Iraq, Iraq: What to pack, what to wear, and when to go [2024]
Empty Lighthouse is a reader-supported site. This article may contain affiliate links to Amazon and other sites. We earn a commission on purchases made through these links.
Ready to pack for Iraq, Iraq? If you're planning to go to Iraq, we've got some important information about when to go, what to wear, and what to pack.
Contents
- When to go to Iraq
- Important essentials for Iraq
- Activities for Iraq
- Iraq in January: weather and what to pack
- Iraq in February: weather and what to pack
- Iraq in March: weather and what to pack
- Iraq in April: weather and what to pack
- Iraq in May: weather and what to pack
- Iraq in June: weather and what to pack
- Iraq in July: weather and what to pack
- Iraq in August: weather and what to pack
- Iraq in September: weather and what to pack
- Iraq in October: weather and what to pack
- Iraq in November: weather and what to pack
- Iraq in December: weather and what to pack
When to go to Iraq, Iraq
Based on the climate and weather in Iraq, Iraq, the best time to go is April. See below for details.
What to wear/what to pack for Iraq, Iraq
Already know when you're traveling?
Here are some general tips on what to wear in Iraq, as well as several items to remember to pack when traveling there.
What to wear/what to pack for Iraq, Iraq by month
January
January in Iraq is relatively cool. The average overnight temperatures in the area are in the high 30s F (single digits C).
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Fleece
Extra socks
Jacket or coat
Lip balm
In our opinion, the best choice: this
Light gloves or mittens
Warm pants or jeans
Sneakers or comfortable shoes
Health
Emergency motion sickness relief
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some areas may have potentially unsafe tap water, so it's useful to take a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Travel first aid kit
This one is a good option.
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an easy-to-carry TSA-friendly product.
Safety + Security
AirTag to track your luggage
With airlines always losing bags recently, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Iraq. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.
Money/passport pouch
A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.
Anti-theft backpack
For a little peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.
Given current world events, Iraq has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.
Comfort + Essentials
Travel neck pillow
A versatile choice is this one
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
Travel voltage adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types C, D and G. Check that you choose the necessary type. Many adapters currently sold are just plug changers and expect your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should be appropriate for most locations.
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge excessive penalties for overweight luggage. Save money with this
February
February in this region is crisp and very dry with almost no rain. Temperatures average in the 60s F (high 10s C) during the day.
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Extra socks
Dresses
You can find some great options here
Travel shoe storage
If you bring multiple shoe options,
travel shoe storage.Light and heavy skirts
Sneakers or comfortable shoes
Light jacket or fleece
Pants or jeans
Long sleeve shirts or blouses
Health
Emergency motion sickness relief
Travel first aid kit
This one is a great one.
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an easy-to-carry plane-friendly option.
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some areas may have unreliable tap water, so it's important to take a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Safety + Security
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Iraq. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.
AirTag to track your luggage
With airlines always losing luggage recently, an AirTag can find it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.
Anti-theft backpack
For a bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.
Money/passport pouch
A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.
Given current world events, Iraq has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.
Comfort + Essentials
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge excessive amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
Travel pillow
A top rated pillow is this one
Travel voltage adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types C, D and G. Ensure that you get the right type. Many adapters for sale now are just plugs and expect your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could burn up. This one works in most areas.
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
March
March in Iraq is balmy and dry with little rain. The average overnight temperatures in the area are in the high 40s F (single digits C), with a few days below 32 F (single digits C).
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
A mix of long and short sleeve shirts
Light dresses
You can find some great options here
Breathable footwear or sandals
Extra socks
Bug repellent
Sandals
Light skirts
Sunscreen lotion
Short pants or heavy shorts
A rain coat to layer with a jacket
100% waterproof footwear
We like these rain boots:
Rain pants
These pants will be a lifesaver in a rainstorm.
Waterproof phone bag
Umbrella
This one is an excellent option.
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your things remain dry. We recommend:
Health
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some areas may have potentially unsafe tap water, so it's wise to have a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Travel first aid kit
This one is a superb choice.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an excellent TSA-friendly option.
Safety + Security
AirTag to track your luggage
With airports repeatedly losing bags recently, an AirTag can find it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.
Anti-theft backpack
For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.
Money/passport pouch
A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Iraq. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.
Given current world events, Iraq has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.
Comfort + Essentials
Travel adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types C, D and G. Check that you find the correct type. Many adapters currently sold are just plug changers and require your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one should be appropriate for most locations.
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
Travel neck pillow
A top rated pillow is this one
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge large amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this
April
Traveling to Iraq in April, you will notice that it is really hot and very dry with almost no rain. Daytime temperatures are in the 80s F (low 30s C).
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Waterproof sandals
Breatheable shirts
A breatheable shirt can make you comfortable and protect you from skin damage:
Cool and dry dresses
These dresses to provide UV protection and keep you cool.
Loose-fit shorts
Skirts
Sunscreen lotion, moderate SPF
Sunglasses
Bug repellent
Insulated water bottle
Our best choice also cleans dangerous contaminants:
this
Health
Emergency motion sickness relief
Travel first aid kit
This one is a excellent kit.
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some rural areas may have potentially unsafe tap water, so it's wise to take a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is a good TSA-friendly option.
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Safety + Security
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Iraq. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.
Money/passport pouch
A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.
Anti-theft backpack
For a little peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.
AirTag to track your luggage
With airlines frequently losing things recently, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.
Given current world events, Iraq has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.
Comfort + Essentials
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge large penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
Travel neck pillow
Our favorite is this one
Travel voltage adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types C, D and G. Take care to find the correct type. A lot of adapters available online are simply plug changers and require your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one should be sufficient for most areas.
May
May here is sweltering and very dry with almost no rain. Temperatures average in the high 90s F (high 30s C) during the day.
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Insulated water bottle
Cooling tank or crop tops
These are specially designed for cooling:
Waterproof sandals
- this
UV protecting pants/skirts
These will keep your legs safe from UV rays while also cool. Our favorites:
Light dresses
These Columbia dresses are developed to cool you and include UV protection.
Skirts
Sunglasses
Thin short sleeve shirts
It's important pack additional, since these get wet or dirty.
Health
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some areas of this country may have unreliable tap water, so it's wise to bring a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Travel first aid kit
This one is a excellent option.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an excellent plane-friendly option.
Safety + Security
AirTag to track your luggage
With airports always losing bags recently, an AirTag can find it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.
Money/passport pouch
A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Iraq. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.
Anti-theft backpack
For a bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.
Given current world events, Iraq has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.
Comfort + Essentials
Voltage step down adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types C, D and G. Make sure to get the necessary kind. The majority of adapters currently sold are just plug changers and expect your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one should work in most countries.
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge huge amounts for overweight luggage. Save money with this
Travel pillow
What we like is this one
June
If you vacation in Iraq during June, you might notice that it is unbearably hot and very dry with almost no rain. Temperatures tend to hover around the 100s F (low 40s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the low 70s F (low 20s C).
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
High-SPF sunscreen lotion
One of these:
Breatheable shirts
A breatheable shirt can make you comfortable and guard against skin damage:
Thin tank or crop tops
Insulated water bottle
100% UV protection sunglasses
We suggest:
- our recommendation
Waterproof sandals
- like this one
Health
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is a good plane-friendly product.
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some areas may have potentially unsafe tap water, so it's important to bring a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Travel first aid kit
This one is a great choice.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Safety + Security
Anti-theft backpack
For a little peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.
AirTag to track your luggage
With airlines always losing bags these days, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Iraq. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.
Money/passport pouch
A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.
Given current world events, Iraq has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.
Comfort + Essentials
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
Travel voltage adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types C, D and G. Ensure that you get the correct kind. Most adapters on sale are simply plugs and expect your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one should be appropriate for most areas.
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
Travel neck pillow
Our fave is this one
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge excessive prices for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this
July
If you visit Iraq during July, you may notice that it can be sizzling and very dry with almost no rain. Temperatures tend to hover around the low 110s F (mid 40s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the high 70s F (mid 20s C).
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Thin tank or crop tops
- like this one
Breatheable shirts
A breatheable shirt can keep you comfortable and protect you from the sun:
- our recommendation
High-SPF sunscreen lotion
One of these:
Waterproof sandals
Insulated water bottle
100% UV protection sunglasses
We suggest:
Health
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some rural areas may have potentially unsafe tap water, so it's important to have a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Travel first aid kit
This one is a great choice.
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an easy-to-carry TSA-friendly option.
Safety + Security
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Iraq. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.
Anti-theft backpack
For a bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.
AirTag to track your luggage
With airlines always losing luggage these days, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.
Money/passport pouch
A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.
Given current world events, Iraq has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.
Comfort + Essentials
Travel neck pillow
A top rated pillow is this one
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge large amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
Travel voltage adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types C, D and G. Ensure that you get the correct kind. The majority of adapters available are just plugs and require your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get fried. This one works in most locations.
August
August for Iraq can be excruciatingly hot and very dry with almost no rain. Temperatures average in the low 110s F (mid 40s C) during the day.
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Waterproof sandals
- our recommendation
Thin tank or crop tops
High-SPF sunscreen lotion
One of these:
- like this one
Insulated water bottle
100% UV protection sunglasses
We suggest:
Breatheable shirts
A good breatheable shirt can make you comfortable and protect you from skin damage:
Health
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some rural areas may have potentially unsafe tap water, so it's important to bring a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is a good TSA-friendly option.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Travel first aid kit
This one is a excellent kit.
Safety + Security
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Iraq. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.
AirTag to track your luggage
With airports frequently losing luggage these days, an AirTag can locate it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.
Anti-theft backpack
For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.
Money/passport pouch
A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.
Given current world events, Iraq has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.
Comfort + Essentials
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge huge amounts for overweight luggage. Save money with this
Travel pillow
A great choice is this one
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
Travel adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types C, D and G. Be sure to find the necessary type. Many adapters that you can buy are just plugs and require your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one is sufficent for most areas.
September
If you are traveling to Iraq in September, you will notice that it is sizzling and very dry with almost no rain. Daytime temperatures are in the 100s F (low 40s C).
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Thin tank or crop tops
Insulated water bottle
Breatheable shirts
A good breatheable shirt can cool you down quickly and protect you from UV rays:
High-SPF sunscreen lotion
One of these:
- our recommendation
100% UV protection sunglasses
We suggest:
- like this one
Waterproof sandals
Health
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some areas of this country may have unreliable tap water, so it's important to have a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is a good plane-friendly option.
Travel first aid kit
This one is a great value.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Safety + Security
AirTag to track your luggage
With airports repeatedly losing luggage nowadays, an AirTag can find it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Iraq. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.
Money/passport pouch
A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.
Anti-theft backpack
For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.
Given current world events, Iraq has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.
Comfort + Essentials
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
Travel pillow
A great choice is this one
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge large amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
Travel adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types C, D and G. Take care to get the necessary type. Many adapters on sale are just plugs and expect your devices to change the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could burn up. This one should work in most locations.
October
If you visit Iraq during October, you are likely to find that it can be sweltering and very dry with almost no rain. Temperatures tend to hover around the low 90s F (low 30s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the low 60s F (mid 10s C).
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Sunglasses
Skirts
Waterproof sandals
Breatheable shirts
A breatheable shirt can keep you cool and protect you from skin damage:
Loose-fit shorts
Sunscreen lotion, moderate SPF
Insulated water bottle
Our best choice also filters harmful contaminants:
thisCool and dry dresses
These dresses to provide UV protection and help you stay cool.
Bug repellent
Health
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Travel first aid kit
This one is a great value.
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an excellent TSA-friendly option.
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some areas may have potentially unsafe tap water, so it's wise to take a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Safety + Security
AirTag to track your luggage
With airlines constantly losing things recently, an AirTag can locate it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Iraq. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.
Money/passport pouch
A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.
Anti-theft backpack
For a bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.
Given current world events, Iraq has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.
Comfort + Essentials
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
Voltage adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types C, D and G. Check that you get the necessary type. Most adapters available online are just plug changers and require your devices to change the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get destroyed. This one is sufficent for most areas.
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge huge amounts for overweight luggage. Save money with this
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
Travel pillow
A top rated pillow is this one
November
November in Iraq is a perfect temperature and very dry with almost no rain. Temperatures average in the 70s F (mid 20s C) during the day.
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Short pants or heavy shorts
Light skirts
Extra socks
A mix of long and short sleeve shirts
Sunscreen lotion
Bug repellent
Breathable footwear or sandals
Sandals
Light dresses
You can find some great options here
Health
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is a good TSA-friendly product.
Travel first aid kit
This one is a excellent option.
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some areas of this country may have unreliable tap water, so it's useful to bring a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Safety + Security
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Iraq. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.
Money/passport pouch
A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.
Anti-theft backpack
For a bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.
AirTag to track your luggage
With airlines constantly losing luggage recently, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.
Given current world events, Iraq has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.
Comfort + Essentials
Plug adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types C, D and G. Be careful to get the correct kind. The majority of adapters available online are just plug changers and require your devices to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one should be sufficient for most locations.
Travel pillow
A good option is this one
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge huge prices for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
December
If you visit Iraq during December, you will probably find that it is relatively cool and very dry with almost no rain. Temperatures tend to hover around the low 60s F (high 10s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the low 40s F (single digits C).
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Dresses
You can find some great options here
Light and heavy skirts
Travel shoe storage
If you bring multiple shoe options,
travel shoe storage.Pants or jeans
Extra socks
Long sleeve shirts or blouses
Sneakers or comfortable shoes
Light jacket or fleece
Health
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Travel first aid kit
This one is a good value.
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an excellent TSA-friendly choice.
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some areas may have unreliable tap water, so it's important to bring a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Safety + Security
Anti-theft backpack
For a bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.
Money/passport pouch
A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Iraq. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.
AirTag to track your luggage
With airlines always losing things nowadays, an AirTag can find it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.
Given current world events, Iraq has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.
Comfort + Essentials
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge large prices for overweight luggage. Save money with this
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
Travel adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types C, D and G. Ensure that you pick the necessary kind. Many adapters that you can buy are simply plug changers and expect your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should be sufficient for most countries.
Travel pillow
A top rated pillow is this one
What to do in Iraq, Iraq
As one of the most historically rich countries in the world, Iraq has a lot to offer for tourists who are interested in exploring its ancient sites, natural wonders, and unique cultural experiences. Despite years of war and political instability, Iraq has managed to preserve many of its gems that make it a must-visit destination in the Middle East. Here are some of the top tourist attractions in Iraq that still draw visitors from around the world.
1. The ancient city of Babylon
Located in central Iraq about 85 km south of Baghdad, Babylon is one of the UNESCO World Heritage Sites that showcases the magnificent accomplishments of Mesopotamian civilization. The city was once the center of the Babylonian Empire, and its ruins include the famous Ishtar Gate, the Hanging Gardens, and the ruins of the immense ziggurat Etemenanki. Visitors can also explore the nearby Babil Governorate, which has more than 20 significant archaeological sites.
2. The Ziggurat of Ur
The Ziggurat of Ur, also known as the Great Ziggurat of Ur, is a massive stepped pyramid in the ancient city of Ur, which dates back to the third millennium BC. The Ziggurat was the center of the Sumerian religion and is one of the best-preserved examples of Sumerian architecture in the world. Visitors can climb up the 70-foot-high structure to get a fantastic view of the surrounding desert.
3. The Kurdish mountain resorts
Iraq also offers visitors stunning natural beauty, with the mountainous Kurdish region being home to many lakes, hot springs, and ski resorts. Some of the popular mountain resorts in the north region include Dukan Lake and the snow-covered peaks of Gara Mountain. Visitors can also go hiking in the Zagros Mountains or explore the Sulaymaniyah bazaar, home to colorful stalls selling everything from traditional crafts to exotic spices.
4. The City of Baghdad
Baghdad is the capital of Iraq and has been home to civilization since 762 AD, with its parks, museums, and ancient landmarks that have stood the test of time. Visitors to Baghdad must not miss seeing the Al-Mustansiriyah University, the Baghdad Zoo, and the National Museum of Iraq, which holds a vast collection of ancient relics and artifacts such as tablets, weapons, and pottery. The city also boasts modern amenities, such as excellent shopping centers, vibrant nightlife, and delicious food.
5. The Marshlands of Southern Iraq
The Mesopotamian Marshes in southern Iraq are a unique and biodiverse ecosystem that remains largely isolated from the rest of the world. Visitors to these areas can traverse by boat and discover the array of wildlife, including flamingos, pelicans, and many fish species. Local people also offer hospitality and traditional entertainment, such as music and dance, showing the region's deep cultural roots.
In conclusion, Iraq is a country that boasts a plethora of attractions, from ancient cities and architectural wonders to natural treasures that are treasures in themselves. Despite the years of war and turmoil, the country remains mindful of the importance of preserving its heritage and welcoming visitors from all over the world. Visiting Iraq is an adventure beyond the typical tourist routes and opens up a whole new world full of culture, history, and beauty.
About your travel guide
Hi! I'm Dev. I've traveled all over the world and in my travels, I have made many packing lists. In this series, my team and I have compiled the most useful information, as well as things we couldn't live without, to help you plan your trip.
Check out our guides for these other locations: Flat Rock, Michigan, United States of America, Central Zambia, Zambia, Redwood City, California, United States of America, Dumbrăveni, Romania, Bernardsville, New Jersey, United States of America, Arlington, Virginia, United States of America, Kastellorizo, Greece, Ölüdeniz, Turkey, Utah, Utah, United States of America, Orono, Maine, United States of America, and Morbihan, France.