Iraq journey from South to North

In this journey, we will unlock the hidden treasures of Iraq, a land where ancient civilizations, breathtaking landscapes, and vibrant traditions converge. Our journey will take us from the southern plains to the northern snowy mountains and reveal a stunning array of historical, cultural, and natural wonders.

Here are some of the key highlights:

Majestic ruins of Babylon and awe-inspiring Ziggurat.
Bustling markets and historic streets of Baghdad.
Sail along the Tigris and Euphrates rivers.
Visit the holy cities of Najaf and Karbala.
Enjoy the serene landscapes of Kurdistan.
Learn to write cuneiform on mud bricks with an artisan.
Walk through the area where the last and most intensive battle against ISIS took place in Mosul.

Target Audience:

History and Culture Enthusiasts: People interested in ancient civilizations, archaeology, and historical landmarks.
Adventure Travelers: Those seeking off-the-beaten-path destinations, unique experiences, and cultural immersion will find Iraq's less-explored landscapes and cities appealing.

Itinerary

Day 1 / Sunday, 18 Oct - Overnight: Basra

Fast-track visa and airport transfer to the hotel.
River tour in Shatt Al Arab by Ashari boats and walk in the Cornish of Basra.
Walk in old Basra with Shanasheel houses, Ashar Canal, and the Old Basra Bazar.

Day 2 / Monday, 19 Oct - Overnight: Nasiriyah

Early morning in Qurna (1:15 minutes drive), the point meeting of Tigris and Euphrates rivers.
Explore the Tree of Adam - An ancient jujube tree of Knowledge mentioned in the Bible.
We will drive to Chibayesh and have a marshland experience.
Sightseeing tour in numerous floating villages, such as the Gardens of Eden, where we will see different birds, fishes, buffalos, reeds, and plants and meet the people of Ahwar. It is one of the largest ecosystems in the world and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Visit the historical city of Ur to visit the Great Ziggurat of Ur (1:30 hr drive), a UNESCO World Heritage site and the former capital of Mesopotamia during the Sumerian time.

Day 3 / Tuesday, 20 Oct - Overnight: Karbala

Head to Najaf (4 hours drive) and we will walk to the area of the shrine of Imam Ali
Visit the grand bazaar of Najaf.
Drive to Karbala (1 hour) and learn the history and significance of the city to Shias around the world.
Walk to the area between the two shrines of Imam Hussain and his brother Abbas in Karbala.
Enjoy the energy of Karbala during the night, having local food, sweets, and its famous Skanjabeel drink.

Day 4 / Wednesday, 21 Oct - Overnight: Baghdad

Visit Babylon (1 hour drive), walk the historical city, passing through Ishtar Gate and Procession Street.
Drive to Baghdad (1 hour) and explore the city.
Old Baghdad tour via Al Rasheed Street, visiting various local markets such as the copper market "Al Safafeer," Souq Al Sarai - the stationary market, Al Mutanabbi Street, and the antique market, "Khan Al Mudalal."
Visit heritage sites such as Madrasa Mustansiriya School and the Abbasid Palace.

Day 5 / Thursday, 22 Oct - Overnight: Baghdad

Start the morning with the most famous Iraqi breakfast thick-cream and pastry breakfast (Qaimer and Kahi).
Old Baghdad offers many local food restaurants along Hayder Khana street, such as Kubba Al Sarai, Oum Kalthoum Shawarma. We also will grab a treat from both Al Shahbender cafe and Haj Zbala Juice shop.
Visit the Iraq Museum to learn about civilizations that passed Iraq through time.
Tour of Baghdad's iconic monuments like the Martyr's Monument and statues from Arabian Nights.
Enjoy a cultural Baghdadi Chalghi music night.

Day 6 / Saturday, 23 Oct - Overnight: Mosul

8 AM After Breakfast we will head to Samarra (2 hours drive). This historical city is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Visit Hatra (2 hours drive), an important historical religious center with its strategic position along caravan trade routes.
Head to Mosul (1:30 hours drive), the second-largest city in Iraq, which lies on the Tigris River in the north and is near the ancient Assyrian city of Nineveh. From 2014 to 2017, ISIS occupied the city, causing extensive destruction, especially to historic sites, and leading to a fierce battle for its liberation.

Day 7 / Sunday, 24 Oct - Overnight: Mosul

Discovering the reconstruction of the old city, especially Al-Nuri Mosque, Al Hadbaa Minaret and Al Tahira church.
Walk through the area where the last and most intensive battle against ISIS took place.
Free time in Mosul and at night visiting the cafe house for local music performances. This place used to be a hospital for ISIS during the battles.

Day 8 / Monday, 25 Oct

In the early morning, we will visit the Plains of Nineveh. Have Breakfast with a local Christian family in Bahzani and learn their stories and the history of the place.
Visit some of the Yazidi temples in the town.
Visit the astonishing Monastery of Rabban Hormizd on top of a mountain.
Head to Lalish and have a unique experience with the Yazidis of Iraq.
Head to Erbil by noon and make a tour of the Citadel's Market
Departure to Erbil Int. Airport.

Trip Dates: 18-25 Oct 2025

Pricing:

Inclusions:

Accommodation in the best available hotels.
Daily breakfast and only meals are mentioned in the program.
Fast-track Visa at the airport upon arrival.
Airport transfer.
Guided activities and excursions by a knowledgeable local tour guide, including at least one female member, to arrange access to the holy shrines for females.
Entry tickets to all the sites mentioned, tours, and activities.
Transportation: a comfy VIP coach bus. In Kurdistan, we are switching to a Toyota Coaster.
Logistical services across all the sites.