The Beginning Basra and the End Erbil 14 -Day Journey ,Basra- Nasiriyah- Karbala- Babylon- Najaf- Baghdad-Samarra- Mosul- Dohuk- Sulaymaniyah-Erbil
Basra
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Duration
14 Days
Tour Type
Escorted tour
Group Size
30 persons
Location
Basra
Overview
A trip to discover Mesopotamia (14 days) all of Iraq
The tour starts in Basra and ends in Erbil
Day 1 - Basra
📍Basra Museum : Showcasing Mesopotamian artifacts and Basra’s maritime heritage.
📍Old Basra Tour : Explore the charming Shanashil houses and the historic Old Market
📍Bazaars Tour : Experience local flavors and traditional crafts
📍Religious Heritage :Visit historic churches and mosques in Basra
📍Saddam Hussein’s Ship & Arabian Gulf Corniche : A mix of history and scenic seaside views.
Day 2 - Nasiriyah
📍Al-Qurna :Where the Tigris and Euphrates rivers meet.
📍Al-Chibayish Marshes : A UNESCO World Heritage site rich in biodiversity
📍Boat Tour & Masgouf Lunch: Traditional fish meal in the heart of the marshes.
📍Ancient Ur : The Sumerian city and Ziggurat.
📍Uruk : One of the world’s first major cities.
📍 Najaf : Known as one of the holiest cities in the Islamic world
Day 3 - Najaf
📍 Wadi Al-Salam Cemetery :The largest cemetery in the world, a place of immense spiritual importance.
📍 Imam Ali Shrine : A stunning masterpiece of Islamic architecture and one of the holiest sites in Islam.
📍 Kufa Mosque :One of the oldest and most significant mosques in the Islamic world.
📍 Imam Ali’s Historic House : A preserved heritage site offering a glimpse into the life of Imam Ali.
📍Bazaars Tour : Experience local flavors and traditional crafts
Day 4 - Karbala and Babylon
📍 Al Kifl (Prophet Ezekiel’s Shrine) : A revered religious site with deep historical significance.
📍 Ancient Kingdom of Babylon : Walk through the ruins of one of the greatest civilizations of antiquity
📍 Tower of Babel Archaeological Museum : Discover artifacts related to the legendary Tower of Babel and Babylonian culture.
📍 Ishtar Gate & Lion of Babylon : Marvel at the magnificent gate and iconic lion statues representing Babylon’s power.
📍 Saddam Hussein Palace : A historically significant site reflecting modern Iraqi history
📍Tour the heritage boat (Trada, Kaffa) :Enjoy a traditional boat ride along the Euphrates, immersing in local river life.
📍 Karbala (the shrine of Imam Hussein and his brother Abbas):Visit the revered shrines of Imam Hussein and Abbas, central to Shia pilgrimage and spirituality.
📍Museum of Imam Hussein and his brother Abbas
Day 5 - Baghdad
📍 Taq Kisra (Ctesiphon) : one of the most iconic remnants of the ancient Sasanian Empire
📍 Freedom Monument : An iconic landmark symbolizing Iraq’s quest for freedom and national pride
📍Old Markets (Rashid Street, Al-Safafeer Market: Explore bustling traditional bazaars that capture the vibrant daily life and culture of Baghdad
📍 Al-Mutanabbi Street & Al-Sarai, Shabandar Café :Stroll through Baghdad’s oldest streets, famed for literary cafes and historic bookstores
Day 6 - Baghdad
📍 Iraqi Museum: Home to one of the world’s richest collections of Mesopotamian artifacts, showcasing Iraq’s ancient heritage
📍The traditional breakfast of kimer and kahi : s a beloved Iraqi morning treat, especially popular in Baghdad and the south of Iraq.
📍Abbasid Palace: A remarkable example of Islamic architecture from the Abbasid era, reflecting the city’s historical grandeur
📍Al-Kadhimiya Shrine : A significant religious site, renowned for its stunning architecture and spiritual importance.
The 7 Day - Baghdad
📍Dor Korikalzo (Aqarquf Ziggurat) : Ancient Kassite capital
📍The martyr Monument :A solemn memorial honoring those who sacrificed their lives for Iraq
📍Armenian Church:Witness Iraq’s religious diversity with a visit to this historic Christian site
📍Al-Zawraa Park and Zoo :Baghdad’s premier recreational park offering family-friendly attractions
📍Heritage Rescue Monument : Commemorating efforts to preserve Iraq’s invaluable cultural heritage.
📍Karada Street :Karada Street in Baghdad is one of the city’s most vibrant and diverse areas
Day 8 - Mosul
📍Samarra Tower (Malwiya Minaret) :An architectural marvel and symbol of Abbasid ingenuity
📍Abu Dalf Palace:Historic Abbasid palace showcasing Islamic art and design
📍Hatra Archaeological City : Explore the well-preserved ruins of this UNESCO World Heritage site blending Greek, Roman, and Mesopotamian influences.
📍Tigris River Walk (Mosul) :Enjoy scenic views along the majestic Tigris River
📍Mosul Heritage House Museum : A center dedicated to preserving Mosul’s rich cultural legacy.
Day 9 - Mosul
📍Old Mosul :Wander through the historic quarters filled with centuries-old architecture
📍Al-Musfi, Al-Nouri Mosques & Al-Hadba Minaret: Visit prominent Islamic landmarks, including the famous leaning minaret.
📍Mar Toma Church :Explore one of the oldest Christian churches in the region
📍Kingdom of Nineveh (Adad Gate) :Discover the remnants of the ancient Assyrian capital
📍Our House Museum in Mosul: Experience local culture through curated exhibits on daily life in Mosul
📍Baghdeda City (Qaraqosh) : A vibrant Christian town known for its heritage and resilience.
Day 10 - Dohuk
📍Lalesh Yazidi Temple :Sacred site for the Yazidi community, reflecting Iraq’s religious mosaic
📍Mar Mattai Monastery : One of the oldest Christian monasteries in the world, perched on Mount Alfaf with breathtaking views and a rich history dating back to the 4th century. Known for its ancient Syriac manuscripts and spiritual significance
📍Dohuk Dam : A serene reservoir surrounded by rolling hills, perfect for enjoying panoramic views and peaceful walks along the water’s edge
Day 11 - Soran and Amadiya
📍Amadiya : A stunning mountaintop town with over 5,000 years of history, offering breathtaking views and ancient gates.
📍Shanidar Cave:An important archaeological site where Neanderthal remains were discovered, revealing stories of early human life.
📍Soran:A lively Kurdish town known for its friendly atmosphere and as a gateway to nearby mountains and nature spots
Day 12 - Sulaymaniyah
📍Rawanduz : Famous for its deep canyon and dramatic landscapes, ideal for photography and outdoor adventures
📍Bikhal Waterfall : A charming waterfall surrounded by lush greenery and picnic areas, popular with locals.
📍Gali Ali Beg Waterfall : One of Kurdistan’s most iconic waterfalls, with powerful cascades and scenic views.
📍Salem Street in Sulaymaniyah : The city’s bustling main street, lined with shops, cafés, and cultural spots.
Day 13 - Sulaymaniyah
📍Markets and Bazaars : Explore colorful stalls filled with spices, textiles, and traditional Kurdish crafts
📍Kurdish Heritage Museum : A fascinating collection of artifacts and exhibits showcasing Kurdish history and culture.
📍Suleimaniyah Grand Mosque:An elegant place of worship and a cultural landmark in the city
📍Mount Izmar (Sunset View) :Offers one of the most beautiful sunset panoramas in the Kurdistan region.
Day 14 - Erbil
📍Erbil Citadel : One of the world’s oldest continuously inhabited settlements and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
📍Erbil Bazaar : A bustling traditional market offering crafts, spices, and local flavors
📍Al-Muzaffariyya Minaret : A historic Islamic architectural gem in the heart of Erbil.
📍 Preparing for your trip to Erbil Airport
Note/ Some locations across Iraq are currently closed for maintenance. These include:
1. Al-Ukhaider Fortress
2. The Old City of Erbil
Included/Excluded
Bilingual specialist guide (Arabic, English )
Private Transport
Breakfast
4 star hotel
Reception and farewell from the airport
Book a boat in the marshes
Security and Personal Protection: To ensure your comfort and safety throughout the tour, you will be accompanied by an experienced local guide who coordinates closely with specialized security teams. This dedicated team works continuously to provide a secure and reassuring environment during your travels and site visits, allowing you to fully enjoy the cultural and historical experience without any worries
Lunch and dinner
Ticket fees (archaeological and tourist site)
Visa
flight
Itinerary
Day 1
Basra
Day 1
Basra
Basra, Iraq’s main port city, sits on the Shatt al-Arab waterway and is known for its rich history, palm-lined canals, and role as a trade hub. It blends ancient heritage with modern commerce, featuring bustling souks, riverside promenades, and proximity to the Persian Gulf.
Day 2
The marshes
Day 2
The marshes
The Iraqi Marshes (Al-Ahwar) are one of the world’s most unique and important wetland ecosystems, located in southern Iraq between the Tigris and Euphrates rivers.
Day 3
Najaf
Day 3
Najaf
Najaf – Known as one of the holiest cities in the Islamic world, Najaf is home to the sacred Imam Ali Shrine, a masterpiece of Islamic architecture visited by millions of pilgrims annually. The city is also famous for its vast Wadi Al-Salam cemetery, considered the largest in the world, and its rich tradition of religious scholarship, making it a center of learning and spirituality for centuries.
Day 4
Babylon and Karbala
Day 4
Babylon and Karbala
Babylon is one of the most famous ancient cities in the world, located in present-day Iraq. It flourished as the capital of the Babylonian Empire and reached its peak under King Nebuchadnezzar II in the 6th century BC. Babylon is renowned for its impressive walls, the Ishtar Gate, and the legendary Hanging Gardens—one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. The city was a center of Mesopotamian culture, politics, and learning, influencing civilizations for centuries.
Karbala is a holy city in central Iraq, deeply significant to Shia Muslims worldwide. It is the site of the 680 AD Battle of Karbala, where Imam Hussein ibn Ali, the grandson of the Prophet Muhammad, was martyred. The city is home to the Imam Hussein Shrine and the Al-Abbas Shrine, attracting millions of pilgrims annually, especially during the Arbaeen pilgrimage. Karbala’s heritage is a blend of religious devotion, historical resilience, and cultural richness.
Day 5
Baghdad
Day 5
Baghdad
Baghdad, the capital of Iraq, is one of the most historic cities in the Islamic and Arab world. It was founded in 762 AD by the Abbasid Caliph Abu Ja’far al-Mansur and quickly became a center of science, culture, and trade during the Golden Age of Islamic civilization. The city was famous for the House of Wisdom, which gathered scholars and translators from various cultures, as well as for its flourishing arts and architecture. Baghdad’s heritage includes historic mosques such as the Al-Khulafa Mosque, traditional markets like Al-Shorja, and iconic coffeehouses that served as meeting places for poets and intellectuals. Over the centuries, the city has blended Abbasid, Ottoman, and Persian influences, giving it a unique character that combines deep historical roots with vibrant urban life.
DAY 6
Baghdad
DAY 6
Baghdad
Baghdad, the capital of Iraq, is one of the most historic cities in the Islamic and Arab world. It was founded in 762 AD by the Abbasid Caliph Abu Ja’far al-Mansur and quickly became a center of science, culture, and trade during the Golden Age of Islamic civilization. The city was famous for the House of Wisdom, which gathered scholars and translators from various cultures, as well as for its flourishing arts and architecture. Baghdad’s heritage includes historic mosques such as the Al-Khulafa Mosque, traditional markets like Al-Shorja, and iconic coffeehouses that served as meeting places for poets and intellectuals. Over the centuries, the city has blended Abbasid, Ottoman, and Persian influences, giving it a unique character that combines deep historical roots with vibrant urban life.
DAY 7
Baghdad
DAY 7
Baghdad
Baghdad, the capital of Iraq, is one of the most historic cities in the Islamic and Arab world. It was founded in 762 AD by the Abbasid Caliph Abu Ja’far al-Mansur and quickly became a center of science, culture, and trade during the Golden Age of Islamic civilization. The city was famous for the House of Wisdom, which gathered scholars and translators from various cultures, as well as for its flourishing arts and architecture. Baghdad’s heritage includes historic mosques such as the Al-Khulafa Mosque, traditional markets like Al-Shorja, and iconic coffeehouses that served as meeting places for poets and intellectuals. Over the centuries, the city has blended Abbasid, Ottoman, and Persian influences, giving it a unique character that combines deep historical roots with vibrant urban life.
DAY 8
Samarra and Mosul
DAY 8
Samarra and Mosul
Samarra is a historic city located in central Iraq, situated on the east bank of the Tigris River, about 125 kilometers north of Baghdad. It is renowned for its rich Islamic heritage and was once the capital of the Abbasid Caliphate during the 9th century (specifically from 836 to 892 AD).
One of Samarra’s most famous landmarks is the Great Mosque of Samarra, known for its unique spiral minaret called the Malwiya Tower, which is an iconic symbol of Islamic architecture. The city also houses many important archaeological sites and ancient ruins that reflect its historical significance as a center of Islamic culture, politics, and art.
Samarra’s history is marked by periods of prosperity and decline, but it remains a key cultural and religious site, especially for Shia Muslims, as it contains the Al-Askari Shrine, one of the holiest Shia shrines.
DAY 9
Mosul
DAY 9
Mosul
Mosul is a major city in northern Iraq, located on the west bank of the Tigris River. It is the capital of Nineveh Governorate and one of Iraq’s largest and oldest cities, with a rich history that dates back over 3,000 years.
Historically, Mosul was an important center of trade, culture, and learning, linking Mesopotamia with the Mediterranean world. It is near the ancient Assyrian city of Nineveh, famous for its vast archaeological ruins and historical significance as the capital of the Assyrian Empire.
Mosul is culturally diverse, home to various ethnic and religious communities, including Arabs, Kurds, Turkmen, Assyrians, and Yazidis, with a rich mosaic of traditions, languages, and religions.
The city has faced many challenges in recent years, especially during the occupation by ISIS, which caused significant destruction to its cultural heritage and infrastructure. Since liberation, efforts have been underway to rebuild Mosul and preserve its historic identity.
DAY 10
Dohuk
DAY 10
Dohuk
Dohuk is a city in the Kurdistan Region of Iraq, located in the far north of the country near the borders with Turkey and Syria. It serves as the capital of Dohuk Governorate and is surrounded by beautiful mountain ranges, fertile valleys, and rivers.
DAY 11
Soran
DAY 11
Soran
Soran is a city in Erbil Governorate, located in the Kurdistan Region of Iraq, northeast of Erbil city and near the borders with Iran and Turkey.
It’s surrounded by stunning natural landscapes, including mountains, valleys, and rivers, making it a popular starting point for trips to Rawanduz Canyon, Hamilton Road, and Bekhal Waterfall
DAY 12
Rawanduz
DAY 12
Rawanduz
Rawanduz is a picturesque town in the Kurdistan Region of Iraq, nestled in the mountains northeast of Erbil. It’s often called the “Grand Canyon of the Middle East” because of its dramatic gorges, steep cliffs, and winding rivers. The town sits at an elevation of about 1,500 meters (4,900 ft), offering cool weather in summer and occasional snow in winter.
DAY 13
Sulaimaniyah
DAY 13
Sulaimaniyah
Sulaimaniyah is a major city in the Kurdistan Region of Iraq, nestled in the mountains near the Iranian border. It’s known for its relatively cool climate compared to the rest of Iraq, vibrant cultural life, universities, museums, and a reputation as one of Iraq’s most liberal and progressive cities.
Day 14
Erbil
Day 14
Erbil
Erbil, also known as Hewler, is the capital city of the Kurdistan Region of Iraq and one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world, with a history spanning over 6,000 years. It is located in northern Iraq and serves as a major economic, cultural, and political center for the Kurdish people.
One of Erbil’s most famous landmarks is the Erbil Citadel, a massive ancient fortress situated in the city center, which has been recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The citadel reflects the city’s rich history, having been inhabited by various civilizations including the Assyrians, Sumerians, Babylonians, and Ottomans.
Erbil is known for its vibrant markets, modern developments, and cultural festivals that celebrate Kurdish heritage, music, and arts. The city has also grown rapidly in recent decades, becoming a hub for business and tourism in the region
Travel Styles
Nature & Adventure
Historical site
Festival & Events
Special Interest
walking
Cultural
Facilities
Wifi
FAQs
When and where does the tour end?
Erbil
When and where does the tour start ?
Basra
Do you arrange airport transfers?
Private car
How to know the prices on a tour
Go to the tour reservation(book now) list and add the day and month for example and choose the number of people in the tour
What are the prices of tickets to archaeological sites and where tickets must be paid?
The ticket price for one foreigner to the archaeological site is about 25,000 Iraqi dinars. The price of all the archaeological sites in the tickets is about 170 US dollars.
Do you have a visa?
Yes, we have cheap visa prices with The company
What is the Iraqi typical meal?
The barbecued fish (Masgouf) is the very authentic and ancient meal. Then comes the traditional bread
Why are the Iraqis talking so loudly?
This is a linguistic question. The Iraqi Dialect is strong due to the strong pronunciation we utter. Don't panic when you see two men sitting next to each other and shouting. The are just discussing daily issues. HAHAHA
Is Iraq only the cradle of civilizations? Do you embrace any other activities?
We have artists, fine art galleries, theatres, orchestra, football stadiums where you can enjoy watching some matches. Also we have body building stars. LOL
Are you biased?
Feature of any successful tour guide is to work neutrally and never concern her/his background when giving the information.
What is the best way to make my journey marvelous?
The best way to make your journey marvelous is to ask as many questions as you can, and we shall gladly answer all of them
Can I buy an Iraqi SIM card
YUP! and you can charge it with internet package too,You can buy upon arrival at the airport for $5.
Can I bring a drone?
well, you need to get the permission from the Iraqi government before you come, and you need to
Can I exchange Euro to Iraqi Dinars?
Sur you can. But dollars are more preferred!
Do your restaurants support the vegetarians?
Don't worry. You can order salad, mashed potatoes and rice, but if you are vagent, you will have less choices.
Does the visa card work in Iraq?
Not everywhere. Better to bring cash with you ($100 notes new version only)
Can I buy medicine without m prescription?
sure you can. But for the antihistamine drugs you
Can I bring big lenses for my camera?
Well, better not to bring big lenses. Moreover, only phones are allowed inside the holy shrines.
I don't want to wear hijab of the bod cover
You wear the hijab & the body cover only in the religious cities
Can hang out Alone?
Sure, take the hotel's card and hang out in the neighborhood.
Am I allowed to photograph women and security forces?
Yes, with their permission.
How should I interact with local people in Iraq
raqis are warm, generous, and deeply respectful of guests. A smile and a polite greeting like “Salam Alaikum” go a long way. It’s appreciated when visitors show interest in Iraqi culture, history, or even try a few Arabic words.
1-Don’t be surprised if you’re invited for tea — it’s part of the culture
2-Showing respect to elders is highly valued
3-Avoid political or religious debates unless you’re very familiar with the context
Tour Location
Basra
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