Iraq, a land filled with ancient history, captivating culture, and resilient spirit, often sparks curiosity and intrigue among adventurous travelers. Yet, navigating the path less traveled can come with its own set of questions. Is it safe to visit? How do I navigate the cultural and religious differences? What should I wear? Don’t worry, this comprehensive guide aims to be your one-stop shop for everything you need to know about planning an unforgettable journey to Iraq.
Things to Know Before You Go
Climate: It’s a subtropical semi-arid climate which means it can be very hot in the summers and can be freezing at night and witners. The northeastern mountain regions have a cooler Mediterranean climate. Temperatures range from 36°F – 60°F (2°C – 16°C) in the winters and 90°F-118°F(32°C-48°C) in the summer.
Best time to go: September to November and April to May are the best months to visit because the temperatures are a bit cooler. December through February tends to be cold with occasional rain.
Language: Arabic is the official language of the country, and English is not widely spoken. However, you will find English speakers in the main city of Baghdad. In general, everyone is very friendly and will help with a little sign language and Google Translate.
Money: The Iraqi Dinar (IQD). It’s important to note that tipping is customary but not mandatory. In terms of how much to tip, the amount varies depending on the service and the quality of the experience but 10-15% is appropriate for good service. ATMs are located all over the city in Baghdad but you may have a harder time finding them in smaller cities. Many hotels, restaurants, and stores take VISA and AMEX cards.
A quick conversion for you to remember:
$1 USD = 1,310 IQD
$5 USD = 6,550 IQD
$10 USD = 13,100 IQD
$20 USD = 26,200 IQD
(round up or down for easy conversion while on the go)
Visa
Visa on Arrival is available for US, EU, and AUS, citizens. Please Google “visa for Iraq for X country citizens” to see if you need a visa before arrival. The visa process upon arriving in Iraq was straightforward. There is a sign “Electronic Visa for Republic Iraq” with an open seating area and counter. Approach the counter where an agent will hand you a form to fill out with basic information. Besides your personal information and passport information, you’ll need to provide the address of where you are staying in Iraq. Since I was staying in multiple hotels throughout the country, I put the address of the first hotel in Baghdad.
Submit your application along with your passport to an agent at the counter and then wait. It took an hour to get mine since there were a lot of people in the waiting area. But I’ve had friends get theirs in 10 minutes. When they call you up, you’ll need to pay $80 USD in cash (as of March 2024). It’s best to have the exact change in case they don’t have small bills for you. After this, you’ll proceed through the normal passport control line to show your stamp.
SIM Card
Most travelers visiting Iraq, download an eSIM. The 2 most popular eSIM providers for Iraq are GoMoWorld and Airalo. Prices range from 1GB of data over 7 days for $5 USD, 3GB of data over 30 days for $17.50 USD, or 15GB of data over 30 days for $22 USD.
APPs
These are the essential apps you should download to make your stay in Iraq easier.
Careem: Need a ride? Careem, Iraq’s version of Uber, offers a convenient and familiar way to get around the country.
ArabiCalc: Arabic numbers are not like English ones. This APP will help bridge the gap between Arabic and Western numerals. This app is handy for understanding prices, signs, and other important information.
Google Translate: While some Iraqis speak English, it’s not widely spoken in the country. Google Translate can help you navigate conversations and ask questions during your visit for smooth communication with locals.
Maps.Me: Reliable internet access can be limited in Iraq, making offline maps a valuable tool for navigating confidently during your explorations.
WhatsApp: Stay connected with the go-to messaging app in Iraq. Easily chat with your guides, friends, and hotels throughout your stay.
United States Embassy & Consulate General Info
If you’re a citizen of another country Google “country name embassy and consulate general Iraq”.
U.S. Embassy Baghdad
Al-Kindi Street
International Zone
Baghdad, Iraq
Telephone: 0760-030-3000
Telephone: 301-985-8841, ext. 4293 or 2413 (U.S. dial numbers that ring in Baghdad)
U.S. Citizen Emergency After-Hours Telephone: 011-964-770-443-1286 or 011-964-770-030-4888 from the United States or 0770-443-1286 or 0770-030-4888 from within Iraq.
Email: baghdadacs@state.gov
U.S. Consulate General Erbil
413 Ishtar, Ankawa Erbil, Iraq
U.S. Consulate General Basrah
Basrah, Iraq (near Basrah International Airport)
Keep in mind that the work week in Iraq is Sunday through Thursday.
Travel Insurance
A lot of travel insurance companies won’t cover travel to Iraq but Safety Wing will! I’ve been using Safety Wing for years now as they cover EVERY country in the world except for North Korea and Iran, so even in Iraq, you’ve got coverage. SafetyWing uses a subscription-based payment system instead of all up front, so it’s truly a budget-friendly option!
Get a quick quote for your travel dates 👇
Pros of SafetyWing Travel Insurance
- The monthly subscription model
- Can cover medical expenses when overseas
- Up to 2 children under 10 per family (1 per adult) free of charge
- Limited medical coverage in your home country
Cons of SafetyWing Travel Insurance
- Not as many travel insurance perks as other companies
- No coverage for personal electronics
Read this post The Best Travel Insurance for Every Type of Traveler for an in-depth review of the top 3 travel insurances.
How to Get to Iraq
✈️ Airport: The Baghdad International Airport (BGW) is the best option for flying into Iraq. It will offer the most flight options and is the easiest to navigate.
Getting Around
🚙 Careem: Careem is similar to Uber, Grab, and Lyft. It’s an easy and cheap way to get around.
Checkpoints
Traveling through Iraq, you’ll come across frequent military checkpoints, both while navigating the roads and sometimes even while exploring cities on foot. These checkpoints, while heavily fortified and guarded, are in place with the primary goal of ensuring the safety of both visitors and residents.
It’s important to always carry your passport when traveling in Iraq, as these checkpoints serve as a form of visa verification and contribute to maintaining national security. Security personnel may also ask you about your travel plans and your intended destination. Having a clear understanding of where you’re heading will help facilitate these interactions and ensure a smooth experience.
While the imposing presence of the checkpoints might initially cause some apprehension, it’s important to remember that they ultimately serve your safety. These checkpoints act as safeguards, preventing you from unintentionally entering restricted areas or potentially unsafe zones. If your intended destination is off-limits, the security personnel will redirect you accordingly.
Safety
Iraq often sparks concerns about safety for potential travelers. While it’s understandable to have these concerns, it’s important to understand that Iraq is actively working to improve tourism infrastructure and safety measures. With tourism only recently reopening in 2021, many Iraqis haven’t encountered foreigners before. This can lead to increased curiosity, resulting in frequent stares or requests for pictures. It’s important to remember that these gestures, while unfamiliar, are typically driven by genuine curiosity, not malice.
My personal experience traveling with a group and a local guide was safe and enjoyable. However, it’s crucial to remember that safety is paramount and requires responsible preparation and awareness.
Firstly, the frequent checkpoints and presence of armed guards might appear daunting. However, understanding that these security measures are in place to protect civilians helps ease anxieties. Remember, cooperation is key. Be polite and respectful when interacting with security personnel, and have your passport readily available for inspection.
While some establishments, like cafes and markets, might primarily cater to male patrons, this shouldn’t deter you as a solo female traveler. Exploring Iraq as a woman is entirely possible and doesn’t require a male escort. Additionally, strict dress codes are not enforced throughout the country. However, it’s essential to be mindful of cultural norms and dress modestly when visiting religious sites, particularly the holy cities of Najaf and Karbala, where headscarves are mandatory.
What to Wear as a Woman
Packing for a trip to Iraq as a woman requires respecting the country’s conservative dress code. While it may seem restrictive at first, it’s important to remember that dressing modestly is a way to ensure a smooth and respectful travel experience. Here’s a guide to help you pack:
Headscarves: These will be essential, especially in religious areas. They’re not mandatory everywhere except when entering mosques or visiting the 2 holy cities.
Loose-Fitting Clothing: Opt for long, loose-fitting pants, ankle-length skirts, and dresses. Avoid tight-fitting clothing, shorts, and anything that reveals your midriff.
Tops: Pack a mix of t-shirts, long-sleeved shirts, and 3/4-sleeved tops. Additionally, consider bringing a long-sleeved shawl for added coverage if needed.
Footwear: Choose comfortable shoes suitable for walking on various terrains. I don’t recommend heels.
If you find yourself needing additional clothing, Iraq offers affordable and stylish options that adhere to local customs. Consider buying an abaya, a long, flowing robe, if visiting the holy cities of Karbala and Najaf, where they are mandatory. Opt for an all-black one, as this is the preferred style among Iraqi women.
What Not to Wear
Avoid packing clothing that is revealing or tight-fitting. This includes items like leggings, jeans (especially ripped or distressed jeans), shorts or skirts that rise above the calf, tank tops, tube tops, and crop tops. Remember, comfort is key, especially when navigating bustling markets and exploring historical sites.
Tips for Eating in Iraq
Iraq boasts a rich and flavorful cuisine, offering a delightful culinary adventure for travelers. However, there are a few key aspects to consider to ensure a smooth and enjoyable dining experience:
Be Mindful of Oil and Spice: Iraqi cuisine often features generous amounts of oil and spices. While this contributes to the robust flavors, it can also be challenging for unaccustomed stomachs. Consider bringing mild digestive aids like Pepto-Bismol or Tums. Additionally, many Iraqi meals come with a side of salty yogurt, which helps aid digestion – don’t hesitate to try it!
Vegetarian and Vegan Considerations: While vegetarian options exist, primarily involving falafel and lentil dishes, strict vegetarians and vegans may find it challenging. Meat and dairy play a significant role in Iraqi cuisine, and even seemingly vegetarian dishes might incorporate dairy products. If you have dietary restrictions, it’s advisable to research restaurants beforehand and communicate your needs clearly.
Embrace Street Food: Don’t shy away from exploring Iraqi street food. It’s a fantastic way to experience authentic flavors and enjoy budget-friendly meals. While hygiene standards might differ from Western norms, generally, street vendors with good customer traffic are safe options. Observe which stalls locals frequent and follow their lead.
Navigate the Language Barrier: Prepare for a language barrier when dining out. Most restaurants, especially outside tourist areas, won’t have English menus. However, embrace the adventure! Pointing at dishes other patrons are enjoying or asking friendly locals for recommendations can lead you to hidden culinary gems. Additionally, consider downloading a translation app or learning a few basic phrases in Arabic.
Booking a Tour & Guide
Planning a trip to Iraq can be an exciting, yet daunting, prospect. While independent travel is certainly possible, booking a tour with a local guide can offer several advantages and enhance your overall experience in this culturally rich country.
Hiring a local guide like Hussein from The Iraqi Way who has extensive knowledge and expertise about the country’s history, culture, and hidden gems will provide a unique experience to Iraq. He was able to navigate language barriers that ensured seamless communication and safety and fostered a fun environment for the group.
Joining a group tour like the one I experienced with successful travel blogger Elona and talented photographer/videographer Jérôme offers the benefits of shared experiences and camaraderie. It can also be a cost-effective option, especially when considering transportation, accommodation, and activity coordination.
Do you have more questions about visiting Iraq? Leave a comment below and don’t forget to check out my Iraq Story Highlights here!
