Top Natural Tourist Attractions in Iraq
1.The Southern Marshes (Al-Ahwar)
•Location: Southern Iraq, in the provinces of Maysan, Dhi Qar, and Basra.
•Details: A unique wetland ecosystem with vast water surfaces and rich biodiversity, home to many bird and fish species. Listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2016.
2.Halgurd Mountain
•Location: Kurdistan Region, northeast of Erbil.
•Details: One of the highest mountain peaks in Iraq, offering stunning landscapes and exciting climbing experiences.
3.Geli Ali Beg Waterfall
•Location: Erbil province, near Shaqlawa.
•Details: One of Iraq’s most famous waterfalls, attracting visitors with its scenic views and surrounding natural beauty.
4.Dukan Lake
•Location: Sulaymaniyah province, near the city of Dukan.
•Details: One of Iraq’s largest artificial lakes, surrounded by towering mountains, making it a popular destination for recreation and relaxation.
5.Shay Valley
•Location: Kirkuk province, northern Iraq.
•Details: A fertile valley known for its rich biodiversity, ideal for nature lovers and camping.
6.Sinjar Mountain
•Location: Nineveh province, northwest Iraq.
•Details: Homeland of the Yazidi minority, known for its rugged terrain and panoramic views.
7.Bekhal Waterfall
•Location: Erbil province, near Rawanduz.
•Details: A beautiful waterfall surrounded by lush greenery, perfect for picnics and relaxation.
8.Mount Korek
•Location: Erbil province, near Shaqlawa.
•Details: Offers skiing opportunities in winter and attracts tourists with its breathtaking landscapes.
9.Lake Habbaniyah
•Location: Anbar province, western Iraq.
•Details: Used for recreational and tourist purposes, surrounded by resorts and tourist facilities.
10.Mount Maqlub
•Location: Nineveh province, northern Iraq.
•Details: A distinctive mountain offering spectacular natural views.
11.Darbendikhan Valley
•Location: Sulaymaniyah province.
•Details: Surrounds the Darbandikhan Dam and is a popular tourist destination due to its natural beauty.
12.Mount Zozik
•Location: Dohuk province, near the Turkish border.
•Details: A towering mountain attracting climbers and adventure seekers.
13.Ahmad Awa Waterfalls
•Location: Sulaymaniyah province, near Halabja.
•Details: A group of cascading waterfalls surrounded by greenery, making it a popular tourist destination.
14.Lake Sawa
•Location: Muthanna province, near Samawah city.
•Details: A unique saltwater lake surrounded by sand dunes, considered a distinctive natural phenomenon.
15.Qandil Mountain
•Location: On the Iraq-Iran border in the Kurdistan Region.
•Details: A mountain range known for its rich biodiversity and home to many Kurdish villages.
16.Rawanduz Gorge
•Location: Rawanduz district, northeast of Erbil, about 110 km from Erbil city.
•Details: Famous for its deep valleys, specifically the “Kharand” and “Kli Khala Rash” valleys, surrounded by the Zagros Mountains. It is a popular summer destination due to its cool climate and stunning views.
Samawah Desert (Al-Samawah Desert)
•Location: Southwestern Iraq, specifically in Al-Muthanna province, extending to the Saudi Arabian border.
•Details: Part of Iraq’s southern great desert, known for its vast, barren lands and harsh climate. It is one of the driest areas in Iraq.
