climb atop it for panoramic views. You only need an hour at the site itself. 

2024 Update: You can no longer walk on top of the Ziggurat! This is likely due to increased tourism in Iraq and in an attempt to preserve the life of the Ziggurat for centuries to come.

You could also have seen this sight on your way to the marshes if you took a private taxi or guide.

Why you *should* consider a tour of Federal Iraq.  Many of these ancient sites (like Samarra or the Ziggurat of Ur) are far from modern cities which makes getting to them without the help of a tour complicated & expensive. Companies like Bilweekend can also ensure you get through all the necessary military checkpoints & get you access to places other tourists CAN’T go (like the famously destroyed mosque of Al-Nuri in Mosul). I rarely recommend tours but in Iraq’s case…the benefits are high and the relative cost increase is reasonable.  

Add Basra (Day 7) 

We skipped Basra so I don’t have a lot to say about things to do in the port city. Basra has loads of fish markets, a unique seafaring vibe, & is home to the only functional train in Iraq. It only runs certain days of the week (weekends I believe) & connects with Baghdad. This is a good option to get back to the city before entering Kurdistan if the dates line up for you. 

Baghdad (Day 8) 

Otherwise, it’s too much travel time for one day.

Whether you are coming from Basra or from Nasiriyah as we did, you have a 6+ hour journey ahead of you to get to Baghdad. I recommend spending the night here before you continue on to Mosul tomorrow. It’s another long stretch.

Mosul (Day 9) 

Your last stop in Federal Iraq and perhaps the most infamous city in the country. From 2014 to 2017 the town was under ISIS’s control. From your first glance of the West side of the city, the destruction is apparent. Mosul is rebuilding quickly but this side of the river is absolutely decimated. Mosques, homes, and roadways lay in mountains of rubble. Bullet holes and bomb craters riddle every visible structure. Many buildings are just hollowed-out shells. But Mosul is undergoing a revival. Thanks to UNESCO, US, & UAE funds, historic buildings like the famous Al-Nuri mosque in Mosul are being restored. 

Mosul is an important piece of the Iraq picture & an absolute must-visit on any Iraq travel itinerary. 

You should also walk through the Old Market and the areas around the Al-Nuri mosque to get a look at the remains of Mosul’s Old City. 

Where to Stay: Alsfer Hotel

$15 for a two-person room. And it’s on the West side of the city which is infinitely more interesting.

Bilweekend Tour. We visited on a tour with Bilweekend and were granted access to the Al-Nuri Mosque, Syrian Catholic Church, and inside buildings still being cleared of land mines and explosives. I highly recommend at the very least, hiring a guide to get a little perspective on the horrors the people of Mosul endured for 3 years under the reign of ISIS. 

Getting to Mosul

There is public transport that runs regularly from Baghdad. No checkpoints and it only takes about 4 hours.

Erbil (Day 10 + 11) 

Welcome to Kurdistan. Although still technically a piece of Iraq this region could not be more different. For starters, it’s mountainous. Erbil is a lively little circular city with a massive central bazaar + park to wander, good food, and my favorite mosque in the Kurdistan region. 

Road trip!! Iraqi Kurdistan is also one of the easiest, safest, & most spectacular road trip destinations in the Middle East. Think snow-covered mountain peaks, green hillsides dotted with wildflowers, winding cattle-filled roads, and countless scenic overlooks. The landscape here could not be more different from the deserts of federal Iraq. We did a 4-day road trip in Kurdistan & laid out everything you need to know in this separate blog post. 

Where to Stay: Lord City Hotel 

40,000 IQD or $27 for a double room. All the rooms here have squat toilets instead of European. They also have huge windows overlooking the main bazaar and park fountains. Parking here is horrendous but the location couldn’t be better for those traveling on foot.

What to See + Eat in Erbil

Citadel castle, grand bazaar, + main square.

This is the main tourist plaza. The market here is filled with worry beads, turquoise rings, and all kinds of other unique goods. The Citadel Castle is especially good for sunset.

Fancy Coffee Shop, Tea Shops, + The BEST Breakfast Place in Iraq

Unfortunately, you can’t locate these exact places on google maps. But I estimated on the map I provided for you. Walk the perimeter of the main bazaar and you’ll find lots of coffee and tea shops, world-class shawarma + falafel, tasty soft-serve (get the pistachio kind), and lots of street food.

My favorite place is an outdoor alleyway breakfast spot. It has the best tea in town + you can order eggs with soft fresh bread. Super cheap and very authentic. I put the rough location on the map I provided.

Hummus + Fuul (Syrian Cuisine)

If I had to pick one meal to re-eat from Iraq…it would be this one. Unfortunately, it’s super far outside of town. But it’s worth a cab ride. We ate there before returning our car rental after our Kurdistan road trip.

Jalil Khayat Mosque

Foreigners are only allowed inside the mosque from 9-11 AM. Come prepared with an abaya or headdress. It’s just as impressive inside as it is outside.

Tamdar Restaurant (Kurdish Cuisine)

Finding traditional Kurdish food done well is difficult. This place does it. Be warned it’s kinda expensive but the portions are large enough to share.

Iraqi Kurdistan Road Trip (Days 12-15)

Now scoot on over to my Iraqi Kurdistan Road Trip Itinerary for your last 4 days in Iraq.

If you are against renting a car or don’t have a license, continue reading. These next stops can all be reached via public transport. Or hitchhike if you’re feeling adventurous! It’s very common in Kurdistan.

Akre (Alternative Day 12) 

Perched on a mountainside Akre is both accessible by public transport and perfectly picturesque. As far as “attractions” go there are none specifically worth noting but these are my favorite viewpoints & overlooks to walk to in the city. Visiting here also gives you the opportunity to enjoy the Kurdish countryside & if you’re feeling up to it— go on a hike. 

Why Akre instead of Amedi?  Amedi is a photo-worthy town sitting on the top of a lone mesa. The only problem is without a car you won’t be able to easily get the dramatic sweeping views this town is known for. If you’re relying on public transit or hitchhiking (perfectly safe in Kurdistan) I would recommend visiting Akre instead. 

Sulaymaniyah (Alternative Day 13 + 14)

The most blasphemous thing we did on our Iraq trip was to skip visiting Suli. This city is in the east corner of Kurdistan and is universally loved by travelers. Possibly because it’s the only city with a hostel in all of Iraq. Here you can visit the harrowing museums depicting the atrocities Saddam Hussein committed against the Kurdish people & also after, unwind with some panoramic Zagros mountain views. 

Where to Stay: Dolphin Hostel

The only hostel in all of Iraq. The owner here is super helpful and kind. Be sure to book in person or via WhatsApp for the best price. And don’t forget to drop that you’re a member of the Iraqi Travellers Cafe on Facebook.

WhatsApp: +964 770 184 6332

If you’re like me you’ll probably end your trip through Iraq with a flight out of Erbil (known for its cheap flights to Turkey). And that’s a wrap. This is a jam-packed 2-week itinerary in Iraq. Personally, I think that just under 3 weeks is the perfect amount of time for the road trip + all the extra add-ons without completely burning the candle at both ends. 

Let me know in the comments if you have any questions about Iraq or if you have any thoughts on other destinations to add to our Iraq travel itinerary! 

Save This Post For Later!

Further Reading...

13 Beautiful + Famous Places in Iraq You MUST Visit

Guns, Methane Marshes, & Abou Haidar: Our Night Spent in the Heart of Ancient Mesopotamia

Very helpful post! Thank you so much for this! Is it easy to get shared taxis from one place to the other or you can get only obe or two per day? I am really between relying on public transportation and car rental!

Thank you for reading 🙂 It was very easy to get shared taxis between cities! I would recommend relying on public transit for federal Iraq and only renting a car in the Northern Iraqi Kurdistan region.

Very helpfull and inspirative 👍. Thank you

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How to Plan an Epic Iraqi Kurdistan Road Trip (Full Itinerary)

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We have an absolutely great experience with AknafAlsawary Travel Agency. Besides the amazing historical places of Mesopopotamia that were our goals we admired the Iraqi places and culture: monuments, mosques and also we met amazing local people and enjoed Iraqi traditional food. Our guide and driver (both Ali  ) offered us an absolutely safety confidence and answers to all our questions and requirements. Thank you once again for the amazing and excellent trip!

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I took a 7 day Southern Iraq tour, visiting all the famous places like Samarra, Bagdad, Babylon, Uruk, Ur, marshes, Karbala or Najaf. Great country, great people, incredible history and no issues with safety. My recommendation. They are a lot of fun to be around and possess a wealth of knowledge and will go out of their way to help you in any way. Highly recommend this company and you should book with confidence.

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Aknaf Al Sawary travel agency allows you to explore the adventure in IRAQ. IRAN and SYRIA. Leading as one of the most reliable and growing Travel Agencies. We offer complete arrangements from staying in a hotel to visa issuance. Composing an experience to explore the hidden treasures around the ancient cities.

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Our trip to Iraq covers all major cities and their historical places, including Baghdad, and Karbala, from Mesopotamian marshes to Iraqi Kurdistan. The journey to Iraq includes numerous reasons to plan it, including jaw-dropping shrines, the vibrant streets of Baghdad, and surprisingly rich native cuisine. Undoubtedly Iraq is a country of experience.

•   Trip to Iran :

 In Iran, we visit famous cities, including Persia. After landing in Tehran, we further start our tour toward Isfahan Boroujerdis’ historical mansion. Then moving towards Yadz and sightseeing in Bishapour with a lot more activities. In Tehran, our expert guides manage all your slots while looking for the main highlights, including the Golestan Palace, the archeological section, and the crown jewels museum, all of which are ancient treasures remaining in today’s era.

•   Trip to Syria:

We also provide a trip to Syria, where we land in Damascus city visiting the Umayyad Mosque. Moving further to the town of Saidnaya, known as the Middle East’s exclusive architectural city. Other attractions include Palmyra, the most fantastic city where Baalshamin’s Stone is the central location to visit.

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Travel Advisory October 22, 2023

Iraq - level 4: do not travel.

Updated to reflect the ordered departure of non-emergency U.S. government personnel and eligible family members.

Do not travel to Iraq due to terrorism, kidnapping, armed conflict, civil unrest, and Mission Iraq’s limited capacity to provide support to U.S. citizens.

On October 20, 2023, the Department ordered the departure of eligible family members and non-emergency U.S. government personnel from U.S. Embassy Baghdad and U.S. Consulate General Erbil due to increased security threats against U.S. government personnel and interests.

Country Summary: U.S. citizens in Iraq face high risks to their safety and security, including the potential for violence and kidnapping. Terrorist and insurgent groups regularly attack Iraqi security forces and civilians. Anti-U.S. militias threaten U.S. citizens and international companies throughout Iraq. Attacks using improvised explosive devices, indirect fire, and unmanned aerial vehicles occur in many areas of the country, including Baghdad and other major cities. In an emergency, consular services to U.S. citizens in Iraq are limited due to severe restrictions on the movements of U.S. government personnel.

Demonstrations, protests, and strikes occur frequently throughout the country.  These events can develop quickly without prior notice, often interrupting traffic, transportation, and other services, and sometimes turning violent.

Do not travel near Iraq’s northern borders due to the continued threat of attacks by terrorist groups, armed conflict, aerial bombardment, and civil unrest.  U.S. citizens should especially avoid areas near armed groups in northern Iraq, which have been targeted with aerial strikes by neighboring countries’ militaries.

U.S. citizens should not travel through Iraq to engage in armed conflict in Syria, where they would face extreme personal risks (kidnapping, injury, or death) and legal risks (arrest, fines, and expulsion). The Kurdistan Regional Government in Iraq has stated that it will impose prison sentences of up to ten years on individuals who illegally cross the Iraq-Syria border. Additionally, fighting on behalf of or supporting designated terrorist organizations is a crime under U.S. law that can result in prison sentences and large fines in the United States.

Because of security concerns, U.S. government personnel in Baghdad are instructed not to use Baghdad International Airport. Due to risks to civil aviation operating in the Baghdad Flight Information Region, the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has extended for an additional two years its Special Federal Aviation Regulation (SFAR) prohibiting certain flights at altitudes below 32,000 feet. For more information, U.S. citizens should consult the Federal Aviation Administration’s Prohibitions, Restrictions, and Notices.

Read the country information page for additional information on travel to Iraq.

If you decide to travel to Iraq:

• Establish your own personal security plan in coordination with your employer or host organization or consider consulting with a professional security organization.
• Draft a will and designate appropriate insurance beneficiaries and/or power of attorney.
• Discuss a plan with loved ones regarding care/custody of children, pets, property, belongings, non-liquid assets (collections, artwork, etc.), funeral wishes, etc.
• Share important documents, login information, and points of contact with loved ones so that they can manage your affairs if you are unable to return as planned to the United States.
• Visit our website for Travel to High-Risk Areas .
• Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to receive alerts and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.
• Follow the Department of State on Facebook and Twitter .
• Review the Country Security Report for Iraq.
• Visit the CDC website for the latest Travel Health Information related to your travel.
• Prepare a contingency plan for emergency situations. Review the Traveler’s Checklist

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Embassies and consulates.

U.S. Embassy Baghdad Al-Kindi Street International Zone Baghdad, Iraq

Business Hours: 8:00am to 5:00pm, Sunday through Thursday Telephone: From Iraq and outside the United States:  +964-760-030-3000 From the United States:  +1-301-985-8841 U.S. Citizen Emergency Telephone (After-Hours, Friday, Saturday & Holidays): Call and ask to speak with the Duty Officer Email:  [email protected]

U.S. Consulate General Erbil 413 Ishtar, Ankawa Erbil, Iraq Business Hours: 8:00am to 5:00pm, Sunday through Thursday Telephone: From Iraq and outside the United States:  +964-66-211-4000 From the United States:  +1-240-264-3467extension 4554 U.S. Citizen Emergency Telephone (After-Hours, Friday, Saturday & Holidays): Call and ask to speak with the Duty Officer E-mail:   [email protected]

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Entry, Exit and Visa Requirements

Iraq has a strict entry and exit system.  Visa requirements vary depending on the traveler’s citizenship, Iraqi ancestry, purpose of travel, and duration of stay.  Visas on arrival are available for U.S. citizen tourists at airports in Iraq, including Erbil International Airport.  Travelers to Iraq should not depart Iraq without ensuring they receive an exit stamp in their passport. 

Residency stamps and blood tests may be required for long-term residents and those who plan to seek employment.  Iraq imposes penalties, such as fines, detention, or deportation, for violations of Iraqi immigration policies, including overstays or working without authorization.  

The possession of weapons and movements through checkpoints are strictly regulated.  U.S. citizens traveling to Iraq without authorization to possess weapons, or those who travel through checkpoints without proper documents or a clear purpose of travel, may be detained by authorities.

All travelers should visit the Embassy of Iraq’s website at  https://www.iraqiembassy.us/page/visas-to-iraq/ for visa and other relevant travel information. 

HIV/AIDS:   Iraq imposed HIV/AIDS-related travel restrictions on all visitors and new residents.  Travelers with HIV/AIDS should verify their eligibility to travel to Iraq with the  Embassy of Iraq  before travelling.

Find information on our website about  dual nationality ,  prevention of international child abduction , and  customs regulations .

Safety and Security

Terrorism: Terrorist groups and those inspired by such organizations are intent on attacking U.S. citizens abroad. Terrorists increasingly use less-sophisticated methods of attack – including knives, firearms, and vehicles – to target crowds at venues such as:

• High-profile public events (sporting contests, political rallies, demonstrations, holiday events, celebratory gatherings, etc.)
• Hotels, clubs, and restaurants frequented by tourists
• Places of worship
• Shopping malls and markets
• Public transportation systems, including subways, buses, trains, and scheduled commercial flights.

Islamic State in Iraq and Syria, also known as ISIS, ISIL or Da’esh, is a designated terrorist organization, which is active in Syria and near the Iraq border. ISIS and its associated terrorist groups indiscriminately commit attacks and violent atrocities in Iraq despite improved Iraqi government control. ISIS, militia groups, and criminal gangs target U.S. citizens for attacks and hostage-taking.

Iraq’s northern borders are especially dangerous due to the continued threat of attacks by terrorist groups, armed conflict, aerial bombardment, and civil unrest.  U.S. citizens should especially avoid areas near armed groups in northern Iraq, which have been targeted with aerial strikes by neighboring countries’ militaries.

Due to security and safety threats, U.S. government personnel in Iraq live and work under strict security guidelines, which limit their movements and interactions.

Crime:   Carjacking is common, even during daylight hours, and particularly on the highways from Jordan and Kuwait to Baghdad.  Kidnappings of foreigners, Iraqi citizens, and dual U.S.-Iraqi citizens can occur for ransom or political/religious reasons.  Many hostages have been killed.  The murder rate remains high due to terrorism, tribal and family disputes, and religious/sectarian tensions.  Sexual assault and domestic violence are common.  Petty theft is common in Iraq, including pickpocketing and theft of valuables from hotel rooms and private residences.

Demonstrations  occur frequently.  They may take place in response to political or economic issues, on politically significant holidays, and during international events.

• Even demonstrations intended to be peaceful can turn confrontational and possibly become violent.
• Avoid areas around protests and demonstrations.
• Check local media for updates and traffic advisories.

International financial and romance scams can be connected to Iraq.  See the  Department of State  and the  FBI webpages  for information.

Women Travelers:  Female U.S. citizens have been subject to threats, kidnappings, abuse, and extortion by their family, including loss of custody of children or forced marriage.  U.S. laws do not protect U.S. citizens when they are outside of the United States.  The Iraqi police and legal system may offer little protection.  See our travel tips for Women Travelers .     

Victims of Crime:   Report crimes, fires, and accidents to local authorities by dialing 104 (Police), 115 (Fire), 112 (National Emergency Hotline), or 139 (sexual assault and domestic violence).  Local authorities are responsible for investigating and prosecuting crimes.  They speak Arabic.  U.S. citizen victims may contact the U.S. Embassy for assistance at +964-760-030-3000.  We can:

• Help you find appropriate medical care
• Assist you in reporting a crime to the police
• Contact relatives or friends with your written consent
• Provide general information regarding the victim’s role during the local investigation and following its conclusion
• Provide a list of local attorneys
• Provide information on victim’s compensation programs in the United States

Domestic Violence:   U.S. citizen victims of domestic violence in Iraq are encouraged to contact the Embassy for assistance.

Tourism:  Tourists participate in activities at their own risk.  Emergency response and subsequent appropriate medical treatment may not be available in-country.  U.S. citizens are encouraged to purchase medical evacuation insurance.  See our website for information on insurance providers for overseas coverage.

Local Laws & Special Circumstances

Criminal Penalties:  You are subject to local laws. If you violate local laws, even unknowingly, you may be expelled, arrested, or imprisoned. Furthermore, some laws are prosecutable in the United States, regardless of local law. For examples, see our website on  crimes against minors abroad  and the  Department of Justice  website.

Arrest   Notification:  If you are arrested or detained, ask police or prison officials to notify the U.S. Embassy immediately. See our  webpage  for further information.

Property Disputes : Land disputes are common in Iraq and are often difficult to resolve through legal channels. The U.S. Embassy cannot take sides in a legal dispute. Those involved in a court dispute risk having cases filed against them, arrest, and being jailed.

Special Circumstances:

Iraq has serious deficiencies in public services. Electricity often fails. Fire and rescue services are inadequate, and hotels may not be equipped with fire safety equipment. Landline telephone service is limited; while cellular service reliability varies by region. The banking and financial infrastructure is underdeveloped. Transactions are largely cash-based. Hotels usually require payment in foreign currency. Automatic Teller Machines (ATMs) are rare.

Customs officers have broad authority to search persons or vehicles at Iraqi ports of entry. Officers may confiscate any goods deemed a threat to the peace, security, health, environment, or social order of Iraq. Antiquities, cultural and undeclared items for export may be confiscated. Visitors may be ordered to return such goods, at their expense, to the jurisdiction from which they came.

Counterfeit and Pirated Goods : Possession of counterfeit goods may be confiscated or fined. See the U.S. Department of Justice website for more information.

Dangers of Proselytizing:   While proselytizing is not considered a criminal offense under Iraqi law, it may expose you to danger.  Iraq is a predominantly Muslim country, and individuals visiting for the purpose of spreading other faiths have been targeted and attacked by armed groups.

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Basic, modern medical care and medicines are not widely available in Iraq and do not meet U.S. standards. A limited number of companies facilitate medical evacuations. Blood banks exist in Iraq, though the blood supply may not be sufficient in the event of an emergency and likely has not been tested under U.S. standards for infectious disease. There is limited mental health or psychiatric care in Iraq.

For ambulance services dial 122. Ambulance services are not present throughout the country or are unreliable in most areas. They are not staffed with trained paramedics and often have little or no medical equipment.

We do not pay medical bills.  Be aware that U.S. Medicare/Medicaid does not apply overseas. Most hospitals and doctors overseas do not accept U.S. health insurance.

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We strongly recommend  supplemental insurance  to cover medical evacuation.

Always carry your prescription medication in the original packaging along with your doctor’s prescription.

Vaccinations:  Be up-to-date on all  vaccinations recommended by  the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

Further Health Information:

• World Health Organization
• U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention  (CDC)

Prevalent Diseases:

• Tuberculosis
• Food-borne illnesses

Water Quality: In many areas, tap water is not safe to drink. Bottled water and beverages are generally safe, although you should be aware that many restaurants and hotels serve tap water unless bottled water is specifically requested. Be aware that ice for drinks may be made using tap water.

Air Quality

Air pollution is a significant problem in several major cities in Iraq. Seasonal smog and heavy particulate pollution may be especially harmful to the following people:  

• Infants, children, and teens
• People over 65 years of age
• People with lung disease, such as asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), which includes chronic bronchitis and emphysema
• People with heart disease or diabetes
• People who work or are active outdoors

Travel and Transportation

Road Conditions and Safety:  Vehicular travel in Iraq can be extremely dangerous. There have been attacks on civilian vehicles and on Iraqi military and security convoys on roads and highways throughout Iraq, both in and outside metropolitan areas. Attacks can occur at any time, night or day, and have involved small arms fire and Improvised Explosive Devices (IEDs) capable of destroying vehicles.

Traffic Laws:  Drivers usually do not yield to pedestrians at crosswalks and ignore traffic lights (if available), traffic rules, and regulations. Jaywalking is common. Roads are congested. Some cars do not use lights at night and urban streetlights may not be functioning. Some motorists drive at excessive speeds, tailgate, and force other drivers to yield the right of way.

Iraq has many government checkpoints scattered throughout the country. New ones may be placed randomly, particularly after terrorist attacks. It can take a long time to navigate them in crowded traffic, and some may shut down altogether at certain hours. Drivers should have car registration and ID documents available and should be very patient and polite.

Public Transportation:  Buses run irregularly and frequently change routes. City transit vehicles are often poorly maintained and can be involved in accidents. Long-distance buses are available but are often in poor condition and drive at unsafe speeds.

See our  Road Safety page  for more information.

Aviation Safety Oversight:  As there is no direct commercial air service to the United States by carriers registered in Iraq, the U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has not assessed the Government of Iraq’s Civil Aviation Authority for compliance with International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) aviation safety standards. Further information may be found on the  FAA’s safety assessment page .

Because of the risks to civil aviation in the vicinity of Iraq, the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has issued a Special Federal Aviation Regulation (SFAR) that prohibits U.S. operators and codeshare flights from operating in Iraqi airspace below 32,000 feet. For more information, U.S. citizens should consult the  Federal Aviation Administration's Prohibitions, Restrictions, and Notices .

Maritime Travel:  Mariners planning travel to Iraq should also check for  U.S. maritime advisories and alerts . Information may also be posted to the  U.S. Coast Guard Homeport  and the  NGA Broadcast Warnings  website. 

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Review information about International Parental Child Abduction in Iraq . For additional IPCA-related information, please see the International Child Abduction Prevention and Return Act ( ICAPRA ) report. 

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Major Middle East airlines to resume flights after Iran's attack on Israel

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Iraq's Popular Mobilization Forces, an official security force, said its command post at Kalso military base about 50 km (30 miles) south of Baghdad was hit by a huge explosion late on Friday, and two security sources said it resulted from an air strike.

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The U.S. issues new travel guidelines, warning that Iran will avenge the killings of senior commanders.

The State Department has barred its employees from traveling to large parts of Israel. Iran has repeatedly vowed to strike back over the deadly bombing this month of an Iranian Embassy complex in Syria.

By Liam Stack and Eric Schmitt

• April 12, 2024

Several countries including the United States have issued new travel guidelines for Israel and the surrounding region, as the Israeli military said its forces were “highly alert” for a possible Iranian strike in retaliation for the killings of several commanders.

Iran has repeatedly vowed to strike back at Israel over the bombing of an Iranian Embassy complex in Damascus, Syria, this month that killed three generals and four other military officers. An American official said on Friday that Washington expects an attack by Iran against Israel that would be bigger than recent attacks in the long shadow war between the two countries, but not so big that it would draw the United States into war. The official spoke on condition of anonymity because of the sensitivity of the matter.

The U.S. State Department on Thursday barred its employees from traveling to large parts of Israel, the first time the U.S. government had restricted the movement of its employees in this way since the war in Gaza began more than six months ago.

On Thursday, Britain told its citizens that they “should consider leaving” Israel and the Palestinian territories “if it is safe to do so.” On Friday, India told its citizens “not to travel to Iran or Israel till further notice,” while France advised people not to travel to Israel, Iran or Lebanon and evacuated the families of French diplomats from Iran.

Asked about the U.S. travel warning , Matthew Miller, the State Department spokesman, said at a news briefing Thursday: “We have seen Iran making public threats against Israel in the past few days.” He declined to provide details about any specific information that prompted the warning.

The new guidelines bar U.S. government employees and their families from traveling to locations outside the Tel Aviv, Jerusalem and Beersheba metropolitan areas “out of an abundance of caution” until further notice. The State Department said U.S. personnel could move among those areas for personal travel.

The top American military commander for the Middle East, Gen. Michael E. Kurilla, traveled to Israel to coordinate a response to possible Iranian retaliation, U.S. officials said.

“Our enemies think that they will divide Israel and the United States,” the Israeli defense minister, Yoav Gallant, said in a statement on Friday after meeting with General Kurilla. “They are connecting us and are strengthening the relationship between us.”

If Iran attacks, he added, “we will know how to respond.”

On Thursday, the Israeli military’s chief spokesman, Rear Adm. Daniel Hagari, said that the armed forces were “highly alert and prepared” for any action Iran might take, even as the timing and scale of any response remained unclear. Analysts say that Tehran, which has long used a network of proxy forces to project power across the Middle East, wants to avoid igniting a full-fledged war that could drag in the United States and threaten the survival of Iran’s regime.

“For years, and even more so during the war, Iran has been financing, directing and arming its proxies — in Lebanon, Gaza, Syria, Iraq and Yemen — to attack the state of Israel,” he said. “An attack from Iranian territory would be clear evidence of Iran’s intentions to escalate the Middle East and stop hiding behind the proxies.”

Liam Stack is a Times reporter covering the Israel-Hamas war from Jerusalem. More about Liam Stack

Eric Schmitt is a national security correspondent for The Times, focusing on U.S. military affairs and counterterrorism issues overseas, topics he has reported on for more than three decades. More about Eric Schmitt

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Middle East crisis: Blinken calls for calm as Iran official says no plan for immediate retaliation to reported Israeli missile strike – as it happened

This live blog is now closed. For the latest on the Middle East crisis, you can read our coverage here .

• 11h ago This day so far
• 12h ago Afternoon summary
• 13h ago EU imposes sanctions on four Israeli settlers
• 13h ago US sanctions on entities that raised funds for West Bank settlers
• 14h ago Man arrested in Paris after police cordon off Iranian consulate due to reported bomb threat
• 14h ago Blinken says conversations on Rafah at senior levels with Israel continue
• 15h ago Israeli 'aggression' on Iran is an escalation against the region, Hamas official says
• 16h ago Blinken: Hamas standing in the way of a Gaza ceasefire
• 16h ago Blinken: G7 is 'committed to de-escalating'
• 17h ago Israel gave US last-minute warning about drone attack on Iran, Italian foreign minister says
• 18h ago Israel's far-right national security minister criticised for online post about Israel and Iran
• 20h ago EU Commission president calls on Israel and Iran to refrain from escalation
• 20h ago US vetoes Palestinian request for full UN membership
• 21h ago No plan for immediate retaliation against Israel, senior Iranian official says
• 21h ago Summary of the day so far
• 22h ago IAEA says no damage to Iran's nuclear sites
• 24h ago Summary so far
• 1d ago US officials confirm Israel carried out operation against Iran
• 1d ago Nuclear sites unharmed - Iran state TV
• 1d ago Iran fires defence batteries - state-run IRNA news agency
• 1d ago Iran suspends flights over several cities
• 1d ago Welcome and opening summary

Blinken: G7 is 'committed to de-escalating'

Antony Blinken , the US secretary of state, addressed the press today at the conclusion of the G7 meeting of foreign ministers in Capri , Italy .

On behalf of the G7, he condemned Iran ’s cruise missile and drone attack on Israel that prompted an airstrike today on Isfahan , that the US says it has confirmed was carried out by Israel . It hasn not yet been confirmed by Israel or Iran.

“We’re committed to Israel’s security,” Blinken said. “We’re also committed to de-escalating.”

He noted that despite the tensions with Israel and Iran , “we remain intensely focused on Gaza”.

This day so far

It is currently 7pm in Gaza , 8pm in Tel Aviv, and 8.30pm in Tehran.

Here is a summary of what has happened so far:

the Iranian foreign minister, Hossein Amirabdollahian, said that drones reportedly fired by Israel at the Iranian city of Isfahan did not cause “any damage or casualties”, as reported by Iranian media.

The US Congress is pushing forward a $95m national security package that would provide additional aid to Israel following Israel’s reported airstrike in Iran. The bill overcame a massive hurdle with the support of Democrats in the House of Representatives. If approved this weekend, it will be sent to the Senate.

A spokesperson for the Iranian foreign ministry denounced the US’s veto of a Palestinian request to the UN security council, blocking the world body’s recognition of a Palestinian state. Iranian diplomat Nasser Kanani called the veto “irresponsible” and “unconstructive”.

Thank you for reading the latest updates on the ongoing crisis in the Middle East.

Drones reportedly fired by Israel at the city of Isfahan in Iran caused no damage or casualties, said the Iranian foreign minister, Reuters reported.

Iranian Foreign Minister Hossein Amirabdollahian gave remarks on the drone attack while speaking with envoys of Muslim nations in New York.

“The Zionist regime’s media supporters, in a desperate effort, tried to make victory out of their defeat, while the downed mini-drones have not caused any damage or casualties,” Amirabdollahian said, according to Iranian media.

Here is an analysis of what Israel’s latest attack on Iran means for the political survival of the Israeli prime minister, Benjamin Netanyahu , from the Guardian’s Bethan McKernan.

In the aftermath of Iran’s unprecedented salvo of missiles and drones fired directly at Israel at the weekend, Benny Gantz, a centrist member of the Israeli war cabinet, said that the country would respond “in the place, time and manner it chooses”. On Friday morning, that turned out to be explosions in the central Iranian city of Isfahan . Although no Israeli official has claimed responsibility for what seem to have been drone strikes on a military installation , Tehran, which retaliated after an airstrike on its consulate in Damascus, has downplayed the incident. The limited response may have for now staved off the threat of regional war. Unclaimed drone attacks on a military site in Isfahan are unlikely to satisfy supporters or critics of Israel’s longtime leader, Benjamin Netanyahu , or restore the level of deterrence Israel enjoyed in the region before the Hamas attack of 7 October. “Netanyahu, who has been threatening to attack Iran for 20 years, has realised a dream, or at least part thereof. The question is what about us, the people,” defence analyst and columnist for the leftwing Israeli daily Haaretz, Amos Harel, wrote on Friday. Meanwhile, Netanyahu ally and the far-right national security minister, Itamar Ben-Gvir, reacted with just one word – “Feeble!” – in a post on X, formerly Twitter. The Israeli prime minister may have achieved several short-term wins here. The muted Iranian reaction has soothed an anxious Israeli public before the week-long Passover holiday. Israel has also struck while it still has international diplomatic support for such an action, before the sense of urgency wanes and the world’s focus returns to the war in Gaza and its deepening famine …

Read the full article here .

A spokesperson for the foreign affairs ministry of Iran condemned the US’s veto to block full United Nations membership for Palestine, calling the decision “irresponsible”, AFP reported.

The US vetoed the Palestinian request to the UN security council, blocking the world body’s recognition of a Palestinian state.

The US was the only country to oppose the request on the 15-member security council. Twelve nations were in favor. The UK and Switzerland abstained.

“Washington’s action exposed the fraudulent nature of US foreign policy and its isolated position,” Iranian diplomat Nasser Kanani said.

Kanani added that Washington’s veto was “irresponsible” and “unconstructive”.

The US Congress is pushing forward a $95bn national security package that would provide additional aid to Israel following Israel’s airstrike in Iran.

The bill was moved forward in the House of Representatives following a critical procedural vote, the Associated Press reported. The legislation would also provide humanitarian support to Taiwan and Ukraine.

Aid for the international conflict between Russia and Ukraine has received faltering support from far-right conservatives, threatening the bill’s passage.

With the latest procedural obstacle cleared, the bill could be approved by the House this weekend and then sent to the Senate.

Afternoon summary

It has gone 5pm in Gaza , 6pm in Tel Aviv and 6.30pm in Tehran. Here is a summary of the day’s events so far:

Speaking publicly at the G7 meeting in Capri, the US secretary of state, Antony Blinken, declined to elaborate further on the reported Israeli attack on Iran, except to say his country had not been involved. “I’m not going to speak to that except to say that the United States has not been involved in any offensive operations,” Blinken said.

Blinken said while the Gy was “committed” to Israel’s security, “we’re also committed to de-escalating ”. “What the G7 is focused on, and it’s reflected in our statement and in our conversation, is our work to de-escalate tensions, to de-escalate from any potential conflict,” he said. “You saw Israel on the receiving end of an unprecedented attack, but our focus has been on, of course, making sure that Israel can effectively defend itself, but also de-escalating tensions and avoiding conflict. That remains our focus.”

At a separate news conference moments before Blinken, Italy’s foreign minister, Antonio Tajani, said the US was “informed at the last minute” but did not elaborate.

Air defence systems over several Iranian cities were activated, state media reported , after the country’s official broadcaster said explosions were heard near the city of Isfahan , home to sites associated with Iran’s nuclear program, including its underground Natanz enrichment site.

The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) says there is no damage to Iran’s nuclear sites. In a post on X, the agency said it continues to monitor the situation very closely and calls for extreme restraint from all sides, stressing that “nuclear facilities should never be a target in military conflicts”.

French police arrested a man who had threatened to blow himself up at Iran’s consulate in Paris on Friday afternoon. A police source told Reuters that the man was seen at about 11am (9am GMT) entering the consulate, carrying what appeared to be a grenade and explosive vest. The man exited the consulate and was not actually carrying explosives, the source said.

Four Israeli extremist settlers in the occupied West Bank and East Jerusalem have been today sanctioned by the EU along with two entities over alleged “serious human rights abuses against Palestinians”.

The US also added to its settler-related sanctions today by imposing sanctions on two entities that the US said helped raise tens of thousands of dollars for two violent extremists in the West Bank already targeted with US sanctions.

The Turkish foreign minister, Hakan Fidan, on Friday spoke by phone to his Iranian counterpart, Hossein Amirabdollahian, at Iran’s request to discuss regional developments , a Turkish diplomatic source told Reuters. The source did not provide further details.

German airline group Lufthansa has suspended flights to Israel and Iraq until early Saturday. Lufthansa subsidiary Austrian Airlines also decided as a “precautionary measure” to suspend flights to Jordan’s capital Amman, as well as Erbil and Tel Aviv on Friday “to comprehensively reassess the security situation”. Both Lufthansa and Austrian Airlines had already suspended their flights to and from Tehran up until the end of the month.

Polish national airline LOT canceled flights on Friday to Tel Aviv and Beirut due to the unstable situation in the region, a spokesperson was quoted as saying by state news agency PAP.

Here’s a look at the area targeted last night in what the US has confirmed as an Israeli military operation in Iran:

EU imposes sanctions on four Israeli settlers

The individuals on the list are: Neria Ben Pazi , 31. According to the EU’s official journal, the reason for the listing was that Ben Pazi “established four of the most violent outposts in the West Bank in 2019”. He was “one of the main perpetrators of the forced displacement of a Bedouin community of Wadi Seeq near Ramalah. His actions “have been likened to torture”, the official journal said, including an attack on 12 October last year in which Palestinians were “severely beaten, handcuffed and photographed in their underwear” as well as “urinated on”.

Another Israeli, Yinon Levi , 32, is accused of “multiple violent acts” including storming and damaging houses of Palestinian families and setting dogs on farmers.

Also on the list is Meir Mordechai Ettinger , 33, “considered a leading figure of the Hilltop Youth, a radical youth group consisting of members known for violent acts against Palestinians and their villages in the West Bank.

According to the official journal he was involved in a deadly arson attack in 2015, that killed two parents and their 18-month-old baby, for which he was detained without charge that same year.

Another member of the group, Names as Elisha Yered , born in 2001, was reported to engage in settler violence through so-called “price tag attacks” including “physical and psychosocial harassment, beatings, murder and demolition of property, against Palestinians is of a systematic nature”.

The journal says he was “part of a group of armed settlers” involved in an attack last year near Ramallah which led to the death of the 19-year-old Palestinian Qusai Jammal Mi’tan and wounded several other Palestinians”.

One of the two entities named is Lehava , which the EU’s official journal describes as a “radical right-wing Jewist supremacist group” which “uses violence and incites violence against Palestinians, Christians and Messianic Jews”. According to the journal, Lehava “organises violent protests against Jewish Muslim weddings and the LGBQTi community”.

The other entity is named as Hilltop Youth , described by the journal as “a radical group consisting of members known for violent acts against Palestinians and their villages in the West Bank”.

The judgment can be read here: https://eur-lex.europa.eu/legal-content/EN/TXT/?uri=OJ:L_202401172

US sanctions on entities that raised funds for West Bank settlers

The US treasury department announced today that the US is imposing sanctions on Mount Hebron Fund and Shlom Asiraich – two entities that the US said helped raise tens of thousands of dollars for two violent extremists in the West Bank already targeted with US sanctions.

Mount Hebron Fund launched an online fundraising campaign that raised $140,000 for settler Yinon Levi after he was sanctioned in February for leading a group of settlers that assaulted Palestinian and Bedouin civilians, burned their fields and destroyed their property, the Treasury said.

Shlom Asiraich raised $31,000 for David Chai Chasdai , who the US said had initiated and led a riot that included setting vehicles and buildings on fire and causing damage to property in Huwara , resulting in the death of a Palestinian civilian.

“Mount Hebron Fund and Shlom Asiraich generated tens of thousands of dollars for extremists responsible for destroying property, assaulting civilians, and violence against Palestinians,” said Deputy Secretary of the Treasury Wally Adeyemo. “Such acts by these organizations undermine the peace, security, and stability of the West Bank. We will continue to use our tools to hold those responsible accountable.”

The US has previously sanctioned five settlers and two unauthorized outposts in the West Bank.

At least 34,012 Palestinians have been killed and 76,833 others have been injured by Israel ’s military offensive since the 7 October, Gaza ’s health ministry said on Friday.

The Hama s-run health ministry does not distinguish between combatants and non-combatants.

Man arrested in Paris after police cordon off Iranian consulate due to reported bomb threat

French police arrested a man who had threatened to blow himself up at Iran’s consulate in Paris , police said, Reuters reported.

A police source had told Reuters the man was seen at about 11 am (0900 GMT) entering the consulate, carrying what appeared to be a grenade and explosive vest.

The man exited the consulate and was not actually carrying explosives, a police source said.

You can follow more updates from Lili Bayer in the Europe live blog here:

Turkish foreign minister Hakan Fidan on Friday spoke by phone to his Iranian counterpart Hossein Amirabdollahian at Iran ’s request to discuss regional developments, a Turkish diplomatic source told Reuters.

The source did not provide further details.

Blinken says conversations on Rafah at senior levels with Israel continue

Further to the comments by Blinken already reported on the blog, there are some more lines from Reuters on what the US secretary of state said on the topic of Gaza .

At a press conference on Friday after a gathering of G7 foreign ministers on the southern Italian island of Capri , Blinken told reporters “we cannot support a major military operation in Rafah”. He said conversations on Rafah , in the southern Gaza Strip , continue at senior levels with Israel .

Blinken said he believed that “Israel’s objectives can be achieved” without a Rafah offensive. He added: “We are committed to achieving a Palestinian state with necessary guarantees for Israel.”

Qatar expressed regret on Friday over the failure of the UN security council to adopt a draft resolution recognising a Palestinian state through full membership of the UN (see 08:14 BST ), according to Reuters.

The United Arab Emirates said on Friday that granting Palestinians full membership in the UNwould be “an important step to boost peace efforts in the region”, the state-run WAM news agency reported.

German airline group Lufthansa has suspended flights to Israel and Iraq until early Saturday.

Services by airlines of the group to Tel Aviv in Israel and Erbil in Iraqi Kurdistan were suspended until 5am GMT due to the “current situation”, a spokesperson told AFP.

Lufthansa subsidiary Austrian Airlines also decided as a “precautionary measure” to suspend flights to Jordan ’s capital Amman , as well as Erbil and Tel Aviv on Friday “to comprehensively reassess the security situation”.

“Austrian Airlines continuously monitors and assesses the security situation in the Middle East and is in close contact with the authorities,” Austrian Airlines said in a statement sent to AFP.

Both Lufthansa and Austrian Airlines had already suspended their flights to and from Tehran up until the end of the month.

“Today’s flight 151/152 to Israel from Warsaw and to Beirut 143/144 have been cancelled,” Krzysztof Moczulski told PAP, according to a Reuters report. Moczulski said decisions about future flights would be made on an ongoing basis.

US secretary of state Antony Blinken repeatedly declined to confirm a reported Israeli attack on Iran on Friday, saying Washington has not been involved in any offensive operations and it was committed to de-escalating tensions in the region, reports Reuters.

“I’m not going to speak to that except to say that the United States has not been involved in any offensive operations,” Blinken said at a news conference capping a gathering of G7 foreign ministers on the southern Italian island of Capri . According to Reuters reporters, the top US diplomat kept repeating the same response, almost verbatim, when he was asked about the issue several times at the news conference.

At a separate news conference moments before Blinken, Italy’s foreign minister Antonio Tajani said the US was “informed at the last minute” but did not elaborate (see 11:58 BST ).

Explosions echoed over the Iranian city of Isfahan in the early hours of Friday in what sources described as an Israeli attack, say Reuters, but Tehran played down the incident and indicated it had no plans for retaliation – a response that appeared gauged towards averting region-wide war.

Israel said nothing about the incident. It had said for days it was planning to retaliate against Iran for Saturday’s strikes, the first direct attack on Israel by Iran in decades of shadow war waged by proxies which has escalated throughout the Middle East .

United Nations secretary general António Guterres said on Friday that “it is high time to stop the dangerous cycle of retaliation in the Middle East,” his spokesperson said in a statement.

“The secretary general condemns any act of retaliation and appeals to the international community to work together to prevent any further development that could lead to devastating consequences for the entire region and beyond,” Stéphane Dujarric said, accroding to Reuters.

Iran has been trying to reassure people that the country did not face a major threat after airstrikes were carried out in the Isfahan province on Friday.

A news anchor said everything was “back to normal” in a report aired on Press TV, the Iranian state broadcaster’s English-language outlet.

In another clip, said to be filmed in Isfahan and published by Iranian media, an unidentified person is heard saying there had been no damage to the area.

Officials in Washington said Israeli forces were carrying out military operations against Iran but did not describe the character or scale of those operations. Israel and Iran are yet to confirm the source of the strikes.

• Israel-Gaza war
• Middle East crisis live
• Palestinian territories
• Middle East and north Africa

More on this story

Gulf states’ response to Iran-Israel conflict may decide outcome of crisis

Muted Iranian reaction to attack provides short-term wins for Netanyahu

Israel has mounted airstrikes on iran, us confirms, as tehran plays down attack.

What we know so far about Israel’s strike on Iran

Iran and Israel playing with fire as old rules of confrontation are torn up

What’s in Isfahan? The city home to Iranian nuclear facilities

US to impose new sanctions against Iran after its air attack on Israel

Netanyahu aims to trap west into war across Middle East, says Iranian diplomat

Middle East conflict risks sharp rise in oil prices, says IMF

IDF chief of staff says Israel will respond to Iran missile attack

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