Comprehensive Guide to Exploring Iraq: Essential Information and Travel Tips

Iraq, with its diverse landscapes, rich culture, and vibrant history, offers a unique travel experience that captivates visitors. This guide provides essential information and tips to help you prepare for your 10-15 day tour of Iraq, ensuring a smooth and enjoyable journey.

Tour Overview

This 10-15 day tour of Iraq covers key destinations including Baghdad, Babylon, Najaf, Karbala, Basra, and Erbil. Each location offers unique experiences, from vibrant urban life and cultural immersion to historical exploration and natural beauty.

Travel Preparation

Visas and Documentation: Ensure you have a valid passport. Most travelers require a visa to enter Iraq, which can be obtained from the Iraqi embassy or consulate in your country. Check the specific visa requirements before travel.

Health and Safety: It’s recommended to have routine vaccinations up to date. Consult with a travel health clinic for any additional vaccinations and health precautions. Travel insurance with health coverage is advisable.

Currency and Banking: The Iraqi Dinar (IQD) is the official currency. ATMs are available in major cities, but it’s advisable to carry cash for smaller purchases and in remote areas. Credit cards are accepted in some hotels and restaurants.

Packing Essentials: Pack lightweight, breathable clothing suitable for a hot climate. Include a hat, sunglasses, sunscreen, and insect repellent. Comfortable walking shoes and a good quality travel adapter are essential. For visits to religious sites, dress modestly with long sleeves and pants.

Cultural Etiquette

Dress Code: Dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites. Women should cover their heads with a scarf when entering mosques.

Respect for Traditions: Greet people with “As-Salamu Alaikum” (peace be upon you) and respond with “Wa Alaikum As-Salam” (and upon you be peace). Use “Shukran” (thank you) to show appreciation. Respect local customs, especially in religious and rural areas.

Language: Arabic is the official language, but Kurdish is also widely spoken in the Kurdistan Region. Learning a few basic phrases in Arabic or Kurdish can be appreciated by locals.

Food and Drink: Iraqi cuisine is known for its rich and diverse flavors. Must-try dishes include kebabs, biryani, dolma, and masgouf (grilled fish). Stick to bottled water to avoid waterborne illnesses.

Transportation

Flights: Baghdad International Airport is the main international gateway. Domestic flights connect major cities and tourist destinations.

Road Travel: Roads in Iraq vary in condition. Hiring a private car with a driver is a convenient and safe option for exploring remote areas. Public transportation, including buses and taxis, is available but can be crowded.

Tour Highlights

Baghdad: Explore the National Museum of Iraq, Al-Mustansiriya School, and Al-Kadhimiya Mosque. Enjoy a boat ride on the Tigris River.

Babylon: Visit the Hanging Gardens, Ishtar Gate, and ancient city walls.

Najaf: Discover the Imam Ali Shrine, Wadi-us-Salaam cemetery, and Great Mosque of Kufa.

Karbala: Visit the Imam Hussain Shrine and Al-Abbas Shrine. Explore the bustling bazaars.

Basra: Discover the Basra Museum, Basra Grand Mosque, and Shatt al-Arab waterway. Visit the Marshes of Southern Iraq.

Erbil: Explore the Citadel of Erbil, Kurdish Textile Museum, and Sami Abdulrahman Park. Visit Lalish and Duhok.