On this Page
Prepare yourself for a once-in-a-lifetime journey through Iraq, a country that that is so very different from what you might imagine!
Get ready to join Jennifer Spelman and Derek Baron (Wandering Earl) on an eye-opening journey through Iraq. You’ll capture the vibrant streets of Baghdad, roam the ancient city of Babylon and experience the surreal Imam Ali Shrine in Najaf. Moving north, marvel at the ancient sites of Samarra and Hatra, then walk the streets of Mosul to learn about its recent history and see how hope is returning to this resilient community. Along the way, you’ll also meet people from the Christian and Yazidi communities in the Nineveh Plains, visiting their homes, places of worship, and local businesses.
*Our Wandering Earl tour to Iraq is genuinely one-of-a-kind. Our itinerary is full of activities, destinations and local interactions that are only possible due to our local contacts. These contacts are able to gain special access for our groups to a wide variety of sites and people and this is what helps make our tour unlike any other!
Book with Confidence
To reserve your spot, a deposit will be required. However, you can book with peace of mind as the deposit is refundable – minus a 3% transaction fee – for 30 days. Balance payments are due 90 days before the tour start date. For complete payment/refund policy, please READ HERE.
If you make a deposit for a tour within 90 days of the tour start date, the deposit is non-refundable.
Get to know the wonderfully welcoming Iraqi people through endless local interactions
Fully experience Baghdad - the old city, museums, historical sites, excellent food and more!
Enjoy a private visit inside of a spectacular 16th century palace along the Tigris River
Walk through ancient Babylon
Visit the incredible Imam Ali Shrine in Najaf, with all of its brilliant domes, gold, mosaics and colors
Spend time at impressive Samarra and Hatra, remarkable sites dating back hundreds of years
Take a powerful tour of Mosul to learn about its difficult past and inspiring hopes for the future
Finish the trip in vibrant Erbil, the capital of the Kurdistan Region of Iraq Baghdad (Arrival Day)
Nov 1
Arrival day
Included: Dinner
Upon arrival at Baghdad’s airport, you will be met by our VIP airport representative once you walk off the plane. Our representative will take you through the immigration procedures, help you claim your luggage and take you to the private car that will transfer you to our hotel. Later in the evening, we’ll all gather for an orientation meeting and a welcome dinner at one of the city’s best restaurants!
Baghdad
Nov 2
Highlights: Full Baghdad city tour, Old Baghdad, Tigris River, Green Zone
Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Today we'll embark on a full tour through Old Baghdad, delving into the city's rich tapestry of history and contemporary life. The day will first take us through the heart of the city's bustling markets, a sensory feast of colors, sounds, and aromas that showcase the vibrancy of local commerce and culture. We'll continue our adventure with a tranquil boat trip on the Tigris River, offering us a unique perspective of Baghdad and providing glimpses into the daily activities along its banks. A visit to the Baghdad Cultural Center is next, where we'll immerse ourselves in the city's artistic traditions and historical narratives, enhancing our appreciation for Baghdad's cultural significance. Our exploration will finally lead us into the Green Zone, an area known for its political and diplomatic significance in contemporary Iraq. This secured district houses government buildings, foreign embassies, and has been a focal point for Iraq's recent history, offering insights into the country's journey towards stability and governance.
Baghdad
Nov 3
Highlights: Local breakfast, modern Baghdad
Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Kicking off the day with a traditional Iraqi breakfast, we'll indulge in a spread that typically includes fresh bread, cheese, eggs, and a variety of jams and honey, all accompanied by strong, aromatic Iraqi tea. This hearty start will be followed by a guided visit through modern Baghdad, showcasing the city's contemporary side and its recent developments. Our day will conclude with an authentic evening out, where our local friends will introduce us to the warm hospitality of Iraq. We'll enjoy dinner at a local restaurant, tasting a variety of local dishes, followed by a relaxed visit to a local shisha café, where we can unwind and share stories, enveloped in the flavorsome smoke of shisha and the vibrant Iraqi night.
Baghdad » Babylon » Najaf
Nov 4
Highlights: Ancient Babylon, Imam Ali Shrine, Najaf
Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Our day begins with an early departure from Baghdad, setting the stage for an immersive tour of the ancient city of Babylon. Here, we'll explore the ruins of one of the world's oldest civilizations, walking through history where the Hanging Gardens once stood and marveling at the remnants of its great walls and gates. Our day's travel continues with a drive to Najaf, a city renowned for its significant cultural and spiritual heritage, readying us for the next chapter in our exploration of this storied land. We'll first visit the Valley of Peace, the world's largest cemetery, an expansive and historic site reflecting centuries of Iraqi heritage and solemnity. As dusk falls, we'll prepare for a surreal experience at the Imam Ali Shrine, one of Iraq's most revered spiritual sites, where the evening's atmosphere adds a profound sense of tranquility and reverence to our visit.
Najaf » Nasiriyah and the Ancient City of Ur
Nov 5
Highlights: Nasiriyah, Sumerian City of Ur, Abraham's house
Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
We'll start the day with a 4 hour drive to the city of Nasiriyah, setting off early to make the most of the day ahead. Upon arrival we'll check in to our hotel and head out for lunch. In the late afternoon, we'll make the short drive out of the city in order to explore the ancient Sumerian city of Ur, one of the world's earliest cities. Here, we'll delve into history with a visit to the archaeological site that includes the Ziggurat of Ur and the area believed to be the house where Abraham possibly lived. After soaking in the historical and cultural significance of Ur, you'll have the evening to relax and enjoy some free time in Nasiriyah. This is a great chance to wander, absorb the local atmosphere, or simply rest before we gather in the evening for a group dinner featuring some local cuisine.
Mesopotamia Marshes » Baghdad
Nov 6
Highlights: Al Hammar and Central Marshes by boat, local breakfast and lunch, local activities
Included: Breakfast, Lunch
Today we'll have a very early start so that we can make the 1.5 hour drive to the marshes in time for a breathtaking sunrise over the region, casting a golden glow over the water and reeds, setting a serene tone for the day. A highlight of our morning will be sharing a traditional regional breakfast with some of our local friends in their reed home, offering an intimate glimpse into the local way of life. Our exploration then continues as we continue by boat to visit Al Hammar West and the Central Marshes, immersing ourselves in the dynamic ecosystem and lifestyles of this unique area. Once our boat trip concludes, we'll enjoy a local fish lunch, before making the 5 hour drive back to Baghdad in the afternoon. We'll check in to our hotel in Baghdad and have a free evening to rest.
Baghdad » Fallujah » Baghdad
Nov 7
Highlights: Fallujah day trip
Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
The day's adventure begins with a morning trip to Fallujah, a city known for its abundant history, where we'll dive into the local culture right away with a traditional Fallujah lunch, featuring dishes rich in flavors and history. After lunch, we'll take a leisurely walking tour along the corniche and through the local markets, absorbing the city's atmosphere and scenic views. From here, we'll return to Baghdad. With the evening free, you'll have the opportunity to explore at your own pace before we all gather for a group dinner.
Baghdad » Samarra » Hatra » Mosul
Nov 8
Highlights: Spiral minaret of Samarra, fortified city of Hatra, arrival in Mosul
Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Departing from Baghdad in the morning, our journey takes us to the historic city of Samarra, where we'll marvel at its ancient spiral minaret, an architectural marvel and a symbol of the city's Islamic heritage. This UNESCO World Heritage site offers a unique glimpse into the Abbasid era, showcasing the innovative art and architecture of the period. Our exploration continues as we head to the magnificent fortified caravan city of Hatra, known for its high walls and towers that have withstood the sands of time, and its blend of Greco-Roman and Eastern architectural influences, reflecting the city's importance as a trading hub in ancient times. The day's journey concludes with our arrival in Mosul, setting the stage for further discovery in this city that bridges the past and present with its deep historical roots and bustling culture.
Mosul
Nov 9
Highlights: Full walking tour of Old Mosul, meeting local residents
Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Today we'll embark on a full walking tour of Old Mosul. Our journey will take us to significant UNESCO sites, including the majestic Al-Nouri Mosque and the venerable Al Tahira Church. As we meander through the bustling Old Bazaar and aromatic spice market, we'll immerse ourselves in the vibrant local culture. We'll engage with the resilient residents, who will share their stories from the ISIS era, offering a deeper understanding of the city's recent struggles. The day will conclude with an evening at a local cultural cafe providing a perfect end to our day.
Mosul » Nineveh Plains » Mosul
Nov 10
Highlights: Nineveh Plains, local village with unique local activities!
Included: Breakfast, Lunch
Embarking on a day trip from Mosul, we'll venture into the heart of the Nineveh Plains where we'll visit a local village that is home to both Christian and Yazidi communities. Our day begins with the warmth of local hospitality, as we're invited to share breakfast with a family, offering us a taste of their time-honored cuisine and a personal insight into their daily lives. As we tour the village, we'll be guided through a series of interesting locations, each with its own story and significance. These stops may include ancient churches, cultural landmarks, and sites of spiritual importance to the Yazidi and Christian communities.
Mosul » Erbil
Nov 11
Highlights: Arrival in Erbil, city tour
Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Departing from Mosul in the morning we'll set off to Erbil, the capital city of the Iraqi Kurdistan region of the country. Known for its ancient citadel and bustling bazaars, Erbil presents a fascinating blend of history and modernity. After lunch, we'll head out into the old city in order to visit the citadel, markets, tea shops and more before making a stop at the gorgeous Jalil Khayat Mosque. After this unique experience, we will head out for our farewell dinner in the hip Ankawa neighborhood of the city, marking an end to this most spectacular adventure!
Erbil (Departure day)
Nov 12
Departure day
Included: Breakfast
You will be picked up for your private airport transfer based on the time of your departing flight.
Tour leader (Derek Baron)
Professional photographer (Jennifer Spelman)
Small group (maximum 12 participants)
Accommodation (10 nights – 3*/4* hotels)
Transportation within Iraq (minibus and bus)
Local English-speaking guides in each destination
All included activities and entrance fees
Breakfast every day, 7 lunches and 8 dinners
Bottled water throughout the trip
Gratuities at hotels/included meals
All airport transfers
Visa assistance at the airport 
Flights to/from Iraq (Baghdad/Erbil)
Passport/visa fees (visa on arrival for most nationalities is $77 USD)
Meals and activities not mentioned
Travel insurance (mandatory)
Other gratuities 
Medium Physical Level
While the tour itself is not very strenuous, please note that it can involve the following: long days, walking tours in the cities/countryside (up to two hours), being outside in potentially warm temperatures, bus journeys longer than five hours, early morning wake-ups and other similar scenarios. Uneven terrain such as dirt, sand, loose rock, gravel and steep stairs are possible. Participants must be able to carry all of your own photography gear.
Accommodation
On this tour, we’ll stay in comfortable and conveniently located 3* and 4* hotels. The accommodations are of very good standards. There might be a quirk or two that you wouldn’t find at a hotel back home but the overall quality is very good. All rooms have a private bathroom, hair dryer and bottled water. There are a maximum of 10 single rooms available. Other rooms will be shared. Solo travelers will be paired together, two travelers per room in two single beds. (*Please note: If you book a shared room and we cannot find another traveler to share that room, there will be an extra surcharge for having a single room.)
Transport
While traveling within the cities of Baghdad, Mosul and Erbil, we’ll use a comfortable 20 seat minibus to get around. While traveling longer distances between cities/destinations, we’ll use a 35-seat VIP bus that has a restroom on board, a refrigerator, and plug outlets for easy charging of devices.
Meals
Breakfast every day, 7 lunches and 8 dinners are included. With included meals, some will be served family style and other times you will be able to order anything you wish from the menu. All dietary restrictions can be accommodated although it might result in a limited menu.
Sustainability
As with all of our trips, we aim to offer as sustainable an experience as we can. We seek out ways to limit plastic use, trash is recycled where possible and we avoid mass tourism activities that cause harm to the environment and/or do not benefit local communities.
Small Groups
This tour requires a minimum of 8 participants and has a maximum of 12 participants in order to ensure the best small group tour experience. With such a small group, you'll be able to enjoy unique, rewarding activities that would not be accessible with more people. That's the kind of trip we love to offer!
Safety
While many governments have travel warnings in place for Iraq, the reality is quite different. There is certainly always a risk when embarking on travel to certain destinations, but travelers are now visiting Iraq in increasing numbers. This is due to the improved stability and safety situation. We take safety extremely seriously and do not operate trips if there is any reason to believe our guests could be in danger.
Itinerary Changes
While we do our best to follow the itinerary, changes may be made to any aspect of the tour due to a variety of potential situations or unforeseen circumstances.
