9-Day Southern Iraq Cradle of Civilization Historical Tour

Take some time to explore and reflect at some of the world's most significant historical sites. Begin your journey in Baghdad and spend 9 days seeing things that most history buffs can only imagine. 

Starting in Baghdad and ending in Basra, learn about the foundation of civilizations and gain an understanding of one of the greatest histories in the world. Visit the magnificent gates of Babylon, where King Hammurabi ruled the vast Babylonian Empire. You will also be able to walk along the historic streets where the iconic Alexander the Great died, as well as the streets once walked by the rulers of one of the most prominent ancient empires. Stop by the notable Arch of Ctesiphon and the iconic Spiral Minaret in Samarra, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Then, explore modern Iraq, interacting with pilgrims in the holy cities of Karbala and Najaf and visiting the remnants of Saddam Hussein’s former palaces. You will also paddle through Iraq’s lush marshlands to the point where two great rivers of antiquity meet to form the Shatt al-Arab Waterway.

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. Take a short break to freshen up before heading out for a welcome drink and dinner. 

Day 2 - Baghdad - Samarra - Baghdad

Journey to the ancient city of Samarra to explore the beautiful UNESCO World Heritage Site and see the iconic Spiral Minaret. Afterwards, enjoy a delightful lunch in Baghdad before heading to Ctesiphon, a historic city situated on the left bank of the Tigris River where the notable Arch of Ctesiphon is located. You will then return to Baghdad and spend the rest of the day at your own leisure.

Day 3 - Baghdad

Spend the day exploring Baghdad! Admire the magnificent relics of the Persian, Abbasid, and Mesopotamian civilizations in the Archaeological Museum of Iraq. Continue to the Al-Mustansariya School, which was once the main center for Islamic learning and is now one of Baghdad's most stunning examples of modern architecture. Then, explore the famous Copper Market, Souk al-Safareen, as well as stroll along Al-Mutanabi Street, Baghdad's historical center for bookselling, which is filled with bookstores and outdoor book kiosks.

Day 4 - Baghdad - Babylon - Karbala

Make your way to the ancient city of Babylon, which was once the world's largest and most powerful city. Explore the historical ancient site of the Babylonian empire, including the ruins of the Tower of Babel and the Hanging Gardens. Then, pass through a replica of the magnificent Ishtar Gate, which is made of vibrant blue tiles and embellished with images of fantastic creatures, before arriving at the impressive Saddam Hussein Palace, which is located on a hilltop with a spectacular view of Babylon. Continue on to Karbala, where you can see the bustling markets, the majestic Al-Abbas Mosque, and the historic Imam Hussein Shrine.

Day 5 - Karbala - Najaf

Begin the day with a visit to the fort at Al Khaider in the morning. Continue on to your journey going to Najaf, another holy city in Southern Iraq. Here, visit the Holy Shrine of Imam Ali, the fourth caliph and cousin of the prophet Muhammad. En route to Najaf, make a brief stop in Al Kilf and visit another significant pilgrimage site, the tomb of the Old Testament’s 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 get a taste of the vibrant Iraqi culture by exploring Najaf's souks before returning to your hotel for the night.

Day 6 - Najah - Nasiriya

Drive from Najaf to Nasiriyah. You will 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 back in time as you explore the Sumerian City-State of Ur. Visit the famed Ziggurat of Ur, a stone temple complex constructed in honor of the moon God Nanna, the city's patron deity. Continue on to Nasiriya for a stroll through the lively and vibrant markets before checking into the hotel for the night.

Day 7 - Nasiriya - Basra

Discover what it's like to live in the Iraqi marshlands by paddling through one of the Middle East's largest wetland ecosystems! As you meet and interact with the local community, you will learn more about the Ma'dan people and their ancient customs. Continue on to Qurna and get back on the river to witness where the Tigris and Euphrates meet to form the Shatt al Arab waterway. Then, make your way to Basra, where you will spend the night.

Day 8 - Basra

Spend the day in and around Basra, the second largest city in Iraq! Stroll through the historic district, taking in the beautiful 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 9 - Basra

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

Inclusions

• Airport Pick Up and Drop Off

• 8 Nights Accommodation in High International Standard Hotel 

• Breakfast (8)

• 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.