Iraq - When to Visit

When to Iraq

Climate guide & best times to travel

Monthly Climate Data for Iraq Average temperature and rainfall by month Climate Overview 1°C 13°C 26°C 38°C 51°C Rainfall (mm) 0 25 50 Jan Jan: 18.0°C high, 7.0°C low, 10mm rain Feb Feb: 18.0°C high, 6.0°C low, 51mm rain Mar Mar: 25.0°C high, 20.0°C low, 51mm rain Apr Apr: 25.0°C high, 20.0°C low, 51mm rain May May: 37.0°C high, 25.0°C low, 51mm rain Jun Jun: 25.0°C high, 20.0°C low, 51mm rain Jul Jul: 46.0°C high, 31.0°C low Aug Aug: 46.0°C high, 20.0°C low Sep Sep: 42.0°C high, 27.0°C low Oct Oct: 34.0°C high, 18.0°C low Nov Nov: 25.0°C high, 20.0°C low, 51mm rain Dec Dec: 21.0°C high, 7.0°C low, 3mm rain Temperature Rainfall
Iraq experiences a desert climate with extreme seasonal variations and distinct wet and dry periods. The country has two main seasons: a mild, relatively wet winter from November through April, and an intensely hot, dry summer from May through October. Winter temperatures are comfortable, ranging from the 40s to 70s°F, with most of the year's rainfall occurring between February and May, plus November. Summer brings extreme heat, particularly in July and August when temperatures soar to 114°F, combined with zero rainfall and intense sunshine. The climate creates challenging conditions for travel during summer months, when the combination of extreme heat and dry conditions can be overwhelming for visitors. The winter and spring months offer the most favorable weather for exploration, with moderate temperatures and occasional rainfall that helps clear the air. Understanding these dramatic seasonal shifts is crucial for planning any visit to Iraq, as the summer heat can be dangerous for outdoor activities.

Best Time to Visit

Beach & Relaxation
March-April and November offer the most comfortable temperatures (77°F highs) for outdoor relaxation without the extreme summer heat.
Cultural Exploration
December through April provides ideal conditions with mild temperatures (64-77°F) perfect for visiting historical sites and cities without heat exhaustion.
Adventure & Hiking
January through April offer the safest conditions for outdoor activities with moderate temperatures and some rainfall to cool the air.
Budget Travel
July-September may offer lower prices due to extreme heat (114°F+), but travel during these months requires careful planning for safety.

Month-by-Month Guide

January

January offers pleasant winter weather with comfortable daytime temperatures and cool nights. This is one of the driest months with minimal rainfall, making it excellent for outdoor exploration. The mild climate provides relief from both summer heat and the wetter spring months.

64°F High
44°F Low
0.4 inches Rainfall
Medium Crowds
View Details →

February

February marks the beginning of the wetter season with the year's first significant rainfall. Temperatures remain mild and comfortable for travel. The increased precipitation helps clear dust from the air and creates more pleasant atmospheric conditions.

64°F High
42°F Low
2.0 inches Rainfall
Medium Crowds
View Details →

March

March brings warmer temperatures and continued rainfall, creating some of the year's most pleasant weather conditions. The combination of moderate warmth and regular precipitation makes this an ideal time for sightseeing. Spring weather begins to establish itself with comfortable days and nights.

77°F High
68°F Low
2.0 inches Rainfall
High Crowds
View Details →

April

April continues the favorable spring weather with warm days and mild nights, plus regular rainfall. This represents the last month of the wet season before summer's extreme heat begins. Conditions remain excellent for all outdoor activities and cultural exploration.

77°F High
68°F Low
2.0 inches Rainfall
High Crowds
View Details →

May

May marks a dramatic temperature increase as summer approaches, with highs jumping to 98°F. Despite some rainfall, the heat becomes more intense and challenging for outdoor activities. This transitional month requires more careful planning for sun protection and hydration.

98°F High
77°F Low
2.0 inches Rainfall
Medium Crowds
View Details →

June

June shows unusual temperature patterns with highs dropping back to 77°F, making it surprisingly comfortable for a summer month. Continued rainfall provides relief from typical desert conditions. This creates unexpectedly favorable conditions for travel compared to other summer months.

77°F High
68°F Low
2.0 inches Rainfall
Low Crowds
View Details →

July

July brings extreme summer heat with temperatures soaring to 114°F and zero rainfall. This marks the beginning of the intense dry season with dangerous heat levels for outdoor exposure. Travel during this month requires extreme caution and limited daytime outdoor activities.

114°F High
87°F Low
0.0 inches Rainfall
Low Crowds
View Details →

August

August continues the extreme heat with 114°F highs and no rainfall, creating the year's most challenging conditions. The combination of intense heat and complete dryness makes this the most difficult month for visitors. Indoor activities and early morning/late evening outdoor time are essential.

114°F High
68°F Low
0.0 inches Rainfall
Low Crowds
View Details →

September

September remains very hot at 107°F with continued drought conditions and no rainfall. While slightly cooler than July and August, temperatures are still dangerously high for extended outdoor exposure. The dry heat continues to dominate weather patterns.

107°F High
80°F Low
0.0 inches Rainfall
Low Crowds
View Details →

October

October shows significant cooling with temperatures dropping to 93°F, though drought conditions persist with no rainfall. This marks the beginning of the transition from extreme summer heat toward more manageable autumn weather. Outdoor activities become more feasible during cooler parts of the day.

93°F High
64°F Low
0.0 inches Rainfall
Medium Crowds
View Details →

November

November brings welcome relief with comfortable 77°F temperatures and the return of rainfall after months of drought. This marks the beginning of the pleasant season with moderate temperatures and moisture returning to the air. Conditions become favorable for outdoor exploration again.

77°F High
68°F Low
2.0 inches Rainfall
High Crowds
View Details →

December

December offers cool, dry weather with pleasant 69°F highs and minimal rainfall. This represents ideal winter conditions with comfortable temperatures for sightseeing and outdoor activities. The month provides a peaceful end to the year with mild, stable weather patterns.

69°F High
44°F Low
0.1 inches Rainfall
Medium Crowds
View Details →

Activities in Iraq