7-Day Classic Northern Iraq 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 Rawandas. 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 to explore the city at your own leisure. 

Day 2 - Erbil

Take some time to explore the amazing city of Erbil! Admire the fascinating artifacts in the Civilization Museum before continuing your tour of the historic Citadel of Erbil, a UNESCO monument that is claimed to be one of the oldest continuously inhabited sites in the world. You will also visit the Minaret of Choli and the famous Textile Museum, as well as the Kurdish Antique Shop and Qaysai Bazaar.

Day 3 - Erbil - Duhok

Begin the day with a monk-led tour of the Dayro d-Mor Monastery. Before traveling to Lalesh, the holy site for the Yazidis, explore the famous Jirwana, one of the oldest aqueducts in the world. Visit the Mar Gorgis Monastery and the Mar Mekha Churches in Al Qush, where the Prophet Nahum's grave is located. Before traveling to Duhok, where you will spend the night, you will also stop by the Rabban Hormizd Monastery, a thousand-year-old monastery that was carved out of the rocks.

Day 4 - Duhok - Amadiya - Rawanduz

Travel to Amadiya, a picturesque destination with stunning natural features, passing past the renowned city gate Bab Zebar. Visit the magnificent Minaret of Amadiya and take in the ruins of the former Saddam Hussein Palace. Continue on to Rawanduz to see the renowned Shanidar Cave and the magnificent Mullah Mustapha Memorial, both of which are important to the Kurds. Additionally, you can stroll down the renowned Hamilton Road and through Rawanduz Park.

Day 5 - Rawanduz

Spend the day admiring Rawanduz's natural splendors! Explore the breathtaking scenery in the area of Rawanduz Valley. One of the most picturesque locations in the Kurdistan Region, Rawanduz is renowned throughout Iraq for its lush greenery and stunning canyons. Although this is not a historical or cultural excursion, it is for those who appreciate the great outdoors, mountains, and breathtaking sights.

Day 6 - Rawanduz - Erbil

Depart early from Rawanduz and head back to Erbil. Visit the wonderful Bekhal Waterfall along the journey to take in its unique splendor. You will also get to explore the historical Dwin Castle, Saladin's idyllic mountain fortress.

Day 7 - Erbil

Check out from the hotel after breakfast, then transfer to Erbil International Airport for your journey back home.

Inclusions

• Airport Pick Up and Drop Off

• 6 Nights Accommodation in High International Standard Hotel 

• Breakfast (6)

• 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.