Things to Do in Iraq

About Iraq

Ancient Mesopotamia's heartland beckons with a profound historical legacy that shaped human civilization, from the birth of writing to the rise of mankind's earliest cities. Modern Iraq stands as a living museum where millennia of diverse cultures have left their mark, creating a tapestry of traditions that continues to evolve against a backdrop of golden deserts, lush river valleys, and vibrant metropolitan life.

Travel Tips

• Hire a reputable local guide or fixer, especially when visiting historical sites like the ancient city of Ur or Babylon, as they can handle security arrangements and navigate military checkpoints which are common throughout the country.

• Carry multiple forms of cash (especially US dollars) as credit cards are rarely accepted outside major hotels in Baghdad, and be aware that ATMs are scarce and often unreliable.

• Dress conservatively and respectfully, with women covering shoulders and knees at minimum, and consider wearing a headscarf when visiting religious sites or more conservative areas like Najaf and Karbala.

• Plan your inter-city travel during daylight hours only, and book domestic flights between major cities (like Baghdad to Erbil) instead of driving when possible, as road conditions and security situations can be unpredictable.

When to Visit

When to Visit Iraq

The optimal time to visit Iraq is during the spring months of March through May, when temperatures range from a comfortable 15-25°C (59-77°F) in most regions, making it ideal for exploring archaeological sites like Babylon, Ur, and the marshlands of southern Iraq before the punishing summer heat arrives. October through November offers similarly pleasant conditions with temperatures around 18-28°C (64-82°F), coinciding with the Islamic month of Muharram (dates vary yearly by lunar calendar) when Shia pilgrims converge on Karbala and Najaf for Arbaeen—the world's largest annual pilgrimage that draws millions in late September to early November, creating both cultural richness and accommodation challenges. Avoid June through September entirely, as temperatures routinely exceed 45°C (113°F) across much of the country, with Baghdad frequently hitting 49°C (120°F), while dust storms (haboobs) reduce visibility and make travel miserable; these months also see fewer services operating in tourist areas. Winter (December-February) brings cooler temperatures of 5-15°C (41-59°F) with occasional rain in the north and even snow in Kurdistan's mountainous regions like Erbil and Sulaymaniyah, offering budget-conscious travelers lower prices and fewer crowds, though some mountain roads may be impassable and shortened daylight hours limit sightseeing time.