Come to IRAQ!
2026 Dates:
TRIP 1: April 3rd – 12th, 2026 – FULLY BOOKED
TRIP : Oct 23rd – Nov 1st – JUST LAUNCHED
Cost: €2,400
Countries: Iraq
Due to high demand and after EIGHT successful trips to Iraq already, we have decided to add another group adventure to Iraq for 2026!
Get ready to explore Iraq! The birthplace of civilization itself, where ancient Mesopotamian ruins meet vibrant modern culture. Where you’ll float in reed boats through the marshlands that inspired the Garden of Eden. And where the warmth of Iraqi hospitality will completely change everything you thought you knew about this incredible place.
Iraq is a country that feels absolutely impossible to navigate solo: the language barriers, complex logistics, and sheer amount of history can be overwhelming.
But with our group? You get to experience all the magic, all the once-in-a-lifetime moments, without any of the stress.
This is the Iraq that tourists never get to see.
What’s Included
Expert local tour guide, including at least one female member to arrange access to the holy shrines
International leader
All domestic transport (VIP Bus)
All accommodation
Meals, as listed
Activities, as listed
Airport pick-up on day trip starts
Airport drop-off day trip ends
Excluded
Personal expenses
International Flights
Travel insurance
Tips for guides
Visa fees
Accommodation
Throughout our stay in Iraq, we will stay in a mixture of 3* and 4* hotels.
All rooms on all trips are shared, with 2 people in each room. We will partner you with an adventure buddy – an amazing way to make new friends! You’ll be moved around to pair up with a new friend every couple of nights.
All rooms will be twin sharing, private rooms.
Itinerary
Day 1 - Baghdad
Welcome to Iraq!
After clearing customs with our fast-track visa service, you’ll be met by our team and transferred to your hotel in Baghdad. If you arrive before sunset, we can arrange a tour of Baghdad’s iconic landmarks including statues from the Arabian Nights.
Tonight, we’ll come together for our welcome dinner and get to know your amazing travel buddies!
Included meals: Welcome dinner
Day 2 - Old Baghdad & Arch of Ctesiphon
We’re starting the day the proper Iraqi way, with a thick-cream and pastry breakfast of Qaimer and Kahi!
This morning, we’ll dive into Old Baghdad via the historic Al Rasheed Street, exploring the atmospheric local markets.
We’ll enjoy a boat ride on the Tigris River and grab treats from the legendary Al Shahbender cafe and Haj Zbala Juice shop. Lunch will be at one of Old Baghdad’s incredible local restaurants.
After lunch, we head to Salman Pak to visit Taq Kasra, the Arch of Ctesiphon. This is the largest single-span vault of unreinforced brickwork in the world and served as the royal capital of the Parthian and Sasanian empires. We’ll watch the sunset from a neglected panorama building with incredible views.
Free time in the evening for dinner or drinks.
Included Meals: Breakfast & Lunch
Day 3 - Babylon
After breakfast, we drive to Babylon, one of the most legendary cities in human history and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
We’ll explore the rebuilt Ishtar Gate, walk the ancient procession street, see the foundations of the real Ishtar Gate, visit the old temples, see the Lion of Babylon, navigate the maze, explore the southern and northern palaces, and stand where Alexander the Great passed away.
We’ll then drive up the hill to see one of Saddam Hussein’s former governmental palaces with special access to the upper floors. A surreal glimpse into recent history.
Traditional Iraqi lunch, then we continue to Karbala.
At night, we’ll walk between the two magnificent golden shrines of Imam Hussain and his brother Abbas. The energy of this holy city at night is absolutely electric, with pilgrims from around the world. We’ll enjoy local food, sweets, and the famous Skanjabeel drink.
Included Meals: Breakfast & Lunch
Day 4 - Nasiriyah
Today we drive down to Nasiriyah after breakfast.
After lunch, we’ll visit the ancient city of Ur, home to the Great Ziggurat of Ur, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the former capital of Mesopotamia during Sumerian times. This is where civilization as we know it began.
The site includes Abraham’s house, Sholgi Palace, and the oldest arch of its kind in the world at the entrance of the Dub-Lal-Makh temple. We’ll witness one of the most beautiful sunsets over this ancient wonder.
Included Meals: Breakfast & Lunch
Day 5 - Mesopotamian Marshlands
4 AM start for an unforgettable experience!
We drive to Chibayesh for a magical marshland adventure. We’ll have a local breakfast in a traditional reed house with a local family, then explore the floating villages of the Mesopotamian Marshlands, the Gardens of Eden.
This UNESCO World Heritage ecosystem is one of the largest in the world. We’ll glide through the waterways spotting birds, fish, water buffalo, and reed plants, meeting the Marsh Arab people “Al Madan” who have adapted to life on the water over centuries.
Lunch will be a special kind of fish that only lives in these marshlands, served in a traditional reed house called Al Mudhif.
After lunch, we drive back to Baghdad.
Included Meals: Breakfast & Lunch
Day 6 - Samarra and Hatra
After breakfast, we head north to Samarra to visit the stunning Abbasid caliphate architecture, including the famous twisted minaret, lake palace, and the Great Mosque of Samarra. Another UNESCO World Heritage city.
Next, we continue to Hatra, an important historic religious center with strategic position along ancient caravan trade routes. Hatra was one of the first Arab states established outside of Arabia.
Lunch will be at a village restaurant along the way.
We’ll arrive in Mosul in the evening and have the famous local dish Lahm Baajeen for dinner.
Included Meals: Breakfast & Dinner
Day 7 - Mosul & Christian Bakhdede
This morning, we’ll witness history in the making as we explore the reconstruction of Mosul’s old city. UNESCO is rebuilding the iconic Al-Nuri Mosque, Al Hadbaa Minaret, and Al Tahira Church.
We’ll walk through the area where the most intensive battle against ISIS took place and hear powerful stories from individuals who lived through the war. It’s a sobering, but important experience.
Lunch is the famous “Kubba of Mosul”. A local specialty you can’t miss!
In the afternoon, we visit Bakhdede, one of the largest Christian towns in the region, home to the largest church in all of Iraq.
Then we head to Erbil in Iraqi Kurdistan.
Included Meals: Breakfast & Lunch
Day 8 - Akre Mountain & Erbil
Early morning, we head to Akre for a hike up to the ancient mountain citadel with spectacular views.
We’ll enjoy breakfast with a local family in Shush village, then head to Lalish for a unique and deeply moving experience with Iraq’s Yazidi community. We’ll learn about one of the world’s oldest religions and visit their most holy and sacred site.
Back in Erbil, we’ll explore the ancient Erbil Citadel (one of the oldest continuously inhabited settlements in the world) and wander through the surrounding bazaar.
Included Meals: Breakfast & Lunch
Day 9 - Rawanduz Canyons & Korek Mountain
Today is all about natural beauty!
We head to Rawanduz to explore the area’s stunning landscapes and dramatic canyons. Then we take a cable car ride up Korek Mountain for absolutely breathtaking views of the surrounding Kurdish mountains and valleys.
Back to Erbil for our final evening together.
Included Meals: Breakfast & Lunch
Day 9 - Departure Day
After an incredible journey through the cradle of civilization, it’s time to say goodbye to Iraq and each other.
Airport transfers will be arranged to Erbil International Airport.
Bon voyage and see you on the next trip!
Included Meals: Breakfast
FAQ & Itinerary Note:
This itinerary, as always, is open to small changes depending on the weather, flights, etc. Fear not, if we have to make any adjustments, it will be to swap something out with an equally, if not better, experience!
Please note: This trip begins in Baghdad (BGW) and ends in Erbil (EBL).
I'm ready! How do I book?
Ready for an unforgettable adventure in Iraq? Click the BOOK NOW button to email us and secure your spot with a €850 deposit. The remaining balance will be paid in cash on arrival. Need a custom payment plan? No problem! Reach out to us, and we’ll create a plan that works best for you. Remember, spots are booked on a first-come, first-served basis, so don’t wait!
If you have any questions regarding the payment processes, don’t hesitate to reach out.
Is Iraq safe for tourists?
Yes! The security situation in Iraq has dramatically improved, especially in the areas we visit. Kurdistan (northern Iraq) is particularly safe and stable. That said, Iraq requires respectful cultural awareness and we travel with experienced local guides who know the country intimately. All hotels in major cities have security measures in place. We wouldn’t take you somewhere we didn’t feel was safe!
How many people are on the trip?
This trip requires a minimum number of guests to proceed, and this minimum must be met at least 4 months before departure to be guaranteed. If the minimum number of guests is not met by then, a full refund will be issued.
Expect to travel with 6-14 new friends!
What about visas?
Great news! Iraq now has an e-visa system, and it’s super easy. You just need to provide your passport details and photo, and apply online. You’ll receive a copy to print before arrival, and there’s a fast-track service at Baghdad Airport on arrival.
Why are deposits non-refundable?
The deposit for your trip is non-refundable due to several important factors. Firstly, when you book a spot, we immediately begin the process of planning and preparing for your journey. This involves engaging staff who work diligently behind the scenes to ensure every aspect of your trip is meticulously organised. These preparations often involve upfront costs that are incurred from the moment your booking is confirmed. Additionally, by requiring a non-refundable deposit, we aim to ensure that all participants are committed to the trip.
We understand that plans can change, which is why we insist all travellers have trip insurance to cover unforeseen circumstances that might affect their ability to participate.
What about my other payments? Are they refundable?
All payments, except your deposit, are fully refundable three months prior to the departure date. After the three-month mark, any payments made are non-refundable. This is because we are usually unable to find a replacement at such short notice, and have contracts in place with our vendors that need to be fulfilled.
Again, we strongly recommend all travellers have travel insurance so that they can refund you should your plans change. At the end of the day, we are a small business, and we want nothing more than to continue showing our guests the world. We hope you understand the importance of adhering strictly to this policy.
How much money will I need for non-included meals, alcohol, and souvenirs?
Most meals are included in the itinerary, so you’ll only need to budget for a few additional meals and snacks. Iraqi food is incredibly affordable, with street food and snacks to cost just a few Euros, while restaurant meals range from €5–15.
Alcohol is only legal in Kurdistan and Baghdad. Outside of these areas, you cannot transport or purchase alcohol legally. Note that you cannot bring duty-free alcohol into Iraq. When available in hotels or restaurants in Kurdistan and Baghdad, expect to pay €5–8 for local beer and €15–25+ for wine or cocktails.
For souvenirs, Iraq is known for beautiful handwoven textiles, traditional copperware from Baghdad’s souks, intricate jewellery, spices, and ancient-style pottery. The markets are perfect for bargaining! Budgeting depends on your shopping habits, but it’s easy to find unique and meaningful pieces to take home without breaking the bank.
What currency should I bring?
Bring US dollars in cash, preferably $100 or $50 bills printed in 2006 or later (older bills may not be accepted). Cards are rarely accepted anywhere, and ATMs are scarce and unreliable. The exchange rate is approximately $1 = 1,320 Iraqi Dinar (IQD), though locally it’s often $100 = 150,000 IQD.
How does tipping work?
To make things smooth and stress-free, we will be collecting a kitty of €50-100 at the beginning of the trip. This ensures all of our incredible on-the-ground vendors are taken care of, including guides, drivers, meals, and activities that are listed in your itinerary.
For any additional meals or personal expenses not included in the itinerary, you should expect to pay a separate tip. We will guide you on what is appropriate throughout the trip so you feel confident and comfortable.
How physically demanding is the trip?
The trip is designed to be accessible to most people in good health. Activities include moderate walks, visits to historical sites, and some optional light hikes. The Naadam festival involves standing and walking. It’s not overly strenuous, but a basic level of fitness will help you get the most out of the experiences.
Can dietary restrictions be accommodated?
Absolutely! Most included meals are served buffet-style with variety for everyone. Please inform us of specific dietary needs in advance. Note that severe allergies (especially to nuts and seafood, which are common in Iraqi cuisine) should be communicated clearly so we can accommodate safely.
What if I want my own room?
We believe that rooming is one of the best parts of the experience. It feels a little like adult summer camp and has always been a highlight for our guests, with nothing but positive feedback in the past.
That being said, if you feel that sharing does not suit your travel style, we are happy to discuss the option of a single room supplement. Simply reach out to us at janetsgrouptrips@gmail.com and we will do our best to accommodate you.
What are the health and vaccination requirements?
There are no required vaccinations to enter Iraq. However, it’s always wise to be up-to-date with routine vaccinations. We recommend to consider vaccinations for MMR, hepatitis A, hepatitis B, typhoid, and yellow fever (if travelling from a country with yellow fever risk). Please consult your healthcare provider for personalised advice.
Who’s leading the trip?
An experienced JJ leader and the local tour guide will be with you every step of the way.
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