8-Day Best of Southern Iraq Cultural Heritage Tour

Step back in time as you journey through the historic Land between the legendary Euphrates and Tigris Rivers! Walk along the same streets the legendary rulers of the ancient empires once did and get an insight into one of the longest yet greatest civilizations in the world. Travel from Baghdad to Basra over the course of 8 amazing days to explore the cultural and historical gems of Southern Iraq. Such a fascinating experience could only be imagined by serious history aficionados!

Itinerary

Day 1 - Baghdad

Arrive at Baghdad International Airport. Your local guide will meet you at the airport and take you to the hotel for check in. 

Day 2 - Baghdad

Discover the contemporary yet historic Baghdad for the day! Begin the city tour after breakfast by going to the Archaeological Museum of Iraq, which houses significant artifacts from the last 7000 years of Iraq's history. You will then take a stroll through the renowned Al-Mutanabi Street, which was home to the first book store in the ancient city of Baghdad as well as the copper market Souk al-Safareen. Continue onto Al-Mustansariya School, which was once the main center for Islamic learning and is now recognized as one of Baghdad's most stunning examples of modern architecture. In the afternoon, travel southwest to explore the ancient city of Ctesiphon, once a significant Silk Road commercial hub and the seat of the Parthian and Sasanian empires.

Day 3 - Baghdad - Babylon - Karbala

Visit the legendary ancient city of Babylon, which was once the biggest and most powerful city in the world. You will get a chance to stroll along the streets where the iconic Alexander the Great died as well as walk the same streets that the rulers of one of the most prominent ancient empires once did. Pass through a replica of the magnificent Ishtar Gate, which is made of vivid blue tiles and embellished with images of amazing creatures, before heading to the holy city of Karbala, a sacred site for Shia Muslims. Learn more about Iraqi culture as you explore Karbala’s bustling markets, the majestic Al-Abbas Mosque, and the historic Imam Hussein Shrine.

Day 4 - Karbala - Al Kifl - Kufa - Najaf

Travel to the holy city of Najaf, another sacred site in Southern Iraq where Imam Ali, the fourth caliph and cousin of the prophet Muhammad is buried. Stop by Al Kilf along the way, and visit the shrine of the Prophet Ezekiel. Check out the Hebrew and Arabic inscriptions on the tomb’s wall, serving as a reminder of the shared Abrahamic roots of Jewish, Christian, and Muslim religions. You will then experience the vibrant Iraqi culture as you explore Najaf’s souks before heading back to the accommodation for the night.

Day 5 - Najaf - Uruk - Nasiriya

Start the day off right with a visit to Samawah, an ancient city built on both sides of the Euphrates River. You will then make your way to Uruk, one of the greatest settlements of the Mesopotamian Civilization, and get an insight into the notable and significant contributions of the Sumerians, particularly the Cuneiform Writing System. Afterwards, travel to Nasiriya where you will stroll through the lively markets before checking into the hotel for the night. 

Day 6 - Nasiriya - Marshes - Basra

Travel back in time to the Sumerian city-state of Ur, which was founded in 3800 B.C. Visit the famed Ziggurat of Ur, a stone temple complex constructed in honor of the moon God Nanna, the city's patron deity. You will then discover what it's like to live in the Iraqi marshes as you spend the rest of the day paddling through one of the largest wetland ecosystems in the Middle East. You will also get a chance to learn more about the Ma’dan people and their ancient customs. Afterwards, make your way to Basra, where you will spend the night. 

Day 7 - Basra

Spend the day exploring Basra, the second largest city in Iraq! Take a stroll through the historic district to admire the lovely ancient residences constructed in the 16th and 17th centuries. Despite the fact that the majority of the structures are currently abandoned and slowly disintegrating, they continue to tell the story of the town's illustrious past. You will then enjoy a sunset cruise on the gorgeous Shatt al-Arab River to splendidly cap off your Southern Iraq journey. 

Day 8 - Basra

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

Inclusions

• Airport Pick Up and Drop Off

• 7 Nights Accommodation in High International Standard Hotel 

• Breakfast (7)

• English-Speaking Local Guide

• Transportation as Per Itinerary

Exclusions

• Local and International Flights

• Meals Not Mentioned

• Drinks

• Admission Fees ($150 USD to $180 USD)

• 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.