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Iraq Travel Advisory

Travel advisory october 22, 2023, iraq - level 4: do not travel.

Updated to reflect the ordered departure of non-emergency U.S. government personnel and eligible family members.

Do not travel to Iraq due to terrorism, kidnapping, armed conflict, civil unrest, and Mission Iraq’s limited capacity to provide support to U.S. citizens.

On October 20, 2023, the Department ordered the departure of eligible family members and non-emergency U.S. government personnel from U.S. Embassy Baghdad and U.S. Consulate General Erbil due to increased security threats against U.S. government personnel and interests.

Country Summary: U.S. citizens in Iraq face high risks to their safety and security, including the potential for violence and kidnapping. Terrorist and insurgent groups regularly attack Iraqi security forces and civilians. Anti-U.S. militias threaten U.S. citizens and international companies throughout Iraq. Attacks using improvised explosive devices, indirect fire, and unmanned aerial vehicles occur in many areas of the country, including Baghdad and other major cities. In an emergency, consular services to U.S. citizens in Iraq are limited due to severe restrictions on the movements of U.S. government personnel.

Demonstrations, protests, and strikes occur frequently throughout the country.  These events can develop quickly without prior notice, often interrupting traffic, transportation, and other services, and sometimes turning violent.

Do not travel near Iraq’s northern borders due to the continued threat of attacks by terrorist groups, armed conflict, aerial bombardment, and civil unrest.  U.S. citizens should especially avoid areas near armed groups in northern Iraq, which have been targeted with aerial strikes by neighboring countries’ militaries.

U.S. citizens should not travel through Iraq to engage in armed conflict in Syria, where they would face extreme personal risks (kidnapping, injury, or death) and legal risks (arrest, fines, and expulsion). The Kurdistan Regional Government in Iraq has stated that it will impose prison sentences of up to ten years on individuals who illegally cross the Iraq-Syria border. Additionally, fighting on behalf of or supporting designated terrorist organizations is a crime under U.S. law that can result in prison sentences and large fines in the United States.

Because of security concerns, U.S. government personnel in Baghdad are instructed not to use Baghdad International Airport. Due to risks to civil aviation operating in the Baghdad Flight Information Region, the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has extended for an additional two years its Special Federal Aviation Regulation (SFAR) prohibiting certain flights at altitudes below 32,000 feet. For more information, U.S. citizens should consult the Federal Aviation Administration’s Prohibitions, Restrictions, and Notices.

Read the country information page for additional information on travel to Iraq.

If you decide to travel to Iraq:

• Establish your own personal security plan in coordination with your employer or host organization or consider consulting with a professional security organization.
• Draft a will and designate appropriate insurance beneficiaries and/or power of attorney.
• Discuss a plan with loved ones regarding care/custody of children, pets, property, belongings, non-liquid assets (collections, artwork, etc.), funeral wishes, etc.
• Share important documents, login information, and points of contact with loved ones so that they can manage your affairs if you are unable to return as planned to the United States.
• Visit our website for Travel to High-Risk Areas .
• Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to receive alerts and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.
• Follow the Department of State on Facebook and Twitter .
• Review the Country Security Report for Iraq.
• Visit the CDC website for the latest Travel Health Information related to your travel.
• Prepare a contingency plan for emergency situations. Review the Traveler’s Checklist

Travel Advisory Levels

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• Foreign travel advice

The Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office ( FCDO ) advises against all travel to all provinces of Iraq except the Kurdistan Region of Iraq, and against all but essential travel to the Kurdistan Region of Iraq.

Protests regularly take place in and around the International Zone in Baghdad. Protests can, and sometimes do, escalate into violence. You should avoid any rallies, marches or processions, and follow the instructions of local authorities.

Iraq remains subject to regional tensions. A number of areas of Iraq remain subject to sporadic attack by artillery, drones and rockets. See Political and security situation

A threat to Western interests remains, including to UK citizens. You should remain vigilant, have robust security arrangements and contingency plans in place, keeping these under review, and keep up to date with the latest developments, including via the media and this travel advice.

Due to the security situation and the advice against all travel to all provinces of Iraq except the Kurdistan Region of Iraq, and against all but essential travel to the Kurdistan Region of Iraq, British nationals are reminded that consular support in all of Iraq is severely limited. The security situation across Iraq, including the Kurdistan Region of Iraq could deteriorate quickly and without warning. You should not assume that, in the event of a further deterioration in the security situation, assistance to leave Iraq, including from the Kurdistan Region of Iraq, will be available.

You may be eligible to obtain a visit visa on arrival in federal Iraq. Check visa requirements with the Iraqi Embassy in London, or the Iraqi Consulate in Manchester before you travel. In the Kurdistan Region of Iraq (KRI) you may apply for an e-visa online before arrival on the e-visa portal of the Kurdistan Region Government . It is also possible to obtain a visa on arrival. Both types of visa are valid for travel in the KRI only. See Visas

The Iraqi Prime Minister announced the territorial defeat of Daesh in Iraq on 9 December 2017. However, terrorists are still very likely to try to carry out attacks in Iraq. You should remain vigilant and monitor media reports. See Terrorism

There’s also a high threat of kidnapping throughout the country, including from both Daesh and other terrorist and militant groups, which can be motivated by criminality or terrorism. You should review your security arrangements regularly and consider carefully any travel plans around the country. See Kidnap

Since October 2023 drone and rocket attacks directed at US military installations have occurred across Iraq, including the Kurdistan Region of Iraq. Erbil International Airport has experienced temporary closures for brief periods with operations resuming after a few hours. On 15 January, Iranian missile strikes targeted the north-eastern edge of Erbil city, near the areas of Kasnazan and Mulla Omar, killing and injuring civilians.

Turkey conducts regular military action in the north of the Kurdistan Region of Iraq (KRI) and, occasionally, further south. There is particular risk in mountainous areas, especially around Qandil, Makhmur, and near the border with Turkey. Iran has claimed responsibility for several recent attacks by ballistic rockets and drones, including in Erbil, Koya and surrounding areas. Crossing points along the Iraq-Turkey border may also be affected. See  Kurdistan Region

If you’re abroad and you need emergency help from the UK government, contact the  nearest British embassy, consulate or high commission . Consular support is severely limited in Iraq. The British Embassy in Baghdad and the British Consulate-General in Erbil operate a limited consular service by appointment only. The Embassy and Consulate-General’s ability to visit locations across Iraq is limited and travel to unsecure areas to deliver consular services may not be possible.

As of 26 October, some UK Government staff have been temporarily withdrawn from the British Embassy Baghdad due to risks of a deterioration in the security situation. The Embassy will continue essential work, including consular support, which remains extremely limited in Iraq.

Take out comprehensive travel and medical insurance before you travel.

Before you travel, check the ‘Entry requirements’ section for Iraq’s current entry restrictions and requirements. These may change with little warning. Monitor this advice for the latest updates and stay in contact with your travel provider.

If you plan to pass through another country to return to the UK, check the travel advice for the country you’re transiting.

It is more important than ever to get travel insurance and check it provides appropriate cover. See the FCDO ’s guidance on foreign travel insurance .

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35 Things To Know Before You Travel To Kurdistan Iraq in 2024

As part of my big trip through the Middle East I was excited to set foot in Iraq, well... Kurdistani Iraq of course! After my trip to Syria , Lebanon and Jordan, flying to Erbil, Iraq was a perfect stop on my itinerary, although I had to fly through Istanbul. In this Kurdistan blog I will tell you all about my experiences traveling to Kurdistan, Iraq.

Surely I could understand all the questions when I said I was going to visit Kurdistan Iraq. Most Westerns think Iraq is one of the most unsafe places to travel, but I already knew for quite a while that a trip to Kurdistan was not really risky or dangerous. I guess going off the beaten path is in my nature and traveling to these kind of destinations makes me excited.

In this Kurdistan travel blog I will give you as many travel tips as possible and also show you the best things to do and places to see, some background information and some accommodation tips. Find it all in this complete Kurdistan travel guide.

1. Is it safe to travel to Kurdistan Iraq

From my experiences is a trip to Kurdistan completely safe. Keep in mind that things can change overnight as this still is a conflict area. Although over the last years the Autonomous region of Kurdistan has been doing an amazing job to make Kurdistan safe for travelers.

The Kurdistan Tourism Board claims that in the first 6 months of 2018 over 1.3 million tourists had been traveling to Kurdistan, most of them being Iraqis.

My experiences traveling Kurdistan were very laid-back so when you ask me if it is safe to travel to Kurdistan, I say: YES!  The first couple days I spent in Erbil and felt completely safe. A laid-back city to roam around in. The city center is filled with friendly locals and in the Ankawa district you can go out till late and walk home safely. Erbil is safe to travel in 2024!

When you visit Kurdistan there is no need to worry about anything getting stolen. Kurdistan sees very little crime. You can leave your phone and bag on the table while you order locals say. I would personally never do that, but according to locals it is common to do and nothing ever happens.

I also rented a car and went on a 4-day road trip. Roads are actually pretty ok, but definitely watch out for unexpected speed bumps and so now and then some potholes on less maintained roads. I drove around Northwest Kurdistan but avoided Mosul. I did not come across any problems or unsafe situations whatsoever on my road trip. Language barriers are real though, but people are very friendly and super helpful. When traveling to Kurdistan a road trip if one of the best things to do.

Watch my Instagram Story videos here: Iraq 1 , Iraq 2 and Iraq 3 .

The last 3 days I decided to travel to Sulaymaniyah, the shared taxi was pretty convenient and as I was hosted by a local in Sulaymaniyah I even got to see the city from a locals perspective. Not a single time did I feel unsafe or uncomfortable.

2. Kurdistan Iraq history

It is quite impossible to write in brief about the Kurdistan Iraq history in this travel blog. This region of the world has been fought over since the days of Karel the Great and still is a place of conflict until today. Kurdistan has had an extremely turbulent past and only in the last 30 years already they had to deal with a genocide, war against the Saddam regime, multiple humanitarian crises, fighting for independency and only recently the war against ISIS of course.

In this blog I want to focus on Kurdistan travel tips rather than its turbulent history. Though one of the best things to do in Kurdistan is to visit the Amna Suraka Museum in Sulaymaniyah. Definitely don’t miss this when traveling to Kurdistan Iraq. It is an amazing history lesson!

3. Do I need a visa to travel to Kurdistan

Most Western countries can visit Kurdistan Iraq visa free. Your passport will get stamped on arrival and you are allowed to stay up to 30 days. This only counts for the autonomous region of Kurdistan, you are NOT allowed to travel to Iraq. These are the visa free countries:

Australia, Austria, Belgium, Brazil, Bulgaria, Canada, Croatia, Cyprus, Czech Republic, Denmark, UAE, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iran, Ireland, Italy, Japan, Kuwait, Latvia, Luxembourg, Malta, Netherlands, New Zealand, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Qatar, Romania, Slovakia, Slovenia, South Korea, Spain, Sweden, Turkey, United Arabic Emirates United Kingdom, United States.

4. Is Kurdistan a real country

Kurdistan is NOT an official country! Kurdish people are considered the biggest ethnic group in the world without their own country. They are spread over 4 countries: Iran, Turkey, Syria and Iraq. Only in Iraq Kurdistan is considered an autonomous region. In Iran, Turkey and Syria Kurds don’t have a special status.

Kurdistan became an autonomous region within Iraq since 1998 and this status was reconfirmed in the Iraqi constitution in 2005.

5. Language in Kurdistan

The official language spoken in Kurdistan is Kurdish. It is related to Turkish and Farsi (Iran) and therefore many Kurds also speak Turkish. Most of them also understand/speak Arabic, but do rather not use the Arabic language.

Kurds and Arabs are not each others best friends, but live in peace together nowadays… let’s put it that way!

When traveling to Kurdistan you may want to download a translate app or use Google Translator as most local people don’t speak English at all. In touristy places, hotels, restaurants there is always someone that speaks good English though. The younger generation speaks pretty ok English.

6. Religion in Kurdistan

The majority of the Kurdish people are Sunni Muslims, like in Saoudi Arabia. That said it felt like Kurdistan was pretty liberal and not that conservative as in other places in the Middle East. There are also some minorities like Christians, Yazidis and Zoroastrians.

Steets will mostly be filled with men and you won't see that many women out on their own. In Sulaymaniyah things are changing slowly though and you see women out and about on the streeets. I know you are wondering... No you don't need to wear a head scarf as a woman!

7. Weather in Kurdistan

Be prepared for extreme temperatures when traveling to Kurdistan in summer. It can get up to 50 degrees celsius in July and August. Winters are short but cold and snowfall in Erbil and Sulaymaniyah occurs from time to time. The mountains see a lot of snow every winter.

8. Best time to travel to Kurdistan Iraq

The best time to visit Kurdistan is in spring and autumn when temperatures are moderate. Best months are March and April when the countryside is green and heavenly with waterfalls all around. October and November sees great weather with clear blue skies guaranteed.

When I was visiting in mid September it was still 35+ degrees (95+), nights were pretty nice with 22 degrees (71). Pretty damn hot during the day though so visiting the more mountainous areas was the best thing to do in Kurdistan at that time.

9. Money in Kurdistan

The local currency is the same as in Iraq: the Iraqi Dinar (IQD). The Iraqi Dinar has been very stable in the last 5 years and the going rate is around $1 USD = 1,200 IQD. It is wisely to bring at least some cash money as there are exchange offices everywhere and they charge only a small fee.

10. ATM’s in Kurdistan

International ATM’s are not common, so bringing some cash when traveling to Kurdistan is advisable. The cash machines at Erbil International Airport weren’t working on my arrival so again bring cash to exchange. Later I found a good working cash machine for Visa and MasterCard at Nobel Hotel in Ankawa.

Most ATM’s don’t accept international bank cards. Those who do sometimes limit the amount to $50,000 ($42). Pretty annoying as in my case I get charged $5 per transaction from my bank! This happened to me at Byblos Bank and therefore I would suggest you to not use that one.

11. Credit cards in Kurdistan

Most of the places I have been didn’t accept international credit cards. The car rental company did. I rented a car from Europecar and they accepted a credit card.

12. Buying a sim card in Kurdistan

Upon arrival at Erbil Airport you will find 4 shops selling sim cards straight away Korek, Asiacell, Zain and Fastlink. It is pretty simple to determine the best prepaid Kurdistan sim card for tourists as only Fastlink can offer you a 4G connections. Unforunately Korek, Asiacell and Zain only offer 3G and I can tell you that is not what you want in a modern age.

Buying a sim card at Erbil Airport is slightly more expensive, but easy, quick and convenient. However Fastlink is not open at night! :(

The downside of Fastlink is that it only works for internet so you can’t call or text. However I never do that anyway, so for me this Kurdistan sim card was the best one anyway. As I needed to buy a sim card in Erbil anyway to find to best deal for Fastlink Kurdistan I shopped around. There are uncountable phone shops but they offer different value.

A Fastnet sim card costs 10,000 IQD ($8.5) and I found a mobile phone shop that gave me 18 GB for 15,000 IQD ($12.5). Amazing deal and it worked absolutely amazing, 4G around the whole country.

13. Prices in Kurdistan

Traveling in Kurdistan is not super cheap. Budget hotels start from $30 per night and getting around is not cheap either. As there is no public transport, taxis are the way to go. Restaurants in Erbil charge around $6 for breakfast and lunch, dinner is around $8-$10 per person. A beer in a restaurant is around $2-$3, a cocktail or mix drink around $5.

When backpacking Kurdistan you will probably like to go to the cheaper local restaurants where you can already find shawarma and kebabs for $1. But you can also find skybars in Erbil where a beer is $7, but these places are rare.

14. Drinking alcohol in Kurdistan, Iraq

Since Kurdistan is predominately Muslim, most places in Kurdistan don’t serve alcohol, but especially in Erbil and Sulaymaniyah it is super easy to find alcohol and to get drunk.

In Erbil you will need to go to Ankawa, the Christian Quarter. Here you will find multiple liquor stores and also restaurants that serve alcohol. Beers in a liquor store cost $1 (Corona, Heineken, Efes, etc.). International hotels often have a license to sell alcohol as well, but are expensive.

In Sulaymaniyah finding drinks is like anywhere in Europe. Pretty much every bar/restaurant serves alcohol and prices are ok.

For some reason Kurdistan Iraq is one of those few countries in the world where Corona is the cheapest beer on the menu! Definitely a reason to travel to Kurdistan, right? ;)

15. Prostitution in Kurdistan

Yes, yes! You would probably not expect it from Kurdistan, Iraq but in Sulaymaniyah I found a red light district. Not that I got a taste of it, but I stumbled upon it and was very surprised to see decriminalised prostitution in Kurdistan. Not throwing it out here because I think it should be mentioned as a Kurdistan travel tip, just willing to take away misconceptions. Apparently Sulaymaniyah in Kurdistan Iraq is not that strict Muslim as we may think it is.

16. Tipping in Kurdistan

It is not super common to leave a tip in Kurdistan. Just paying the bill and leaving small change is normal practice and will already be appreciated. However the more popular places, especially were they serve alcohol they already add 10% tip to the bill.

17. Getting around Kurdistan

There is no organized public transport so when traveling around Kurdistan you will have to make use of taxis. The cheapest way to go from A to B are shared taxis who depart from several places around the city. If you for example want to get from Erbil to Sulaymaniyah then a shared taxi can be found from the Bagdhad Terminal in Erbil. A shared taxi from Erbil to Sulaymaniyah and the other way around cost 15,000 IQD ($13) for a back seat and 20,000 IQD ($17) for the front seat. It takes about 3-4 hours depending on traffic.

Getting around cities

Within cities it is best to grab a taxi and the going rate is somewhere in and between 2,000 ($1.5) and 5,000 ($4). From one side to the other in Erbil was 5,000 and it took about 25 minutes. Taxi drivers were friendly and easy going and never over charging.

From Erbil Airport to the city

Don’t take a taxi straight on arrival. These guys will charge you $30 set fare, although Ankawa for example is only 10 minutes by taxi. There are very limited taxis allowed at the arrival hall exit. But there is a bus you can take at the Arrival terminal. Almost everyone will take this bus, so follow the crowd. Then grab a taxi here that is dropping off passengers. In the middle of the night when taxis were very rare I found a taxi for only 8,000 IQD ($6.5) to my Airbnb in Ankawa.

Renting a car in Kurdistan

The best way to travel around Kurdistan is by renting a car. There are some really cool places to visit in Kurdistan, but it is fairly impossible to get there by shared taxi or public transport. Renting a car in Erbil was $60 per day and that was over the weekend, so I guess you can find it cheaper during the week.

18. Checkpoints Kurdistan

When traveling in Kurdistan you will have to go through to several checkpoints. It weren’t that many as I lately had on my trip to Syria but there are a few. You can mostly just pass by smiling and waving, although some want to see your passport. It is pretty easy and there is no need to worry for them when visiting Kurdistan. It is all about your attitude, just be smiley, be happy, these soldiers are mostly happy to see tourists in Kurdistan.

19. Kurdistan tour guide

There are a bunch of Kurdistan tour guides you can find online, but they are pretty expensive. When you are backpacking Kurdistan Im sure you don’t want to even approach them as they charge up to $150 a day for a guide/driver and when there are more people in the car they charge even more. STUPID!

When I inquired I was straight away put off by this practice as that shows it purely is a money making thing, not serving tourism. Some don't even have English speaking guides, so what is the point. So if you are looking for a Kurdistan tour guide, I am not the one to ask, because I think most of them are rip offs. At least the ones I have been in contact with.

I was lucky I got toured around in Sulaymaniyah by my online friend from Instagram (@baderkhanamerbadran) . I even stayed with his family and was treated like a family member. An amazing local experience!

20. Kurdistan tours

A great alternative is the Facebook Group called Rock Ur Bones . They organize Kurdistan tours and you can just join them. Most trips though are over the weekend, but I am sure that if you drop your request here some people are able to help. This Facebook group is amazing for ideas/inspiration for when you travel to Kurdistan, Iraq. Also great for when backpacking Kurdistan and looking for fellow travel buddies.

21. What to wear in Kurdistan

Kurdistan is predominantly Muslim and therefore for women it is advised to cover shoulders and knees at all times. Erbil is much more conservative than Sulaymaniyah and while going out in Sulaymaniyah I saw girls in skirts and heels, but only in high end bars and restaurants. As a woman you don't need to wear a head scarf like in Iran. In 2014 I travel there, it was amazing, check my Iran travel guide .

For local men it is not common to wear shorts, but for tourists it is totally excepted. I always wore my short jeans, a t-shirt and my flip flops. In Sulaymaniyah even some local young men were wearing shorts. I must say though that walking around the streets of Kurdistan Iraq I always felt underdressed. But since it was 35/105 degrees I couldn’t really be bothered.

22. Where to stay in Kurdistan

Finding accommodation when traveling in Kurdistan can be a pain. It is not that easy to book hotels online, especially outside the bigger cities. A Kurdistan travel tip is to go old school and find accommodation while on the road. During my Kurdistan road trip I found out it was very easy to book hotels/motels on the spot. Just walk in, ask for the price, see the room, negotiate and reserve. I think this is the best way to travel Kurdistan.

Couchsurfing Kurdistan

When backpacking Kurdistan I would suggest you to make use of Couchsurfing. I did not use Couchsurfing for more than 5 years, but because of a friend’s recommendation I tried it again on my trip to Kurdistan. It was a winner!!!! Wow what was I lucky with my couchsurfing host in Erbil. I ended up staying 4 nights with my host and afterwards we rented a car and went on a road trip together with another friend. We ticked off some of the most amazing things to do in Kurdistan, the road trip was epic!

In Sulaymaniyah I was equally over the moon as I got to stay with a local friend. Not directly through couchsurfing this time, but through Instagram. His family treated me like one of them and I got a real local Kurdistan experience. Thanks a million!

Airbnb Kurdistan

There are some great Airbnb places for the grab in Sulaymaniyah and Erbil but outside the cities there are very few options. I used Airbnb for several nights while traveling in Kurdistan.

Booking Kurdistan hotels online

The same counts for Kurdistan hotels on online booking sites. While on our road trip we hardly found hotels in Kurdistan online, but while driving through towns there were always a bunch of hotels or motels for the grab.

Booking.com

23. Things to do in Kurdistan

This Kurdistan travel guide wouldn’t be complete without the best things to do in Kurdistan. Northern Kurdistan is known for its amazing natural beauty with deep canyons, lakes and green mountains. On top of the places to visit in Kurdistan that I will mention in this travel blog there for sure are a bunch more but I want to focus on the main tourist attractions in Kurdistan.

24. Visit Erbil

Let’s start with the capital of Kurdistan: Erbil. As I said before I definitely liked hanging out in this city but I wouldn’t name it on my top 10 places to visit in the Middle East. Erbil is a typical Middle Eastern city where you find modern buildings next to outdated or unfinished buildings. Make sure to walk around the main square before sunset and feel the local vibe. Sit down in one of the cafes and have a tea or stroll through the bazaar.

Also see if you can arrange a visit to the Jalil Khayat Mosque and get a sneak peak inside: fabulous!

Another amazing place to watch the sunset when you travel to Erbil is the Loft skybar located at the International Hotel.

Watch my Instagram Story videos here: Iraq 1 .

The Erbil Citadel is a UNESCO World Heritage site but pretty disappointing to visit to be honest. There is no entrance fee so just walk in and see it for yourself. There is a stones & gems museum, and the Kurdish textile museum, which all ask $1 entrance fee. In the middle you will find an impressively huge flag of Kurdistan.

25. Visit Sulaymaniyah

The second biggest city in Kurdistan, Iraq is not so conservative as Erbil. It definitely is more open and feels much relaxer and more modern. Where in Erbil you will mostly only see men on the streets in Sulaymaniyah also groups of girls go out by themselves. It is still not really common, but slowly slowly it is becoming a much more open society.

When visiting Sulaymaniyah don’t miss the busy city center where you will find many markets with endless food stalls to sample from. Fresh fruits, crepes, nuts, tea and coffee bars, barbecue places and many more. It is best to visit in the evening when the streets are packed and people watching while sipping a traditional Kurdish coffee is one of the best things to do in Sulaymaniyah.

When visiting Sulaymaniyah make sure you don’t miss a sunset! There are numerous viewpoints around. Don’t miss the sunset from the Goizha Mountain where you can get by taking the cable car up. This is also where I am going to paraglide next time I visit Sulaymaniyah. Families gather along the ridge of the mountain and there are places where you can buy food and drinks.

My other favorite place to visit in Sulaymaniyah is the Roman amphitheater in the Hawary Shar Park with amazing mountains views.

All about my videos about visiting Sulaymaniyah can be found in my Iraq 3 Instagram stories .

26. Amna Suraka (Red) Museum Sulaymaniyah

This museum for sure is among the best places to visit in Kurdistan. Housed in the former intelligence office of the Saddam regime this is were you will find all about the recent Kurdistan history: the 1988 Anfall genocide, the days of the Saddam Hoessein regime and even about the war against ISIS. Prepare for an emotional journey as the Red Museum in Sulaymaniyah will give you goosebumps.

These are some of the photos I took from the Amna Suraka Museum in Sulaymaniyah. 

27. Rawanduz

This small mountain village is one of the best places to visit in Kurdistan when you love the outdoors. Surrounded by mountains and deep canyons there are a ton of viewpoints, one already 10 minutes walk on the North side of this sleepy little town. To get here you will need to rent a car, but it is definitely one of my Kurdistan travel tips to write down.

28. Barzan viewpoint

With this name you will most likely find the best thing to do in Kurdistan. I was so extremely excited when I got to see this place with my own eyes. Luckily it is not mentioned in all Kurdistan travel guides yet and it is not easy to find either. The Barzan viewpoint looks like the horseshoe bend in Arizona, but then better because there are NO tourists.

The viewpoint can be found north of Rezan just before a little town called Dore. You can find it on Google Maps (36.8938876, 44.1304754).

Watch my Instagram Story videos (Iraq 2) about Barzan Viewpoint here . You will see for yourself how this is one of the best places to visit in Kurdistan.

29. Deralok Canyon

Another place you should definitely write down on your list of things to do in Kurdistan is the gorgeous canyon of Deralok. You will have to drive on a dirt road until you can’t go any further. Then cross the small river and climb up a little hill till you get to a man-made canal. Walk on the ridge for a s long as you can into the canyon. On your left hand side you will see the river and waterfalls of this oasis.

Watch my Instagram Story videos (Iraq 2) about Deralok here .

A pretty damn amazing photo spot, but not so interesting in itself to be honest. I drove through Amedi, but didn’t see anything interesting. Amedi is a village situated on top of a small hill. There are some waterfalls around, which are super touristy. Find a nice restaurant on the West side of the town and have lunch with an amazing view over Amedi.

This is the most holy place in the Yazidi religion, their Mecca or Jerusalem. There are very few Yazidis in the world who practice this monotheistic religion. This unwritten religion is taught on for generations dating back to the ancient Mesopotamians. It is often described as very mysterious and I kind a can confirm that. In Lalish you can find the clear water source related to where the Noah’s Ark stranded. Everyone is allowed to visit Lalish, but I would recommend you to fix a guide as otherwise you will be walking around not knowing what is going on here. It was an emotional, but also a very spirital experience.

Hard to express in words, may better you watch my Instagram Story videos (Iraq 3) about Lalish and this mysterious religion. In the link you find more details about the (tragic) story of the Yazidis.

32. Shanidar Cave

Coincidentally I stumbled upon the Shanidar Cave while on my road trip and I feel very lucky I did.  When you travel to Kurdistan try to make it out here (36.8337579, 44.2209624). At first I was a little disappointed as there are a lot of fences around the cave because of an ongoing excavation project. There is no guide available but talk to the one of the archeologists and he/her will explain you that this is where they found the biggest group of Neanderthals remains in the world. Another reason to visit Kurdistan!

33. Sadam's Villa Amedi

Not really sure if I should mention Sadam's Villa nearby Amedi as one of the things to do in Kurdistan Iraq, but to me it was very interesting. It definitely is not a tourist attraction as it now is a military base for the Kurdish Army. While on our Kurdistan road trip we drove by to check it out and were friendly greeting by a man with a big gun. We had no clue it was a military base nowadays so we were a bit surprised. They let us in though, gave us a tour around the building and let us shoot some photos from the landscapes from the top of the building.

This is not a Kurdistan tourist attraction, but if you are adventurous then totally go and you might be lucky to be toured around. We were not allowed to take film and take photos in the building. Before we were told not to I filmed a little bit with my GoPro.

34. Shaqlawa

A small village in and between two hills just north of Erbil. It is a popular place to visit in Kurdistan  on a weekend trip. Shaqlawa has some restaurants with good views and some hiking trails to the top of the hills. I wasn’t that impressed to be honest, but some Kurdistan travel guides rave about it. There is a female run bakery that serves delicious sweets too.

35. How to get to Kurdistan

There are two international Airports with direct flights to Europe: Erbil International Airport and Sulaymaniyah International Airport. This is the best way to get to Kurdistan, but you can also travel overland from either Turkey or Iran.

I hope all the above Kurdistan travel tips were useful for your next trip to Northern Iraq. Apart from all the amazing things to do and places to see in Kurdistan I have to thank the people of Kurdistan just as much. These warm hearted people made my trip one to never forget! Thank you for your amazing hospitality and your endless smiles.

I will definitely travel to Kurdistan again and will then continue my trip into Iran crossing the border overland. But that is something for 2024. I will definitely be back traveling in Kurdistan again.

I have traveled to almost all countries in the Middle East now. Syria was definitely one of my favorite trips. Click here for the best things to do in Syria .

Curious about more of my trips? Since December 2012 I am traveling the world continuously and have now been to more than 155 countries as of January 2024.

Interested how travel bloggers afford to travel the world  then click on the link to read my story.

Enjoy your trip to Kurdistan and thank you for reading my Kurdistan travel blog. 

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Latest update

We continue to advise:

Do not travel to Iraq, including the Kurdistan Region of Iraq, due to the volatile security situation and the threat of terrorism, armed conflict, kidnapping and violent crime.

Iraq (PDF 766.89 KB)

The Middle East (PDF 1.45 MB)

Local emergency contacts

Depending on what you need, contact your:

• family and friends
• travel agent
• insurance provider

Your insurer should have a 24-hour emergency number.

Advice levels

Do not travel to Iraq, including the Kurdistan Region of Iraq.

Do not travel to Iraq, including the Kurdistan Region of Iraq, due to the volatile security situation and the threat of terrorism, armed conflict, kidnapping and violent crime.

See Safety .

• The security situation in Iraq remains volatile, and there's a risk of violence, armed conflict, kidnapping and terrorist attacks. The security situation could deteriorate with little warning. You should leave immediately by commercial means if it's safe to do so.
• If you decide to travel to or stay in Iraq, despite our advice, you should remain vigilant and have robust security arrangements and contingency plans in place. You should get professional security advice and keep up-to-date with the latest developments.
• Large protests and political rallies occur regularly across Iraq. These can quickly turn violent. Avoid large public gatherings. If you're caught in an affected area, stay indoors. Follow the advice of local authorities or your security provider.
• There's an ongoing threat to foreign interests. A US national was attacked and killed in November 2022.
• Terrorist attacks can occur without warning. Avoid possible targets such as crowded places and public spaces, including markets, transport hubs, places of worship and government facilities. If you must visit them, always have an exit plan.
• There's a high threat of kidnapping throughout the country. Terrorists and criminal gangs may kidnap expats working in Iraq. Academics, journalists and aid workers are at a higher risk. You should review your security arrangements regularly and carefully consider any travel plans.
• Violent crime and corruption are common. Crime includes kidnapping, murder and robbery. Organised criminal gangs, militia and tribal groups are significant threats. If you decide to travel to or stay in Iraq, despite our advice, ensure your vehicle doors are locked and windows up. Secure your accommodation against intruders.
• Be alert to scams. Scammers may claim to represent the Australian or Iraqi governments, or say they're Iraqi importers. Tell the  Australian Embassy in Baghdad  if you're contacted by people or websites claiming to represent the Australian Government. Contact the  Iraqi Embassy in Canberra  before making any payments to people claiming to be from the Iraqi Government. Get legal advice if an Iraqi importer contacts you or your company.

Full travel advice: Safety

• Insect-borne diseases are common. Malaria is widespread in the southern province of Basra and areas below 1500m. Consider taking anti-malarial medicine if you're travelling to these areas. Ensure your accommodation is insect-proof. Use insect repellent.

HIV/AIDS is common. Take steps to reduce your risk of exposure to the virus.

• Waterborne, foodborne and other infectious diseases are common. These include haemorrhagic fever, cholera, typhoid and hepatitis. Drink only boiled or bottled water. Avoid raw or undercooked food.
• Iraq is no longer affected by wild poliovirus. However, the disease may still come in from nearby countries. Ensure your vaccinations are up to date before you travel.
• Medical facilities in major cities are limited. In remote areas, they're very basic or not available. In case of a serious accident or illness, you may require a medical evacuation. Ensure you have adequate travel health insurance and accessible funds to cover the cost of any medical treatment and repatriation. Ensure your travel insurance covers you in Iraq. Some companies do not provide coverage when you are in a do not travel area.
• The temperature in summer months can exceed 50°C (122°F), which can result in dehydration and serious health problems.

Full travel advice:  Health

• Iraq is a predominantly Muslim country, which is reflected in its laws. Many laws in Iraq are different to those in Australia. Ensure you always respect local traditions, customs, laws and religious customs. Especially during the holy month of Ramadan, when eating, drinking or smoking in public during daylight hours is illegal, or when visiting places of religious significance.
• It's illegal to preach anywhere except in a place of worship. It's also illegal to try to convert a Muslim or for Muslims to abandon their faith. 
• There are severe penalties, including the death penalty, for murder, treason, drug offences, kidnapping, smuggling antiquities, espionage and terrorism.
• It's illegal to photograph or film government buildings, checkpoints, military bases and embassies. Get approval if you want to film in a public place. Journalists lacking appropriate approvals have been arrested.
• Iraq has banned the import, manufacture, and selling of alcoholic beverages of all types, punishable by fines of up to IQD 25 million. Customs officers may also confiscate prohibited goods or items deemed a threat to the peace, security, health, environment, or social order of Iraq.

Full travel advice:  Local laws

• If you're in Iraq despite our advice, leave as soon as you can.
• If you intend to travel to Iraq despite our advice, you may be eligible for a visa on arrival. Fees apply. Contact an  Iraqi embassy or consulate  for details. In the current environment, if you travel to Iraq or stay in Iraq despite our advice, it may not be possible to return to Australia when you want to.
• You'll require a visa to travel to the Kurdistan Region of Iraq. You can apply for an e-visa online before arrival on the e-visa portal of the Kurdistan Region Government. It's also possible to obtain a visa on arrival. This visa is valid for travel in Kurdistan only. If you plan to travel outside of Kurdistan to other regions of Iraq, you must obtain an Iraqi visa before travelling to Iraq.
• Iraq has banned the import, manufacture and selling of alcoholic beverages of all types, punishable by fines of up to IQD 25m. Customs officers may also confiscate prohibited goods or items deemed a threat to Iraq's peace, security, health, environment, or social order.
• Entry and exit conditions can change at short notice. Check requirements with your airline before you travel.
• There are security checkpoints throughout Iraq. Follow the instructions of officials at checkpoints. Criminals and terrorists have used false security checkpoints to stage kidnappings, robberies and murders or launch attacks.
• Road travel is dangerous. Risks include roadside bombs, attacks at checkpoints and robberies. If you need to travel by road, get professional security advice from a reputable company.

Full travel advice:  Travel

Local contacts

• The Consular Services Charter details what the Australian Government can and can't do to help you overseas.
• Our ability to provide consular services in Iraq is extremely limited.
• The Australian Embassy in Baghdad provides limited consular services by appointment only. Visit the Australian Embassy website for the latest information on consular and passport services.

Full travel advice: Local contacts

Full advice

The security situation in Iraq is unstable and could deteriorate with little warning.

You should leave immediately by commercial means if it's safe to do so. If there are no commercial options for leaving Iraq, the Australian Government can't help you leave.

Curfews and other security conditions can change at short notice.

If, despite our advice, you travel to or stay in Iraq:

• get professional security advice and regularly review your security measures
• have contingency plans
• never visit areas of military activity, including border areas
• obey restrictions set by local authorities
• monitor the media for new safety or security threats
• always be alert to your surroundings

Australian officials have adopted enhanced security measures.

There's a risk of terrorist attacks in Iraq. Terrorist attacks occur without warning and are more frequent in areas where Daesh had a strong presence, including: 

• Salah ah-Din

Armed opposition groups are active throughout Iraq. They have conducted major coordinated attacks against the Government of Iraq and civilians.

Attacks using Improvised Explosive Devices (IEDs) occur throughout Iraq, including in certain parts of Baghdad.

Attacks can occur at any time, but there's an increased risk during religious events, including Ramadan, Ashura and Arba'een. Attacks may also occur during political events, including international meetings, conferences or political rallies.

Targets for terrorist attacks include:

• Iraqi security forces
• government facilities
• checkpoints
• police stations
• recruiting centres
• military establishments

Terrorists may also target:

• Baghdad International Airport (BIAP)
• International Zone
• public transport (and hubs)
• mosques and churches
• markets, schools and universities
• funerals and religious gatherings
• foreign embassies
• other civilian infrastructure

The International Zone in Baghdad and BIAP are regularly targeted by rocket attacks and drones.

Avoid possible targets. If you must visit them, always have an exit plan. 

Iraqi security forces often conduct security operations across the country with little warning.

There has also been fighting between armed groups and Peshmerga forces in the Kurdistan region. 

A number of areas in the Kurdistan Region of Iraq remain susceptible to sporadic attack by artillery, drones and rockets.

Terrorism is a threat worldwide.

More information:

• Terrorist threats

There's a high, ongoing threat of kidnapping throughout Iraq.

Sources report that terrorists and criminal groups continue to look for opportunities to kidnap Westerners throughout Iraq. Kidnappers have targeted:

• journalists
• people working for NGOs
• people working for foreign companies

Criminal gangs and terrorists demand large ransoms for releasing hostages. Ransom payments to terrorist groups are likely to breach Australian anti-terrorism financing laws.

The Australian Government's longstanding policy is that it doesn't make payments or concessions to kidnappers.

Regularly re-assess your security arrangements and carefully consider any travel. Close protection security is important, but it does not completely protect you.

Civil unrest and political tension

Demonstrations and protests.

Political rallies and protests often happen in Baghdad and other regions of Iraq.

Large crowds can quickly gather and turn violent. Avoid large public gatherings. Security restrictions, including curfews and interruption to internet and social media service, may occur with little notice.

If, despite our advice, you travel to or stay in Iraq, monitor the media and other sources about possible unrest.

In Baghdad, most rallies and protests are held in Tahrir Square, near the entrance to the former International Zone or government buildings.

There have previously been violent clashes in and around the International Zone in Baghdad as well as other governorates of Iraq.

• On 29 August 2022, protesters entered the Government Palace and other government buildings in and around the International Green Zone in Baghdad, resulting in violent clashes.

Protests can occur in areas in the Kurdistan Region of Iraq due to regional tensions.

If you're in an affected area, stay indoors and follow the advice of local authorities or your security provider.

The security situation throughout Iraq remains volatile. Follow the advice of local authorities and monitor the media for updates.

Demonstrations and civil unrest

Violent crime

Violent crime and corruption are common. Kidnappings, murders and robberies occur.

Organised criminal gangs, militia and tribal groups are significant threats.

If, despite our advice, you travel to Iraq:

• travel with your vehicle's doors locked and windows up, even when moving
• secure your accommodation, including when you're inside

Scams and fraud

Some fraudulent websites and Facebook accounts in the past claimed to represent the Australian Government in Iraq. They approached local businesses for tender opportunities or individuals for visa application.

Tell the Australian Embassy in Baghdad if you're contacted by fake sites.

Some Australian businesses have been contacted by companies claiming to be Iraqi importers. They offer to do business in unusual or suspicious ways. Scammers may have knowledge of the industry and appear legitimate.

Get legal advice if you or your company is contacted.

Australian companies have been contacted by people claiming to represent the Government of Iraq. They are looking for payments associated with recently won contracts.

Get advice from the Embassy of the Republic of Iraq in Canberra before making any payments.

Some individuals offer to produce Iraqi identification cards. These cards are not accepted by local authorities and, if used, you could be arrested. Only obtain identification cards from relevant Iraqi authorities.

People claiming to represent the Australian Government have contacted some individuals to offer visas. To protect yourself from visa scams, you should only deal with official Australian Government channels such as the departmental website, Australian Visa Application Centres, or the Australian High Commission or Embassy in your country. Visit the Australian Government's  Visa Scams page for tips on identifying scams.

Cyber security 

You may be at risk of cyber-based threats during overseas travel to any country. Digital identity theft is a growing concern. Your devices and personal data can be compromised, especially if you’re connecting to Wi-Fi, using or connecting to shared or public computers, or to Bluetooth.

Social media can also be risky in destinations where there are social or political tensions, or laws that may seem unreasonable by Australian standards. Travellers have been arrested for things they have said on social media. Don't comment on local or political events on your social media.

Cyber security when travelling overseas

Climate and natural disasters

Iraq can experience  severe weather  and is in an active earthquake  zone.

Sandstorms and dust storms are common during the spring and summer months. Where possible, you should remain inside during severe storms, and seek medical advice if you have breathing difficulties. Flights can also be delayed or cancelled at short notice during severe storms.

From July to September, daytime temperatures can be over 50°C.

If, despite our advice, you travel to or stay in Iraq and there's a natural disaster:

• secure your passport in a safe location
• monitor local media and the Global Disaster Alert and Coordination System
• follow the advice of local authorities
• stay in touch with friends and family

The Government of Iraq has improved the structural integrity of Mosul Dam. However, a dam failure would cause significant flooding from Mosul to Baghdad. It could interrupt essential services. A failure of the Mosul Dam cannot be predicted.

If, despite our advice, you travel to or stay in Iraq and you're in an area near the Tigris River, including Baghdad:

• monitor local media reports
• have a contingency plan that covers evacuation

The Australian Government can't help you if commercial flights and other transport options aren't available.

If the Mosul Dam fails:

• secure your passport in a safe, waterproof location

Travel insurance

Get comprehensive travel insurance before you leave.

Your policy needs to cover all overseas medical costs, including medical evacuation. The Australian Government won't pay for these costs.

You'll probably need a special insurance policy that covers travel to high-risk destinations. Most Australian policies won't cover you for travel to Iraq.

If you can't afford travel insurance, you can't afford to travel. This applies to everyone, no matter how healthy and fit you are.

If you're not insured, you may have to pay many thousands of dollars up-front for medical care.

• what activities and care your policy covers
• that your insurance covers you for the whole time you'll be away.

Physical and mental health

Consider your physical and mental health before you travel, especially if you have an existing medical condition.

See your doctor or travel clinic to:

• have a basic health check-up   
• ask if your travel plans may affect your health
• plan any vaccinations you need.

Do this at least 8 weeks before you leave.

If you have immediate concerns for your welfare, or the welfare of another Australian, call the 24-hour Consular Emergency Centre on +61 2 6261 3305 or contact your  nearest Australian Embassy, High Commission or Consulate  to discuss counselling hotlines and services available in your location .’

• General health advice
• Healthy holiday tips  (Healthdirect Australia)

Medications

Not all medication available over the counter or by prescription in Australia is available in other countries. Some may even be considered illegal or a controlled substance, even if prescribed by an Australian doctor.

If you plan to bring medication, check if it's legal in Iraq. Take enough legal medicine for your trip.

Carry a copy of your prescription and a letter from your doctor stating:

• what the medication is
• your required dosage
• that it's for personal use only

Health risks

Insect-borne diseases.

Insect-borne diseases are common.

Malaria is widespread in the southern province of Basrah and areas below 1500m. This includes the northern provinces of:

• Sulaymaniyah

Other diseases caused by insect bites in some regions of Iraq include:

• Crimean-Congo haemorrhagic fever
• cutaneous and mucosal leishmaniasis

To reduce your risks from disease:

• make sure your accommodation is insect-proof
• always insect repellent
• wear long, loose, light-coloured clothing

Consider taking medicine to prevent malaria.

Get medical advice if you have a fever, muscle pain, rash or severe headache.

Bird flu (avian influenza)

The World Health Organization has confirmed human cases of bird flu in Iraq.

Other health risks

Waterborne, foodborne and other infectious diseases happen. These include:

• haemorrhagic fever
• tuberculosis

Serious outbreaks sometimes occur.

To protect yourself from illness and disease:

• drink boiled or bottled water
• avoid ice cubes
• don't eat raw and undercooked food, such as salads
• avoid contact with dogs and other mammals

If an animal bites or scratches you, get medical help straight away.

Get medical advice if you have a fever or diarrhoea.

Iraq is no longer affected by wild poliovirus. However, it's still at risk from international spread of the disease.

Stay up to date with vaccinations against polio (poliomyelitis) . Get a booster dose before you travel.

Medical care

Medical facilities in major cities are limited. In remote areas, they're very basic or not available. Stocks of medical equipment and medicines are severely depleted.

If you become seriously ill or injured, you may need to be evacuated.

Medical evacuation is very expensive and may be difficult to arrange because of the security situation.

You're subject to all local laws and penalties, including those that may appear harsh by Australian standards. Research local laws before travelling.

If you're arrested or jailed, the Australian Government will do what it can to help you under our Consular Services Charter . But we can't get you out of trouble or out of jail.

Penalties for drug offences are severe. They include long jail terms and the death penalty.

Carrying or using drugs

Death penalty

Iraq applies the death penalty for a range of crimes, including for murder, espionage, rape, kidnapping, terrorism, war crimes, smuggling antiquities and drug trafficking.

On 20 February 2023, the Iraqi national gazette published the new Municipalities Income law, which includes a provision prohibiting the import, manufacture, and selling of alcoholic beverages of all sorts, punishable by fines of up to IQD 25m. Customs officers may also confiscate prohibited goods or items deemed a threat to the peace, security, health, environment, or social order of Iraq.

Get professional advice for local legal matters. Know your rights and responsibilities, especially in family law, such as:

• child custody
• child support

It's illegal to:

• take antiques or artefacts out of the country
• preach anywhere except in a place of worship
• attempt to convert a Muslim
• abandon the Islamic faith if you're Muslim

Unauthorised filming in a public place is against the law. Authorities have arrested several foreign journalists for filming without approval.

It's also illegal to take photos or film government and security buildings, including:

• military bases

Although the laws of Iraq do not prohibit consensual sexual acts between people of the same sex, these acts could be illegal under other provisions of the law, such as public indecency.  Homosexuality is not socially accepted and l ocal attitudes towards LGBTI people may be hostile. There are no legal protections against discrimination. Violence against LGBTI people occur.

Local laws can change without notice. Check legal requirements with an embassy or consulate of Iraq .

• LGBTI travellers

Australian laws

Some Australian criminal laws still apply when you're overseas. If you break these laws, you may face prosecution in Australia.

• National security
• Staying within the law and respecting customs
• Forced marriage

Dual citizenship

Iraq recognises dual nationality.

If a dual-national child has an Iraqi father and the child wants to leave the country, you may need to provide proof of the father's permission.

Dual nationals

Local customs

Hotels may not allow couples to stay unless they can provide proof that they're married.

The holy month of Ramadan  is observed in Iraq. Respect religious and cultural customs and laws at this time. 

During Ramadan, eating, drinking and smoking is illegal in public during the day. If you're not fasting, avoid these activities around people who are.

Explore our Ramadan page to learn more, including dates for Ramadan.

Visas and border measures

Every country or territory decides who can enter or leave through its borders. For specific information about the evidence you'll need to enter a foreign destination, check with the nearest embassy, consulate or immigration department of the destination you're entering. 

If you travel to Iraq despite our advice, you may be eligible for either a 30-day visa on arrival (Visitor) or a 60-day visa on arrival (Regular), if you're travelling on an ordinary passport. Different rules apply for official and diplomatic passport holders. Visa fees apply.

Authorities may refuse entry to Iraq if your passport contains Israeli stamps or visas.

From 1 March 2023, people travelling to the Kurdistan Region of Iraq will require a visa. You can find details and apply on the e-visa portal of the Kurdistan Regional Government. If you arrive in Kurdistan without a visa you can apply online using the e-visa portal or obtain a visa on arrival. These visas are valid for travel in the KRI only. If you plan to travel outside of Kurdistan to other regions of Iraq, you must obtain an Iraqi visa before travelling to Iraq.

Ensure you understand the conditions of your visa, especially if you are travelling as a member of a group.

Entry and exit conditions can change at short notice. For details about visas, currency, customs and quarantine rules, contact either:

• an embassy or consulate of Iraq , or
• the Iraqi Ministry of Interior (Arabic)

If you're in Iraq, you should leave as soon as you're able to do so. If you travel to Iraq despite our advice, contact your travel provider or the nearest  embassy or consulate of Iraq  for the latest information on entry requirements prior to departure.

Other formalities

For a child travelling without a parent, the guardian must carry documentation saying that the child's parents allow the travel.

An Australian-Iraqi dual national child with an Iraqi father may need to obtain permission from the child's father before authorities will let the child leave Iraq.

Land borders

If despite our advice, you travel to border areas note that border crossings can close with little or no warning.

Sensitive border areas, especially with Syria and Türkiye ,  are military targets.

Checkpoints

Security checkpoints are stationed throughout Iraq. 

At these checkpoints:

• follow the instructions of local authorities
• exercise extreme caution

Criminals and terrorists have used false security checkpoints to:

• stage kidnappings, robberies and murders
• launch attacks

Some countries won't let you enter unless your passport is valid for at least 6 months after you plan to leave that country. This can apply even if you're just transiting or stopping over.

Some foreign governments and airlines apply the rule inconsistently. Travellers can receive conflicting advice from different sources.

You can end up stranded if your passport is not valid for more than 6 months.

The Australian Government does not set these rules. Check your passport's expiry date before you travel. If you're not sure it'll be valid for long enough, consider getting a new passport .

Lost or stolen passport

Your passport is a valuable document. It's attractive to people who want to use your identity to commit crimes. Always keep it in a safe place.

Some people may try to trick you into giving them your passport.

If your passport is lost or stolen, tell the Australian Government as soon as possible:

• In Australia, contact the Australian Passport Information Service .
• If you're overseas, contact the nearest Australian embassy or consulate .

Passport with ‘X’ gender identifier

Although Australian passports comply with international standards for sex and gender, we can’t guarantee that a passport showing 'X' in the sex field will be accepted for entry or transit by another country. Contact the nearest  embassy, high commission or consulate of your destination  before you arrive at the border to confirm if authorities will accept passports with 'X' gender markers.

The local currency is the Iraqi Dinar (IQD).

On exit and entry you must declare all amounts in excess of IQD200,000, US$10,000, or the same value in other foreign currencies. Gems, jewellery or other items valued at US$10,000 or more must also be declared.

US dollars and euros are the easiest foreign currencies to exchange at local commercial banks and exchange bureaus.

Local travel

Road travel.

Road travel is dangerous.

Dangers include:

• roadside bombs
• attacks at checkpoints
• drivers not following road rules
• poor driving

Drink driving is illegal. See Local laws

If, despite our advice, you need to travel by road, first:

• get professional security advice from a company with a good reputation
• arrange personal security measures
• make contingency plans
• get local advice on possible routes

Driving or riding

Airport closures or flight suspensions may happen. Double-check your flight arrangements before travelling to the airport.

In the past, some airlines have suspended flights to and from Erbil and Sulaymaniyah International Airports due to political tensions.

Aviation safety and security standards may not meet those set by the International Civil Aviation Organization.

DFAT doesn't provide information on the safety of individual commercial airlines or flight paths.

Check Iraq's air safety profile  with the Aviation Safety Network.

Emergencies

Consular contacts.

Read the Consular Services Charter for what the Australian Government can and can't do to help you overseas.

Australian Embassy, Baghdad

Consular services are severely limited due to the security situation.

The Australian Embassy  provides limited consular services by appointment only.

Visit the embassy website to make an appointment.

24-hour Consular Emergency Centre

In a consular emergency, if you can't contact an embassy, call the 24-hour Consular Emergency Centre on:

• +61 2 6261 3305 from overseas
• 1300 555 135 in Australia

Travelling to Iraq?

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Kurdistan Regional Government

Representation in the united states, monday 1 february 2021, covid-19 travel restrictions.

Washington, DC, USA (us.gov.krd) - The Kurdistan Regional Government has lifted COVID-19 restrictions. As of April 1, 2022, fully vaccinated Iraqi and foreign travelers will no longer need to present a recent negative PCR test ahead of traveling. Travelers above the age of 12 who have received one dose of Johnson & Johnson, or two doses of any other vaccine will no longer require evidence of a recent negative PCR test when traveling to the Kurdistan Region of Iraq. In cases where an individual cannot receive a vaccine, proof of a negative PCR test conducted in the previous 72 hours will be required. Travelers under the age of 12 are exempt from both, the PCR test and the COVID-19 vaccine.

We advise all who intend to travel to Kurdistan Region to check the KRG website for updates:  https://gov.krd/english/  and KRI international airports, EIA  https://erbilairport.com/Main/Main.aspx   and in ISU  https://www.sulairport.krd/

Things to know before travelling to Iraqi Kurdistan

• Apr 23, 2023

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After travelling to Kurdistan, I was asked a lot of questions about my experience, especially as a solo female traveller in Kurdistan. 

So I decided to answer all of the questions in this post, I share all you need to know before visiting Kurdistan in Iraq. 

Kurdistan is an autonomous region in the north of Iraq and has borders with the Kurdish regions of Iran , Turkey and Syria. This region is run by the Kurdistan Regional Government. It has its own parliament, flag and military forces.

The history of Kurdistan is a long and complex one, marked by various conflicts and resistance. Despite the challenges they have faced, the Kurdish people continue to hold onto their identity and their dreams of a free and independent Kurdistan.

Growing up in Iran, I had some exposure to the Kurdish culture but it wasn't until I visited Kurdistan that I truly got to experience the region's rich history and vibrant culture.

This post contains affiliate links and if you click one I may receive a small commission at no extra cost to you.

Is Iraqi Kurdistan Safe to Travel?

Initially, I was a bit nervous about exploring Kurdistan alone, but I quickly discovered that it's a safe and welcoming destination for travellers. Despite the recent past tensions in the country, most travellers visit Kurdistan trouble-free, and it is by far the safest region in Iraq.

Foreign visitors are warmly welcomed in Kurdistan, and you'll find that the locals are friendly, hospitable, and eager to share their culture with you. However, it's always a good idea to do your own research and check for updates on the security situation before your trip. 

Keep in mind that travel advisories can change quickly, so it's important to stay informed.  

History of Kurdistan

The history of Iraqi Kurdistan is one of survival and resistance against numerous invaders and conquerors, including ancient Persians, Alexander the Great, Muslim Arabs, Seljuk Turks, Mongols, Persians, and Ottoman Turks. 

The Kurds have traditionally retreated to the mountains for sanctuary, which has allowed them to maintain their distinct ethnic identity. However, this has also led to almost continuous conflict and repression as they sought autonomy and independence from various ruling powers.

During World War I, the Sykes-Picot Agreement between Britain and France sought to carve up the Middle East into nation-states and spheres of control. The Treaty of Sevres, which provided for a referendum on Kurdish independence, was rejected by the new Turkish Republic, and the Treaty of Lausanne gave control of the entire Anatolian peninsula to Turkey, dashing Kurdish hopes for autonomy.

After years of struggle, the Kurds in Iraq gained autonomy in 1992 with the establishment of the Kurdistan Regional Government (KRG), a secular government modelled along the lines of a modern independent nation-state. In 2003, the Peshmerga, the military forces of Iraqi Kurdistan, joined in the fight to overthrow Saddam Hussein, and after his removal, the new Iraqi constitution recognised the KRG and the Kurdistan Parliament.

Do you need Visa to visit Kurdistan?

If you are a citizen of the EU countries, the UK, USA, Canada, Australia, Iran, and Turkey you can get a visa on arrival upon entering Iraqi Kurdistan by land or air. It cost 75 dollars. Alternatively, the government of the Kurdistan Region of Iraq has introduced a new e-visa process that you can apply before your trip. 

It's important to note that your Iraqi Kurdistan visa is only valid within the borders of the Kurdistan Region of Iraq. With this visa, you cannot enter the rest of Iraq including Mosul or Kirkuk. 

Make sure your passport is valid for a minimum period of 6 months from the date of your entry. 

How to get to Kurdistan?

The most convenient way to get to Kurdistan is to take a flight. There are two international airports in Kurdistan, one is in Erbil the capital and the other one is in Suaymaniyah. 

As you can imagine, there is no direct flight from London or other European cities to Kurdistan, but Turkish Airlines has daily flights from Istanbul. The other option is Fly Dubai, which has regular flights from Dubai to this region.

Alternatively, you can travel overland to Kurdistan from either Turkey or Iran. And of course, if you are already in Iraq, you can easily visit Kurdistan. 

The Best Time to Visit Kurdistan

Kurdistan has a semi-arid climate with hot summers and cold winters. The best time to visit Iraqi Kurdistan is during the spring, from March to May and autumn from September to November. In Springs and Autums, the temperatures are mild and the weather is generally pleasant. 

Keep in mind that the Kurdish new year is in March and if you experience something unique, I highly recommend you to travel to Kurdistan during the Norouz celebrations, and make sure to be in Akre on the 21st. For more information, you should watch my video about the Norouz celebration in Akre .  

Sim Cards and Internet in Kurdistan

If you are like me and want to stay connected during your trip, you should buy a sim card. Buying a sim card with data is pretty easy and affordable. Upon arrival at Erbil Airport, you will find different providers selling sim cards. If that is not the case, you can find phone shops in the cities. 

While some hotels offer free WiFi to guests, not many restaurants and cafes provide WiFi. 

Language and People in Kurdistan 

The population in Kurdistan primarily consists of Kurds, and the Kurdish language is the predominant language spoken in the region. While the majority of Kurds in Iraq are bilingual in both Kurdish and Arabic, some are solely fluent in Kurdish. 

In the cities, younger generations are likely to speak or understand English, but in rural regions, you need to use Google Translate or your body language skills.

Religions in Iraqi Kurdistan 

The majority of the population in Iraqi Kurdistan are Sunni Muslims, but the region is also home to various other religious communities, including Alevi Shi'a Muslims, Christians, Jews, and Yezidis. 

In particular, Kurdistan has the largest population of Yezidis among all regions in the world. You can visit Lalish and its temple to learn more about Yezidis.

Money and ATMs in Kurdistan 

The official currency of Kurdistan is the Iraqi Dinar, and cash is the preferred mode of payment. In larger cities, such as Erbil, Sulaymaniyah, and Duhok, there are currency exchanges on the streets where you can easily exchange major currencies like US Dollars, Euros, and Pounds.

Some hotels, shops, and even taxis accept US Dollars or Euros. Make sure to have cash with you at all times, since paying with cards is not an option in most places. 

In big cities, you can easily find ATMs that accept Visas and Mastercards, but that is not the case in small towns or rural areas, so make sure to withdraw enough cash if you are travelling out of the cities.

Accommodation in Iraqi Kurdistan

There is a wide range of accommodation options available in Kurdistan, catering to various budgets and preferences, from budget-friendly to luxury 5-star hotels. While not all hotels are available online or on booking platforms, you can often walk in and book a room in Iraqi Kurdistan and sometimes you can bargain.

As a solo female traveller, I preferred to book my accommodation in advance, and I typically stayed in 4-star or 5-star hotels. The prices are not as high as in other places in the Middle East, but they are not the cheapest either.

Even though I booked my accommodations on Booking.com , I found that many hotels could not accept online or card payments and required cash payment upon check-out. Again, I want to emphasise that you need to carry cash with you.

Where to Stay in Erbil

Erbil Quartz Hotel is a 5-star hotel in Erbil, located not too far from the centre. I actually stayed in this hotel for a few nights. The hotel has an indoor swimming pool and a hot tub, which I didn't get a chance to use it. It also has an ATM in the lobby, which I found very helpful.

Erbil View Hotel is one of the best hotels in Erbil. This 4-star hotel offers an airport shuttle and a good breakfast.

Syros Hotel Erbil City Center is located only 450 yards from the Citadel and 450 yards from Erbil Square. This 3-star hotel is a great option for those who are looking for more budget-friendly accommodation.

Where to Stay in Sulaymaniyah

Khan Saray is a 4-star hotel, located in the heart of Sulaymaniyah. It is just a short walk from the traditional bazaar.

Slemani Rotana is another great 4-star hotel in Sulaymaniyah, offering a free car park, a fitness centre and a restaurant.

How to go around Kurdistan in Iraq

The most efficient way to travel from city to city in Kurdistan is by taking a shared taxi. You can find these taxis at designated terminals located throughout the cities. Shared taxis usually accommodate up to four passengers and will only start the journey once all seats are full.

If you are in a hurry or prefer more space, you have the option to pay for the empty seats. Alternatively, you can negotiate with other passengers to share the cost of the empty seats.

However, there are some destinations, such as Lalish, that can only be reached by private taxi. The cost of a private taxi can vary depending on the distance and the driver's rate, which is often negotiable. It is recommended that you have some bargaining skills to ensure that you get a fair price for the ride.

In the city of Erbil, you can use the Careem app, which is similar to Uber. I found the taxis on the Careem app much cheaper than the ones I got on the streets. 

What to Wear in Kurdistan

While Kurdistan is generally considered more relaxed compared to other Muslim countries, it is still important to dress modestly and respectfully as a sign of cultural sensitivity.

This means covering your shoulders, chest, and legs when in public spaces. Additionally, it is best to avoid revealing clothing, such as shorts and tank tops, and to dress more conservatively when visiting religious sites. It is good to carry a scarf if you plan to visit mosques. 

Things You Must Know When Visiting Kurdistan

Carry your passport at all times.

It is important to carry your passport with you at all times, especially when travelling between cities or when planning a day trip outside of the city. There are numerous checkpoints throughout the country where officials may ask to see your passport for identification purposes. Therefore, it is recommended that you carry your passport with you at all times to avoid any inconvenience or delays.

Be Flexible with Your Travel Plans

It is important to remain flexible during your travels in Kurdistan, as you may need to adjust your plans on short notice. Kurdistan is not a typical tourist destination, and the region has experienced its share of challenges in recent years. It is possible that some roads or attractions may be closed to visitors for a day or longer. Therefore, it is essential to be adaptable and open-minded and to go with the flow of any unforeseen circumstances that may arise.

Kurdish Food and Sweets

Kurdish food is known for its delicious and affordable cuisine. Be sure to try some of the local sweets as they are a popular treat in the region.

Additionally, tea culture is an important part of Kurdish hospitality, and you may find yourself invited for tea by locals during your stay.

Last but not least, the Kurdish people are very friendly and hospitable. I always felt welcomed in Kurdistan. 

For more insights, you can watch my Kurdistan travel series on YouTube where I share more details about each destination in the region.

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COVID-19: travel health notice for all travellers

Iraq travel advice

Latest updates: The Health section was updated - travel health information (Public Health Agency of Canada)

Last updated: March 13, 2024 14:56 ET

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Safety and security, entry and exit requirements, laws and culture, natural disasters and climate, iraq - avoid all travel.

Avoid all travel to Iraq due to a continued volatile, unpredictable, and potentially dangerous security situation. If you are in Iraq, consider departing by commercial means if it is safe to do so.

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There is a threat of terrorism in Iraq. Car bombings, vehicle ambushes, drones, mortar and rocket attacks occur weekly across the country. Further attacks are likely, particularly during religious or public holidays. The security situation could worsen with little warning. Attacks have also targeted residential areas to maximize casualties.

Targets could include:

• government buildings, including schools
• places of worship
• airports and other transportation hubs and networks
• Iraqi security forces
• large public gatherings
• public areas and other sites frequented by foreigners

Always be aware of your surroundings when in public places. The risk of being in the wrong place at the wrong time remains high.

Threats to foreigners

The threat of attacks against Western interests and of terrorist attacks in general continues to be real. Foreigners could be prime kidnapping-for-money targets for criminal and terrorist groups.

• Stay in secure, guarded accommodations
• Travel with close protection teams at all times, and take all necessary security precautions
• You should employ a professional security company and follow their advice for the duration of your stay

Border areas

Avoid travelling to border areas. You may encounter serious problems with local authorities when crossing borders or risk of injury or death as a result of ongoing clashes, air strikes or other violent incidents that are common to border areas in Iraq. People suspected of illegally crossing the Iraq-Syria border risk being detained by the Iraqi authorities and charged with terrorism, which can result in capital punishment.

Crime, including carjackings, robberies, kidnapping and corruption, is common. Security conditions get much worse after dark in most areas. Violent conflicts involving organized criminals, street gangs, militants, rival militias and Iraqi security forces pose grave dangers.

Women’s safety

Women travelling alone may be subject to some forms of harassment and verbal abuse.

Advice for women travellers

Demonstrations

Violent demonstrations and attacks are common throughout Iraq.

Clashes between protestors and security forces can occur. Security forces may use tear gas, water cannons, and live ammunition to disperse crowds.

• Avoid areas where demonstrations and large gatherings are taking place
• Follow the instructions of local authorities
• Monitor local media for information on ongoing demonstrations

Mass gatherings (large-scale events)

Checkpoints

Security checkpoints are common across the country. An Iraqi police or army uniform is not a guarantee that the wearer is operating in an official capacity.

• Be very respectful and cooperate fully at security checkpoints
• Exercise particular caution at ad hoc checkpoints, where murders, kidnappings and robberies frequently occur

Authorities impose curfews on short notice throughout the country. Monitor local media in order to stay informed.

Cellular Network

Telecommunications services are very poor or non-existent in remote areas. Cellular network coverage is widespread in major cities.

The Arba’ een

The Arba’ een is an annual pilgrimage that has the potential to attract a large number of pilgrims each year.

The next event will take place around September 5, 2023.

Before and during the pilgrimage, you can expect:

• an increased police surveillance
• a higher volume of traffic
• street closures
• transportation delays
• limited available accommodations

Be alert at all times if you travel to Iraq during the pilgrimage. Ensure that your belongings, including your passport and other travel documents, are secure at all times.

Pirate attacks and armed robbery against ships occur in coastal waters, particularly in the northern Gulf, Gulf of Oman, Northern Arabian Sea, Gulf of Aden and Bab El Mandeb regions. Mariners should take appropriate precautions.

Live piracy report - International Maritime Bureau

Road safety

Road conditions and road safety are poor throughout the country. Drivers do not respect traffic laws and speeding and tailgating are common practices.

Travel by road remains highly dangerous. Fatal roadside bombings and attacks on military and civilian vehicles continue to happen. There is also a risk of carjacking and robbery.

Due to the country’s high liability risk, it is difficult to obtain car insurance.

Public Transportation

Busses run irregularly and routes are subject to frequent changes. Rundown transit vehicles are frequently involved in accidents.

Avoid travelling by rail, as the railroad is old and poorly maintained.

The Government of Iraq has begun to take measures to improve the structural integrity of the Mosul Dam.

A dam failure could cause significant flooding and disruptions to essential services from Mosul to Baghdad, along the Tigris River as well as areas adjoining the dam. A failure of the Mosul Dam cannot be predicted. Monitor local media reports and prepare contingency plans. The Government of Canada cannot provide consular services if there is a dam failure.

We do not make assessments on the compliance of foreign domestic airlines with international safety standards.

Information about foreign domestic airlines

Every country or territory decides who can enter or exit through its borders. The Government of Canada cannot intervene on your behalf if you do not meet your destination’s entry or exit requirements.

We have obtained the information on this page from the Iraqi authorities. It can, however, change at any time.

Verify this information with the  Foreign Representatives in Canada .

Entry requirements vary depending on the type of passport you use for travel.

Before you travel, check with your transportation company about passport requirements. Its rules on passport validity may be more stringent than the country’s entry rules.

Regular Canadian passport

Your passport must be valid for at least 6 months from the date of entry into Iraq.

Passport for official travel

Different entry rules may apply.

Official travel

Passport with “X” gender identifier

While the Government of Canada issues passports with an “X” gender identifier, it cannot guarantee your entry or transit through other countries. You might face entry restrictions in countries that do not recognize the “X” gender identifier. Before you leave, check with the closest foreign representative for your destination.

Other travel documents

Different entry rules may apply when travelling with a temporary passport or an emergency travel document. Before you leave, check with the closest foreign representative for your destination.

Useful links

• Foreign Representatives in Canada
• Canadian passports

Canadians must have a visa to visit Iraq.

After 10 days in the country, you must register your arrival with the Iraqi Residence Office (Ministry of Interior). After three months in Iraq, you must apply for a one-year residence permit.

You will be subject to additional screening measures prior to being issued an Iraqi visa if your passport contains an Israeli visa or border stamp. This does not apply to Canadians travelling to the region of Kurdistan.  

Kurdistan Region of Iraq

You can obtain a 30-day visa for Kurdistan upon arrival at both Erbil International Airport and Sulaymaniyah International Airport. If you plan to travel outside of Kurdistan to other regions of Iraq, you must obtain an Iraqi visa prior to travelling to Iraq. If you are leaving via the airport in Baghdad without a visa, you may be required to pay a penalty fee at departure. 

Children and travel

Learn more about travelling with children .

Yellow fever

Learn about potential entry requirements related to yellow fever (vaccines section).

Relevant Travel Health Notices

• Global Measles Notice - 13 March, 2024
• COVID-19 and International Travel - 13 March, 2024

This section contains information on possible health risks and restrictions regularly found or ongoing in the destination. Follow this advice to lower your risk of becoming ill while travelling. Not all risks are listed below.

Consult a health care professional or visit a travel health clinic preferably 6 weeks before you travel to get personalized health advice and recommendations.

Routine vaccines

Be sure that your  routine vaccinations , as per your province or territory , are up-to-date before travelling, regardless of your destination.

Some of these vaccinations include measles-mumps-rubella (MMR), diphtheria, tetanus, pertussis, polio, varicella (chickenpox), influenza and others.

Pre-travel vaccines and medications

You may be at risk for preventable diseases while travelling in this destination. Talk to a travel health professional about which medications or vaccines may be right for you, based on your destination and itinerary. 

There is a risk of hepatitis A in this destination. It is a disease of the liver. People can get hepatitis A if they ingest contaminated food or water, eat foods prepared by an infectious person, or if they have close physical contact (such as oral-anal sex) with an infectious person, although casual contact among people does not spread the virus.

Practise  safe food and water precautions and wash your hands often. Vaccination is recommended for all travellers to areas where hepatitis A is present.

Measles is a highly contagious viral disease. It can spread quickly from person to person by direct contact and through droplets in the air.

Anyone who is not protected against measles is at risk of being infected with it when travelling internationally.

Regardless of where you are going, talk to a health care professional before travelling to make sure you are fully protected against measles.

  Hepatitis B is a risk in every destination. It is a viral liver disease that is easily transmitted from one person to another through exposure to blood and body fluids containing the hepatitis B virus.  Travellers who may be exposed to blood or other bodily fluids (e.g., through sexual contact, medical treatment, sharing needles, tattooing, acupuncture or occupational exposure) are at higher risk of getting hepatitis B.

Hepatitis B vaccination is recommended for all travellers. Prevent hepatitis B infection by practicing safe sex, only using new and sterile drug equipment, and only getting tattoos and piercings in settings that follow public health regulations and standards.

 The best way to protect yourself from seasonal influenza (flu) is to get vaccinated every year. Get the flu shot at least 2 weeks before travelling.  

 The flu occurs worldwide. 

•  In the Northern Hemisphere, the flu season usually runs from November to   April.
•  In the Southern Hemisphere, the flu season usually runs between April and   October.
•  In the tropics, there is flu activity year round. 

The flu vaccine available in one hemisphere may only offer partial protection against the flu in the other hemisphere.

The flu virus spreads from person to person when they cough or sneeze or by touching objects and surfaces that have been contaminated with the virus. Clean your hands often and wear a mask if you have a fever or respiratory symptoms.

Yellow fever is a disease caused by a flavivirus from the bite of an infected mosquito.

Travellers get vaccinated either because it is required to enter a country or because it is recommended for their protection.

• There is no risk of yellow fever in this country.

Country Entry Requirement*

• Proof of vaccination is not required to enter this country.

Recommendation

• Vaccination is not recommended.

* It is important to note that country entry requirements may not reflect your risk of yellow fever at your destination. It is recommended that you contact the nearest diplomatic or consular office of the destination(s) you will be visiting to verify any additional entry requirements.

About Yellow Fever

Yellow Fever Vaccination Centres in Canada

In this destination, rabies is commonly carried by dogs and some wildlife, including bats. Rabies is a deadly disease that spreads to humans primarily through bites or scratches from an infected animal. While travelling, take precautions , including keeping your distance from animals (including free-roaming dogs), and closely supervising children.

If you are bitten or scratched by a dog or other animal while travelling, immediately wash the wound with soap and clean water and see a health care professional. In this destination, rabies treatment may be limited or may not be available, therefore you may need to return to Canada for treatment.  

Before travel, discuss rabies vaccination with a health care professional. It may be recommended for travellers who are at high risk of exposure (e.g., occupational risk such as veterinarians and wildlife workers, children, adventure travellers and spelunkers, and others in close contact with animals). 

Coronavirus disease (COVID-19) is an infectious viral disease. It can spread from person to person by direct contact and through droplets in the air.

It is recommended that all eligible travellers complete a COVID-19 vaccine series along with any additional recommended doses in Canada before travelling. Evidence shows that vaccines are very effective at preventing severe illness, hospitalization and death from COVID-19. While vaccination provides better protection against serious illness, you may still be at risk of infection from the virus that causes COVID-19. Anyone who has not completed a vaccine series is at increased risk of being infected with the virus that causes COVID-19 and is at greater risk for severe disease when travelling internationally.

Before travelling, verify your destination’s COVID-19 vaccination entry/exit requirements. Regardless of where you are going, talk to a health care professional before travelling to make sure you are adequately protected against COVID-19.

Safe food and water precautions

Many illnesses can be caused by eating food or drinking beverages contaminated by bacteria, parasites, toxins, or viruses, or by swimming or bathing in contaminated water.

• Learn more about food and water precautions to take to avoid getting sick by visiting our eat and drink safely abroad page. Remember: Boil it, cook it, peel it, or leave it!
• Avoid getting water into your eyes, mouth or nose when swimming or participating in activities in freshwater (streams, canals, lakes), particularly after flooding or heavy rain. Water may look clean but could still be polluted or contaminated.
• Avoid inhaling or swallowing water while bathing, showering, or swimming in pools or hot tubs. 

Cholera is a risk in parts of this country. Most travellers are at very low risk.

To protect against cholera, all travellers should practise safe food and water precautions .

Travellers at higher risk of getting cholera include those:

• visiting, working or living in areas with limited access to safe food, water and proper sanitation
• visiting areas where outbreaks are occurring

Vaccination may be recommended for high-risk travellers, and should be discussed with a health care professional.

Travellers' diarrhea is the most common illness affecting travellers. It is spread from eating or drinking contaminated food or water.

Risk of developing travellers' diarrhea increases when travelling in regions with poor standards of hygiene and sanitation. Practise safe food and water precautions.

The most important treatment for travellers' diarrhea is rehydration (drinking lots of fluids). Carry oral rehydration salts when travelling.

Typhoid   is a bacterial infection spread by contaminated food or water. Risk is higher among children, travellers going to rural areas, travellers visiting friends and relatives or those travelling for a long period of time.

Travellers visiting regions with a risk of typhoid, especially those exposed to places with poor sanitation, should speak to a health care professional about vaccination.  

Insect bite prevention

Many diseases are spread by the bites of infected insects such as mosquitoes, ticks, fleas or flies. When travelling to areas where infected insects may be present:

• Use insect repellent (bug spray) on exposed skin
• Cover up with light-coloured, loose clothes made of tightly woven materials such as nylon or polyester
• Minimize exposure to insects
• Use mosquito netting when sleeping outdoors or in buildings that are not fully enclosed

To learn more about how you can reduce your risk of infection and disease caused by bites, both at home and abroad, visit our insect bite prevention page.

Find out what types of insects are present where you’re travelling, when they’re most active, and the symptoms of the diseases they spread.

Cutaneous and mucosal   leishmaniasis   causes skin sores and ulcers. It is caused by a parasite spread through the bite of a female sandfly.

Risk is generally low for most travellers. Protect yourself from sandfly bites, which typically occur after sunset in rural and forested areas and in some urban centres. There is no vaccine or medication to protect against leishmaniasis.

Crimean-Congo haemorrhagic fever is a viral disease that can cause fever, pain and bleeding under the skin.  In some cases, it can be fatal.  It spreads to humans through contact with infected animal blood or tissues, or from the bite of an infected tick.  Risk is generally low for most travellers.  Protect yourself from tick bites and avoid animals, particularly livestock.  There is no vaccine available for Crimean-Congo haemorrhagic fever.

Animal precautions

Some infections, such as rabies and influenza, can be shared between humans and animals. Certain types of activities may increase your chance of contact with animals, such as travelling in rural or forested areas, camping, hiking, and visiting wet markets (places where live animals are slaughtered and sold) or caves.

Travellers are cautioned to avoid contact with animals, including dogs, livestock (pigs, cows), monkeys, snakes, rodents, birds, and bats, and to avoid eating undercooked wild game.

Closely supervise children, as they are more likely to come in contact with animals.

Human cases of avian influenza have been reported in this destination. Avian influenza   is a viral infection that can spread quickly and easily among birds and in rare cases it can infect mammals, including people. The risk is low for most travellers.

Avoid contact with birds, including wild, farm, and backyard birds (alive or dead) and surfaces that may have bird droppings on them. Ensure all poultry dishes, including eggs and wild game, are properly cooked.

Travellers with a higher risk of exposure include those: 

• visiting live bird/animal markets or poultry farms
• working with poultry (such as chickens, turkeys, domestic ducks)
• hunting, de-feathering, field dressing and butchering wild birds and wild mammals
• working with wild birds for activities such as research, conservation, or rehabilitation
• working with wild mammals, especially those that eat wild birds (e.g., foxes)

All eligible people are encouraged to get the seasonal influenza shot, which will protect them against human influenza viruses. While the seasonal influenza shot does not prevent infection with avian influenza, it can reduce the chance of getting sick with human and avian influenza viruses at the same time.

Person-to-person infections

Stay home if you’re sick and practise proper cough and sneeze etiquette , which includes coughing or sneezing into a tissue or the bend of your arm, not your hand. Reduce your risk of colds, the flu and other illnesses by:

•   washing your hands often
• avoiding or limiting the amount of time spent in closed spaces, crowded places, or at large-scale events (concerts, sporting events, rallies)
• avoiding close physical contact with people who may be showing symptoms of illness 

Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) , HIV , and mpox are spread through blood and bodily fluids; use condoms, practise safe sex, and limit your number of sexual partners. Check with your local public health authority pre-travel to determine your eligibility for mpox vaccine.  

Tuberculosis is an infection caused by bacteria and usually affects the lungs.

For most travellers the risk of tuberculosis is low.

Travellers who may be at high risk while travelling in regions with risk of tuberculosis should discuss pre- and post-travel options with a health care professional.

High-risk travellers include those visiting or working in prisons, refugee camps, homeless shelters, or hospitals, or travellers visiting friends and relatives.

Medical services and facilities

Good health care is limited in availability. Medical facilities in Iraq are scarce. You will likely need medical evacuation in case of serious illness or injury.

Make sure you get travel insurance that includes coverage for medical evacuation and hospital stays.

Travel health and safety

Keep in Mind...

The decision to travel is the sole responsibility of the traveller. The traveller is also responsible for his or her own personal safety.

Be prepared. Do not expect medical services to be the same as in Canada. Pack a   travel health kit , especially if you will be travelling away from major city centres.

You must abide by local laws.

Learn about what you should do and how we can help if you are arrested or detained abroad .

The work week is from Sunday to Thursday.

Penalties for possession, use or trafficking of illegal drugs are severe. Convicted offenders can expect long detention or even the death penalty.

A new law is prohibiting importing, manufacturing, and selling alcoholic beverages. It is being challenged in court, and its application at ports of entry and inside Iraq remains unclear. You should nonetheless avoid travelling to Iraq with alcohol or risk heavy fines if convicted.

Do not drink alcohol outside licensed facilities. There is a zero tolerance policy regarding drinking and driving.

Drugs, alcohol and travel

2SLGBTQI+ travellers

Although the laws of Iraq do not prohibit sexual acts between individuals of the same sex, homosexuality is not socially tolerated.

2SLGBTQI+ travellers should carefully consider the risks of travelling to Iraq.

Travel and your sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression and sex characteristics

Dual citizenship

Dual citizenship is not legally recognized in Iraq.

If local authorities consider you a citizen of Iraq, they may refuse to grant you access to Canadian consular services. This will prevent us from providing you with those services.

Travellers with dual citizenship

According to Iraqi law, the child of a male Iraqi national is considered an Iraqi national. Even if the name of the child is written in the mother’s foreign passport, Iraqi authorities may consider the child an Iraqi national and the child will require the father’s permission to travel.

International Child Abduction

The Hague Convention on the Civil Aspects of International Child Abduction is an international treaty. It can help parents with the return of children who have been removed to or retained in certain countries in violation of custody rights. It does not apply between Canada and Iraq.

If your child was wrongfully taken to, or is being held in Iraq by an abducting parent:

• act as quickly as you can
• consult a lawyer in Canada and in Iraq to explore all the legal options for the return of your child
• report the situation to the nearest Canadian government office abroad or to the Vulnerable Children’s Consular Unit at Global Affairs Canada by calling the Emergency Watch and Response Centre.

If your child was removed from a country other than Canada, consult a lawyer to determine if The Hague Convention applies.

Be aware that Canadian consular officials cannot interfere in private legal matters or in another country’s judicial affairs.

• International Child Abduction: A Guidebook for Left-Behind Parents
• Travelling with children
• Canadian embassies and consulates by destination
• Emergency Watch and Response Centre

Religious preaching is forbidden.

Islamic practices and beliefs form the basis of the country’s customs, laws and regulations.

To avoid offending local sensitivities:

• dress conservatively
• behave discreetly
• respect religious and social traditions

In 2024, the lunar month of Ramadan is expected to begin on or around March 10.

In public, between sunrise and sunset, be discreet when:

You must carry an international driving permit.

International Driving Permit

Identification

You must carry photo identification as well as a legally certified copy of your visa and registration at all times. Keep a photocopy of your passport, visa and registration in a safe place, in case they are lost or confiscated.

Customs authorities strictly enforce regulations concerning the import or export of pieces of art and antiquities. It is strictly forbidden to take antiquities, archeological finds or antique carpets out of Iraq.

There are strict laws regarding:

• purchase and exportation of antiquities and objects of special significance to the country's cultural heritage
• access, excavation, research, filming and photographing of archeological sites

To avoid any difficulties, make sure you:

• obtain and carry the required legal paperwork to purchase or export antiquities
• have the proper permit to conduct activities related to cultural heritage and archeological sites

Failure to comply can lead to severe punishment, including heavy fines, jail sentences and possibly the death penalty.

The currency is the Iraqi dinar (IQD). The economy is primarily cash-based. U.S. dollars are accepted. There are very few ATM’s.

You cannot leave Iraq with more than US$10,000 in cash, unless you declared the amount when you entered the country.

Dust storms

The weather is very dry and hot from May to October. Sand storms and dust storms may occur any time, particularly during the summer months.

Sand-laden winds can blow at high speeds for days, creating difficult driving conditions. Poor visibility can also affect flights. These storms can also cause respiratory problems, which can be fatal for some individuals.

During a storm:

• stay indoors
• keep windows closed
• follow the instructions of local emergency services personnel
• monitor local media for up-to-date information on the situation

Seasonal flooding can hamper overland travel and reduce the provision of essential services. Roads may become impassable and bridges damaged.

• Avoid the affected areas
• Keep informed of regional weather forecasts

Local services

There is no centralized number to reach emergency services. Research the contact information for local police and medical facilities, and carry it with you.

Consular assistance

The ability of the Embassy of Canada in Baghdad to provide consular and other support throughout Iraq is severely limited. Until further notice, contact the Emergency Watch and Response Centre in Ottawa for emergency consular assistance.

Kurdistan, Iraq

For emergency consular assistance, you may contact the Emergency Watch and Response Centre in Ottawa.

The decision to travel is your choice and you are responsible for your personal safety abroad. We take the safety and security of Canadians abroad very seriously and provide credible and timely information in our Travel Advice to enable you to make well-informed decisions regarding your travel abroad.

The content on this page is provided for information only. While we make every effort to give you correct information, it is provided on an "as is" basis without warranty of any kind, expressed or implied. The Government of Canada does not assume responsibility and will not be liable for any damages in connection to the information provided.

If you need consular assistance while abroad, we will make every effort to help you. However, there may be constraints that will limit the ability of the Government of Canada to provide services.

Learn more about consular services .

Risk Levels

  take normal security precautions.

Take similar precautions to those you would take in Canada.

  Exercise a high degree of caution

There are certain safety and security concerns or the situation could change quickly. Be very cautious at all times, monitor local media and follow the instructions of local authorities.

IMPORTANT: The two levels below are official Government of Canada Travel Advisories and are issued when the safety and security of Canadians travelling or living in the country or region may be at risk.

  Avoid non-essential travel

Your safety and security could be at risk. You should think about your need to travel to this country, territory or region based on family or business requirements, knowledge of or familiarity with the region, and other factors. If you are already there, think about whether you really need to be there. If you do not need to be there, you should think about leaving.

  Avoid all travel

You should not travel to this country, territory or region. Your personal safety and security are at great risk. If you are already there, you should think about leaving if it is safe to do so.

Iraqi Kurdistan Travel Guide

I know what you’re thinking… Travel to Iraq? Really?? Well, actually, yes. Visiting Iraq was, to us, an absolutely amazing, unique and humbling experience.

Up in the northern part of the country that touches Iran and Turkey, there’s a special region called Iraqi Kurdistan. It’s a lovely area, home to some of the most breathtaking landscapes in the Middle East.

The region is full of lush greens mixed with golden yellows, snow-capped mountains, and silvery waterfalls. They will quickly remove all those “rocky wasteland” stereotypes you may currently have about Iraq.

Believe it or not, even with all its turmoil and bad press, there is still tourism in Iraq and you can take organized tours to safe areas. However, Iraq is most definitely not the place to do a self-drive tour around the country, even if you are a Muslim and fluent in Arabic (which we are not). While we may be adventurous enough to visit unusual destinations, we’re not crazy!

We are, however, quite fond of research. We’re also fond of historical sites, particularly those from the Biblical era. I mean, wouldn’t it be surreal to see where the magi set off on their journey to Bethlehem, stand where the Prophet Jonah warned Nineveh, and walk through the ruins of Babylon?

Determined to find a way to see some of these sites without risking our necks, we found out that there’s a part of Iraq that has a constant stream of foreign tourists. So, we set our sights on the other Iraq , Kurdistan.

Is Kurdistan safe for tourists?

I’ll bet you’re probably wondering whether or not it’s safe to travel to Kurdistan, Iraq. You’ll be happy to know that tourists from the surrounding countries consider it to be a very safe travel destination, as it is tucked away in the northern part of the country.

Being a semi-autonomous region, Iraqi Kurdistan is entirely different from the rest of Iraq, especially when it comes to safety. Kurdistan’s military force, the Peshmerga , manage effective and strict operations to ensure the safety of the region.

ⓘ Interesting fact: The word peshmerga means “those who face death.”

Traveling between towns and cities, you will frequently run into Peshmerga- manned checkpoints. These roadblocks are a protective measure to check who’s on the road, and you shouldn’t be too worried about them. They’re only trying to ensure that no ISIS-type people start any problems in Kurdistan.

Unless you’re one of those, checkpoints are nothing to worry about. Rather, you should feel reassured.

We actually encountered frequent roadblocks while we were in Kurdistan. As we hold a Western passport, we didn’t have much trouble with them at all. The only time we raised an eyebrow was when they noticed Dan’s high-end camera and asked if we were reporters.

Where is Kurdistan? Is Kurdistan a country?

Kurdistan is not a country, it’s a region. The region’s name actually means “the land of the Kurds.” The Kurds have lived in this region for over 2000 years.

Present-day Kurdistan covers large parts of eastern Turkey, northern Iraq, northwestern Iran and smaller parts of northern Syria and Armenia.

Who are the Kurds?

If we had to choose one thing that made our visit to Iraqi Kurdistan stand out against all of the other travel we have have done thus far, we both agreed that it would be how wonderful the Kurds are.

The Kurdish people are most definitely not Arabs. They may share the same religion (Islam), but Kurdish culture is completely different, and so is their history.

The Kurdish homeland has been occupied by various empires for millennia. Throughout their history, the Kurds have been repressed, often brutally. And that continues to this day in all of the countries we mentioned above.

There are an estimated 35 million Kurds worldwide. They are the largest ethnic group in the world without their own nation. Plus, no matter where and how they live, they always consider themselves Kurds first.

In Iraq, between 23% to 25% of the population is Kurdish, and they have one of the highest birth rates of any group in the Middle East.

ⓘ TIP: Are you a history lover? Well, we found this timeline of Kurdish history to be fascinating. If you read it before you go to Kurdistan, you’ll most likely experience a couple of ‘ah-ha’ moments while your tour guide is showing you around and giving you some insights into some of the history. We sure did.

One other thing we noticed: The Kurds are extremely honest. You can walk through the Central Bazaar in Erbil and see tables full of U.S. dollars and SIM cards. Owners have no problem with taking a tea break with friends and leaving their stalls unmanned. They know no one will touch it while they are gone.

We’ve never seen anything like it.

What language do they speak in Iraq?

According to Wikipedia, Arabic isi the most widely spoken language in Iraq (specifically Mesopotamian Arabic). Kurdish is the second most spoken.

Iraq is the only country that recognizes Kurdish as an official language. At least, Sorani Kurdish. A few Kurds speak regional dialects, but let’s not get into that.

Communicating in Kurdistan

Knowing how to order food, ask for prices and get directions will make life significantly easier, because there aren’t many English speakers yet.

We definitely recommended that you try to learn a few of the really basic terms, especially if you’re traveling on your own.

• Hello = slaw!
• How are you? = choni?
• I’m fine = chakim
• Please = tikaye
• Thank you = supas
• Where’s the toilet? = aw dast la kweya

Language is a huge reason to have the convenience of a guide.

How to get to Iraqi Kurdistan

When it comes to getting to Iraqi Kurdistan, you have two options.

Kurdistan has two international airports: Erbil and Sulaymaniyah. However, you’ll find more flights going into Erbil. Flights seem to be cheaper to Erbil as well.

We flew from Amman to Erbil on Royal Jordanian. Turkish Airlines (via Istanbul) and Emirates (via Dubai) also have excellent deals.

Book your flights as early as you can, because fares increase as the date of departure approaches. Click here to check airfare prices and schedules.

When it comes to entering Kurdistan overland, you can either enter from Iran or from Turkey. The Iranian side is usually very easy and straightforward. Entering from the Turkish side, authorities may give you some issues.

ⓘ TIP:  Drones are not allowed in either Iran or Iraq. So if you have one, leave it at home. If they find it, it will be confiscated.

Entering Kurdistan from Iran

Traveling between Iran and Iraq, the only borders which will definitely be open are those that go into Iraqi Kurdistan. Which is just what you need, in this case anyway.

• Piranshahr – Haji Omran: We recommend this border for those who are in Tabriz and the surrounding area. On the Iraqi side, it’s just 154 km from Erbil. As a bonus, you will pass Rawanduz , one of the best tourist destinations in Iraqi Kurdistan.
• Bashmaq – Penjwen: We recommend this border if you are staying in/coming from Tehran and it’s very convenient if you are in Iranian Kurdistan already. On the Iraqi side, it is very close to Sulaymaniyah .

Despite being such a sensitive country, the authorities shouldn’t give you any trouble, especially on the Iraqi side, which is totally controlled by the Kurds and not the Iraqi government.

Entering Kurdistan from Turkey

The border crossing from Turkey is called the Habur Border or Frontier Gate . You will have to cross a bridge crossing the Khabur river before reaching the control point, and this bridge forms the natural border between Iraq and Turkey.

The crossing is located to the south of the township of Silopi, Turkey .

Do I need a visa for Iraqi Kurdistan?

The short answer to this question is, yes. That said, it is far easier to obtain than some other travel destinations. Depending on the duration of your trip, it may even be free.

Travelers from the following countries will receive a free, 15-day visa for Kurdistan upon arrival:

• United States
• European Union
• New Zealand
• United Kingdom

Most other nationalities are required to obtain their Iraqi Kurdistan visas from an Iraqi Embassy or Consulate before arrival.

ⓘ IMPORTANT: Your Kurdistan stamp does not allow you to enter areas outside of iraq’s designated Kurdistan region.

Where to stay in Kurdistan?

Kurdistan has quite a good number of comfortable, quality hotels. If you are doing your own tour and prefer to plan ahead, you can book online. You can also do a web search for hotels in Erbil, etc., and book via email.

If you’re using a tour guide, we suggest asking if he can reserve your hotels for you, if you ask. Our wonderful tour guide Karwan even negotiated a lower rate!

• Erbil: Merci Hotel
• Dohuk: Kristal Hotel
• Sulaymanyah: Babylon Hotel As

However, even if you’re usually a spontaneous traveler, we don’t recommend just showing up and looking for a place to stay. You can, of course, but there’s no guarantee you’ll find a hotel with staff who speak English.

What currency is used in Iraqi Kurdistan?

US dollars are accepted throughout Iraqi Kurdistan. The official currency is the Iraqi Dinar (IQD), the same currency that is used throughout the rest of Iraq. However, US dollars are widely accepted throughout Kurdistan, so you don’t have to worry about conversion.

The basic street rate at the time of writing (July 2019) is fairly constant: $1 USD = 1200 IQD. If you want to check the official exchange rate, use the XE Currency Converter. It has the most accurate and up to date live market rates to help you plan your budget.

If you don’t want to arrive with tons of cash, you can withdraw money from an ATM in Kurdistan, either in US dollars or IQD. That lessens the hassle. Rotana Hotel has ATM machines for US Dollars, and is a 5 star hotel.

Other ATMs dispense IQD and the exchange rate is basically the same as in the streets.

Cost of travel in Kurdistan

Your budget really depends on where you stay and where you eat. Lodging and food will end up being your two biggest expenses, apart from your tour guide. If you don’t use a tour guide, you will need to factor transportation into your budget as well.

Budget on food averaging around $7-$10 per person per meal, if it’s a heavy meal. You can always find local eateries that will be way cheaper than anything you will get at a hotel restaurant.

Here’s a quick breakdown of the cost of a typical meal:

• Shawarma (chicken, beef or falafel) = $1 – $1.50.
• Roasted chicken & a salad = $5 – $8
• Eating at a local restaurant = $7-$12
• Sweet treats (cakes, Turkish delight, custards) = $1-$2
• Tea = $0.25

Hotels. If you don’t stay in a hotel that’s more than $50 per night, your trip will be super cheap. Hotels usually include a free breakfast, which is a time- and money-saver.

Tickets and fees. Almost all sites in Kurdistan have no entrance fee, but a handful of sites do ask for a few cents.

Aside from accommodation, hotel, a few snacks, and your tour guide, we don’t think you will have many other things to spend your money on. That is, besides your own personal shopping and gifts for family and friends.

ⓘ TIP: If you’re in the market for a new mobile phone or automobile, Iraq’s prices are unbelievably cheap.

Getting around

When it comes to getting around in Iraqi Kurdistan, the area doesn’t have as many options as there are in other countries. For instance, the region doesn’t have any trains or subways.

Kurdistan has an extremely efficient system of shared taxis, and most people consider it the most convenient form of transport. However, there are many different ways one can travel around Kurdistan Iraq, here are the different forms of transport you will find in Kurdistan:

Transportation options

• Bus: These are basically just minivans and they don’t really run to many places besides going between the main cities. So unless you’re doing just that, there is really no need to experience one of these. They are also slower than shared taxis and not THAT much cheaper. We advise skipping this experience.
• Hitchhiking: Iraqi Kurdistan is autonomous from the rest of Iraq and is really safe for hitchhikers. Many travelers hitchhike all around Kurdistan with no issues – and often for free! People are warm, engaging and extremely western-friendly. Don’t be surprised if hitchhiking involves stopping for lunch at a locals home, or even them making a detour so that they can drop you where you want to be.
• Shared taxis: With this option you will need to find a “Garaj”, which is the point of taxi arrivals/departures. Tell the staff there where you are going, and they’ll pop you in the next available shared taxi heading to that destination. As soon as the taxi fills up with 4 or 5 people, you pay the taxi fare and off you go. Simple as that. The only downside is that you’ll have to wait for the taxi to fill up.
• Local taxi: Official taxis are either cream in color or part cream/part orange. It’s unlikely that it will take you longer than a minute to find one. Generally, you can expect to pay between 2000 and 5000 IQD for a local taxi ride in any city or town.
• Uber: Uber is a newcomer. At the time of this article, it only operates in Erbil.
• Private driver: Private drivers (private taxi) will usually use the smaller roads that pass through the mountains and don’t leave the safety of Kurdistan at all. Such trips will naturally cost more, with a ride between Erbil and Sulaymaniyah costing approximately $70 USD. Your hotel will have to organise this service for you.
• Private guide: If you do decide to make use of a private guide (again we recommend this!) then you won’t need to worry about any transportation admin or costs, as your guide will sort all of this out for you as part of your package.

Travel Kurdish Iraq independently or book a tour?

Okay, so this is the billion-dollar question: Can you travel Iraqi Kurdistan on your own? The bottom line is, yes, you can, but we think it’s an unwise way to economize.

Personally, we think it would be a complete waste to travel to such a place and not find yourself a local guide. There are a lot of things to factor in:

• Finding comfortable hotels, managing transportation, enjoying the best Kurdish food at the best local eateries.
• Quickly clearing Peshmerga roadblocks
• Plus, there are the intangibles like being able to read signs at attractions and chat with locals, as we did in
• You might miss a fascinating location or not know that there’s an interesting story behind it.

Tour companies vs. local guides

We would just like to emphasize LOCAL GUIDE, and not a tour company. There are exceptions, of course, but some of those guys will fleece you.

Considering the economic devastation of the country, we were a little shocked by the fees a couple of private tour company were asking. Funny that. They wanted us to pay around $750/day to tour an area where 3- and 4-star hotels can be found for $50-$75/night? Highway robbery! For that kind of money, I told Dan, we could find our own private guide and create a customized itinerary ourselves.

As it turns out, we were I was right! A private guide around Kurdistan is far cheaper. After doing a lot of research, we found Karwan. He would be our guide, driver and interpreter for literally a fraction of what those tour companies were charging.

Our main requirements for a guide were:

• He must speak fluent English – and pronounce it clearly.
• He should be an experienced tour guide.
• Also, he must be Kurdish, born and bred, so he can explain his culture to us. (Karwan overdelivered on that one.)

When to travel Iraqi Kurdistan

The two most popular months for traveling to Iraqi Kurdistan are April and November. Here is a brief description on the seasons in Kurdistan so that you can decide on a time that really suits you:

• Summer (May – September): Summertime weather can be seriously extreme, and temperatures often pass 40°C (104°F). If you’re visiting then, you should focus on the mountains, working on your tan and soaking in some local culture and customs.
• Autumn (October and November): Rains return in September so Autumn offers a lot of Kurdish beauty. Temperatures are neither too cold nor too warm, so it’s a lovely season for sightseeing.
• Winter (December – February): Winter can be quite cold (especially in January), bringing some heavy snowfall on the mountains. This is a time for skiing and other winter related activities. Such activities can be found at the very well known Korek Mountain Resort – known for its winter sports and fantastic accommodation.
• Spring (March and April): This is the absolute best time to visit Kurdistan. In the month of March, when people celebrate Nowruz, picnics and dancing in the hills and valleys are common. It is a really festive month.

We visited in early May. Temperatures were comfortable and the weather was dry. However, Karwan said that we had missed the lushest time of year.

How much time to spend in Iraqi Kurdistan

When considering how long to stay in Kurdistan, it really all depends on what you plan on doing and seeing. There are a lot of things to see and do in Kurdistan, especially hiking, exploring, history and photography.

If you are accompanied by a knowledgeable local guide who can make the most of your time, then a week in Iraqi Kurdistan will do. A guide will be able to show you all the best sites in an efficient manner.

• if you have only a few days, you probably should focus on a region, like Erbil province.
• With a week or so, you can visit most of the best things to see in Kurdistan.
• If you’re going in winter and you want to do some skiing, then around 6 days would be enough time to enjoy the slopes and snow.

Things to do in Iraqi Kurdistan by province

Iraqi Kurdistan is home to some pretty amazing provinces, each with its own unique history and culture to offer. When traveling to Iraqi Kurdistan, you should plan to spend a few nights in each place and move around a lot in order to get the most out of Iraqi Kurdistan.

There are also some amazing day trips to be had from each of the provinces, stopping at many interesting and beautiful sights along the way.

Kurdistan Iraq tourist attractions

There really are so many! Unless you plan on spending a month exploring Iraqi Kurdistan – you will probably not get around to everything. If you do, it will be a very fast paced holiday.

Take a look at our descriptions of the best places to visit – We saw most of these during our one week in Iraqi Kurdistan. Pick from our list of the best things to do in each:

Erbil (Arbil) province

Erbil, also spelled Arbil and known by the locals as Hewler, has a population of around 932,800. It is the fourth-largest city in Iraq after Baghdad, and likely the one you will be flying in to/out from. Erbil is the capital of the Kurdistan Region of Iraq.

Urban life at Erbil (Hewlêr) dates back as far as 6000 years. It is one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world!

Things to do in Erbil

There are many things to do in Erbil and plenty to keep you busy:

• Lunch in the bazaar at the well-known Kebab House. Yum.
• Have a meal at a local’s house: We ate at Karwan’s house and met his family.
• Erbil Citadel – a fortified settlement on top a hill, created by many generations of people living and rebuilding on the same spot!
• Qaysari Bazaar
• Visit various parks – the Minare Park and the Shanidar Park are really lovely parks that are nice and quiet.
• Syriac Heritage Museum – Everything from clothing, tools and photos, to a fascinating and detailed model of how Ankawa looked until the 20th century.
• Erbil Civilization Museum – The origin of some exhibits goes back to 5.000 B.C. and reflects the patterns and ways of life in Kurdistan and Iraq.
• Two museums not enough? Visit the Kurdish Textile Museum too!

Places to see around Erbil

• Khanzad (Banaman) Castle – This castle has kept much of its original shape, with four round towers at each of its four corners made of stones and gypsum, this is a stunning archaeological site.
• Saddam’s Tank
• Shanidar Cave
• Rawanduz Canyon
• Bekhal Falls
• Korek Mountains – known for its winter sports and fantastic accommodations.
• Pank Resort
• Gali Ali Beg Falls

Duhok (Dohuk) Province

Like Erbil, Dohuk province and its capital city share the same name. Dohuk is the province north of Erbil and borders Turkey.

It’s quite a large city, yet not as large as Erbil, and has around 350,000 inhabitants. We recommend spending a couple of nights in Dohuk and using it as a base to explore the surrounding areas which are really beautiful. There are plenty of hotels, restaurants and places to have a drink in this city.

Things to do in Duhok

• Mar Mattai Monastery – Recognized as one of the oldest Christian monasteries in existence and is famous for its magnificent library and considerable collection of Syriac Christian manuscripts.
• Lalish – Lalish is to the Yazidis what Mecca is to Muslims: a holy pilgrimage site. Read all about our trip to Lalish here .
• Rabban Hormizd Monastery
• Chwar Stoon Cave – an ancient site where Zoroastrian fire worshippers performed rituals
• Duhok Bazaar
• Gara Mountains – Saddam’s Palace
• Inishke Cave

Sulaymaniyah (Slemani) Province

Sulaymaniyah, or Slemani in Kurdish, is a large city in Iraqi Kurdistan. It is surrounded by mountains such as the Azmer Range, Goyija Range, the Qaiwan Range in the northeast and, Baranan Mountain in the south, and the Tasluja Hills in the west. So if you’re after mountainous views – you’ve found your destination!

Today, Sulaymaniyah has developed in almost all modern life aspects, from hotels, motels, supermarkets and malls to theaters, restaurants and parks.

From a cultural perspective, Sulaymaniyah is considered to be the capital of Kurdish culture. The famous old Saray is situated in the center of the city, while many museums are scattered around too. Sulaymaniyah is home to several universities and educational institutions, both public and private. It is also home to the American University.

Things to do in Sulaymaniyah Province

• Explore the town of Sulaymaniyah
• Slemani bazaar
• Amna Suraka, the Red Prison in Sulemaniya
• Goyje Mountains

Halabja Province

Truthfully, Halabja is quite a dreary town given its history . Many come to pay their respects at the national monument to the 5000 who died in Saddam’s genocidal chemical attack in 1988.

As with everywhere else, people are very friendly here. Halabja the city has much to enjoy, including a market area and attractive parks with amazing views.

Things to do around Halabja Province

• Martyrs’ Monument and Cemetery: a symbol of Kurdish resistance and hope in the face of dictatorship. The site serves as a reminder and details the crimes against the Kurdish people as an eternal remembrance that will never die.
• Gullan Park: an attractive green picnic area 5 km east of Halabja city, known for its fresh water springs, orchards and high trees
• Byara Shrines: an old village about 98 km northeast of Slemani, accommodating several shrines of spiritual sheikhs, such as the shrine of Sheikh Alauddin Naqshbandi. If you’re looking for famous places in Iraq – this one has a history the whole world has heard of.
• Aweisar: a popular tourist destination, famous for its walnut trees, fruit orchards and fresh water springs
• Pasha Mosque: dating back to the seventeenth century and built by Grand Mohammed Pasha, who was the grand father of Othman pasha Jaff, this is a sight to behold for sure.
• Twila : located around 100 km east of Sulaymaniyah and known as the heart of Horman, this place is surrounded by mountains on all sides, ensuring perfect climatic conditions and lovely picture opportunities.

Food in Iraqi Kurdistan

Kurdish food in Iraq is deliciously unique and filled with warmth and culture. Try to experience at least one meal with a local at their house and just embrace the effort and love that goes into such an amazing experience. Karwan, our guide, invited us into his home and the memories will last a lifetime.

Iraqi Kurdish food is typical of the region, sharing similar qualities with Armenian, Arab, Assyrian and Turkish foods. Foods you’ll likely come across are:

• Dolma (vegetables stuffed in grape leaves)
• Kofta (spiced meatballs or meatloaf)
• Honey and black tea

Being shepherds, the staple meats are lamb and chicken. Kurdistan is quite fertile. Vegetables also make up a large part of traditional Kurdish food, as well as dairy.

Kurdish meals are normally eaten while sitting on the floor. Food is served on either a small cloth or a low table placed in the center of the room. Hot dishes, cold dishes, sweets and savories are all served at the same time. It’s quite an experience.

ⓘ TIP:  Try some lamb or chicken that’s been simmered in a tomato and yogurt sauce. It’s served over rice or bulgur-pilaf. (Bulgur is a nutty Middle Eastern grain, and has a wonderful chewy texture).

Internet and data in Iraqi Kurdistan

Iraq’s wifi is not the fastest in the world, but it is enough to get by and you will find it all across the country in restaurants and hotels (which usually offer guests free Wifi). Internet is not much of an issue when you travel in Iraqi Kurdistan.

SIM card and 3G

You can buy a local SIM Card, but topping up with data is quite expensive compared to deals you may be used to getting. We paid around 7,000 IQD ($5 USD) for the SIM Card and 18,500 IQD ($15 USD) for 5GB of data.

Karwan helped us buy our sim cards in Erbil, at the bazaar. The whole experience was surreal. There were vendors that had piles of sim cards stacked on their tables, and they would just leave them unattended to go for tea! Same situation with the moneychangers; you’d see stacks of USD lying on a table, and the vendor wasn’t even paying attention to the table at all. That’s what the Kurds are like: they wouldn’t think of stealing.

There is a Zeyarah line (Visitor’s SIM Card) that some recommend as the best choice for travelers due to its suitable local and international prices specially tailored to travelers. The SIM card is only valid for a maximum period 30 days (you must remember to extend it from 15 days to 30 days, though) and has some pretty good deals on data. We have never used this SIM card, however it has some good reviews from travelers that have.

If you walk into any mobile phone shop and ask for a Korek sim, you will be able to get one, but expect problems with communication, registration and connection doing it this way. If you’re not working with a guide, who can help you with it, it’s probably best to just find a Korek shop and have them set everything up for you.

ⓘ TIP: To use a new sim, you’ll need an “unlocked” phone. If you bought your phone on a contract in your home country, your provider will “lock” the phone until it’s paid off. Contact your phone network to arrange to have it unlocked, and don’t be surprised if they charge a fee to do it.

What to pack for Iraqi Kurdistan

When it comes to packing for a country with a reputation such as Iraq, people start to wonder if the clothes they pack will be appropriate. The Kurds are very forgiving of foreigners, and you don’t need to be too stressed about packing to visit Iraqi Kurdistan. However, very short shorts are not something you should wear out in the streets if you are a woman. You don’t want to be giving off the wrong signals.

Hijabs (head scarfs) are only worn by married women, and even then, women don’t have to wear it if they don’t want to. So unless you want to wear a scarf, you won’t need to, unless you are visiting a mosque. If you might want to do that, don’t forget to pack a scarf (or buy one there!).

Here’s a quick packing list to give you an idea of what to pack:

• Scarf (for visiting mosques)
• Comfortable walking shoes
• Modest clothing that isn’t too revealing
• Thin waterproof jacket
• Quick dry pants/shirts
• Hiking boots

Final thoughts on visiting Iraqi Kurdistan

If you’re thinking of traveling to Iraqi Kurdistan, then you are in for a treat. Such a trip will touch your soul and the memories will last a lifetime.

From tips and what to know to what to eat and must-see things to do, we hope our travel guide to Iraqi Kurdistan has inspired you to visit.

Would we like to go back to Iraqi Kurdistan? No. We would love to.

Planning resources

Here are some useful links to help you plan your own trip.

ⓘ TIP: Travel insurance for Iraqi Kurdistan can be difficult to find, because many governments and foreign authorities advise against unnecessary travel to Iraq. You can get a policy through only a few companies, including IATI and InsuBuy .

Want a private tour?

A tour guide will greet you at the airport, help with your luggage, escort you to your hotel, help you settle in, then pick you up when you’re ready for your first tour.

We highly recommend our guide, Karwan Wahed. Not only is his English excellent, he’s friendly, knowledgeable, and easy to understand. Check him out on Facebook and his Iraqi Kurdistan Tours website.

• View our Iraqi Kurdistan photo tour
• Read about where they make you go barefoot in Iraqi Kurdistan
• Here is a list of the destinations, sights and activities that travelers to Iraqi Kurdistan may find interesting.
• Read reviews on Erbil Kurdistan (Tripadvisor)
• Insight Guides Silk Road
• Iraq: The ancient sites & Iraqi Kurdistan (Bradt Travel Guides)
• Sweet Tea with Cardamom: A Journey Through Iraqi Kurdistan

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Written by Linda

Linda is multilingual and has been to over 50 countries. Her insatiable love of travel, cuisine, and foreign languages inspired her to create As We Saw It, where she documents her trips, shares practical itineraries, and offers insider tips. She’s passionate about helping fellow travelers save time, money, and hassle, and loves to discover new places to explore.

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4 thoughts on “iraqi kurdistan travel guide”.

A very comprehensive guide about Iraqi Kurdistan! Good job! Imagine that while hitchhiking I met Karwan’s family by chance. I can also confirm that hitchhiking in Iraqi Kurdistan is safe.

Thanks, Diana! It was a labor of love. Can you share your favorite memories from your time there? We’d love to hear about it.

P.S. Isn’t Karwan’s family lovely? Every Kurdish person we met was a delight.

Can’t believe it’s so beautiful! The landscapes look so pristine, the yellow flowers and the lakes…wow! Kurdistan is an unsung gem. Isn’t it? Even the food looks delicious. I’m happy to know that it’s safe to visit, too. Thanks for writing such a detailed travel guide on this relatively new destination. It’s going to be extremely helpful.

You’re right, Kurdistan is an unsung gem. At least, to westerners. You’ll find lots of Turkish and Iranian visitors. I suspect Syrians used to visit but the Peshmerga probably turn them all away these days.

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Iraqi Kurdistan

• 1.1 Climate
• 4 Other destinations
• 6.1 By plane
• 6.2.1 From Turkey
• 6.2.2 From Iran
• 6.2.3 From Syria
• 7.1 By taxi
• 7.3 By plane
• 7.4 By train
• 7.6 By thumb
• 13 Stay safe

The Kurdistan Region of Iraq ( Kurdish : Herêma Kurdistanê/ھەرێمی کوردستان‎), also known as Iraqi Kurdistan is an autonomous region in Iraq .

Understand [ edit ]

Iraqi Kurdistan is comprised of four governorates: Dohuk , Erbil , Halabja , and Sulaymaniyah , administered by the Kurdistan Regional Government (KRG). As an autonomous region, the Iraqi military is not allowed to enter Iraqi Kurdistan and the Iraqi government does not have the means to enforce Iraqi laws in Kurdistan.

There are disputed areas, such as Kirkuk and parts of the Ninaveh and Diyala provinces, which are regarded part of Kurdistan by many Kurds, but are not part of the autonomous region. They are not described in this guide.

Iraqi Kurdistan has long been a hotbed for ethnic nationalism. Throughout history, the Kurds in Iraq have vacillated between autonomy and self-determination, and this has often put them into conflict with the Iraqi government. Of all the ethnic groups in Iraq, the Kurds are the ones who are the most critical of the Iraqi government and many Kurds do not call themselves "Iraqis".

During Saddam Hussein's rule, the Kurds were severely marginalised by the Ba'athist government; they experienced Arabisation at the hands of the government and thousands were massacred in the Anfal campaign, a genocidal counterinsurgency in the 1980s. Many Kurds fled Iraq during this time.

After the uprising in connection with the Gulf War 1991, Iraqi Kurdistan achieved de facto independence. When Iraq was invaded in 2003, the Kurdish region was largely spared from conflict and their autonomy was made official in the new constitution. With a minimal level of terrorist activity and massive economic development, Kurdistan fast became a "gateway to Iraq" with high levels of foreign investment and development.

Since the defeat of ISIL, it appears that relations between the Arabs and the Kurds are showing signs of improvement. Still, the relationship is quite complex and tense.

Kurdish society consists of a variety of religions and beliefs (such as Muslims, Christians, Jewish, Yazidis, Kakayis, Zoroastrians, Yarsanis, Hawaris, Ahli Haqs) and they all coexist peacefully.

In general, Kurdish people are very friendly and hospitable, you can make friends with anybody and start talking to anyone on the street, so be open to new experiences.

Climate [ edit ]

Iraqi Kurdistan is cooler and wetter than the rest of Iraq , which is no surprise, considering that much of Iraqi Kurdistan is mountainous and hilly. Temperatures can fall as low as −2 °C (28 °F) and they can reach as high as 40 °C (104 °F).

Regions [ edit ]

Cities [ edit ]

The major cities controlled by the Kurdish Regional Government (KRG) are

• 37.1057 43.8283 2 Dahuk – A city encircled by mountains along the Tigris river.
• 35.1794 45.9874 4 Halabja — The town that was the scene for Saddam Hussein's gruesome gas attack that killed 5000 people in 1988 now holds a number of memorials, monuments and cemeteries commemorating the event.
• 36.0848 44.6277 5 Koya – In a beautiful region of Kurdistan, this town is famous for its mosques, which also have been centres of art and science.
• 36.6146 44.5265 6 Rawanduz – A town on the ancient the Nineveh trade route, it became capital of the Soran Emirate from 1399 to 1835.
• 36.3981 44.3378 7 Shaqlawa – A historic city and a hill station, known for its waterfalls, trees, and greenery.
• 35.5572 45.4426 8 Sulemania — The centre of education and culture in Iraqi Kurdistan. The city features the best museums – the Amna Suraka and Slemani Museum, and a number of pleasant parks.
• 37.1434 42.6823 9 Zakho – the main border crossing from Turkey.

Other destinations [ edit ]

• 36.734167 43.096667 1 Alqosh – a tranquil, 2500-year-old Christian village.
• 37.0919 43.487 2 Amedi – a 4000 year old town perched on the peak of a mountain, rumoured home of Biblical Magi, and confirmed home to Assyrian ruins.
• 35.803822 45.003606 3 Chemi Rezan — the famous caves in which the earliest human ceremonial burial site.
• 36.133333 44.916667 4 Dukan Lake — a large man-made lake lying at an altitude of 900 m. Great for Friday picnicking.
• 36.6756 45.0403 5 Hamilton Road – beautiful mountain road between as a shortcut between Erbil and Iran.
• 37.0331 43.2841 6 Gondik – site of ancient cave paintings.
• 36.771397 43.303344 7 Lalish — valley. The "Holy See" of Yazidi faith.
• 36.49 43.442778 8 Mar Mattai – 4th century Syrian Orthodox Monastery, the oldest of its kind, overlooking Mosul in its horizon.
• 36.6087 44.4952 10 Mount Korek — The only ski resort which is open in the region is accessible by a 4 km long Teleferic (cable car) from Bekhal . Has a resort and activities park at 2,127 m above sea level.

Talk [ edit ]

Kurdish is official language. Two varieties of Kurdish are spoken in the region: Kurmanji and Sorani . Generally speaking, the use of Kurmanji is limited to Dahuk , whereas Sorani is more commonly spoken. The two varieties are mutually unintelligible. Some minority groups speak other languages.

Arabic is understood by the older generation, but it hasn't been taught in schools since the early 1990s.

English is spoken by the younger generation and well-educated people. Outside the major cities, English isn't widely spoken or understood.

Some members of the Kurdish diaspora have returned and are able to communicate in languages such as Swedish or German .

Get in [ edit ]

Iraqi Kurdistan controls its own immigration, and has a separate visa policy from the rest of Iraq. This means that a regular Iraqi visa is not valid for travel to Iraqi Kurdistan; you will need to obtain a separate Iraqi Kurdistan visa for that. Iraqi embassies and consulates cannot issue visas for Iraqi Kurdistan. You will need to contact an Iraqi Kurdistan diplomatic mission , known as a representation for that. Travelling between Iraqi Kurdistan and the rest of Iraq will involve border inspections.

Citizens of all European Union member states, Albania , Australia , Brazil , Canada , China (mainland only), Iceland , Japan , Kuwait , Lebanon , Liechtenstein , New Zealand , Norway , Qatar , Russia , South Korea , Switzerland , the United Arab Emirates , the United Kingdom , the United States and the Vatican City may apply for an eVisa . All other nationalities will need a local sponsor in Iraqi Kurdistan to file the visa application and pay the visa fee on your behalf. If you are joining a package tour, the tour company will usually be able to arrange for a sponsor at an extra cost; check with them to be sure.

A visa for Iraqi Kurdistan cannot be used to travel to other areas in Iraq, which includes Mosul as of 2022. When attempting to cross the Iraqi Kurdistan border, you will be sent back at the first military checkpoint encountered.

Kurdish authorities may detain for questioning all foreign citizens that have crossed the border from Turkey. You may face deportation. Note that even Arab nationals entering from Turkey will need a "Kurdish guarantor" to enter the region.

By plane [ edit ]

Kurdistan is served by two international airports:

Carriers such as Austrian, Turkish Airways and Pegasus have daily flights from Europe and Turkey to Erbil International Airport. Pegasus (via Istanbul ) and Fly Dubai (via Dubai ) are often the cheapest routes.

In order to change currency to pay for your visa, just step right off the plane, proof your vaccination status, then go to the exchange money counter next to the visa counter, pay the fee and get the visa (in your passport or on a separate sheet).

By ground [ edit ]

From turkey [ edit ].

Silopi, the closest town on the Turkish side, is connected to Istanbul and Ankara by bus. From here, shared taxis go across the border to Zakho, the closest town to the border on the Kurdish side.

Most connections from Turkey to Dohuk, Erbil and Sulaymaniyah go via/from Diyarbakir and even Istanbul. From Diyarbakir Otogar, there are more than five buses leaving every morning and evening to Dohuk (450-500 TL, 7-9 hr) and Erbil (550-600 TL, 12 hr) and some less to Sulaymaniyah (550-700 TL, 14-15 hr). Buses to destinations in Iraq are cheaper than the Turkey-bound buses; maybe this is caused by longer queues on the border. Have prepared USD30 (towards Erbil) or USD40 (towards Diyarbakir) and don't be afraid to negotiate.

Border control at land borders can be fairly strict. If you have a contact in Kurdistan, come armed with their name and address. If you don't, make sure you have a very good idea of what exactly you will be doing and where you will be staying. You are also more likely to get in if travelling with someone else, and if you are well-dressed.

The border formalities may take as little as 45 minutes (entering Iraq) or as long as 7 hours (leaving Iraq). If you get to the Kurdish side of Ibrahim Khalil border crossing, work through the booths according to their number. Outdoors No. 1: vaccination against COVID-19, No. 2: (??), No. 3: bank booth to exchange US$/€ to IQD, No. 4: COVID test (only if not vaccinated). Same procedure in the “Passport Hall”: No. 1: check if you are vaccinated/your test was negative No. 2: paying for and actually getting the visa stamped into your passport.

From Iran [ edit ]

Iran shares two border crossings with Iraqi Kurdistan: One at Piranshahr - Haji Omaran (at the end of Hamilton Road in the northeast) and one at Bashmaq - Panjwin (also spelled Penjwen) (east of Sulaymaniyah ), with the former being the easiest to catch connecting transportation from. These are the only two border crossings between Iraq and Iran that are realistic for travellers with foreign passports, since all other border crossings require Iraqi visa which are notoriously difficult to obtain.

• 36.665422 45.067971 3 Piranshahr — convenient for those travelling from Tabriz to Iraqi Kurdistan, ca. 150 km from Erbil . Rawandiz , one of the most popular tourist destinations in Iraqi Kurdistan, is encountered underway.
• 35.614186 46.016102 4 Bashmaq — closest to Tehran and most convenient for those already in Iranian Kurdistan. This crossing is the closest to Sulaymaniyah .

There are long distance coach services between Tehran and Erbil crossing the border (ca. 950 km, 10 hr), but many travellers also rely on either private taxis or hitching.

The border is very safe to cross, although the numerous trucks transporting oil make it a somewhat unpleasant experience.

From Syria [ edit ]

There is one contested border crossing in the disputed region of Nineveh, northeast of the Iraqi city of Sinjar. This crossing is continuously changing hands between Kurdish militias, Sunni Islamists and the Iraqi Army. Going anywhere near this crossing is extremely dangerous.

Get around [ edit ]

By taxi [ edit ].

Travel between cities is largely done by shared taxis from the garages at each city. Larger cities will have a number of garages. Asking for e.g. "Garage Sulaymaniyah" will usually be enough. Minibuses do exist on routes between major cities, but are not as safe as taxis as they may make stops in Kirkuk or Mosul. Taxis are not that cheap – expect prices ranging between 7000 and 20000 dinar (USD 6–18) for a seat, but in most places they are the means of transportation. Minibuses cost about the half of taxis and take about 1½ hour for driving the distance a taxi can do in an hour.

Taxis are everywhere and are either beige or white with a couple of orange squires. Taxis usually charge between 2000 and 6000 dinars for an intra-city trip. Agree on the price before getting in as there are no meters. Most drivers will be fair, but you can often save a thousand dinars or so by haggling. Each driver will own his own car and tips are included in the price.

By bus [ edit ]

In the big cities there are fairly frequent bus services in the day, but no night buses. While confusing, timetables are available in shopping malls and major supermarkets, sometimes free of charge. Streets in Kurdistan are often designed in circles, and then named 10 Meter Street, 20m st, 30m st, etc.

Air travel between Erbil and Sulaymaniyah is available and cheap (around 100$ for a round trip), although this is only a 2½ hour trip by road.

By train [ edit ]

The railway is not yet operational, although there are plans to refurbish the line Between Erbil and Sulaymaniyah. Expect this to take a while.

By car [ edit ]

Driving standards are reasonable in Iraqi Kurdistan. Roads in the cities are in excellent condition. Traffic signals and signs are good and mostly observed. Speed cameras are present on many major roads in and outside the cities.

By thumb [ edit ]

Because of the low crime rates in Iraqi Kurdistan, hitchhiking is a safe, cheap, and convenient way of transportation between cities. Drivers will rarely ask for any compensation at all, and even make detours to drop you off where you want to be. Although rising in popularity, hitchhiking is not very common yet in Iraqi Kurdistan, so it may take a while before someone stops to pick you up.

See [ edit ]

Kurdistan is, at certain times of the year, a land of rugged beauty, characterised by mountains, green rolling hills, waterfalls and natural springs. It has long been famed in Middle Eastern literature as a paradise on earth. So do not expect a trip into the Iraqi desert when visiting Kurdistan. The country is at its most beautiful by spring, but don't expect particularly beautiful landscapes in the dry summer - unless you are fond of the colour yellow.

• Parastaga Zardasht : An ancient Zoroastrian/Mithradate temple in Duhok province.
• 35.798264 44.965158 2 Chemi Rezan : The famous caves in which the earliest human ceremonial burial site was discovered by German archaeologists. The area is now carefully protected; however, access is still possible.
• 36.621702 43.42869 3 Tel Gomel : also called (Gaugamela) The site of the famous battle between Alexander the Great and King Darius, is just under 90 minutes’ drive west of Erbil and close to Jerwana (Sennacherib's aqueduct to Nineveh).
• 36.49067 43.440272 4 Mar Mattai : is a 4th century Syrian Orthodox Monastery, the oldest of its kind. It is on the slopes of Jabel Maqlub overlooking Mosul in its horizon.
• Alqosh , a tranquil, 2500-year-old Christian village in the Ninaveh province with shady streets, an old Jewish grave site and the Rabban Hormizd Monetary carved out of the cliffs high above it.
• Delal Bridge in Zakho is the oldest example of an open arch bridge in the Middle East, dating back to Abbasid times.
• Gali Ali Bag : The most beautiful waterfall in the Middle East. Just at the beginning of the Hamilton Road in the northeast of the country.
• Bekhal : Another beautiful waterfall is near to the city of Rawanduz .
• Jundian : An artificial waterfall on top of a Mestirus Cave is near the city of Rawanduz and also the Magical Eye.
• Ahmedawa between Sulaymaniyah and Halabja a resort village good for hiking and yet more waterfalls.
• Salahaddin’s Castle 11th-century castle ruin 30 km north of Erbil. Supposedly build by the famous conqueror’s grandfather.
• Haj Omaran the ski resort in the north of the Erbil Province is no longer open.
• Numerous religious sites of especially the Judeo-Christian faiths. Such as the Tomb of the Prophet Daniel in Kirkuk province, the 9th-century St. Thomas Monastery and Jewlakan, Jewish quarter of Sulaymaniyah, with its numerous renovated synagogues.

Do [ edit ]

Hiking : There are plenty of hiking opportunities in the Kurdish mountains; however there are few operators or facilities. Be careful of venturing too close to the Iranian border: three US hikers were arrested in 2009 accused of being spies after supposedly having crossed the border illegally.

Picnics : A favourite local pastime, especially on Friday afternoons. Whether it will be in the mountains or in the city parks, locals love to spend their free time eating and conversing with friends and family. Invitations to join the fun are not unusual.

Shopping : Erbil and Sulaymaniyah have had a number of new, modern shopping malls open over the last decade. This is the face of the new Kurdistan and there is no reason not to join in, either for the shopping itself or the people-watching.

Weddings : Coming across a Kurdish wedding is not uncommon. Neither is being invited to participate in the festivity. Kurdish weddings are quite big, with a lot of guests. Expect plenty of food and dancing; though only few will include alcohol.

Sports : Football is popular. Many towns have their own football pitch. Bowling and table tennis are also popular recreational activities. Alternatively there will probably a gym.

Eat [ edit ]

As is the case with cuisines from all over the Middle East , Kurdish cuisine is rich in meat and fresh herbs. Vegetarianism is relatively rare.

Staples of Kurdish cuisine are kebabs, dolma (stuffed grape vines), yaprax (assorted stuffed vegetables ranging from onions to zucchini), shila u brinc (the Kurdish national dish), gipa (similar to Scottish haggis) , and biryani.

Shawarma is the most common street dish, and many food stalls sell it.

Drink [ edit ]

Tea is the most popular drink. Iraqi Kurds consume on average 1.5 kilograms of tea per year. Teahouses are found in every nook and corner and they are popular social gathering spots.

Fruit drinks of every kind are usually available at small shops.

Since most Kurds are Sunni Muslims, alcohol is not sold or served everywhere. In larger cities there are some (mostly Christian) neighbourhoods that sell alcoholic beverages.

Buy [ edit ]

The official currency is the Iraqi Dinar (ID). Money can be exchanged in major cities, and ATMs do accept credit cards. Foreign debit cards are rarely accepted however. Shops, restaurants, or hotels also rarely accept debit or credit cards, so always make sure you have cash dinars with you. Crime rates in Iraqi Kurdistan are low, so carrying around several hundred thousand dinar on the street does not pose a safety risk.

Stay safe [ edit ]

Iraqi Kurdistan is safer relative to the rest of Iraq. Crime rates tend to be low, and independent travel is possible without major issues. There is still high risk of terrorist activity in certain areas, and there is risk of attacks from Turkey. Cities near the Syrian, Turkish, and Iranian borders are unsafe.

Since many governments still advise against all travel to Iraq, your travel insurance company may not cover your trip to Iraqi Kurdistan. IATI is one of the few travel insurance companies that can cover your trip to Iraqi Kurdistan.

Security tends to be very tight in Iraqi Kurdistan, often to the point of irritation. For example, it's not uncommon to go through 6–8 security checks before boarding a plane. The Peshmergas (the Kurdish armed forces) can be found everywhere and are responsible for ensuring the external and internal security of Iraqi Kurdistan. As with all authority figures, if a Peshmerga asks you to do something, just do it.

If you are from an Arabic-speaking country or are of Arab descent, you can expect some unwanted attention from the Peshmergas. Do not be surprised or alarmed if this happens to you; just be polite and comply with their requests.

Do not bring drones into the autonomous region. If a drone is found in your possession, you will be detained by the Peshmergas and you will be treated as a suspected spy, militant or terrorist.

Do not take photographs of sensitive areas. If you do this, the Peshmergas will detain you and you will be treated as a suspected spy, militant or terrorist.

Respect [ edit ]

The Kurds are known for their friendliness and hospitality . They are generally interested in getting to know people and it's not uncommon for them to invite people over to their homes. You may expect them to ask very personal questions (e.g. your vocation, your marital status) about your lifestyle and who you are. Don't be put off by this; this is how Kurds get to know other people! If you feel a question is too personal, simply give an indirect answer.

You may often be invited to social gatherings (e.g. weddings and the like). If you've been invited, accept the invitation! This is one of the highlights of Kurdish hospitality.

The Kurds are not Arabs ; they are their own ethnic group and should be treated as such.

Kurds in general tend to express feelings of antipathy towards Arabs and the Iraqi government. They consider it unjust and unfair that they've been harshly treated by the Iraqi government. Talk about Saddam Hussein and Ba'athism can very easily arouse strong emotions.

Show extreme respect when discussing the Anfal campaign ; many Kurds lost their loved ones in the massacre and it can very easily bring up bad memories.

The Kurds are, to a large extent, secular, and they tend to have liberal attitudes towards religion. Most Kurds are Sunni Muslims, but there are also many Christians, Yazidis and Zoroastrians in the region.

The issues of Kurdish nationalism , Kurdish irredentism and Kurdish independence are certainly much debated. An independence referendum was conducted in 2017 in which many people (approximately 92%) voted in favour of independence from Iraq, but due to international pressure, the process was halted. Many Kurds consider it unjust that there is no independent Kurdistan. The issues are quite sensitive and divisive, so avoid discussing them with your hosts unless you have a heart for fierce, passionate debates.

The Kurds strongly condemn religious extremism , and many Peshmergas have been killed defending the region against ISIS.

It would be unwise to criticise or speak badly of the Peshmergas . They are well-respected and pride in them is strong.

Connect [ edit ]

Wifi access is widely available in malls, shops, and restaurants. It's not the fastest in the world, but more than sufficient to get around.

Mobile data is relatively expensive, and 3G connectivity is limited to major cities. SIM cards are available for 5000 dinars, with an additional 18 500 dinars for 5 GB of data.

Cope [ edit ]

The following sites can be helpful with information for travelers interested in Kurdistan: The Kurdish Regional Government webpage [dead link] KRG produced fact-sheet (PDF) on Travel to the Kurdistan Region of Iraq [dead link] . For more on daily Kurdish life, check the blog ErbilLifestyle.com .

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Beyond Wild Places

Your guide to the wilder side of life

A Complete Guide to Travelling in Iraqi Kurdistan

If you’re contemplating travelling to Iraqi Kurdistan and wondering what you need to know about going there as a tourist, then look no further. In this blog post, I have covered all the important practical travel tips anyone would need to know before travelling to Kurdistan based on my experience.

Iraqi Kurdistan is not what many people expect it to be. It’s quite far removed from the dominant narrative of war, terrorism and religious fanaticism that we are fed in the media. Although, if you’re contemplating a trip there, then I’m assuming you already know that. 

The Kurdish people are some of, if not the most, friendliest people I’ve come across on my travels. The difference I found with the Kurds, was that their friendliness was genuine and some of my most memorable experiences were thanks to the locals I met. When tourism ramps up in the area who knows what may happen, however, for now, tourists are a rare sight, welcomed with open arms and treated like a true guest.  

Disclaimer:  This post contains affiliate links which means I get a commission if you buy a product through my link at no extra cost to you. By doing so, I can keep this blog going and continue to create helpful guides for you. Read more:  Privacy Policy

When to travel to Iraqi Kurdistan

Most people agree that the best time to visit Iraqi Kurdistan is in  March  and  April  when the Kurds celebrate Nawroz, or New Year. To witness the celebrations is apparently an incredible experience, particularly in the village of Akre. 

Otherwise,  October  and  November  are also good times to visit in terms of climate. I was there in  September  and the weather was perfect. 

Where to go in Iraqi Kurdistan

For a quick rundown on the main places of interest in Iraqi Kurdistan:

The three largest cities,  Sulaymaniyah, Erbil  and  Duhok , are on most people’s Iraqi Kurdistan itineraries. 

As are  Lalish  (the holiest Yazidi temple),  Alqosh  (Christian village and home of the Rabban Hormizd monastery),  Akre  (Kurdistan’s “prettiest village”) and  Amedi  (an ancient hilltop village). These towns can easily be explored on days trips from the major cities.

If you have more time, Rawanduz  canyon is also often visited for its incredible landscape and  Halabja  is a popular half-day trip from Sulaymaniyah for those interested in recent Kurdish history.

Read next: Best Things to Do in Sulaymaniyah

How to get around Iraqi Kurdistan

Most places can be reached by  shared transport , with the exception of Lalish (which is not really on any main road). This is the cheapest option and is relatively straight forward, with shared parking lots full of comfortable taxis and vans waiting to fill up in most cities, known as a garaj .

Otherwise, you can opt to hire a  private driver or tour  to see Iraqi Kurdistan. This is a good option if you’re short on time and want to see multiple places in one day. It’s not cheap, with daily rates starting at around USD$100 for a driver. 

I used a combination of both, local shared transport as well as private drivers. The shared transport is easiest to move between major cities like Sulaymaniyah and Erbil for example. However, it’s a great idea to combine Lalish, Alqosh and Akre in a day trip with a private car hire/tour either from Erbil or Duhok, simply for the ease and convenience.

Other day trips, such as to Amedi from Duhok and Halabja from Sulaymaniyah can be done by either shared transport or private hire. I did both by shared transport and it was not too difficult. 

You could technically cover all the main places in Iraqi Kurdistan within a week if you hired private transport. Otherwise, you’ll likely need at least 10 days if you plan on seeing things by shared transport. 

If you’re looking at doing a more  organised   tour  or want a contact for hiring private taxis, I would recommend  Haval . He is one of two local  Iraqi Kurdistan tour guides  that are quite well established and highly recommended. He is based in Erbil but organises trips all over the area. If you want to use him as a guide, I suggest contacting him before arriving as he is in high demand. He can be contacted through Facebook  here .

Public transport in Iraqi Kurdistan

As it’s a relatively small region there is no need for a large bus network with regular services. As mentioned above, there are shared  minivans  and  taxis  that make runs between towns which leave whenever they’re full. 

They’re quite comfortable, move quickly and aren’t too expensive. They leave from a parking area usually called a  garaj . In the bigger cities like Erbil and Sulaymaniyah there are more than one of these garaj’s servicing different areas, so it’s best to check with hotel staff which one you need. As soon as you arrive at a garaj you will hear men shouting destinations and people are more than happy to point to the correct vehicle for you.

Is Iraqi Kurdistan safe to visit?

Yes. In fact, someone told me that fewer people have died from terrorist attacks in Iraqi Kurdistan than in Europe in recent years. The cities of Sulaymaniyah, Erbil and Duhok are extremely safe, even at night, and petty crime is almost unheard of. I would just take regular precautions as you would travelling in any country.

But you have to understand that Iraqi Kurdistan is very different from Arab Iraq and just a short distance away, cities are still very fragile and unstable. Even cities like Mosul and Kirkuk which are not too far away are only just beginning to rebuild and recover from the war against ISIS. 

There is also a heavy military and police presence, especially on the major highways and passport checks are common. This shouldn’t be of any concern as a foreign tourist, although you should always listen to local and on the ground advice while you’re there.

Read next: A Travel Guide to Erbil

Kurdish politics

Politics is very pervasive in Kurdish culture and everyday life, and people are generally very open to talking about it. It’s also very important to understand at least the basics of Kurdish politics and the region in general, as that will only better inform you while travelling as to why things are the way they are. So, here’s a brief summary of Kurdish politics in Iraq to date, if you’re interested (can you tell I have a degree in political science?).

Regional politics is an extremely complex affair. For a start, Kurds want their own nation, ideally incorporating western Iran, southeastern Turkey, northern Syria and northern Iraq, which they refer to as  Greater Kurdistan . At this point, it seems unlikely, but many Kurds remain hopeful that one day there will be an official country called Kurdistan. Iraq is the only place where they have achieved some sense of stable independence and they operate on a semi-autonomous system under Iraq’s central government. 

The  Kurdistan Regional Government  is made up of two dominant political parties; Patriotic Union of Kurdistan (PUK) and Kurdistan Democratic Party (KDP). The KDP has been dominated by the Barzani family and tribe since it was founded in 1946, which has led many to criticise it as autocratic. The PUK split off from it in 1975 as a sort-of socialist, left party.

The two fought against each other in the 1990s in what is referred to as the Kurdish civil war and led to a division, whereby the PUK controlled the area around Sulaymaniyah and the KDP controlled Erbil and the surrounding area.

After the US invasion of Iraq in 2003, the KDP and PUK slowly worked on a more unified government. Barzani as the leader of the KDP was elected leader of the Kurdistan Regional Government in 2005 and he only stepped down in 2017 after the failed referendum. There are still many Kurds who have strong opinions about the Barzani family and the divisions between PUK and KDP supporters still exists.

The KRG and Peshmerga forces were one of the US’s greatest allies in the fight against ISIS in both Syria and Iraq and it was largely thanks to the Peshmerga in Iraq that the country has been liberated from them.

In 2017, Barzani called for an independence referendum which upset the Iraqi central government. The result reportedly was that at least 92% of Kurds voted in favour of independence but it was quickly quashed with clashes between Iraqi forces and the Kurdish Peshmerga. It was a devastating blow, as the KRG lost control over Kirkuk, one of their most profitable oil fields and they were forced to sign an agreement whereby they would never seek independence from Iraq again.

Visas for Iraqi Kurdistan

Immigration for Iraqi Kurdistan is controlled by the Kurdistan Regional Government. For European nationals, American, Canadian, Australian, Japanese and Korean passport holders,  visas are not necessary  and you’ll be granted  30 days  free on arrival. 

Note that this is different from the  Iraq visa , in which most foreign nationals require to  apply for in advance . If you want to visit cities like Mosul or Kirkuk, which are now under Iraqi control, then a proper Iraqi visa is required, even to use the roads leading to those cities.

Iraqi Kurdistan borders

The international borders with  Turkey  and  Iran  are open as well as the internal border with  Arab Iraq . Visas for all these borders need to be obtained beforehand. Turkey has an easy to use e-visa system, whereas for land border crossings into Iran you need to have applied and received a visa prior to crossing (visa on arrival is only for airport arrivals) and the same for Iraq (see above). 

Iran  || There are two border crossings between Iran and Iraq. You can cross near Sulaymaniyah which takes you into Iranian Kurdistan and Marivan, or you can also cross through Rawanduz and Soran, north of Erbil, which is closer to Tabriz on the Iranian side. Read more: How to cross the Iran-Iraq Border from Marivan .

Turkey  || The main border crossing with Turkey is northwest of Duhok at the Ibrahim Khalil Border Crossing. This takes you into Kurdish-majority southeastern Turkey. Read more: How to cross the Iraq-Turkey Border .

Syria  || Technically, the border between Iraqi Kurdistan and the Kurdish-autonomous region inside Syria has been open on and off in the last few years. For tourists, it is not permitted to cross, but this may change in years to come though.

Female and solo travellers in Iraqi Kurdistan

As a female, I had no problems travelling in Iraqi Kurdistan and I felt much more free than I had in Iran. It’s conservative on some levels but is also quite progressive. In the cities, you will notice Kurdish girls tend to wear whatever they feel like and a headscarf is not that common. I would still wear relatively conservative clothing. I felt comfortable in a t-shirt, but always kept my legs covered. I always carried a scarf but rarely wore it on my head.

However, rural life is quite different and if you visit any villages or smaller towns, people will naturally be more conservative. Kurdish family life is still very traditional in many respects and women are still confined to indoor duties and looking after the home. 

As a foreigner, however, I didn’t feel that people were overly judgemental and I felt that they were pretty accepting of the fact that I was travelling alone. They were just perhaps very curious about it. Of course the age-old, “are you married?” question will be asked a lot, but it’s not to be mistaken as a sleazy gesture but a genuine inquiry, as it is quite a different concept for them that a single young girl can freely travel on her own.

Otherwise, as a solo female traveller in Iraqi Kurdistan, you shouldn’t face any more difficulties than you might in other countries and in fact, I had far less hassling than other countries in the Middle East.

Money and ATMs in Iraqi Kurdistan

Kurdistan uses the  Iraqi Dinar  as their currency. US dollars are widely accepted and even Euros in some hotels. It is truly a cash economy, and almost nowhere accepts credit cards unless you stay in more expensive hotels, but I wouldn’t rely on it.

ATMs  are notoriously hard to come by. In Sulaymaniyah, there are a few around the central area, but in Erbil, most ATMs are located on the outer parts of the city and in the Ankawa neighbourhood. Not all ATMs accept foreign cards either. 

Byblos Bank  does accept foreign cards and it can also give you USDs as well as Iraqi dinar but they seemed to charge extra fees for foreign cards (or at least my card). I found the best ATM and bank to use was the  Bank of Baghdad  which charged no fees and you could also withdraw both USD and dinars. 

You can find foreign exchange markets in Erbil and Sulaymaniyah, if you’re bringing cash into the country. Although the rates will likely not be very good.

Budget for Iraqi Kurdistan

In terms of  budget , keep in mind that Iraqi Kurdistan is not a cheap place to travel, when you compare it to its neighbours. A 2 star hotel ranges from USD$20-40 per night for a single/double room and a meal at a local restaurant costs around USD$5-9.

Shared minivans and taxis are not too badly priced, a seat in a minivan between Sulaymaniyah and Erbil for example cost USD$9. For a private taxi hire/tour for a day with multiple stops, you’ll be looking at USD$120+.

Language in Kurdistan

Kurdish language has many  dialects  and in Iraq the main two are Sorani and Kurmanji, and along with Arabic, they are the languages you will hear most around Kurdistan.

Not too many people speak  English  but you’ll find the younger generation almost all speak at least some.

Food in Iraqi Kurdistan

You wouldn’t go travelling in Iraqi Kurdistan just for the food necessarily. It’s pretty standard Middle Eastern cuisine; very  meat-heavy  with  rice  and  bread  making up the rest of most meals. If you’re lucky most places will have some sort of basic salad or eggplant or bean stew, but as for any other vegetables, you won’t really get any. A plate of olives is also a common starter.

A standard meal is chicken or red meat with rice, bread, beans and a plate of onion (plus a plate of eggplant if you’re lucky), refer to picture below. There are cheaper street food and take away options such as kebabs, sandwiches and falafel if you’re on a tight budget.

Vegetarians will find it difficult, but beans and eggplant are staple dishes almost all restaurants will have in some form and falafel sandwiches are a good choice.

Drinking in Kurdistan

Alcohol  is available in the major cities at supermarkets and designated alcohol shops. It’s not frowned upon to drink and some of the alcohol is even smuggled across the border into Iran. Although if you’re a solo female traveller I’d restrict alcohol intact to just well-known bars in Erbil or Sulaymaniyah to avoid any sort of problem.

Tea  is basically the national drink and you’ll find teashops and young boys walking around with a thermos practically everywhere. It’s largely a male affair and you’ll rarely, if at all, see a woman sitting at a tea shop. However, as a foreign woman, I didn’t have any issues and many locals often invited me to sit for tea (unfortunately, the different treatment between foreign and local females is quite obvious here).

Accommodation in Iraqi Kurdistan

Accommodation in Iraqi Kurdistan is limited to standard hotels, with guesthouses and hostels not a ‘thing’ yet. Hotels are pretty good quality though, with even 2 star hotels at a pretty good standard. They all generally have private bathrooms, WiFi and tea and coffee available, while some also offering free breakfast.

The only exception to this is  Dolphin Hostel  in Sulaymaniyah owned by Shah, which is the only true hostel offering dormitories in Kurdistan. I highly recommend it and Shah is likely to become a good friend after your stay. He’s well known amongst foreign travellers who pass through Sulaymaniyah and I wouldn’t recommend staying anywhere else.

I booked my accommodation through Booking.com while travelling in Iraqi Kurdistan and found it the easiest way to guarantee a room.

For my other  hotel recommendations  you can see the individual posts for  Sulaymaniyah ,  Erbil and  Duhok .

Internet and SIM cards in Kurdistan

Internet  and  WiFi  is relatively good when you can get it travelling in Iraqi Kurdistan. All hotels have WiFi as do all the more upmarket restaurants and cafes. 

SIM cards  are relatively painless to get. If you’re travelling to Iraqi Kurdistan I would recommend that you get one for convenience and safety.

I was lucky enough to get one from two people who crossed from Iraq into Iran and so I didn’t personally go through the application process. I was given a  Newroz  SIM which had unlimited data for 30 days and it costs USD$20 or 25, 000 ID for the month. It worked pretty much everywhere.

I heard that  Asiacell  was likely better, as it’s one of the biggest companies, but prices are relatively similar no matter who you go with. 

Find all my Iraqi Kurdistan posts

• A Travel Guide to Erbil

Best Things to Do in Sulaymaniyah

• How to Visit Amedi from Duhok
• Why You Should Explore Akre, Lalish and Alqosh

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A Travel Guide to Erbil, Iraqi Kurdistan’s Capital

Why You Should Explore Akre, Lalish and Alqosh in Iraqi Kurdistan

How to Visit Amedi from Duhok in Iraqi Kurdistan

[…] crossing the border from Iraqi Kurdistan, I arrived in Mardin. I really hadn’t known much about the town before arriving there, other than […]

This comprehensive guide to travelling in Iraqi Kurdistan provides valuable insights and practical tips for tourists. The author’s personal experience highlights the friendliness of the Kurdish people and their welcoming nature towards visitors. The guide covers important topics such as when to travel, places to visit, transportation options, safety, visas, and cultural aspects. The inclusion of personal recommendations and useful information on accommodation, food, and language adds to the overall value of the guide. It’s a helpful resource for anyone planning a trip to Iraqi Kurdistan.

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Erbil Travel Guide

For the more adventurous travelers, Iraqi Kurdistan is sure to be on their bucket list. With the gradual return of stability to Iraqi and visa-free schemes for Kurdistan, travel has never been easier. While tourism is growing in Erbil and surrounding areas, Kurdistan is left ultimately untouched. Therefore, traveling to Kurdistan allows the unique opportunity to journey to the unknown and experience true Kurdish culture. On the other hand, due to the lack of amenities and infrastructure, travel can prove to be quite difficult. Here is an overview of what you need to know to start your holiday in Iraqi Kurdistan!

You can find information on Akre , Lalish , and Rawanduz here!

Erbil International Airport

After getting your passport stamped, travelers will then walk out to the arrivals portion of the airport. Here are many stalls providing car services, sim cards, and currency exchange. ATMs often do not work in Kurdistan and if your flight arrives late at night the money exchange at the airport will already be closed. Fortunately, many taxi drivers accept US dollar and Euro. There is no free wi-fi in the airport, the only option would be to approach the coffee stand in arrivals to ask for their password. There is also no public transportation to or from Erbil International Airport. It would be advisable to arrange for your taxi beforehand. In my case, I had to pay the whopping price of 25 USD to be taken a mere 6km.

Departing from Erbil International Airport is a little bit strange as well. Your taxi will drop you off at a separate building from the actual terminal. Here is where the first round of security checks will take place. After being cleared, passengers will then board a shuttle bus which will take them to the departures hall of the airport.

Where to Stay

Hostels are currently nonexistent in Erbil. After talking to some locals, there are dormitories available for less than a dollar. However, this kind of accommodation is not advertised and are located in more decrepit parts of town. Hotels found online usually start at around 15 USD a night. In my case, I stayed at the Madera Hotel , costing 24 dollars a night. The hotel, while rundown, is staffed by incredibly hospitable employees and is located only 1km from the citadel.

Ankawa-The Christian District

Ankawa and the surrounding districts of Vital City and Dream City are the flourishing business/expat neighborhoods of Erbil. Those travelers wanting to stay in a more liberal environment with various restaurants, bars, and clubs, this area is for you. Since the US embassy is located in this district, Ankawa is also incredibly safe. The only drawback is that these areas are located near the airport, leaving them 6km away from the cultural center near the citadel.

What to do in Erbil

The Citadel

The cultural center of Erbil is, without a doubt, The Citadel. The Erbil Citadel and the city’s history is closely linked, with a history dating back before the Assyrian Empire. The current appearance of the walls and buildings are reflective of the Ottoman period, however. The Southern section of the Citadel is largely rebuilt while other parts of the wall are still left partially collapsed. To this day, The Citadel still dominates the Erbil skyline. Its presence is further amplified with the presence of a huge flag pole placed in the heart of the castle.

The interior of the citadel is currently being renovated, with many districts being closed off while restorations are being completed. After entering the citadel there is little to do, only a textile and gem museum to entertain tourists. The only other site of historic relevance is the Qalla mosque, located near the center of the citadel.

The Bazaars

The entirety of the area south of the Erbil Citadel is many sprawling bazaars spilling over into each other. The recently remodeled Qaisary Bazaar, located to the south-west, is the most famous. This market offers anything from souvenirs and golden jewelry to pesticides and gardening equipment. Nearby you will also find the electronics market where you can purchase a sim card for a reduced price.

Sheikh Allah Bazaar is located to the South-East of the Citadel. Here one will find various fruits and vegetables for sale. Compared to the other markets, there is more of an abundance of street kids, selling plastic bags and being paid to carry around customers shopping in wheelbarrows. There is also a large currency exchange market, although it looks quite unreliable. For those wanting the best rate, it is recommended to go to the Family Mall.

Visiting a Gun Shop

The once infamous black market in Erbil has been closed since 2016 . With the fall of the Islamic State, the local government saw the need to control the buying and selling of arms. While the military market is closed, you still have the opportunity to check out one of the last operating gun sellers in Erbil (that I know of). This gun shop is located in a small market just east of the park in front of the citadel, housing various camera and tool repair shops. The owner was indifferent to a tourist gawking at his machine guns and RPGs being promptly displayed in his shop and was even open for taking photos.

Some other sites popular within Erbil are the Minaret Park and Jalil Khayat Mosque. For more info on things to do in and around Erbil click here !

Getting Outside of Erbil

Buses are a bit difficult to come by in Erbil. All intercity transportation departs from the Erbil International Terminal near the Family Mall. From here, you can find shared taxis taking you to all corners of the country, including Mosul. Haggling is a must with the taxi drivers. Fortunately, with multiple passengers they are less inclined to try and cheat you.

For a list of fares and more travel information click here !

Some of the most popular places to do day trips from Erbil is Akre , Lalish , and Rawanduz !

While leaving Erbil may be easy, getting back will end up being a bit more expensive. Unless you are in a major city, hailing a shared taxi with be difficult. Also, when visiting destinations such as Lalish or Saint Matthews Monastery there is no choice but to hire a private taxi. When doing so be sure not to pay the full amount of the fare before the end of your journey. In my case, I paid a driver to take me to Lalish, Saint Matthews Monastery, and Akre for the sum of a hundred dollars. I tried to pay half up front and half at the end of the trip, but the driver refused. Being on the side of the road in Iraq, I took a chance and paid him up front. Later on, he informed me we couldn’t visit the Monastery since the Iraqi Army was currently in the region fighting ISIS. While I had no problem with this, it did take off a destination on the itinerary. Obviously, I would expect some of the money to be returned to me. The man refused. Eventually, I found some lovely Arab men from Baghdad to help me translate with him. Calling him a theft and that he was shaming his people was not enough to sway his mind. I was consoled by the translators, being told that this is a Kurdish trick which they have fallen victim to in the past as well.

Many of these cab drivers will also try and squeeze more money out of you after reaching your destination. They will find excuses such as complaining about traffic or the road being bad. It is best to stay firm and pay the original price which you had agreed on.

Overall, the Kurdish people are some of the most hospitable I have ever met in all my travels. On my first day in Erbil, many shop owners wouldn’t take my money, giving me drinks for free. Roadside workers, seeing me pass by, offered me their hats to shade me from the sun. Many other locals offered me to sit down with them and eat together. Unlike other countries, I did not feel gawked at for being a foreigner. The hospitality of the Kurds was truly genuine. When seeing your camera, many people in the bazaar will ask you to take a picture of them and their shops. Even the street kids, pushing sticks of gum at you, will eventually give it to you for free after talking to them for a while. Despite the scams by the taxi drivers, Kurds truly are some of the most welcoming people on the planet.

Is Iraqi Kurdistan Safe?

Contrary to what many may think, Iraqi Kurdistan is extremely safe. Numbers show that in recent years there have been more terrorist attacks in France than there has been in Kurdistan. Despite this, it is important to note that you are still entering a war zone. I was unable to travel to certain regions due to military operations being taken against ISIS. During my stay, there was even an attack on a government building in Erbil . This attack, however, is considered extremely rare in the capital.

As a foreigner traveling in Kurdistan, your safety is a top priority by the local police, Peshmerga, and the Asaije. The Peshmerga are the Kurdish military which maintains safety in Kurdistan. By law, the Iraqi Army are not allowed to enter the borders of Kurdistan. The various checkpoints on the highways are all operated by the Peshmerga. The Asaije is a kind of army reserve, which act as a police force in cities throughout Kurdistan. Many taxi drivers are also a part of the Asaije. If you are concerned about your safety, you can always ask if the driver is Asaije or not before getting in the vehicle.

Traveling to Kurdistan was an amazing, eye-opening experience. As a traveler, you are truly experiencing and documenting places that are untouched by tourism. Despite my grievances with the taxi drivers, the Kurds were extremely hospitable, making me feel truly welcome in their country. Kurdistan is about as off the beaten path as one can go. For those looking for adventure and an experience that will last a lifetime, Iraqi Kurdistan awaits you!

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Visit Iraqi Kurdistan: Travel guide

• December 11, 2023
• Leave a comment

• Updated on December 11, 2023

▶ Destinations ▶ Iraq  

How to travel to Iraqi Kurdistan

Everything you need to know to visit Iraqi Kurdistan in this travel guide. Whether you are a solo backpacker or accompanied by a tour guide or any tour operator, find out the essential points to know before traveling to Iraq: what to do, when to visit, where to stay, transportion, visas and safety.

Insure your trip to Iraq Start here

Discover Iraqi Kurdistan

Kurdistan is a region shared between northern Iraq, northern Syria, eastern Turkey and northwestern Iran. What you will find in this travel guide does not apply for the whole of Iraq since it is divided into 2 parts:

● Federal Iraq [Travel guide] ● Iraqi Kurdistan , which is an autonomous region recognized by Iraq.  

Language and culture of Iraqi Kurdistan

The inhabitants of Kurdistan are Kurdish and speak Kurdish, which is very different from Arab culture. There are many different Kurdish dialects such as Kurmanji for example, which has a large number of speakers in Duhok province.

Religion in Iraqi Kurdistan

Sunni Islam is the majority religion in Iraqi Kurdistan, followed by Shiite Islam. Islamization and persecution were strong in this region of Iraq, which had other important religious communities. These religions include Yazidism, Yarsanism, Zoroastrianism, Christianity and Judaism: all are a minority at the present day.

Climate and geography

Unlike arid and desert federal Iraq, Iraqi Kurdistan is a fertile and mountainous region. The climate is also different, presenting dry and very hot seasons, rainy or very cold and snowy.

Travelling to Iraqi Kurdistan

Far be it from us to think of a green and relatively safe Iraq. The work of the Western media has focused so much on the acts of violence that the country has suffered that one would almost forget that behind it there is a culture, a people and even places to travel there.  

A destination off the beaten track

This place is Kurdistan and my trip to the region offered me a great experience. More than the sites to discover, it is the Kurds themselves who have left me beautiful memories. I have rarely seen a country where locals take such good care of their visitors.  

A very hospitable Iraqi region

In fact, it will almost be beyond comprehension. Sometimes it was even too much, so to speak. I found myself in a few snaps of my fingers at one, transferred to the other, sent left, right… The meetings followed one another in number. I never asked for anything and was served everything on a platter. I had heard that the Kurds were friendly but I didn’t realize how much before I set foot in Iraq.

Things to do and places to see in Iraqi Kurdistan

There are many cultural visits to discover in Iraqi Kurdistan. Discover things to see and activities to do in the different provinces of the region for a varied itinerary :

🔎 What to do in Iraqi Kurdistan?

Informations about Erbil

Visit erbil.

Erbil, or Hewlêr in Kurdish, is the capital of Iraqi Kurdistan. It is in this city that one lands in general (or Sulaymānīyah) if one does not cross land borders. Being one of the oldest cities in the world, Erbil has a very interesting historical heritage to discover. It is also a nice place to stay. Discover the activities available and other information for your trip to the Iraqi Kurdish capital.

🔎 Visit Erbil: things to do

When to go to Iraqi Kurdistan?

Iraqi Kurdistan is a destination to which you can travel almost all year round. At least, depending on the temperatures you are looking for because this region can be as cold as it is very hot. Be aware that if you come outside winter, the landscapes will be much greener than the arid look they have during the cold season.  

Weather in Iraqi Kurdistan

● The months of April, May and November are very good for travelling to Iraqi Kurdistan. Temperatures climb up to 30 ° C and drop to around 20 ° C at night (on average , and except for November which is cooler).

● The months of September and October are hot but bearable: 20 ° C at night and between 34 and 38 ° C during the day.

● The months of December to March are cold. Temperatures remain mild in the plains but they drop at night, even in the negative. You should know that the closer you get to the mountains, the colder it will be. It snows in winter in Kurdistan. Also note that March is the rainiest month, about 15 days of precipitation.

● The months of June to August are the most unfavorable for travel. Temperatures exceed 40°C during the day and do not fall below 25°C at night (on average).

The best time to visit Iraqi Kurdistan

April is the best month from a cultural point of view, especially since the weather is very mild at this time.  

Iraqi Kurdistan National Day

Kurds celebrate Kurdistan’s National Day on April 21, Newroz . A good place to see the celebration can be Akre.

🔎 Visit Akre: Travel Guide  

Yazidi New Year

Also in April, you can attend the Yazidi New Year, Çarşema Sor , in the holy place of Lalish. It is held on the first Wednesday following April 13.

🔎 Visit Lalish: Travel Guide

Is it easy to travel to Iraqi Kurdistan?

Iraqi Kurdistan is not a tourist region. It is therefore not designed for travelers, especially in terms of amenities. Clearly, it is not Egypt. You will have to fend for yourself and there are not many places to sleep. Other than that, nothing is really complicated.  

Experienced travelers

If you are already used to solo travel in Middle Eastern countries, this destination should be easy for you. Nevertheless, there are a few things to know before traveling to Iraqi Kurdistan. You will find this information in this travel guide.

Inexperienced travelers

If you’ve never traveled to the Middle East, I can’t recommend this destination enough to start with. Especially since it is necessary to remain regularly informed about the situation in the region. Iraqi Kurdistan may be a destination where you can travel serenely, but the situation is not stable.

Safety in Iraqi Kurdistan

Is iraqi kurdistan safe to travel.

For my part, I have not, never felt the slightest sense of insecurity in Iraqi Kurdistan . I felt good all the time and at all hours, both in the middle of the night in big cities and in very remote areas.

Volatile situation

This security is relative because Iraq remains a country of conflict and the situation can always deteriorate rapidly. That’s why it’s important to keep yourself regularly informed about what’s happening in the places you visit. One thing is certain, security is more reinforced than on the federal side, but that did not prevent two attacks from happening there when I was there.

Areas to avoid

Some areas can be dangerous in Iraqi Kurdistan such as the borders for example. This applies as much on the side of Syria, as on the side of federal Iraq and Turkey ( Sister in the mountains because of the conflicts with the PKK and the many landmines). The province of Kirkuk is also to be avoided. Despite its tourist attraction, the situation is particularly volatile and conflicts are not uncommon. It is disputed between Kurdistan and Baghdad, which are fighting to control the oil-rich province. Perhaps it is safer to visit it with a guide.

Travelling to Iraqi Kurdistan as a woman

I was able to exchange with some solo travelers who went safely to Iraqi Kurdistan. No major incidents were reported. In fact, it is mostly very positive. It has also been reported that the Kurds may have more restraint than some of their Middle Eastern neighbors vis-à-vis foreign tourists. Nevertheless, it is still necessary to respect social-cultural codes so as not to be bored and at least cover your arms and legs. The hijab is not mandatory to wear.

Insurance for travelling to Iraq

There are a thousand and one reasons to be confronted with a problem abroad. Medical or hospitalization costs, which can be very high, are also one of the motivations for taking out insurance. The reputation of Chapka in the travel industry is second to none. Get insured then travel hassle-free.  

You will not pay any additional commission fee by using this affiliate link. On the other hand, you help me to get paid from my work and to keep Spirit-travelers.com alive. Also note that you can get 5% discount on the trips less than 3 months.

Money & budget

Iraqi Kurdistan is not the cheapest destination that can be found in the Middle East, but it is still very cheap. However, if you plan to make an itinerary with a fairly limited backpacker budget, it is possible to travel at a lower cost by sleeping in a homestay, wild camping and hitchhiking for example.   

Withdrawing money

Bring enough fluids during your trip. Only very large cities have distributors. I was fooled in Akre , which is a big city. There was no distributor and the nearest was 100 km away.

Most establishments do not take CB in Iraqi Kurdistan. The only places you can use it are usually luxury hotels or shopping malls but everything else is paid in cash. I went to a modern clinic during my stay and even here they didn’t take the card. Yet it was in Duhok, one of the largest cities in Iraqi Kurdistan.

Exchange currency

You can exchange euros and dollars easily throughout the region. Because ATMs are scarce outside major cities, Iraqis use the dollar a lot as currency. It saves them from bothering with large wads of dinars. Bureaux de change are easy to find.

Daily expenses

  ● I spent about $850 in 20 days ● Average of $40 per day  

Knowing the main daily expenses can be useful before coming to Iraqi Kurdistan to estimate the total budget of your trip. As mentioned earlier, you cannot withdraw money easily and you will need to have your money with you.

$1 = 1460 IQD

Transportation

They are quite cheap. A 5 km private taxi ride in a medium-sized city costs around IQD 1,000. A ride in the capital costs an average of IQD 3,000. A 100 km ride by shared taxi costs between IQD 5,000 and IQD 10,000.

Food is very cheap in Iraqi Kurdistan if you eat in local restaurants or on the street. Count about 3,000 to 4,000 IQD for a complete local meal. Food in Iraqi Kurdistan is not so varied. You will often find the same type of food. There are (really) many shawarma and kebab restaurants for example. Count 1,000 IQD for one or the other. A pure fresh fruit juice costs 500 IQD. A coffee or tea (chai) costs 250 IQD.

Cigarettes cost IQD 1,000. These are packs of 20 but are twice as thin as normal. That’s all the Kurds smoke! A normal package costs 2,000 IQD

There is no need to bargain in comparison with other countries in the Middle East (be aware that this may be different in federal Iraq). Even taxis often offer the real prices. It may be that some inflate them a little for long journeys but always reasonably.

One of the only things you will have to negotiate will be your nights at the hotel. Prices are not often displayed on the net. I used to ask the locals for the prices of those I was interested in before going there. The prices I was told at the counter were often doubled, so knowing them beforehand is useful since you will know how far you can negotiate.

Where to stay?

Hotels are not very developed in Iraqi Kurdistan, especially if you leave the big cities.  

● Budget hotels cost an average of IQD 40,000. They are always very clean and often spacious. You can negotiate them (see previous section). You’ll find them as motels rather than hotels. ● Backpacker hotels don’t exist in Iraqi Kurdistan. Tourism is so underdeveloped that these options are not available. You can find a few cheap hotels in Erbil but they are hard to find, and it’s not for lack of searching. ● Confortable and luxurious hotels are more common but I don’t know how much they cost.

Staying at the inhabitant

It is very simple to sleep in a homestay. People will often and very easily offer you to be hosted by them if you frequent the premises. It is even sometimes disconcerting because they have this facility to welcome you and give you everything without you asking for anything. The hospitality in this country is amazing.

Wild camping

I was only able to camp once in Iraqi Kurdistan for the simple reason that I was quite often with the locals and I had quite few moments alone but I know that travelers do. If you had to keep one thing in mind it would be without any other to pay attention to landmines. There are many left so it is advisable to stay in the areas where there is passage. During mountain hikes, I always stayed where I saw cattle droppings (herds of goats and sheep).

Travel tips and advices

Language barrier.

Finding someone who speaks English is a bit complicated. You will probably have better luck with young people in big cities. In this region of Iraq, Kurdish is spoken. But contrary to what I saw coming from travelers on the internet before leaving, Arabic is widely used in the region. In a street, it is almost impossible not to find at least one person who Arabic so if you have some knowledge with this language, know that it can be useful to you. By the way, I have talked a lot through translation applications in Kurdistan, and the Kurds never translate your language into Kurdish but into Arabic because the translation is more accurate with it.

SIM card and Internet

The network is very good throughout the region. In town as in the countryside, even if it becomes rare when approaching the mountains or in some remote corners.

Best operators

Asiacell is surely the best operator, it has the best coverage in the whole country. My network has always been excellent with this one. I bought a 40GB SIM card at the airport for the equivalent of twenty dollars. The other 2 main operators are Zain and Korek.

Can you take photos in Iraqi Kurdistan?

This is a question I have been asked several times and I myself had a little doubt. Cameras are not viewed with a negative eye and it is not uncommon for someone to ask you to be photographed. However, avoid photographing women without their consent if you are a man.   Also avoid taking government buildings. You can get yourself into trouble if someone surprises you.

Local customs

● Most people dress modestly and there is no particular dress code to adopt. Many dress in Western style. I have always seen women covered completely but still flirtatious, not much difference with the West. Hijab (veil) is not compulsory.

● Iraqis eat on the ground and it’s very friendly. Be careful not to put your left hand in dishes if it is not to reduce your bread into pieces. ● Taarof : I’ve noticed sometimes that people apply this Iranian courtesy of offering you something like a service for free, for example, and you have to refuse. If the person insists more than twice, it means that the proposal is real. I can’t tell you if it’s taarof like in Iran, but it looks more or less like it in a subtle way.

Hitchhiking in Iraqi Kurdistan

Hitchhiking works wonderfully. The few roads make it much easier, especially since the region is small so it is very easy to get to your destination. However, you will need to tell your driver that you are not paying for the ride. Indeed, most people will take you without asking you for money but in Iraqi Kurdistan, there are many collective taxis who will think you want to board with them. You will see a lot of people waiting along the roads without making any signs. They often wait for a shared taxi to stop so you are likely to fall on it too. Personally I got caught up in a game: if I come across a taxi and well I pay the fare and if I come across someone who is not a taxi I follow the hitchhiking rule, unless I am asked for a contribution obviously.

🔎 Discover my hitchhiking guide

Visa and entry requirements for Iraqi Kurdistan

Iraqi kurdistan visa.

Visa procedures are different from those in federal Iraq. Most of the European Union countries can obtain a travel authorization from 30 days for $60 on arrival. This visa does not allow you to leave Kurdistan. If you wish to stay, know that it is renewable at the embassy in Erbil.

If you plan to visit Federal Iraq AND Iraqi Kurdistan, you can settle for the Iraqi visa. This is valid throughout the country and gives you the opportunity to enter and exit both regions as you see fit.

Can you travel to Iraqi Kurdistan with an Israeli stamp?

Your entry into Iraq may be refused if your passport has an Israeli stamp, as well as any other evidence or suspicion found in your personal belongings.

COVID-19 restrictions

No quarantine imposed. You must present a negative PCR test less than 72 hours before arrival OR provide a vaccination certificate. This information concerns both Iraqi and federal Iraq. You don’t need to do anything to switch from one game to another. – Source : Official data provided by IATA

1. At Erbil International Airport

You can take your PCR test at Erbil Airport . Just know that the result of the RT-PCR tests they do are obtained in less than 2 minutes. Understand that they are simply cashing in your money and your test is not being analyzed. The test costs $30, either. But you will not really know if you are positive or negative and this can be a problem depending on your destination country if you have to take a test on arrival.

2. In Erbil

If not, you can do it at Zanko Health Center . It is the only approved laboratory in Erbil for international flights. It is open from 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. every day and from 8:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. on Fridays.

💵 Price : IQD 40,000 ($25)

Update 2023 : there are no more restrictions.

More details

Feel free to use the comment space if you want to know something that is not in this guide. I will certainly answer it during the day and it will allow me to complete the article in addition to helping you. You may also follow me on Instagram and check all my highlight stories about my travel in Iraqi Kurdistan. Have a good trip in Iraq!

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Is Iraqi Kurdistan and Erbil safe? Safety Guide (2024)

Moving to a new country every two years

Most parts of Kurdistan are safe.

Especially locally, Kurdistan is a very safe place.

Near the borders of Turkey and Iran it is less safe.

Kurdistan (Its Kurdish name is Herêmî (هه‌رێمی کوردستان), is a region that shares borders with northern Iraq , Iran to the east, Turkey to the north, and Syria in the west. Erbil, also known as Hewlêr in Kurdish, is the capital of Kurdistan.

Iraqi Kurdistan is the safest region of Iraq .

Iraqi Kurdistan has rivers, mountains with snow, forests, open grass fields and desert like parts. Some parts can look like you’re in Canada and other parts can be like a typical middle eastern looking sight.

Kurdistan isn’t always in the news in a positive way and many people have a certain view or opinion about the region because of that. But is it all bad? Not at all!

In this travel guide I will share all the things to know before visiting the autonomous region, Iraqi Kurdistan. Yalla! (Which is arabic for “Lets go!”)

Apart from running into a lion at the local pet store, Kurdistan is pretty safe! 😉

The people of Erbil: The Kurds

First of all, the Kurds! One of the most, of not the most, friendly people I’ve ever met. They are warm, open and welcoming. They are super friendly. It really surprised me how welcoming and friendly they are and also have a good sense of humor.

Within the first few weeks of Living in Kurdistan I was even invited to an engagement party . Besides the friendly people there is some really beautiful scenery and nature there that you would probably not expect.

is Kurdistan open for tourist?

Yes it is. It sure is open for tourists and you can get a visa on arrival. See if you are eligible for a visa on arrival on the official website.

https://gov.krd/english/information-and-services/visitor/

How to travel to Kurdistan?

The best way to travel to Kurdistan is to fly to Erbil International Airport (EIA). Many airlines like Turkish Airlines, Qatar Airways, FlyDubai and Austrian Airlines fly to Erbil.

Is Kurdistan Safe to tavel in 2023?

In short, yes Kurdistan is safe for traveling . But there are different ways to answer this question. Let’s start with local safety and what my experience has been so far.

How are the criminal rates in Kurdistan?

Local crime is very low in Kurdistan. I would say your chance of getting robbed or have your wallet stolen is much bigger in Amsterdam for example. It’s something I noticed quite fast when we arrived in the capital, Erbil.

There are no strange people hanging around on the streets, no gangs, no drug crime and so far I haven’t even seen any neighborhoods that are best to avoid. And I’ve been told that when something will happen, people on the street will immediately help you. It’s part of the culture to help people when you can and to protect the safety of the cities.

You can check out the crime rates of Erbil and compare it with other cities. https://www.numbeo.com/crime/in/Erbil-Irbil-Iraq

As you can see it is quite low and much higher in most other cities. I’ll bet a lot of people wouldn’t expect that!

Is Kurdistan safe to visit for single travelers?

I would say it’s really safe for single travelers to explore Kurdistan. The chance of getting involved in some robbery or other crime is very low. The history of Kurdistan has been dark during the times of Saddam. So people want to have peace and safety in the region and you can really tell that’s the case.

It’s also very easy to start a conversation with people on the street. It’s actually very common to have a small-talk conversation before asking a question! This makes for such a nice friendly vibe.

Is Kurdistan safe to visit for female travelers?

Also for solo female travelers it’s safe. But, I still would recommend to have a friend to travel along with you.

Not because it isn’t safe, but the thing is, there aren’t many tourists here. So, for a female traveler, especially if you are blond, it’s something people rarely see.

Folks might look at you and that can give an intimidating feeling. I’ve been told that because almost all women have dark hair it’s very unique for them to see blond hair and they think it’s just gorgeous. Thus, it’s like a compliment but most travelers probably aren’t used to people staring at you so it can be a bit strange to experience.

Also, if you’re a solo female traveler, people will not try to approach you or make contact. They will just look at you which, like I said, is a bit odd but you’ll get used to it after a while.

Is it safe for Americans to travel to Kurdistan?

The answer to this question is not simple. Kurdistan, which is a region that spans across parts of Iraq, Iran, Turkey, and Syria, has experienced political instability and conflicts for many years. While the security situation in most parts of Iraqi Kurdistan has improved in recent years, it is still essential for American travelers to exercise caution and research the current situation before making any travel plans to the region. 

Nevertheless, Kurdistan is the most pro-american region in the middle east.

Perhaps this is why the USA is building the worlds largest consulat of the in Erbil. I’ve seen it and it is huge!

In my experience, as a foreigner, it is safe to visit Iraqi Kurdistan such as Erbil and Sulli. I wouldn’t go waving a flag in the streets or anything but if you behave respectfully people will be friendly and welcoming.

are taxis in Kurdistan safe?

Taxis are safe, but! It is recommended to only used taxis from Careem . It’s like the Uber of Kurdistan. These are official taxi’s that use a standard fee so you know what the price will be, and you’ll never be scammed.

Pro tip, all of the taxis have license plates with Arabic numbers. Download a picture with a translation of the Arabic numbers to western numbers. The Careem app mentions the western numbers, so you have to figure out yourself which taxi with what license plate is the one you ordered.

One time I was in a bit of a hurry to go back from the restaurant to the hotel. I ordered a taxi, and I was waiting beside the road. There were a lot of taxis and at some point, I thought I saw the taxi with the same license plate as it said on the Careem app. I got in and the taxi driver asked me where to go to, which is already odd because it’s in the Careem app. After a few minutes I saw that he didn’t have the Careem app on his phone on the dashboard.

A few minutes later I realized that I wasn’t  in a Careem taxi but in an illegal taxi which is something you really want to avoid because they can scam you in paying too much money.

Lesson learned! So, from then on I always carefully check the license plate with the Arabic and western numbers.

Is it safe to drink Tap Water in Kurdistan?

I would not recommend to drink water straight from the tap. Either buy bottles or those big water barrels and put a tap on it.

But I do use the water to cook food in which so far has been fine, no complaints. I use it to cook pasta, eggs, and rice. For tea or soup, I will use water from bottles.

They say they get most of the water from natural resources like rivers in the mountains of melting ice and snow but It’s still more safe to drink from bottles. Especially since you are abroad it’s always smart to be extra careful.

is it safe to go hiking in Kurdistan?

It is safe within a certain area. Don’t go too close to the borders or Turkey and Iraq. Within the area of Erbil it is very safe. There are many hiking trails you can follow to the top of the mountains just outside the city of Erbil.

A particular nice area is Shaqlawa. It is a small town close to Erbil with many paths to hike. For safety, make sure you go with a group and preferably someone that knows the area.

Is it safe to ride on the road in Kurdistan?

Fortunately, thus far in my experience, riding on the road has been safe with the occasional scare (I’m alright, mum!).

However, I most certainly would not classify the traffic here as safe. The first thing the firm my wife works for taught us when I received training before we began driving here was to always keep your eyes on the road. Although it may seem apparent, changing your route or taking a drink of water might be risky since so many things are going on at once on the street.

There are people crossing the road (highways!) without even looking, taxis drive crazy, and chaotic U-turns. There are so many different cars, scooters and vehicles on the highway that makes you think you’re in real life Mario Kart.

Read the full post on driving a car in Iraq.

Is Kurdistan safe at night?

Yes, Kurdistan is safe at night. Crime rate is very low and that doesn’t change during the night. It’s not like there are gangs or strange people wondering the streets during night-time. Actually, the city becomes more fun and social! Most stores and restaurants are open until 11pm or even 1 am  and it’s very common to see a long queue in front of a restaurant at 10 pm.

There is one thing to keep in mind. It can be a lot busier on the road and on the streets during the evening from around 7p, till 1 am. Therefore, if you don’t like crowded areas, it’s better to do your shopping during the day.

Is it safe to buy alcohol in Kurdistan?

It is! In many countries in the middle-east it’s not allowed to buy alcohol or even being in the same room with someone who is drinking alcohol. That is not the case at all in Kurdistan!

It’s very safe to buy alcohol and there are many places where you can. In Erbil, there are a lot of liquor stores in the area called Ankawa. It’s an area where people with many various religions live.

But there is also the famous German Bottle Shop where you can buy almost any kind of imported beer, hard liquor and also some tasty wines for a good price. The price for a bottle of wine will range from 5 euros to 25 euros. A small bottle of Heineken around 1,50 euro. There are several locations of this store in Kurdistan.

As most of the people are Muslim many of them don’t drink alcohol. However, they don’t mind it at all if you do drink. It’s one of the beautiful things of Erbil, everyone respects each other, and people don’t care what kind of religion you have.

Is it safe to go to a mall in Kurdistan?

As the crime rate is very low it is certainly safe to go to a shopping mall.

There will be a security check at the entrance. So be mindful of that and keep your bag or purse ready to put it in a tray for the baggage scan.

Females will be searched by female security and men by men security.

You might think but wait a minute you said it’s safe and the crime rate is very low. Whatsup with the security?

Well, it’s kind of a service. Most malls are luxurious or at least want to pretend they are. So, in their view, having this security entrance makes it feel special and more luxurious.

It’s like stepping into a VIP club.

Is it safe to eat meat in Kurdistan?

Yes, it is. Many local dishes come with meat like döner, kebab and kofte.

I had a lot of dinners at local restaurants and so far, (fingers crossed) no stomach problems whatsoever.

I haven’t tried any street food yet. I’ve been told its better to just dine at the more well-known restaurants. And I don’t mean Burger King of course.

There are so many big and popular restaurants with local food it’s sometimes hard to choose.

Is it safe to rent an apartment or hotel room in Kurdistan?

It generally is safe, but there is one thing to keep in mind. I would recommend renting a room on one of the lower floors of the building.

This is because there is a risk of a fire breaking out. The air is super dry, it gets crazy hot in the summer and many buildings acquire their electricity from diesel generators.

Thus, these factors are a safety risk. Plus, many people smoke so that doesn’t help either.

Occasionally you can see a huge cloud of smoke coming from somewhere in the city.

Most of the time it’s one of the generators catching fire. Besides that, in the first four months of living in Erbil

I’ve seen quite some fires on the news and social media. So, whenever you want to rent a room tell them you would like a room on the lower floors of the hotel or building.

So, what is not safe in Kurdistan?

The cities in Kurdistan are safe but there are certain areas in Kurdistan that are best to avoid.

The borders

These are the borders of Turkey and Iran. There have been drone attacks and even a few missile strikes in those parts. The situation there is very complicated, and it is not safe to go there (eventho there are some stunning landscapes). This is one of the reasons why many countries advice not to go to Kurdistan.

So, on the one hand it’s safe because the crime rate is very low, but on the other hand there is always this threat of collateral damage of a drone attack close to the border. Cities like Erbil or Sulaymaniyah are really safe but if you want to go outside the city make sure you go with two cars and a guide for extra safety.

Always keep an eye on the website of your government to see what their advice is and what the consequences are of travelling in Kurdistan.

Mosul is not safe to visit. There is a chance of terrorism. The safest cities are Erbil and Sulaymaniyah (also called Sulli).

Read the latest info here

Should you visit Kurdistan?

Yes! In short: amazing food, culture, architecture, friendly people and gorgeous nature. In the winter you can even go to the mountains to ski which I’m hoping to do very soon! Snowboarding that is, because that is way cooler! 😉 Imagine that, snowboarding in Kurdistan!

When is the ideal season to travel to Kurdistan?

February, March, April or beginning of May are the perfect months to go to Kurdistan. Even January is not bad. It is a bit colder at night but during the day the temperature can still rise to 15 degrees.

After winter, the weather is at its mildest, and the scenery is lush and lovely. Especially in the mountains where there is so much beautiful nature in Kurdistan. It can be a shock for visitors who don’t anticipate Iraq or Kurdistan to be so green.

The summer in June, July and august and even a part of September, is way too hot and dry. After summer, October and November are very pleasant. Perfect weather for flip flops!

Final Thoughts on Traveling in Kurdistan

Kurdistan is a special and unique place with a long and complicated history. Many people, including myself, have an idea of what Kurdistan is like before they go there based on the information they have. But when we go to Kurdistan, we see that the area is very different from what we might have thought.

Many people’s ideas about Kurdistan may be shaped by news stories about war and political instabilllity there.

But when you go to Kurdistan, you see a different side of the area, one that is full of culture and nature. People in Kurdistan are friendly and open, and the scenery is beautiful.

This is a great short documentary on Iraqi Kurdistan:

https://www.npostart.nl/floortje-gaat-mee/09-03-2023/BV_101409278

F.A.Q. Kurdistan

Especially Erbil is a very safe place. There is a very low crime rate and there is political stability as well.

Compared to Europe or the US most of the things are cheaper. But, apartments in the city center are quite expensive.

Groceries at the international supermarket are more expensive as well than at local shops. Overall things will be cheaper compared to Europe.

Most parts are very safe to travel. Closer to the borders or Turkey and Iran it is not safe. Mosul is also not safe to travel.

https://gov.krd/english/

Friendly people, beautiful nature with mountains and lakes and delicious local food.

Yes, you can easily buy a SIM card in Iraqi Kurdistan at the Airport in Erbil. There are several mobile providers that offer affordable data and call packages.

Yes, Kurdish people are known for their hospitality and friendliness towards tourists. You can expect a warm welcome and helpful attitude from the locals.

Yes, there are checkpoints in Iraqi Kurdistan, especially when traveling between cities or to other regions if you go from Erbil to Sulaymaniyah. Be prepared to present your identification and travel documents at these checkpoints.

• Updated on December 19, 2022

Chris Oberman is the creator of Moving Jack and has been traveling the world for over 20 years to 40+ countries.

He lives in a different country every two years which allows him to gain unique in-depth insights in places abroad.

Read more about the author.

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Travel tips.

Is it safe to fly during the solar eclipse? Here’s what experts have to say

DALLAS -- If you need to fly in the afternoon of April 8, you might want to grab a pair of solar eclipse glasses.

Airlines and government officials say it is safe to travel during the April 8 once-in-a-lifetime event. The Federal Aviation Administration is forecasting 47,137 flights to operate on April 8 .

Health officials are warning eclipse viewers to wear protective eyewear, and that doesn’t rule out travelers. The sun’s intense brightness can damage eyes in seconds. It’ll be damaged even quicker at more than 30,000 feet in the air, said Eric Christian, a senior research scientist at NASA’s Goddard Space Flight Center and an eclipse expert.

“The sun will be a little bit brighter, but you shouldn’t ever look at it except during totality without either approved eclipse glasses or in the correct pinhole camera,” Christian said. “Even the smallest little piece of the sun sticking out can actually damage your retina. Be very careful.”

Experts say travelers flying along the path of totality, from Mexico into the northeastern United States and Canada, may experience a longer eclipse from the clouds based on how much closer they are to the sun. Totality in Dallas will last just under 4 minutes, though the exact duration depends on location. Christian estimates travelers flying along the path of totality to receive roughly 10 minutes of totality, and a longer partial eclipse.

Several airlines have announced and marketed “solar eclipse flights” which are special flights flying along the path of totality and have the highest chances of a great view from the clouds. Among these airlines is Dallas-based Southwest Airlines, Delta Air Lines and Dallas’ JSX.

Christian said when it comes to photographing the eclipse, it is recommended that passengers leave that to the professionals.

“The eclipse is a really unique thing and the best thing to do is to watch it during totality, and let your eyes get accustomed to it,” he said.

According to Southwest, its operational teams — anyone from pilots, flight attendants, tech operations, ground operations and network operations control workers — are in full communication regarding the eclipse. Employees are all advised to wear protective eyewear. The FAA has also offered guidance to commercial planes and private aircraft ahead of flights.

“In advance of a solar eclipse, the FAA asks airlines and pilots flying under air traffic control to plan ahead and file a preferred route ,” the FAA said in an emailed statement. “Advanced planning will minimize route changes and help the FAA better manage the flow of traffic in busy airspace, resulting in fewer delays.”

The FAA is also advising pilots flying on April 8 that regular activities like practice approaches and pilot training operations at airports in the eclipse path will be limited and possibly prohibited during the event.

All Southwest flights flying through the path of totality will have eclipse viewing glasses. Delta is providing solar eclipse glasses, a partnership with retailer Warby Parker, for its two path of totality flights.

Southwest’s air traffic management team has also been meeting regularly with the Federal Aviation Administration and doesn’t anticipate any widespread effect on operations. However, the forecast isn’t looking very bright for the millions of people looking forward to the event. The National Weather Service in Fort Worth predicted North Texas would be “cloudier than normal.”

Christian said flights along the path of totality “won’t be able to avoid all the serious weather.” He said light fluffy, high-altitude clouds tend not to be very much of a problem, but it’s the low-lying heavy clouds that matter for viewing purposes.

All in all, Christian said it is safe to fly during the eclipse. Pilots, aviation officials and those involved with flights on April 8 won’t compromise safety to get the best views.

“Plane travel is very safe and they’re not going to risk people’s lives to get a little more of the eclipse,” Christian said.

©2024 The Dallas Morning News. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.

Iraqi Kurdistan: The Autonomous Part Of Iraq That Is Actually Safe To Visit

Even if Iraq isn't necessarily on your radar, there are plenty of reasons (and places!) for why it should be.

Iraq isn't on many people's travel radar. Most folks are likely considering it to be unstable and unsafe . It is true that the last few decades have been very bad for this country with the country seemingly lurching from crisis to crisis, but it is not actually true of all the country. Northern Iraqi Kurdistan is actually safe and very rewarding to visit. Iraq occupies the ancient lands of Mesopotamia and is the classic site of the "Cradle of Civilisation."

So many empires have risen and fallen over these lands including some of the oldest known to man - like the Akkadians and Sumerians. It is the land of ancient Babylon and it is home to the all-important rivers of the Euphrates and the Tigris.

Today northern Iraq is home to the Kurdish people who have the autonomous Iraqi Kurdistan. This region has been able to maintain relative stability and has been welcoming tourists from around the world for years. People here are very hospitable and will be very glad to see you visiting their country.

Related:  Visiting The Middle East? Don't Miss These Impressive Sights

One caution though, if you visit Iraq and you are not an American or Canadian citizen, then you will no longer qualify for America's visa waiver program. Tourists to America will then need to get a visa in advance plus all people entering America are likely to be questioned by Homeland Security.

Iraqi Kurdistan: The Facts

• Capital And Largest City: Erbil
• Currency: Iraqi Dinar (In Practice For All Larger Transactions USD)
• Religion: Majority Muslim

When To Go And What To Understand

Iraq is a very hot country and in the summer it can be very sweltering. So it is advisable to go in the spring or autumn to miss the sometimes scorching heat of summer.

Some things to understand with etiquette is that while Iraqi Kurdistan is open and tolerant - especially by comparison to other parts of Iraq - there are some things travelers should be aware of. For men, it's ok to wear shorts here (something that is forbidden or offensive in some other parts of the Middle East). Women do not need to wear any head covering, but they should dress modestly and cover their shoulders and knees. It's fine to drink alcohol here.

Getting In And Getting A Visa

The visa situation is a little complicated as Iraqi Kurdistan is part of Iraq and for Iraq, one needs a visa. But in practice, the Kurdish regional government controls the ports of entry and allows almost all Westerners to visit visa-free for 30 days. But you are only permitted to stay in the Kurdistan autonomous region.

• Visa Requirements: Iraq In General, Visa Required
• Visa Requirements: In Practice Autonomous Iraqi Kurdistan Only - 30 Days Visa-Free/Visa On Arrival
• Getting In Option #1: Easiest Way The Two International Airports At Erbil And Sulaymaniyah
• Getting In Option #2: Optional By Border With Turkey

Related:  20 Things About The United Emirates (Tourists Should Know Before Traveling There)

Erbil is the capital and largest city of the autonomous region. There is plenty to see and do in this city. In the center, you can visit the ancient citadel of one of the oldest cities in history. You can try traditional Kurdish food and shop in the impressive bazaar located in the heart of the city.

Erbil is centrally located and is likely to be your central base for exploring the wider Kurdish region. Erbil is a modern city complete with modern shopping malls and everything you are likely to need. You can also find a very large ex-pat community.

• Population: 3 Million
• Visit: The Citidel Of Erbil, and The Euphrates River
• Walk Around:  Erbil Main Square
• Shop At:  Qaysari Bazaar (A Large Covered Bazaar Next To Erbil Main Square And The Citidel Of Erbil)
• Do: Chat With The Local Kurds!

Sulaymaniyah

Sulaymaniyah is perhaps Iraq's most progressive city and it sits nestled amongst the Iraqi mountains and boasts some stunning driving and hiking. The variety of the Kurdish language people speak here is different from that spoken in Erbil and many can't understand each other.

Sulaimani Museum: The Largest Museum In The Iraqi Kurdistan Region And Covers Kurdish Struggles And Genocide

Lalish is an absolute must-see if you visit this region. Lalish is the holiest temple of the Yazidi people (the Yazidi are a unique ethnoreligious group in Iraq who are of the Yazidi religion). Visiting this site is one of the most powerful things anyone can do while in Iraq. Here you will see their unique and often untold story and their unique beliefs including that of the "Peacock Angel."

Yazidis are incredibly hospitable and welcoming people - so much so that sometimes it's embarrassing. It is recommended that you hire a translator or guide, you may struggle to find people to speak English to here and it is helpful to have someone explain the etiquette of this holy site.

• Entrance: Free
• What to See: Holiest Temple Complex To The Yazidi

These are just a few of the many things to see and do in Iraqi Kurdistan. It is safe and truly one of the most welcoming places on earth for visitors. But don't expect a lot of developed tourist infrastructure here!

Next:  20 Surprising (But Important) Things To Keep In Mind Before Traveling To Dubai

Watch CBS News

Flying during the solar eclipse? These airports could see delays, FAA says

By Khristopher J. Brooks

Edited By Anne Marie Lee

March 28, 2024 / 7:04 PM EDT / CBS News

Air travel was already expected to pick up next week because of Spring Break, but Federal Aviation Administration officials  said  now until mid-April will be increasingly busy due to "the Great North American Eclipse."

Many Americans are planning on flying on April 8, the day when the U.S. will experience a total solar eclipse that will track across the sky from Texas to Maine. While some eclipse chasers will be heading toward states in its main path, others are timing flights to view it while airborne.

The eclipse "will likely mean crowded parking lots at airports and long lines at security checkpoints," Marisa Garcia, a senior contributor at Forbes,  told  CBS News. 

"It's going to be hectic but fun," she added. "Go with the mindset that it's going to be busy and pack light and pack carefully. Be patient and pleasant with everyone."

Passengers on the day of the eclipse should expect air traffic delays and an unusually high number of drones in the skies, FAA Senior Technical Advisor Kevin Morris said in an advisory  video . 

According to the FAA, these airports could see delays on April 8:

• Little Rock, Arkansas
• Indianapolis
• Kansas City, Missouri
• Toledo, Ohio
• Erie, Pennsylvania
• Austin, Texas
• San Antonio, Texas
• Burlington, Vermont

Garcia said American Airlines could see the biggest delays at Dallas-Fort Worth, the airline's main hub, which is squarely within the eclipse's path of totality  — where it can be seen in full. 

Officials in Erie, Pennsylvania, said they expect roughly 250,000 people to flock to the area for the eclipse. Meanwhile, tourism for the big event is expected to bring $1 billion to Texas . 

• Federal Aviation Administration

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‘sharenting’ can leave your baby exposed to id theft risk — before they’re even born: study.

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They’re robbing the cradle — while it’s still empty.

During the nine months it takes to cook their little buns in the oven, most expecting mommies find pleasure in plastering pregnancy announcements, ultrasound pics and baby bump progress photos all over social media. 

However, the plumb precious pastime — known as sharenting, a portmanteau of ‘sharing’ and ‘parenting’ — could be leaving their incoming tots vulnerable to digital kidnappers and identity thieves, per recent research . 

And it can begin much sooner than you think.

“Even when they post about their pregnancy or anticipating the birth of the child, they give away identifying data,” Valeska Berg, lead researcher of the report, says. “And that creates a digital identity even before the child is born.”

“The creation of a child’s digital identity can start with parents sharing information about their soon-to-be-born or newly born child on social networking sites,” explained data experts from Australia’s Edith Cowan University. 

“Digital kidnapping is defined as ‘people who steal a child’s identity and photo on social media and pass the child off as their own,’” the clinicians continued.

“[It’s] one of the risks of creating digital identities for children by sharing images, especially those that include personal information about the child and reveal the child’s face.”

Sharenting is a pitfall most overexcited families fall prey to online. It describes the trend of moms, dads and even grandparents publicizing sensitive information about their kids on Facebook, Instagram, TikTok and other platforms. 

Uploading seemingly innocent posts that include a little one’s name, sonogram shots, birthdate, birth certificate, nude or seminude baby pictures, first day of kindergarten and artwork creates their social digital footprint, according to the study. 

With the crumbs of info, virtual ne’er-do-wells — such as child predators, scammers, ID thieves and human traffickers — are granted dangerous access to the unsuspecting babe. 

A recent report from the Federal Trade Commission revealed a staggering 22,229 claims of identity theft from kids in the US under age 19. 

And Katarina Strode, a 25-year-old mom of two and ex-influencer, told The Post she immediately stopped sharing snapshots of her young brood online — a hobby she’d picked up while her now-toddlers were in utero — in spring 2022. 

That was when the blonde learned that sexual deviants were scavenging kids’ photos from social media to use for their perverted delights. 

“It literally sent a shiver up my spine,” said Strode, from North Carolina. “It never dawned on me that people out there, who might mean my kids harm.”

But Berg says parents don’t have to cease spotlighting their infants, tweens and teens cold-turkey.  

“A lot of the times people think that if they only share with their friends on social platforms like Facebook, that it is quite safe,” she said in a release . “However, we often have contacts on those social networks that are only superficially known.”

Berg went on to warn that merely making a social media page “private” is not enough to truly safeguard tikes. 

“Therefore, I would recommend private messaging through Messenger, WhatsApp, Signal and so on,” she encouraged, adding that blurring a child’s face could also be worthwhile. “That is a lot safer than public sharing.”

The specialist, too, urged moms and dads to get their kid’s permission before debuting them on the worldwide web.  

“Where possible, children should be involved in the development of their digital identity,” said Berg, noting the current lack of data on the effects being on social media has on small kids. 

“Future studies should explore the perspectives of children as key stakeholders in the creation of their digital identity.”

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Port of Baltimore suspends ship traffic after bridge collapse: What it means for travel

Travel is being impacted by Tuesday’s Francis Scott Key Bridge collapse along Interstate 695 in Baltimore, Maryland. 

Drivers were immediately directed to take alternate routes through the city, following the early morning incident. What’s less clear is what the bridge collapse may mean for upcoming cruises in and out of Baltimore.

“Vessel traffic into and out of the Port of Baltimore is suspended until further notice,” the Port of Baltimore posted on X, formerly Twitter.

Live Updates: Baltimore's Key Bridge collapses after ship hits it; construction crew missing

Rep. Kweisi Mfume, D-Md., whose district includes the bridge and the port, called the collapse an “unthinkable horror” and said he had spoken with Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg and the White House. 

Learn more: Best travel insurance

“They are responding with all of the assets at their disposal,” he said in a statement. “Our prayers right now are for the missing individuals and victims of this tragedy. We thank God for the effective service of our first responders.”

Here’s what we know.

Which cruises go to Baltimore?

Several major cruise lines serve Baltimore. According to the Cruise Lines International Association, the industry’s leading trade group, published itineraries in the 2024 calendar year include a dozen ships making 115 stops in Baltimore.

“We are deeply saddened by the tragedy and collapse of the Key Bridge that occurred last night and extend our support and heartfelt prayers to all those impacted,” CLIA spokesperson Anne Madison said in an emailed statement. “We join everyone in extending our thanks and appreciation to the first responders and emergency workers in Baltimore, the U.S. Coast Guard, and other professionals who are working with one goal in mind—to save lives. We are closely following this situation.”

Carnival’s website shows Carnival Pride and Carnival Legend also have sailings into or out of Baltimore set for April. 

Carnival Legend will temporarily move operations to Norfolk, Virginia.

The ship's current cruise, which left for a planned round-trip sailing from Baltimore on March 24, will end in Norfolk on Sunday. Passengers will then receive free bus rides to Baltimore. The vessel's next cruise will sail round-trip from Norfolk later that day.

“Our thoughts remain with the impacted families and first responders in Baltimore,” Carnival president Christine Duffy said in a statement. “We appreciate the pledge made by President Biden today to dedicate all available resources to reopen Baltimore Harbor to marine traffic as soon as possible. As those plans are finalized, we will update our future cruise guests on when we will return home to Baltimore, but in the meantime, we appreciate the quick response and support from officials in Norfolk.”

The cruise line has not yet shared plans for Carnival Pride. Carnival's parent company, Carnival Corp., said the temporary change in homeport is estimated to have an impact of up to $10 million on adjusted EBITDA and adjusted net income this year, according to a news release .

Royal Caribbean's Vision of the Seas, which left from Baltimore on March 23 , will return to Norfolk instead on April 4. "Our guests on board will be provided compensation and complimentary shuttle transportation as well as Wi-Fi and phone calls to adjust their travel arrangements," a spokesperson said in an email.

The ship's April 4 and 12 cruises will leave from Norfolk, too. "Our guests booked to sail with us will receive compensation due to the necessary adjustments made to their vacations," the spokesperson added. "After returning from the April 12 cruise, Vision will head to the Bahamas for its previously scheduled maintenance."

Was your cruise itinerary changed?: What to do next

American Cruise Lines has roundtrip sailings from Baltimore scheduled in May, according to its website.

“We will monitor the situation and make adjustments to future cruises if needed, but at the present time our schedules remain unaffected, and our thoughts remain with those affected by the immediate situation and rescue efforts underway,” an American Cruise Lines spokesperson told USA TODAY.

Norwegian Cruise Line doesn’t appear to have any Baltimore sailings until September on Norwegian Sky . The line will stay in contact with the port and share any changes with passengers and travel partners, according to a spokesperson.

"In the meantime, we wish the city of Baltimore strength during this very unfortunate event," they said in an email.

Alternate routes for the Baltimore bridge

Most drivers can take Interstate 95 (Fort McHenry Tunnel) or Interstate 895 (Baltimore Harbor Tunnel) to avoid the collapsed bridge. However Maryland Transportation Authority notes there are some exceptions .

Vehicles carrying hazardous materials, including more than 10 pounds of propane, are not allowed in the tunnels. Additionally, vehicles more than 13-feet and 6-inches high or 8-feet wide may not use the 1-895 Baltimore Harbor Tunnel. Vehicles more than 14-feet and 6-inches high or 11-feet wide may not use the I-95 Fort McHenry Tunnel. 

Those vehicles should use the western portion of I-695 instead.

6 Tips for solo female travel in Iraqi Kurdistan

By Joan Torres 8 Comments Last updated on April 2, 2024

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Like all the Middle Eastern countries I travel to, there is no single lady who doesn’t have concerns about traveling to Iraqi Kurdistan as a solo female traveler .

I personally think that Kurdistan is a pretty safe destination for women and, despite being such an off-beat place, this is one of the least conservative regions in the Middle East , home to a large Christian community with not much space for fundamentalism among the Muslim population, meaning that Kurds themselves are already used to dealing with women with liberal tendencies, so you won’t really get the stares you may get in other Muslim countries such as Pakistan or even Jordan.

Nevertheless, as always, I am fully aware that women travelers seek a more accurate response, a more detailed and specific reasoning, from someone who can assure them that Iraqi Kurdistan is a 100% safe destination for solo women. 

And that is why I decided to get in touch with Andrea from Hunting Rarities , a young lady from Belgium who has been backpacking in serious off the beaten track destinations around the Middle East and Central Asia and who will give us 6 Very insightful tips for solo females traveling in Iraqi Kurdistan . 

While not on most people’s travel radar, Kurdistan is one of those destinations that never ceases to surprise those who do make the leap.

Even though the region is geographically small and situated in the middle of a politically unstable region, most – and especially female solo travelers – will find that it is, in fact, an incredibly rewarding experience, both for the experienced and less experienced solo traveler.

I lined up a few reasons why I came to love this region and why I recommend it for female travelers who are still hesitating.

Read: Iraqi Kurdistan 2-week itinerary

As a woman, it is very easy to move around Kurdistan, really

Being such an undiscovered and rather remote area, for some women, it could mean that traveling there is harder than elsewhere – for me it meant that in fact, it was a whole lot easier!

Locals travel to and from different cities all the time and, because there are no real tourist buses going anywhere, shared taxis are very easy to come by and do not overcharge you.

In fact, as a (foreign) woman I was given priority and could always sit in the front, which you normally pay more for, at the same price as a back seat! The drivers stop regularly for tea/toilet breaks, and the areas are usually very open, clean and as per usual, very friendly.

Hitchhiking is definitely possible and not frowned upon, however as a woman alone you should follow your gut feeling as to whether or not you want to do it. Ideally, find another traveler or local who would hitchhike along with you. 

Remember to get travel insurance for Iraq IATI Insurance is one of the very few that covers travel in Iraqi Kurdistan (+ COVID-19) Get 5% discount if purchasing via this link

The availability of food & hospitality makes it very easy for women to travel in Iraqi Kurdistan

I thought I knew the essence of hospitality and generosity after having been to Iran , but Kurdistan takes it all to a whole new level.

The first time I went to eat something, I thought I was being screwed over. Before I even ordered, they came not with one, but ten plates of different dips and salads and bread, enough to feed three people (no reason to order that chicken anymore, really).

Then, they came to take my order. I was not sure whether I’d be charged for this feast, but I decided to order that chicken in any case, curious to see what the bill would say. And low and behold, I was only charged for the chicken and a water bottle.

The food was not only abundant, but it was also fresh, healthy, varied, local and full of love. Street food is very easy to get and healthy too , with anything from shawarma to falafels to boiled beans to baklava to fresh fruit on nearly every street.

However, I was forced to go to a restaurant only a very few times, because every time I was so full after being spontaneously and generously fed by locals who just wanted a chat, with dutiful grandmothers whose sole mission for that afternoon was to feed the foreigner woman. 

Tip: If you ever manage to find yourself with a Kurdish CS host, ask them where to get the best Kurdish dolma. There is nothing that can beat juicy stuffed aubergines (eggplants), courgettes (zucchini), cabbage and tomatoes with rice and meat from a Kurdish mum or chef, believe me.

As a woman, you have a higher chance of being included in all these ‘female-only’ rituals, which men are usually barred from witnessing. Helping to cook the dolma, dressing up with the daughters in traditional Kurdish dresses (especially Nowruz – Kurdish/Iranian new year on the 21 st of March).

Where to stay and feel safe as a woman in Iraqi Kurdistan

Honestly, I did not feel unsafe at any given moment.

Of course, as anywhere, some rules do apply.

Everywhere around the world, there are people with bad intentions and you shouldn’t just go with anyone or take things from people out of the blue.

However, I found it very easy to trust people, and the hospitality culture is pretty much ubiquitous.

If you’re looking for some local people to hang out with because you don’t feel comfortable alone, the Couchsurfing scene is big and it’s generally very easy to find someone to spend the day with or a couch to sleep on.

Also, do not underestimate the power of Instagram !

I used the hashtag #Kurdistan several times in my posts as well as Instagram Stories, and it connected me to several local young people who were very keen on meeting or doing a day trip together.

Indeed, there is no shortage of socializing opportunities, and women are almost equally likely to approach you as men are. If you do not want to do Couchsurfing, there are hotels in every city for every price category.

The Divan Hotel in Erbil is famous for the role it played during the war – all journalists and foreign staff were based there, with CNN famously occupying two full floors – and for its iconic stature. Rooms will cost you around 250 USD per night, and are therefore out of budget for most travelers, but it’s definitely an experience to sit in the lobby in between the foreign ministers, local Peshmerga leaders, and oil company spokespeople trying to strike deals the old-fashioned way: over a scotch and a cigar, or a cup of tea and some pastries, but definitely amidst golden plates and armored SUVs.

However, in the bigger cities ( Erbil , Duhok, and Sulaymaniyah) you can get a hotel for 24-50 USD per night if you do not feel like going luxurious, or Couchsurfing.

Check my backpacking itinerary to Kurdistan for all our accommodation recommendations. 

As a woman alone you will not have any trouble with finding a good room: however, if you are traveling with a male friend, some hotels may make some trouble if you are not married (this happens rarely though!).

Camping randomly as a female in Iraqi Kurdistan

Kurdistan’s beautiful nature is abundant, and it would definitely be a shame if you missed out on it.

While taking your tent and just heading out on your own is always an option, it might not be the most ideal nor safest one, regardless of where in the world you are.

There are very few organized tours you can join because the tourism industry is simply not very developed yet. But that shouldn’t stop you from getting out there into the mountains or the beautiful rolling hills and fruit orchards of the region.

Many young people go camping in the mountains during weekends in groups, and it’s fairly easy to find a group that will take you with them on one of their endeavors.

Simply browse Couchsurfing, Instagram and plenty of (spontaneous) opportunities/offers will arise. Bonus, it’s an activity very much enjoyed by men and women alike, so you will actually be able to find plenty of women going on trips by themselves, keen on having a new member join them.

Engaging with locals as a female traveler in Kurdistan

Kurdish people are incredibly friendly and have a very similar culture of hospitality to that of Iran.

For example, in Amedi , a small town north of Duhok, famous for its tahina (as a self-proclaimed tahina enthusiast/addict turned expert, I can confirm that it is indeed of sublime quality) as well as historical buildings, I got invited by a man to have lunch with his family so both he and his kids could practice their English skills.

Not only was it a very heartfelt and plentiful meal, the conversations with all 3 generations of the family living in the house were super enriching and they wouldn’t let me go without a bag stuffed with fresh figs from their fig tree (the little one even climbed all the way to the top to get me the best ones!) and they even insisted on me staying the night or to going back to Duhok with one of their friends’ car instead of taking a taxi.

Communication with locals should not be an issue. Many young people speak English and are very keen on practicing it with foreigners too.

Surprisingly, I met several people who were fluent in German as well! 

Culturally, given the relatively free nature of women in Kurdish society, it is not at all frowned upon if as a woman, you address a man of any age with a question, however, do always be respectful to those older than you.

Expect to be invited for tea, shisha or a cup of lentil soup with bread numerous times, and allow the environment to actually suck you in like that, you will have an amazing experience.

How foreign women should dress in Iraqi Kurdistan

As I have previously mentioned, there is no need to obsess over dress code while in Kurdistan.

In the bigger cities you see women in niqab as well as in crop tops, and more or less everything in between. However, do take into account that the situation always changes a little when you head into smaller towns and villages. If you want to visit holy sites, such as mosques or churches, you are required to cover knees, shoulders and hair.

Additionally, there is an enormous ethnic diversity in Kurdistan and every culture has its own little dress codes. Assyrians are Christian and its younger generation is very open-minded (Ankawa, the Assyrian neighborhood of Erbil isn’t the main party area for nothing!), while Lalish and Sinjar are mostly populated by Yazidis, who are still a very traditional society, and some modesty both in dress and behavior is recommended.

Take also into account that the Yazidis have just endured one of the most ruthless genocides and are still a recovering nation. While very friendly and hospitable, take into account that you are engaging with a society that is still trying to heal very open wounds.

Ladies, Iraqi Kurdistan is a safe destination for women but, like in any place around the world, apply common sense and follow your female instinct. Still, I firmly believe that, besides being an actual off-beat Muslim destination, traveling as a woman is easier than in other mass tourism destinations. 

If you have any more questions about solo female travel in Kurdistan, don’t hesitate to contact Andrea at @huntingrarities

After receiving so many emails from really kick-ass female travelers who want to wander around some of the most off the beaten track countries in the world, I decided to open a  Solo Female Traveling  section on my blog, to help women get to know the reality of traveling solo in these countries. Don’t hesitate to contact me if you think you have a nice experience to tell! 

More information for solo female travel in Iraqi Kurdistan

📢 In my Travel Resources Page you can find the list of all the sites and services I use to book hotels, tours, travel insurance and more.

More solo female travel guides

• Solo Female Travel Guide to Iraq
• Solo Female Travel Guide to Iran
• Solo Female Travel Guide to Jordan
• Solo Female Travel Guide to Lebanon
• Solo Female Travel Guide to Oman
• Solo Female Travel Guide to Pakistan
• Solo Female Travel Guide to Saudi Arabia
• Solo Female Travel Guide to Sudan

More guides to Iraq

• Iraq Travel Guide
• A City Guide to Mosul
• Visiting Syrian Refugee Camp
• Is Iraq Safe?
• Iraq Itinerary
• Travel Guide to Amedi
• Erbil Travel Guide
• Tales of Backpacking in Iraqi Kurdistan
• Iraqi Kurdistan Itinerary
• Iraqi Kurdistan Travel Guide

Hi Joan, you change the perspective of solo travelers to explore places that are not safe to think of. And, I really admire you for traveling to places that are not so popular with tourist.

Incredible story, just fantastic to see how the world really is and how people really are. Thank you for being a trailblazer Andrea!

Thanks, your blog helped me finding travel great companions to Syria last Easter. Actually I would love to find an/ more travel companions for Iraqi Kurdistan this Easter. Anybody interested? Happy Year from Vienna Heidi

Hi, I only go to countries where they serve free delicious nachos. Do they serve free delicious nachos in Iraq? I hope so! Otherwise, it is definitely not worth going to.

i only think it’s a shame that women of that culture are treated so poorly, yet a white woman is given such attention and honor. . .

In what way are women of this culture treated poorly? You speak from ignorance

I travelled solo in Albania, Kosovo, Montenegro, Greece and Egypt during the pandemic. I agree, I felt safer than here in Canada or my neighbour the USA. So many things to learn…❤️

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15 Safety Devices Every Traveler Should Have on Hand for Their Next Trip — Starting at $8 at Amazon

They just might save your life one day.

We independently evaluate all recommended products and services. If you click on links we provide, we may receive compensation. Learn more .

Travel + Leisure

Taking any trip is amazing — but taking a trip with peace of mind? Even better. Safety is of utmost importance when traveling, but even more so when you’re solo or traveling through dense, packed cities that are known for pickpockets. 

Thankfully, there’s a ton of effective travel safety gear out there that can make your time on the road just a bit more secure and comfortable. We identified 15 popular products that are gaining traction with travelers — and best of all, they’re all available at Amazon, so they’ll be shipped to your door with just a click, often in just a matter of days. Take comfort in knowing you’ve covered all your bases with your vacation planning, and enjoy your days off. That’s what a trip is all about, right? 

She’s Birdie Personal Safety Alarm

If you’re traveling — and in particular, if you’re traveling solo — this T+L staff-trusted She’s Birdie personal safety alarm could be the most important thing you buy. A loud siren will play and a strobe light will flash when the safety alarm is set off, which is easy to do — just remove the pin from the top. To stop it or deactivate it, you just replace the pin. The alarm can be used multiple times and will continue for up to 40 minutes on one battery (batteries are replaceable). It comes in a ton of colors and attaches easily to your keychain or purse strap, etc. Plus, 5 percent of the profits are donated to organizations that focus on women’s safety. 

Ace Mining Portable Door Lock

Add an extra level of protection to every stay with this Amazon No. 1 best-selling portable door lock. With this easy-to-install gadget, no one from the outside can get in, and you can rest (and sleep) easy knowing you’re safe and sound inside your Airbnb, hotel, or other home away from home. It can be installed in seconds, is small and easy to pack, and has two holes to fit pretty much any door. It’s made of stainless steel and will work time and time again. 

Veger Portable Charger

There are few things more unsafe than letting your phone die, especially if you’re on your own. Make sure that doesn’t happen by keeping this portable charger juiced up and on hand. It’s an all-in-one charger, with an AC port and attached chargers for iPhone, Type C, and Micro USB, plus USB and USB C inputs so you can bring cords should you need. It’s perfectly thin and fits great in any tech organizer; just throw it in a bag or purse when you’re on the go. 

StashBandz Unisex Running Belt

This running belt is great for everyday wear, keeping all your essentials on you while working out, but it also works great as a travel companion — stashing things like passports or keys out of sight while on the go. Especially great for areas that are heavy on pickpocketing, this undetectable money belt has stashable pockets, including a zippered front pocket. And with its extra-wide band, it can store quite a lot. It’s got moisture-wicking technology to keep things (a.k.a. you) from overheating, and is also great for holding medical gear. 

Travelon Anti-Theft Bag

If you’re looking for a fantastic travel bag that’ll keep everything safe and secure, this is the one for you. It can be worn crossbody with an adjustable shoulder strap (for harder access for pickpockets and thieves) and also has an interior organizer with RFID-blocking material to protect your passports and credit cards. Even better, there’s a front zippered pocket under a magnetic flap for maximum security, a tethered interior key clip with an LED light, and locking zipper pulls. 

Munio Self-Defense Keychain Kit

This self-defense tool that was created by a Martial Arts master and endorsed by police goes right on your keychain and can help in the event of an attack; keep it in your hand while walking and use the end to jab an attacker. The discreet design fits comfortably in your palm, and on the outside, it just looks like a decorative keychain. The company provides a free E-book and downloadable videos to show how to use the tool, and it is perfect for travel since it’s actually allowed on a plane. 

TravelMore TSA-approved Luggage Locks, 4-pack

Not your average TSA lock, this one is sleek and well-designed, made with Zinc Alloy for extra durability. Lock them onto your luggage for security, while still being TSA-compliant (they can open and close them without issue). Because they’re so sleek, you can also use them for things like duffel bags, purses, and backpacks, making hiking, train travel, or going to high-trafficked areas more secure — basically a breeze.

Kidde Carbon Monoxide Detector

You’ve heard the horror stories of carbon monoxide poisoning on trips (and if you haven’t, save yourself the Google and just know that it’s real). This No.1 best-selling portable carbon monoxide detector is the perfect thing to keep in your luggage and set up as you unpack. It comes with two AA batteries and can be placed on any flat surface. “It’s so small we take it everywhere with us,” said one reviewer . 

Homotek 2-Pack Wedge Rubber Door Stops

Another easy way to stop an intrusion before it happens is placing a door stopper underneath the hotel room or Airbnb door; this will help prevent or make it difficult to open the door from the outside. It’s also a great item for making sure doors stay open (and you stay safe), while doing routine things like taking out trash from an Airbnb or seeing what the rooftop views are from your rental. 

Gorilla Grip Mini Flashlight

Yes, most of us have a flashlight on our phones — but that doesn’t quite help in the case of an emergency in which your phone dies. This mini flashlight will keep you cool and calm in any scenario, including navigating dark streets, figuring out power outages, and more. It’s also great to blind an attacker or use as a jabbing tool should the need arise. This one also features a strobe setting, which would be great for (god forbid) if you need to try and get someone’s attention. It’s made to sustain drops as well as water submersion and has an anti-slip handle. 

LifeStraw Water Bottle

If you’re traveling to a destination where water could contain contaminants — or hiking, camping, and the like — you’ll want this water bottle. LifeStraw is known for its technology which filters out everything that could harm you (and obviously improves taste), and it’s been independently lab-tested to meet the protocols established by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). The filters last for lots of uses, and it’s easy to clean and super durable.

Thrive Mini First-Aid Kit

Don’t travel anywhere without a first-aid kit. Seriously. This one is super compact and easy to travel with and contains everything from antiseptic wipes and alcohol pads to gel burn packets and bandages. It also contains a first-aid guide that explains how to treat common injuries (ideal for when you don’t have technology right by your side). It’s an easy thing to throw and keep in your luggage trip after trip. 

Apple AirTag

Where’s your suitcase? Where’s your purse? Where’s your wallet? With an AirTag, you will know exactly where everything is and how to get to it — perfect for not only keeping an eye (er, location tag) on things but also should something be stolen; you’ll be able to (hopefully) track it down (and alert authorities). It’s one of those things that you don’t know you need as much as you do until you have one. 

FurArt Slim Wallet

With RFID-blocking technology, your credit cards and IDs are safe and sound from identity theft, and with its minimalist design, you can keep this on your body (instead of your bag or purse) should you want. This wallet also ensures you only take what you need on a trip, and you can leave the rest at home (or in a locked safe). It comes in a slew of colors and features a see-through ID pocket so you don’t even have to remove the ID, plus a buckle that you can hook to a keychain, carabiner, or lanyard. 

Amazon Basics Portable Lock Box

This portable lock box will keep your valuables stashed, including passports, jewelry, keys, and more, and has both a combination lock and opening cable to use and lock how you wish. Most reviewers comment on how “ sturdy and solid ” this item is, and how it can fit a ton more stuff than you might think. It’s great for keeping in your carry-on and storing your valuables during a trip. 

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This MagSafe power bank is one of my travel must-haves, and it's 15% off

Baseus 20W 6000mAh magnetic power bank 

ZDNET's key takeaways

• Baseus' 20W 6000mAH MagSafe power bank is on sale for $25 on Amazon right now.
• It's extremely well-made and the magnets form a solid connection to your phone for wireless charging on the go.
• It can fully charge a standard or Pro iPhone, and charge a Pro Max to around 80%.

For well over a year now I've been using the  Baseus 20W 6000mAh magnetic power bank , first putting it through extensive testing before deciding that this was the perfect MagSafe power bank for both me and the masses, and adding it to my tech travel kit, where it has accompanied me on both on- and off-grid adventures. 

Apple's MagSafe technology paved the way for iPhone owners to be able to charge up without a tangle of cables. Using the astounding power of magnets, MagSafe removes the guesswork out of aligning the charger with the charging coils, making it much more expedient and foolproof.

Going back to wireless charging that doesn't use magnets to align the charger with the device being charged feels like a step backward.

Also: This MagSafe accessory can record your iPhone calls for you

And that's how you know a technology is truly useful. Combine MagSafe with a  power bank , and this gives you the ability to use wireless charging when on the move.

Baseus 20W 6000mAh magnetic power bank tech specs:

• Capacity : 6000mAh/3.85v (23.1Wh)
• Rated capacity : 3500mAh (5V, 2.4A)
• Energy conversion : ³75%
• USB-C input : 5V, 2.4A; 9V, 2A; 12V, 1.5A
• USB-C output : 5V, 2.4A; 9V, 2A; 12V, 1.5A
• Wireless charging output : Max 15W (7.5W for iPhone)
• Wireless transmission frequency : 115 – 205kHz
• Size : 97.4 x 63.8 x 14.7 mm
• Weight : 140g

The magnetic power bank feels nice and sturdy and extremely well made. The magnets are strong, and make a very good connection with the iPhone even when using a case. It snaps into place satisfyingly and starts charging quickly -- as long as you remember to press that button to wake up the power bank.

The Baseus 20W 6000mAh power bank is small enough to throw into a travel bag.

The contact surface between the charger and the iPhone is made of soft silicone so as not to scratch your expensive iPhone.

All the contact points with the iPhone are coated with soft silicone.

Wireless charging the iPhone is limited to 7.5W. If you want faster charging, you can use the USB-C port and connect a USB-C-to-Lightning cable to do the job (just remember that you'll need to have a cable handy).

Also: The best MagSafe battery packs: Expert tested

Let's get to the meat of this review -- the capacity. This power bank is enough to fully charge a standard or Pro iPhone, and offers about 80 percent charge for the bigger iPhone Pro Max models.

A close look proves that this is quite a well-made charger.

You can charge this power bank in just under two hours using a decent USB-C charger (18W or higher), and it's also possible to use the power bank to wirelessly charge an iPhone while the power bank is itself charging thanks to its pass-through charging feature.

Included with the magnetic power bank is a USB-C-to-USB-C cable for charging the unit. Looking for the perfect AC wall charger for this power bank? Baseus has an awesome 30W GaN wall charger for under $20!

ZDNET's buying advice

The Baseus 20W 6000mAh magnetic power bank is one of the best MagSafe chargers you can get for iPhone users who want a tiny power bank without worrying about cables. It's available in five colors: Pearl White, Deep Black, Coral Pink, Misty Blue, and Nebula Purple. 

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