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Iraq Group Trip Sept 2024

This trip has already happened.

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Iraqi man in Baghdad, Iraq
Iraqi man in Baghdad market
Shrine in Karbala, Iraq

Overview

Dates: September 30 - October 8, 2024

12 spots available on a first come, first served basis!

Apply to join now!

Our 9-day, 8-night tour of Iraq will be a comprehensive deep dive into the country. You'll experience Iraq's rich and storied history, culture, cuisine, and of course, Iraq's wonderful people.

You'll travel with Doug as well as highly experienced, professional Iraqi tour guides.

The tour will include:

Baghdad, Babylon, Karbala, Najaf, the Iraqi Marshes, Samarra, Mosul, and Erbil, Iraqi Kurdistan.

Itinerary

Day 1

Arrive to Baghdad International Airport, pre-arranged transfer to hotel, rest, and meet up with the team.

If time permits, afternoon tour of Baghdad. Stops may include the statues and monuments of the Arabian Nights, Firdos Square (where Saddam's statue was torn down in 2003), and the Martyr's Monument.

Overnight: Baghdad

The Guides

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Doug is an American traveler and YouTuber. He has spent years traveling throughout Iraq and the Middle East, and has led several group trips to Iraq and other countries in the region. See his experience in Iraq on his YouTube channel.

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Hussein is a professional tour guide from Babylon, Iraq. He has led countless guests from all over the world on tours throughout Iraq, sharing with them his immense knowledge of Iraq's history, culture, and customs.

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Habib is our bus driver extraordinaire, and he hails from Karbala, Iraq. He navigates Iraq's crazy streets like a pro, and while his English may be sparse, he'll be your best friend by the end of the trip.

Inclusions & Price

Included:

  • 8 nights lodging

  • All meals (Breakfast only on last day)

  • Private airport transfers

  • All tours, tour guides, & entry fees

  • Ground transportation throughout the tour

Excluded:

  • International flights

  • Visa (see more info)

  • Travel insurance

  • Souvenirs, snacks, alcohol

  • Tips

Price:

Shared Twin Room: $2,700

Single Room: $3,300

5% of proceeds donated to Iraqi Children Foundation

Guest Testimonials

"Doug is not just an amazing tour guide; he is, more importantly, an incredible human being. Being half Iraqi, I had a deep-rooted desire to explore the land where my father came from. Doug not only fulfilled that longing, but went above and beyond. His ability to simplify and make everything comfortable made the entire journey memorable. Touring Iraq with him was an unparalleled experience, and I can't imagine doing it with anyone else. If you're contemplating traveling with Doug, rest assured, you won't regret it. I eagerly anticipate the opportunity to explore other places with him in the future."
~ Maryam E.

How to Join

There are limited spots available on the trip!

 

To apply to join, please send an email to trips@dougbarnardtravel.com.

A $750 deposit will be required to reserve your spot. This deposit is non-refundable in lieu of extraordinary circumstances. Final payment is due one month before the start of the trip.

Visa information

Iraq offers an easy Visa On Arrival for citizens of the US, UK, EU, Switzerland, Canada, Russia, China, South Korea, Japan, Australia, and New Zealand.

The visa process will be completed upon your arrival to Baghdad International Airport. The Visa On Arrival costs ~$80 USD (subject to change), and must be paid in cash.

If you are not eligible for a Visa On Arrival, please contact us to discuss the steps for obtaining a visa.

Frequently Asked questions

Who should come on this trip?

Everyone is welcome on this trip. Iraq is a beautiful country with so much to offer visitors. Those interested in joining us on this trip should come with an open mind and be ready to immerse themselves in a culture that may be very different from their own. There will be light physical activity involved throughout the trip (climbing stairs, monuments, etc.), but nothing overly strenuous. In late September & early October, weather in Iraq is hot, with temperatures typically ranging from 72-100° F (22-38° C). We will send a detailed recommended packing list to confirmed participants.

Is it safe to visit Iraq?

Yes. Iraq today is a very different place than it was just a few years ago. The country is now relatively stable, and it has been visited by thousands of tourists in recent years. Throughout the duration of the trip, you will be accompanied by experienced American and Iraqi guides. If you have more specific questions about safety & security in Iraq, get in touch with us.

Are Iraqis friendly to foreigners? What about Americans?

Iraqis are some of the friendliest and most hospitable people on earth. You'll likely be amazed by the kindness and generosity that normal Iraqis will offer to complete strangers. Meeting the Iraqi people is one of the best parts of visiting Iraq.

While Iraqis' views on the American government and recent history between the two countries may vary, the vast majority of Iraqis will treat American visitors with the same kindness and hospitality that they would offer any guest. Any negative opinions of the American government are not directed towards individual US citizens.

What are the hotels like?

We will be staying in upscale local hotels. All hotels offer wifi, air conditioning, and breakfast. The rooms are shared twin rooms, meaning that if you're traveling solo, you'll be paired up with a roommate. Private rooms can be arranged for an additional cost.

What is the food like?

Iraqi food is delicious and we'll be eating a lot of it! You can expect a mix of meat and vegetarian dishes. All meals (unless otherwise indicated) are included in the price of the trip, and most will be served family style. Please let us know if you have any dietary restrictions or allergies so we can accommodate you!

What's the best way to get to Iraq?

Depending on your point of origin, you'll likely transit through Istanbul, Doha, or Dubai. We can help you find good flights and even link up with other trip participants before your flight to Baghdad, if possible.

The trip will begin in Baghdad and end in Erbil. Participants should book arrival flights to Baghdad International Airport and departure flights from Erbil International Airport.

 

Have more questions? Email trips@dougbarnardtravel.com and we'll get back to you ASAP!

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