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Iraqi Kurdistan Tour: 31 March – 8 April 2025 (9 days/8 nights)

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4 months ago

Iraqi Kurdistan is the most unique corner of the Middle East. From the cliffside villages of Rawanduz Canyon to the Yazidi holy temple complex in Lalish, we guarantee you will not find a Kurdistan tour package as jam-packed and in-depth as ours. We’ll spend time in Sulaymaniyah, the cultural hub of Kurdistan, in search of contemporary arts spaces before peering across the plains of Nineveh (recently occupied by ISIS).

There’s a reason I love taking groups to Kurdistan year after year. Few destinations offer back-to-back days of stimulating cities and dramatic landscapes. But the real reason I love taking groups is to watch travelers go through the journey I went through on my very first visit to Kurdistan. In case it isn’t yet obvious, a Kurdistan tour dismantles any preconception you have about traveling in the Middle East.

Every day in Kurdistan is a lesson in the histories and cultures of the Middle East. You’ll see first-hand the impacts of the Islamic State, walk in the torture chambers of Saddam Hussein and meet soldiers who fought for Kurdish autonomy. But most of all, you’ll learn how fickle borders can be in this heavily contested corner of our world.

Our next Kurdistan group tour runs from 31 March to 8 April 2025 (9 days/8 night).

We have been running both group and private Kurdistan tours for over five years alongside our Fiery Hearts Tours. In 2025, we are launching a brand new addition to our Kurdistan tour itinerary (you’ll need to read on to find out!).

kurdistan plaza erbil

If Kurdistan sounds like your kind of adventure, head to the end of our 2025 Kurdistan tour itinerary to find out how to join us for the ultimate Kurdistan tour in April 2025.

Iraqi Kurdistan Tour: 31 March – 8 April 2025

Day 1: Uncovering Erbil

31 March 2025

Welcome to Iraqi Kurdistan! Today, we’re doing a deep dive into the history and culture of Erbil, the capital of Kurdistan and one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world.

Some highlights from day 1 include:

  • Jalil Khayat Mosque: We begin the day with a visit to this breathtaking mosque, Erbil’s iconic Islamic architectural wonder.
  • Erbil Citadel: Next, we’ll explore this UNESCO World Heritage Site, perched high above the city, with layers of history dating back over 6,000 years.
  • Erbil Souks: We’ll take a walking tour through the bustling souks, famous for handcrafted goods, fragrant perfumes, and the legendary money exchangers of Erbil. Don’t worry, you’ll get some free time for shopping!
  • Minaret Park: Take a stroll through this peaceful park, home to the last standing minaret from the city’s medieval period.
  • Jewish Quarter: We will end the day with a visit to Erbil’s historic Jewish quarter, where we’ll learn about a lesser-known chapter of the city’s story.

Overnight: Erbil

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 2: Road to Duhok

1 April 2025

Today is often considered one of the most memorable days of the tour!

We leave Erbil early and drive for two hours to the 4th Century Mar Mattai Monastery, situated only 20 km from Mosul. Mar Mattai is one of the oldest and most important Christian monasteries in Iraq. Situated atop a mountain, from here we will have a bird’s-eye view over territory formerly held by the Islamic State. If we’re lucky, we will meet some priests and learn about the recent difficult history of the monastery in the battle against ISIS. 

After lunch, we will reach Lalish, the holiest place in the world for the Yazidi people. After taking off our shoes, we will be guided by local caretakers through the complex of Yazidi temples. This is an incredibly immersive experience, where we will learn about the Yadizi people, their religion and history.

Visiting Lalish can often be a confronting experience, as we learn first-hand about the recent suffering of the Yazidi people under ISIS. Again, if we’re lucky, we will also have tea with the Yazidi High Priest (with whom our company has an excellent relationship).

From Lalish, we will continue to Khinnis Bavian, an Assyrian archaeological site built by King Sennacherib around 690 B.C.E. and famous for its rock reliefs.

Overnight: Duhok

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 3: City in the sky

2 April 2025

We will start the day with breakfast at Duhok’s Martyr’s Café, dedicated to Peshmerga Kurdish soldiers killed in war against ISIS.

From here, we will drive approximately 1.5 hours to Amedi, the ‘city in the sky’. In my opinion, this small town is set in one of the beautiful natural settings in the world. We will visit the old mosque and synagogue of Amedi, as well as ancient gates and ruins (which date back to approximately the 2nd century B.C.E.). Along the way, we will pass many viewpoints along some of the most beautiful roads in the Middle East.

From Amedi, we will visit former Iraqi President Saddam Hussein’s mountain-top palace, before continuing to Al Qosh, a small village in the Nineveh Plains. Al Qosh is another major highlight on our itinerary. Here, we will learn about Kurdistan’s Chaldean Assyrian community and visit the Rabban Hormizd Monastery. This remarkable monastery dates back centuries and is built literally inside the mountain.

We will also hopefully be able to visit the recently restored tomb of the Biblical Prophet Nahum (depending on local authorities on the day).

Overnight: Duhok

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 4: Borders and mountains

3 April 2025

We start our day driving towards the Syrian border city of Zakho, famous for its ancient stone Dalal Bridge. Just a short distance away, we will visit a unique Syriac Orthodox church directly on the Syrian border, a real hidden gem reflecting the rich Christian heritage of the region.

We will then travel along the historic Hamilton Road, a modern engineering marvel weaving through the breathtaking mountains of Iraqi Kurdistan. Built in the 1930s, this road offers stunning views and a deep sense of history as it connects the region’s remote areas. Don’t worry, we’ll have plenty of chances for photo stops!

Our final stop of the day is the charming hillside town of Akre. Set in the mountains, this town is always a highlight for its street markets, mosques and Kurdish architecture.

Overnight: Rawanduz

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 5: Kurdish cultural day

4 April 2025

Our day starts with a visit to the bustling Rawanduz market. We’ll spend some time strolling through colorful stalls brimming with fresh produce, spices, and handmade Kurdish crafts. Along with our local guide, we will soak in the lively atmosphere while learning about local ingredients (you’ll need to pay attention).

We always guarantee the most unique tours available – you simply won’t find itineraries like ours elsewhere!

This afternoon, you will put your produce and market skills to the test. Together with our local host family, you’ll be participating in a hands-on Kurdish cooking class. That’s right, on our Kurdistan tour you’ll learn to prepare traditional Kurdish food.

After cooking (and eating) up a storm, you’ll have some free time to rest up. Rawanduz is the ideal place to take at your own pace and recharge before a hectic few days. Take a scenic walk around the canyon or relax with a coffee in one of the local cafés, reflecting on our journey so far.

Overnight: Rawanduz

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 6: Rawanduz Canyon

5 April 2025

Our day begins by exploring Shanadar Cave, an ancient site where Neanderthal remains were discovered. You’ll take in the fresh air and breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and valleys, while learning about the archaeological significance of the cave.

After lunch, we will be visiting the Barzani Monument, a tribute to the Kurdish leader Mullah Mustafa Barzani. Here, you’ll learn more about the history of Kurdish resistance and leadership of the Kurdistan movement. We’ll end the day with a scenic experience in the Done Valley, yet another unique spot to enjoy some of the most serene landscapes of Kurdistan.

Overnight: Rawanduz

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 7: The second city of Sulaymaniyah

6 April 2025

After an early wake up and drive, we’ll soon welcome you to Kurdistan’s second city: Sulaymaniyah.

Suli (as we like to call it) is often considered a hub of liberal intellectual culture and the city of Kurdish literature. Here, we will explore the Red Prison, an infamous building where Saddam Hussein’s regime imprisoned and tortured thousands of Kurdish civilisations. We will also visit the powerful museum, which documents the often heart-breaking history of Kurdistan, including the recent war with ISIS.

skyline of sulaymaniyah iraq

The group will then have some free time to explore Sulaymaniyah’s souks, the perfect spot to start picking up souvenirs (especially Kurdish rugs). In the late afternoon, we will explore the new Sulaymaniyah arts districts, where former factories are transformed into forward-facing galleries, cafes and co-working spaces.

Our day will end with sunset on Goyja mountain, the best place in Kurdistan for panoramic views.

Overnight: Sulaymaniyah

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 8: Lessons from history

7 April 2025

Our day starts with short drive to Halabja. This small town was the scene of the Halabja Massacre, the largest chemical weapon attack directed against a civilian population in history. In March 1988, during the closing days of the Iran-Iraq War, the regime of Saddam Hussein killed between 3200-5000 civilians and injured tens of thousands more.

In Halabja, we will visit the powerful museum, mass grave and monument and learn more about the Al-Anfal Campaign against Kurdistan.

From Halabja, we will head towards the Iranian border and visit Zalm village. Besides being a magnificent natural setting in the mountains alongside waterfalls, from here you will be able to peer (and potentially step) into Iran.

We will then make the long drive back to Erbil before the saddest part of every tour – the goodbyes.

Overnight: Erbil

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 9: Departure

8 April 2025

With the tour officially over, guests will be departing on flights throughout the day. But don’t be too sad, if you’re anything like me, this will likely be the first of many trips to Kurdistan!

Meals: Breakfast

Before You Go: FAQs

We’ve covered a few of the must-know FAQs about this tour below. However, for more detailed information on everything from women travelers to safety and alcohol, don’t miss our ultimate guide to everything you need to know before visiting Kurdistan in 2025.

Is Kurdistan worth visiting?

Absolutely. In case this itinerary hasn’t made clear yet, Iraqi Kurdistan defies everything you think you know about the Middle East. The cities of Kurdistan have been home to ancient civilizations; you’ll spend time learning about unique ethnoreligious communities, like the Yazidi and Syriac people. Forget deserts and camels, you’ll be sleeping literally on the edge of some of the Middle East’s most dramatic mountain scenery.

Best of all, every single day you will be experiencing the gastronomic heights of Kurdish and Iraqi traditional cuisines.

Have a read through this itinerary and you’ll quickly see what I mean. You’ll want to make sure you visit Iraqi Kurdistan before the secret gets out.

Where does the tour start and end?

Begins: Erbil on 31 March 2025

Ends: Erbil on 8 April 2025

How do I get to Kurdistan?

Many major European and Middle Eastern airlines fly into Erbil (airport code: EBL) including Austrian Airlines, Turkish Airlines, Emirates, Qatar Airways, EgyptAir and Royal Jordanian.

Do I need a visa for Kurdistan?

Most Western nationals can obtain a visa on arrival for Iraqi Kurdistan at Erbil Airport for approximately US$70. You can also pre-apply for an e-visa.

The list of nationalities which can obtain a visa on arrival includes the USA, EU passport holders, Australia, Canada, New Zealand, UAE, Switzerland, China and Singapore. Obtaining a visa on arrival at the airport is normally an easy and straightforward process.

If you are planning to travel onwards to Federal Iraq, please be aware that you will require a separate visa for Federal Iraq (unless you start your trip there). We’ve got more details here which explain this (annoyingly) complex immigration arrangement.

Can this itinerary change?

Traveling in Iraqi Kurdistan means that plans are subject to change and may change last minute. While we will do our best to stick to this Kurdistan tour itinerary, we ask our guests to be aware that changes in official authorizations, weather, road conditions, or government regulations can result in our plans changing.

Our local tour guides always have backup plans ready and, of course, we will do our best to ensure everything goes according to plan.

What’s included in the tour?

Our tours aim to be as all-inclusive as possible.

As such, our tour includes:

  • Twin 4 star accommodation according to the itinerary
  • Meals as provided + bottled water throughout the day
  • A/C transportation
  • Return airport transfers
  • Site entrance fees
  • English-speaking local Kurdish guide
  • All permits and authorizations
  • Visa assistance (if required)

The tour does not include the below:

  • Any extra nights of accommodation on either side of the program
  • Single room supplement (available for a fee)
  • Personal expenses, souvenirs, any activities out of program
  • Soft drinks or alcohol
  • Travel insurance
  • Tips
  • International flights
  • Visa costs

How do I apply?

Does this sound like the ideal Kurdistan tour for you? Are you free to travel from 31 March through to 8 April 2025?

Our small-group Fiery Hearts Tours aim to bring together daring travelers who are culturally curious and, most importantly, fun!

To find out prices and more details, send an email to dan@travelinsighter.com and set out your:

  • Name
  • Nationality
  • Most adventurous vacation you’ve ever taken, and
  • Why you want to visit Iraqi Kurdistan

We can’t wait to see you in Kurdistan!


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