7 Nights in Kurdistan: The Kurdistan Region in Northern Iraq
Babylon Holiday
Embark on a captivating journey through the Kurdistan Region of Iraq, a land rich in history, culture, and natural beauty. This 8-day tour promises an immersive experience, blending historical exploration, cultural insights, and stunning landscapes.
Day 1: Arrival in Erbil
Upon arrival in Erbil, the capital of the Kurdistan Region, you will be greeted at the airport and transferred to your hotel to rest. Spend the afternoon settling in and exploring the historic Erbil Citadel, one of the oldest continuously inhabited sites in the world with a history of around 8000 years. Stroll through the bustling Erbil Bazaar (Qaysari Bazaar) and enjoy a traditional Kurdish dinner in the evening. **Inclusions:** Airport transfer, hotel accommodation, guided tour of Erbil Citadel, and dinner.
Day 2: Erbil to Dohuk
After breakfast, depart for Dohuk, a city surrounded by stunning mountain landscapes. En route, visit the ancient Assyrian city of Lalish, the holiest site for the Yazidi minority community. Upon arrival in Dohuk, check into your hotel and explore the city’s vibrant bazaar. In the evening, enjoy a leisurely walk along the Dohuk Dam or take the cable car up to Zawa Mountain for a magnificent view over the entire city. **Inclusions:** Breakfast, transportation, guided tour of Lalish, hotel accommodation, and dinner.
Day 3: Exploring Dohuk
Spend the day exploring Dohuk's attractions, starting with the ancient town of Amadiya, perched on a mountaintop with breathtaking views. Visit the Al-Atrosh Monastery and the beautiful Sarsang Waterfall. Return to Dohuk in the evening for dinner and relaxation. **Inclusions:** Breakfast, guided tours, transportation, and dinner.
Day 4: Dohuk to Sulaymaniyah
After breakfast, travel to Sulaymaniyah, a cultural hub in Kurdistan. On the way, stop at the picturesque Gali Ali Beg Waterfall and the stunning Rawanduz Canyon. Upon arrival in Sulaymaniyah, check into your hotel and enjoy an evening at leisure exploring the city. **Inclusions:** Breakfast, transportation, hotel accommodation, and dinner.
Day 5: Exploring Sulaymaniyah
Begin your day with a visit to the Sulaymaniyah Museum, which houses artifacts from the region's rich history. Explore the Red Prison (Amna Suraka), a museum and former detention center that offers deep insights into the Kurdish struggle for autonomy and independence. In the afternoon, visit the vibrant Azadi Park and enjoy local cuisine for dinner. **Inclusions:** Breakfast, guided tours, transportation, and dinner.
Day 6: Sulaymaniyah to Halabja
Depart for Halabja after breakfast to visit the Halabja Monument and Memorial Cemetery, commemorating the tragic events of 1988. Learn about the history and resilience of the Kurdish people. Return to Sulaymaniyah in the evening and enjoy dinner at a local restaurant. **Inclusions:** Breakfast, transportation, guided tour of Halabja, and dinner.
Day 7: Sulaymaniyah to Erbil
Travel back to Erbil, stopping along the way to visit the picturesque Lake Dukan and its surrounding natural beauty. Upon arrival in Erbil, check into your hotel and spend your final evening exploring the local markets or relaxing. **Inclusions:** Breakfast, transportation, guided tour of Lake Dukan, hotel accommodation, and dinner.
Day 8: Departure from Erbil
After breakfast, depending on your flight schedule, you may have some leisure time for last-minute shopping or sightseeing. Transfer to Erbil International Airport for your departure, concluding your memorable seven-night journey through Kurdistan. **Inclusions:** Breakfast, airport transfer.
This comprehensive itinerary offers an immersive experience of the Kurdistan Region of Iraq, blending historical exploration, cultural insights, and natural beauty.
Tour Package Inclusions
- Airport transfers (arrival and departure)
- Hotel accommodation for seven nights
- Daily breakfast
- Traditional Kurdish dinners as specified
- Guided tours in Erbil, Dohuk, Sulaymaniyah, and Halabja
- Entrance fees to all mentioned tourist attractions (Erbil Citadel, Lalish, Amadiya, Sulaymaniyah Museum, Red Prison, Halabja Monument, Lake Dukan)
- Transportation between the cities (Erbil, Dohuk, Sulaymaniyah, Halabja)
- Visits to Erbil Bazaar, Dohuk Dam, Al-Atrosh Monastery, Sarsang Waterfall, Gali Ali Beg Waterfall, Rawanduz Canyon, and Azadi Park
Tour Package Exclusions
- International airfare
- Travel insurance
- Lunches, unspecified dinners, and beverages
- Personal expenses (souvenirs, laundry, etc.)
- Tips and gratuities for tour guides and drivers
- Any optional activities not included in the itinerary
Lufthansa City Center