Iraq in February
February weather, activities, events & insider tips
February Weather in Iraq
Is February Right for You?
Advantages
- Pleasant daytime temperatures 15-18°C (59-64°F) perfect for extensive outdoor exploration without the exhausting summer heat that reaches 45°C+ (113°F+) in July
- Clear visibility for photography and sightseeing - winter air provides crystal-clear views of ancient sites like Babylon and Ctesiphon from distances up to 15km (9.3 miles)
- Hotel prices drop 40-60% compared to cooler December-January peak season, with quality accommodations available for $45-80 instead of $120-200
- Manageable crowds at major sites - you'll share Babylon ruins with 50-80 other visitors daily instead of the 300+ crowds in cooler months
Considerations
- Unpredictable rainfall with sudden downpours lasting 1-3 hours that can flood streets and cancel outdoor tours with little warning
- Temperature swings of 12°C (22°F) between day and night require layered clothing and constant outfit adjustments
- Muddy conditions at archaeological sites after rain make detailed exploration challenging, particularly at Ur and Babylon where pathways become impassable
Best Activities in February
Babylon Archaeological Site Exploration
February's mild temperatures and clear air make this the ideal time for extensive walking tours through the ancient ruins. The cool mornings 6-8°C (43-46°F) are perfect for climbing the reconstructed Ishtar Gate area, while afternoon temperatures 16-18°C (61-64°F) allow comfortable exploration of the Hanging Gardens site. Avoid the scorching summer months when metal railings become untouchable.
Mesopotamian Marshlands Boat Tours
February marks the end of the optimal water season in the southern marshes. Water levels remain high from winter rains, supporting diverse birdlife including migrating flamingos and pelicans visible until mid-February. The cool weather makes 3-4 hour boat journeys comfortable, unlike the brutal summer heat that makes marsh visits unbearable.
Baghdad Walking Food Tours
February weather is perfect for street food exploration in Baghdad's Mutanabbi Street and Shorja Market areas. Cool morning temperatures allow comfortable 3-4 hour walking tours sampling masgouf (grilled carp), dolma, and fresh kubba. The pleasant evenings extend outdoor dining at traditional restaurants along Abu Nuwas Street until 10-11pm.
Kurdistan Mountain Hiking
February offers the last opportunity for comfortable hiking in Iraqi Kurdistan before spring rains make mountain trails muddy and difficult. The Zagros Mountains provide excellent day hikes with temperatures ranging 5-15°C (41-59°F) at elevations of 1,000-2,000m (3,280-6,560ft). Snow-capped peaks provide spectacular photography opportunities in the clear winter air.
Ur Archaeological Site Tours
The ancient Sumerian city of Ur is most comfortable to explore in February's mild weather. The famous Ziggurat can be climbed without the exhausting heat of summer months. Clear February skies provide excellent conditions for photography and understanding the site's astronomical alignments. Morning visits 8-11am offer the best lighting for the step pyramid structure.
Erbil Citadel Cultural Experiences
February's pleasant temperatures make walking tours of the UNESCO World Heritage Erbil Citadel highly enjoyable. The ancient settlement, continuously occupied for over 8,000 years, can be explored comfortably for 2-3 hours in mild afternoon weather. The Kurdish Cultural Museum and traditional craft workshops are perfectly suited to cooler February conditions.
February Events & Festivals
Kurdistan Spring Festival Preparations
Throughout February, Kurdish communities begin preparing for Newroz (Kurdish New Year) celebrations. Markets fill with traditional goods, and you can observe craft-making, traditional bread baking, and costume preparation. This provides authentic cultural immersion opportunities not available to typical tourists.