6-Day Highlights of Northern Iraq Cultural and Historical Tour

Discover the spectacular cultural and historical heritage of Northern Iraq in 6 amazing days as you travel through its stunning cities, including Erbil, Duhok, Lalesh, Sulaymaniyah, and Rawanduz. Beyond the typical tourist locations, take the ultimate tour of the Iraqi Kurdistan Region, which will take you to both the region's well-known attractions and its hidden gems that no one else ever gets to see. For travelers looking for adventure, cultural insights, and breathtaking natural beauty, this journey is perfect for you! 

Itinerary

Day 1 - Erbil

Arrive at Erbil International Airport. Your local guide will meet you at the airport and take you to the hotel. Take time to freshen up before heading out for a tour around the city. Visit the Civilization Museum to check out its collection of interesting artifacts, then continue with a  tour of the ancient Citadel of Erbil, a UNESCO site thought to be one of the world’s longest continuously inhabited sites. You will also visit the notable Textile Museum, see the Kurdish Antique Shop, walk through the Qaysai Bazaar, and explore the Minaret of Choli. 

Day 2 - Erbil - Duhok

Start the day with a tour of the Dayro d-Mor Monastery accompanied by a monk. Then, see the historic Jirwana, one of the oldest aqueducts in the world, before making your way to Lalesh, the holy place for the Yazidis. Visit the village of Al Qush with the tomb of Prophet Nahum as well as the Mar Gorgis Monastery with the Mar Mekha Churches. You will also stop by the Rabban Hormizd Monastery, a thousand-year-old monastery that was carved out of the rocks, before heading to Duhok, where you will spend the night. 

Day 3 - Duhok - Amadiya - Rawanduz

Travel to Amadiya, a geographical spectacle offering scenic views, passing by the famous city gate Bab Zebar. Visit the spectacular Minaret of Amadiya and see the remnants of the Former Saddam Hussein Palace. Then, make your way to Rawanduz to visit the remarkable Mullah Mustapha Memorial, a significant place for the Kurds, and the famed Shanidar Cave. You will also get to walk along the famous Hamilton Road and the park of Rawanduz. 

Day 4 - Rawanduz - Dokan - Sulaymaniyah

Begin the day with a drive to Sulaymaniyah via Doka. Visit the historic Red Prison, where Kurds were locked up and tortured during the reign of Saddam Hussein. Continue with a stroll through the bustling Sulaymaniyah bazaar and a stop at the iconic Sha’ab Teahouse before ending the day with a breathtaking view of the city from the Goizha Mountain. 

Day 5 - Sulaymaniyah - Halabja - Tawela

Visit the remarkable Sulaymaniyah Museum, one of the largest archeological museums in Iraq, before traveling to Halabja. Learn more about the history of Iraq as you tour the Genocide Museum and its equally impressive cemetery. You will also get to see the beautiful waterfalls situated on the board with Iran in Tawela. Then, head back to Sulaymaniyah for the night. 

Day 6 - Sulaymaniyah - Erbil

Check out from the hotel after breakfast, then head back to Erbil via Koisinjak. You will get to experience a time warp by stopping at an antique caravanserai. Along the way, stop by the Zarvi Cave and Dokan Lake to relax and stretch your legs. Upon arrival, transfer to Erbil International Airport for your journey back home.

Inclusions

• Airport Pick Up and Drop Off

• 5 Nights Accommodation in High International Standard Hotel 

• Breakfast (5)

• English-Speaking Local Guide

• Transportation as Per Itinerary

• Entrance Fees as Per Itinerary

Exclusions

• Local and International Flights

• Meals Not Mentioned

• Drinks

• Visas

• Travel Insurance

• Personal Expenses

• Gratuities (Optional)

Additional Information

• A visa or stamp to Israel or the self-ruled territories, used or unused/valid or invalid, will lead to an immediate entry refusal at all Iraqi ports of entry, even if the traveler is carrying a valid entry visa, and even if traveling on a group visa.

• The tour operates in all weather conditions, please dress appropriately.

• When visiting the holy cities of Karbala and Najaf, there are strict rules of faith. Men need a pair of trousers and t-shirt to wear and women will need long sleeves and a scarf. Please also be advised that alcohol is prohibited in these cities. 

• A moderate amount of walking is involved; Comfortable walking shoes are recommended.

• Depending on the political situation, the length of the tour and the order of visited places may change. In a situation of a serious threat to travelers’ safety, the tour may be canceled. 

• Itinerary is subject to change and the attractions may be closed due to traffic, weather, and force majeure. An alternative itinerary may also be omitted depending on the situation.

• Delays, shortening of the tours, or omissions to the itinerary due to traffic, weather, or other unforeseen circumstances are not subject to refund.