• Overall

  Our longest tour to Iraq is designed for travellers who want to see Iraq in depth. The highlights, the must-sees, and the hidden gems. This is Iraq in full. 

  The marshes and mountains, empires and everyday life, holy cities and modern recovery. A unique opportunity to see the whole country in one sweeping, unforgettable adventure. It's designed for travellers who want to go beyond the headlines and experience Iraq's astonishing variety. From the southern marshlands to the mountains of Iraqi Kurdistan. 

  We begin in Basra, Iraq's storied port city on the Shatt al-Arab, easing into the local life with a waterfront evening and welcome dinner. From here we head into the UNESCO-listed Iraqi Marshes, where life still follows the rhythms of the waterways. You'll cruise by boat at sunset and spend the night in a traditional reed-house guest stay. This is a unique opportunity to experience one of the Middle East's most unique cultural landscapes. 

  Heading north, we dive straight into the heart of ancient Mesopotamia. Stand before the mighty Ziggurat of Ur, explore sacred sites like Nippur, and walk the ground Babylon, once one of the most influential cities on earth. 

  Along the way you'll gain a sense of how Iraq's past is not "museum history" but the living backdrop to everyday life. 

  Iraq's spiritual power is equally unforgettable. In Najaf and Karbala, we explore two of the holiest cities in Shia Islam, visiting iconic shrines and the extraordinary Wadi al-Salam cemetary, a vast city of the dead that has served as a place of pilgrimage for centuries and the biggest cemetary in the world. A special highlight of this trip is an immersive cultural afternoon in Najaf with a local family, including a hands-on cooking experience and time to relax Iraq-style by the river before spending the night in a homestay. 

  From there, we spend the night in Baghdad. A city of poets, markets and rebirth. Explore the Iraqi National Museum and wander the bookstalls of Mutanabbi Street. Then it's north to Samarra and the ancient Assyrian capital of Ashur, before arriving in Mosul to understand the city's layered history and extraordinary recovery. We also visit Baghdida, one of Iraq's most important Christian towns. 

  The final chapter to your epic journey is Iraqi Kurdistan. A complete shift in landscape and atmosphere. Visit Lalish, the holiest site of the Yazidi faith, explore mountain towns like Amedi, and take in the dramatic scenery of Rawanduz Valley. 

  We will enjoy the best that Iraqi Kurdistan has to offer in terms of its nature and history, as we cruise across Dokan Lake, delve into Kurdish history at Sulaymaniyah's museums, and visit Halabja to better understand the region's modern story. 

  The journey ends in Erbil, home to a UNESCO-listed citadel and one of the world's oldest continuously inhabited urban areas. 

  Highlights

  • Overnight in the UNESCO Iraqi Marshes | Sunset boat ride, traditional reed-house stay, and a front-row seat to one of the world's most distinctive wetland cultures
  • Mesopotamia's Greatest Hits - Ur, Babylon and the Assyrian North | From the Ziggurat of Ur to Babylon and the ancient Assyrian centre of Ashur - a deep dive into the cradle of civilisation.  
  • Iraqi Kurdistan - Lalish, Rawanduz Valley and Erbil Citadel | Yazidi heritage, spectacular scenery, and a UNESCO citadel in a city that has been continously inhabited for millennia. 

  click image to expand

• Itinerary

  Day 1 of 15

  1. November 5 | Friday

     Arrival Day in Basra

     Arrival in Iraq's third-largest city 

     • Arrive at Basra International Airport (BSR) from major hubs in the Middle East or Istanbul.
     • Your driver will wait for you at the airport to pick you up for a transfer to our hotel. #
     • Check in at hotel.

     Welcome Dinner

     • We will gather for a welcome dinner and also take a walk on the award-winning Basra Waterfront Coronation. 

     Accomodation | Hotel in Basra 

     Included Meals | Dinner 

  2. November 6 | Saturday 

     Basra Day Tour & the Iraqi Marshes 

     Basra Tour 

     • Day tour in the old city of Basra
     • Basra | This is the main southern city and its largest port. It has been a gateway for trade, culture, and ideas. Basra is also known for its canals lined with date palms! 
     • Basra Museum | A look into the history of Basra and the surrounding areas. It used to be Saddam's Palace. 
     • Tiger and Euphrates River | We will take a drive to the meeting point of the Tiger and the Euphrates River 
     • Adam's Tree | This is considered to be the Garden of Eden 

     Iraqi Marshes

     • Travel to the Iraqi Marshes, where we will have a late lunch of Masquf - the Sumerian local fish (vegetarian options available!)
     • Marshes | A UNESCO-listed wetland where life has changed little over the millennia. The Marsh Arabs still live in traditional reed houses and travel by narrow boats along the waterways. 
     • Boat Trip in the Marshes | We take a boat trip for sunset, where we will go to a local Samarian-designed house in the middle of the marshes to spend the night. 
     • Night in the Marshes | Enjoy an evening amongst the marshes where we have snacks and a light dinner around the fires. We will have a fun evening of local music surrounded by nature. 

     Accommodation | Samarian Style local accommodation in the marshes.

     NB: This accommodation features local-style sleeping arrangements and is not a hotel. Amenities such as toiletries are not provided, but the experience makes up for it! 

     Included Meals | Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner 

  3. November 7 | Sunday 

     City of Ur and Najaf 

     Marshes to Najaf 

     • Local Sumerian breakfast of buffalo's cream and milk. After this, we will begin our drive north. 
     • City of Ur | Visit the ancient city of Ur, where we will see the ancient Ziggurat and the House of the Prophet Abraham. This 4,000-year-old was once one of the most important Sumerian settlements. The Ziggurat of Ur, a massive stepped structure dominating the otherwise flat landscapes. According to tradition, this is the birthplace of Abraham. 
     • City of Nippur | Nippur was the religious capital of the Sumerians and one of the oldest cities in Mesopotamia. It was dedicated to Enlil, one of the chief dieties in the Sumerian pantheon, and served as a major religious centre during the 3rd millennium BCE. 
     • Continue driving to the city of Najaf. 

     Accommodation | Hotel in Najaf 

     Included Meals | Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner 

  4. November 8 | Monday 

     Najaf 

     Najaf City Tour 

     • Old City | Explore Najaf and Najaf's Old City, one of the most important cities in the Shia Muslim world. 
     • Wadi al Salam | We pay a visit to the largest cemetary in the world - Wadi al Salam. Meaning "Valley of Peace", it is located in Najaf and is the largest cemetary in the world. It has been a burial site for over 1,400 years. 
     • We then take a trip to the market where we can buy local clothes and Abayas, as well as lots of other souvenirs. You'll need this local attire to enter the shrine. 
     • Imam Ali Shrine | The Imam Ali Shrine in Najaf is the burial site of Imam Ali, the cousin and son-in-law of the Prophet Muhammad and the first Imam in Shia Islam. The shrine is one of the most important pilgrimage sites for Shia Muslim. The golden dome of the Imam Ali Shrine draws pilgrims from across the globe. We will take a look inside the seperated female/male sections, and you'll truly be astounded by the colours, lights, and decorations from this fantastic piece of architecture. 

     Cultural Afternoon

     • This afternoon we spend with a local family together at their house with various activities.
     • Homestay and Cooking Class | Return to our homestay for a cooking class where we will prepare and eat our lunch prepared by ourselves. 
     • Private River Chalet | Enjoy an afternoon of relaxation Iraq-style: with shisha, tea and snacks in front of the river in our private rented chalet, including a swimming pool. 
     • Return to our homestay for the evening 

     Accommodation | Homestay in Najaf. The sleeping will be local-style sleeping arrangements. The local family and us will be sleeping seperately but we cannot guarantee private rooms. A hotel option is available for an extra fee of $50 USD. 

     Included Meals | Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner 

  5. November 9 | Monday 

     Babylon and Karbala

     Najaf to Karbala 

     • Kufa Mosque | Start the day by going to Kufa Mosque, the fourth-holiest place for Shia Muslims. It has historical and religious significance due to its association with Imam Ali and early Islamic history.
     • Ezekiel Tomb | Visit Ezekiel Tomb, where we will see old Hebrew writings. This town used to be shared between Jews and Muslims. It is believed to be the burial place of the biblical prophet Ezekiel, and the tomb is inscribed with Hebrew writings. 
     • Daniel's Market | Explore the old market next to Ezekiel Tomb, called Daniel's Market. 
     • Ziggurat of Borsipa | Visit the Ziggurat of Borsipa, which is believed by many to be the Tower of Babel. 
     • Lunch at a local farm

     Babylon

     • Ancient City of Babylon | Babylon was one of the most important cities of ancient Mesopotamia, known for its role as the capital of Hammurabi and Nebuchnezzar II. It is associated with significant cultural achievements, including the Code of Hammurabi and the Hanging Gardens of Babylon, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World.
     • Saddam's Palace | Pay a visit to Saddam Hussein's palace and see the lasr remnant from his regime. From here, enjoy a great view of the ancient city. 
     • Drive to Karbala.

     Karbala

     • Karbala is a holy city for Shia Muslims and the site of the shrine of Imam Hussein. It is the focal point of the Arbaeen pilgrimage, one of the largest religious gatherings in the world. 

     Accommodation | Hotel in Karbala

     Included Meals | Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner 

  6. November 10 | Tuesday

     Karbala and Baghdad

     Karbala to Baghdad

     • Imam Hussein’s Shrine | Visit Imam Hussein’s shrine. Here, you will learn why it is one of the most important cities in Iraq, religiously, with the largest annual gathering in the world. The shrine of Imam Hussein in Karbala marks the burial place of the grandson of the Prophet Muhammad, who was martyred at the Battle of Karbala in 680 CE.
     • Ctesiphon | Drive to Ctesiphon (Taq kisra), the second largest single-span unreinforced brickwork vault in the world. See the panoramic view from a building next to it that is abandoned. It was the capital of the Parthian and Sassanian empires.
     • Drive to Baghdad.
     • Enjoy an evening walk and dinner in front of the Tiger River.

     Accommodation | Hotel in Baghdad

     Included Meals | Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

  7. November 11 | Wednesday 

     Baghdad 

     Baghdad City Tour 

     • Iraqi National Museum | Visit the Iraqi National Museum to get introduced to Iraqi culture and history throughout the years. The Iraqi National Museum houses a vast collection of artefacts from Mesopotamian civilisations, including Sumerian, Akkadian, Babylonian, and Assyrian relics. It is considered one of the most important museums in the Middle East. 
     • Mutanabi Street and Old Baghdad | Explore the old part of Baghdad. We will go to Mutanabi Street, known as Book Street, the antique market, and the old copper market. It is named after the 10th century poet Al-Mutanabi. 
     • Tea and Coffee stop in Old Baghdad | One of Baghdad's most famous tea and coffee shops. Stop here for some lemon tea or shisha!
     • Mustansiriya School | We will also visit Mustansiriya School, one of the oldest remaining schools in the world. The Mustansiriya Madrasa was established in the 13th century. It served as an important educational institution during the Abbasid era. 
     • Baghdad Green Zone | Drive through Baghdad's Green Zone. 
     • Save the Iraqi Culture Movement | A monument dedicated towards Iraqi culture and history. 
     • Martyrs Monument | Go for sunset to the Martyrs Monument in Baghdad is a large blue-domed structure built in the 1980s to commemorate Iraqis who died in past wars. It is a symbol of rememberence. 
     • Dinner in the new part of Baghdad. 

     Accommodation | Hotel in Baghdad 

     Included Meals | Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

      

  8. November 12 | Thursday 

     Samara & Ashur 

     Baghdad to Mosul 

     • Depart from Baghdad north to Samara. 

     Samara 

     • The Great Mosque of Samara | Built in the 9th century, it is famous for its spiral minaret, known as the Malwiya Tower. The structure is one of the most distinctive examples of Abbasid architecture. It used to be the largest in the world at its time. 
     • Continue our way north and have lunch and a break. 

     Ashur

     • Ashur | Ashur was the first capital of the Assyrian Empire and a significant religious centre. Its ruins, including temples and palace foundations, are a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This was the capital of the Assyrians and one of the oldest cities in human history.
     • Continue our drive to Mosul 

     Accommodation | Hotel in Mosul 

     Included Meals | Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner 

  9. November 13 | Friday 

     Mosul and Baghdida 

     • Mosul City Tour | Start the day with a tour in the old city of Mosul, where we will see a lot of destruction from the time of ISIS, including churches, mosques, and old neighbourhoods. We will also see the Hidba Minaret, which is the icon of Mosul. This was destroyed by ISIS and rebuilt by UNESCO. 
     • Nori Mosque | Where they announced the Islamic caliphate by Abu Bakal al Baghdadi. 

     Baghdida

     • Baghdida | We visit one of the last Christian communities in Iraq, the Town of Baghdida, where we will visit Tahira Church, which used to be the largest church in the Middle East in the 1940s. 
     • We will spend the evening in one of the local bars, having liquor, a small party and spending the night in the town. 

     Accommodation | Guesthouse in Baghdida. This is a rarely visited town in Iraq without any hotels. We will stay in local apartment-style accommodation. 

     Included Meals | Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner 

  10. November 14 | Saturday 

      Bashiqa, Lalish, Armedi & Iraqi Kurdistan 

       Exploring Yazidi Religion 

      • Bashiqa | Today we will travel to the city of Bashiqa, home to the Yazidis, Christians and Muslims, where we will be able to see Yazidi temples. The town is famous for local Araq and beer. 
      • We will continue our drive into Iraqi Kurdistan. 

      Iraqi Kurdistan 

      • Lalish | Drive to Lalish, the holiest place for the Yazidi religion in the middle of the mountains. The temple complex, located in a mountain valley, is a pilgrimage destination for Yazidis worldwide. 
      • Duhok | Have a rest stop at the Martyr's cafe and have a walk around the city. Duhok is a lively regional city surrounded by mountains, serving as a gateway to northern Iraqi Kurdistan. It has grown rapidly in recent decades and combines modern infrastructure with traditional Kurdish culture. 
      • Amedi | 'The town that will never expand'. The walls enclose this city have been standing for years. Enjoy the fresh air as we visit this beautiful place of nature and history. One of the most elevated towns in Iraq, its history also stretches back thousands of years with layers of Assyrian, Median, Persian, and Islamic influence. 

      Accommodation | Hotel in Amedi. We will stay in local apartment style accommodation. 

      Included Meals | Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner 

  11. November 15 | Sunday 

      Amedi, Shanadar Cave & Rwanduz

      Exploring Amedi and more of Kurdistan's beautiful landscapes 

      • Amedi | Explore the old town and old gates. 
      • Barzan | Enjoy the nature of Barzan. One of the famous towns for the establishment of the Kurdistan region. It is closely associated with the Barzani family and the Kurdish national movement. 

      Shanadar Cave 

      • Shanadar Cave | Shanadar Cave is one of the most important archaeological sites in the Middle East. Famous for the discovery of Neanderthal remains, it has transformed how scientists understand early human behaviour, including evidence suggesting ritual burial and social care. You can watch the Netflix documentary all about this cave and the discoveries made here! 
      • Continue driving to the valley of Rawanaduz, one of the most scenic places in Iraq. A day of mountains and waterfalls!

      Rwanduz

      • The Rawanduz Valley | Famous for its dramatic gorges, mountains, and landscapes. It is a popular location for hiking and photography. 
      • We will spend the night in a hotel overlooking the valley. 

      Accommodation | Hotel in Rawanduz 

      Included Meals | Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner 

  12. November 16 | Monday 

      Sulimania 

      Drive from Rwanduz to Sulimania 

      • Today we will take a scenic drive from Rwanduz to Sulimania, with a few stops along the way. 
      • Dokan Lake and Dam | A scenic lake where we will enjoy a boat tour on the lake. Dokan Lake is on of the most scenic spots in Iraqi Kurdistan. Created by the Dokan Dam in the 1950s, the lake is surrounded by rolling hills and open skies. 
      • Arrival in Sulimania.

      Sulimania 

      Often described as the cultural capital of Iraqi Kurdistan, Sulaymaniyah is known for its heritage, lively cafes, art scene, and political history. Founded in the late 18th century, it has long been a centre of Kurdish intellectual life. 

      • Sulimania Museum | Historic artefacts from the region. One of the largest museums in the Kurdistan Region, the Sulaymaniyah Museum houses artefacts spanning prehistoric, ancient, and Islamic periods. Exhibits include statues, reliefs, inscriptions, and everyday objects from across northern Mesopotamia. 
      • Roman Theater | Explore the Roman Theater at sunset. A reminder of how far Roman influence once extended into Mesopotamia. Though partially ruined, the site is atmospheric, particularly at sunset, when the surrounding hills glow in soft light. 
      • Dinner in Sulimania. 

      Accommodation | Hotel in Sulimania 

      Included Meals | Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner 

  13. November 17 | Tuesday 

      Halabja & Iraq-Iran Border 

      Halabja 

      Halabja is a quiet town with a tragic place in modern history. In March 1988, it was the site of the deadliest chemical weapons attack ever carried out against a civilian population, killing thousands of people in a matter of hours. 

      • Our first stop from Sulimania will take us to Halabja.
      • Halabja Museum | Dedicated to the victims who died in the chemical attack conducted by Saddam Hussein during the Iraq-Iran war. 

      Byara 

      A small mountain town set in the dramatic landscapes near the Iranian border. Surrounded by rugged hills and valleys, it offers a glimpse into traditional Kurdish rural life and the natural beauty of the Hawraman region.

      • We then carry on our drive to the Iraq-Iran border where we can take a walk around and enjoy tea on the border with Iran. 
      • Drive back to Sulimania. 
      • Sulimaniya Red Museum | Also known as Amna Suraka, the Red Museum is one of the most powerful and confronting sites in Iraqi Kurdistan. This former intelligence prison was used by Saddam Hussein's regime to detain, torture, and execute Kurdish political prisoners. Today, the complex has been transformed into a memorial museum documenting the Anfal campaign, political repression, and Kurdish resistance. You can see preserved prison cells, execution chambers, personal belongings of prisoners, and striking visual installations, including walls still marked by bullet holes from the 1991 uprising. 
      • Final exploration in Sulimaniya. 

      Accommodation | Hotel in Sulimania

      Included Meals | Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

  14. November 18 | Wednesday 

      Erbil 

      Sulimania to Erbil 

      • Shaqlawa | Go to Shaqlawa, a beautiful town on the way to Erbil. Shaqlawa is a small town in Iraqi Kurdistan known for its fruit orchards, cool climate, and traditional markets. 
      • Drive to Erbil city. 

      Erbil 

      • Erbil Citadel | We will go to the market that is next to Erbil Citadel, one of the oldest continuously inhabited places in the world. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, the citadel dominates the centre of Erbil and is surrounded by traditional markets and cafes. 
      • Enjoy an evening in the market's local cafe overlooking the main square of Erbil and the market. 

      Accommodation | Hotel in Erbil 

      Included Meals | Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner 

  15. November 19 | Thursday 

      Departure from Iraq 

      Flight Departures from Erbil Airport

      • You will be transferred Erbil International Aiport (EBL). 
      • Departure from Erbil International Airport (EBL) throughout the day. Erbil is well connected to major Middle Eastern hubs, Istanbul, and select European cities. 

      Accommodation | Hotel in Erbil 

      Included Meals | Breakfast 

• Extras

  • Upgrade to your own room in Iraq

• What is / is not included?

  • All accommmodation in Iraq.
  • Iraq visa support.
  • Local Iraqi tour guide. 
  • Expert Koryo Tours tour guide.
  • All transportation within Iraq.
  • All entrance tickets and activities listed. 
  • All meals.
  • Water throughout the day. 

  • Travel to Iraq.
  • Iraq visa.
  • Travel insurance (mandatory).
  • Tips for local guides.
  • Souvenirs.
  • Extra drinks/snacks. 
  • Single supplement rooming (50 USD per night). 

• Notes

  All visas are arranged through an e-visa scheme. We will provide supporting documents and help you make the visa application. The visa (including for VOA) ranges from $160-190 USD. 

  On this trip, we aim to see as much as possible in a very short amount of time. Iraq has a lot of history to offer, so of course we want to make the most out of this trip. Because of that, the days may be long and it involves a lot of driving as we make our way from south to north. 

  Accommodation for both the marshes and the homestay will be local-style on thin mattresses either in tents or on the floor. We can provide private tents in the marshes but the homestay may not be able to accommodate for private rooms. There is an option to stay at the hotel if you prefer for an extra fee of $50 USD per night in Najaf. 

Please apply by 5th October, 2027.