Iraq Treasures of the South Cultural Discovery
Baghdad, Iraq to Basra, Iraq
Highlights:
- Explore the ancient town of Samarra and marvel at the Arch of Ctesiphon
- Witness the 6,000-year-old Ziggurat of Ur at UNESCO-listed Ur
- Boat through the Mesopotamian Marshes, a dreamy landscape dotted with lakeside villages
Important Trip Details:
This cultural discovery adventure includes 4 to 6 hours of sightseeing each day. You need to be in good physical condition and able to walk comfortably for this length of time.
Minimum Age: 18
- Educational and Learning
- Local Experiences
- Off the Beaten Path
Reason #01
MT Sobek has been trailblazing edgy and unknown destinations for more than 50 years, creating exploratory adventures that few other companies run.
Reason #02You will be in the company of expert guides who have decades of experience leading groups in Iraq.
Reason #03We operate trips throughout the Middle East and North Africa, including Iraq, Jordan, Oman, Egypt, and Morocco.
ActivitiesCultural touring by private vehicles and on foot, with well-paced walks to explore historical wonders.
LodgingRelax at the 5-star Babylon Rotana in Baghdad and the best available hotels in each city-all with Western-style rooms and most modern amenities.
ClimateIraq is generally dry year-round with spring temperatures in the 60-80°Fs and fall temperatures in the 70-100°Fs.
Who will meet me on arrival?Our MT Sobek representative at the Baghdad International Airport.
Do I need a visa for Iraq?Yes, visas are required to enter Iraq, and must be arranged in advance.
What airlines fly into Baghdad and out of Basra?Turkish, Qatar, Emirates and other European airlines fly this route.
What is the minimum age for this trip?The minimum age for this trip is 18.
Inclusions
Expertise and services of our experienced adventure guides
All accommodations as noted in the itinerary
All breakfasts, almost all lunches and dinners as noted in the itinerary
Snacks and water between meals
Additional regional guides and experts on many trips
Comprehensive Trip Planner with detailed pre-trip information
Private guided tours at historic sites, museums, wineries and other select attractions as noted in the itinerary
Special events and other select attractions as mentioned in the itinerary
All gratuities at hotels and restaurants
Equipment and experienced guides for activities as described in the itinerary
Park and other entry fees (unless otherwise noted)
Fares for trains, ferries and other modes of travel as listed in the itinerary
Select transfers as mentioned in the itinerary
Baggage transfers and porterage
Exclusions
International airfare, airport taxes, and excess baggage fees
Alcoholic beverages (MT Sobek provides wine at select events)
Gratuities for MT Sobek guides and guide-drivers
Travel Protection Program
Personal expenses
Shayan Barzani
Shayan was born in Iran in 1995. In 1998, he moved to Iraqi Kurdistan to live with relatives. He has a degree in computer science from Cihan University. He is currently writing a book about “Shanidar Cave”, the Neanderthals, and their brief history in Kurdistan. He is passionate about revealing the secrets of his nation to the people of the world, a gracious host and knowledgeable guide.
Day: 1, duration: 3
Babylon Rotana
This 5-star urban retreat is located in one of Baghdad's most desirable districts and a vast range of modern touches, designed with comfort in mind, awaits. Spacious accommodations feature contemporary furnishings and in room technology to keep you connected. Also includes air conditioning, flat screen TV, mini-fridge and tea and coffee making facilities, bathtub/shower, large work desk and in-room safe. This property is an alcohol free environment.
Day: 4, duration: 1Baron Hotel
Dedicated to providing you convenient services and amenities, this 5-star hotel offers guests spacious and comfortable beds, private bathroom with vanity and modern western touches. Each room is equipped with centralized air conditioning, flat screen 42' LED TV with satellite channels, coffee table and chairs, writing desk, mini fridge, electric coffee and tea maker and in-room safe.
Day: 5, duration: 1Granada Hotel
The Granada Hotel is a comfortable hotel located in the Al-Amir neighborhood in Najaf. Relax in the hotel's spacious rooms and enjoy free complementary Wi-Fi, flatscreen TV, coffee/tea service, fridge, and air-con. While you're there, enjoy the breakfast buffet service in their on-site restaurant and re-energize with their Turkish hammam and sauna. Then step outside to explore popular landmarks like the Ali Ibn Abi Talib Shrine!
Day: 6, duration: 2Sumerian Hotel
Located only a short drive from the impressive ancient monument, the Ziggurat of Ur, the Sumerian Hotel offers guests simple accommodations with traditional touches and modern amenities. Guests will enjoy the elegant gilded lobby and comfortable guest rooms that feature cool tiled floors, air conditioner and fan, and modern touches such as a mini fridge, coffee and tea maker and hairdryer.
Day: 8, duration: 2Millennium Hotel Al Seef Basra
The Millennium Hotel is one of the best and safest hotels in Basra. Rest up in one of their 311 comfortable rooms and enjoy free complementary Wi-Fi, flatscreen TV, and a 24-hour room service. After a day of exploring, the Millennium Hotel offers relaxing amenities such as massage services, a pool, sauna and gym, and several on-site restaurants serving delectable local and international dishes.
At MT Sobek, sustainability isn’t just a principle; it’s woven into the very fabric of how we operate. We don’t simply observe the world’s unique cultures and fragile ecosystems—we take an active role in their preservation. Supporting organizations dedicated to environmental conservation and community well-being is part of our DNA. Over the years, we have contributed over half a million dollars to conservation efforts and volunteered hundreds of hours to initiatives like Yosemite Facelift. Our programs work to ensure that the wild and beautiful places we visit will continue to thrive, with a special emphasis on sustainable practices and positive social impact. From funding reforestation projects to supporting local artisans, our commitment to sustainability goes hand-in-hand with unforgettable adventure.
Reason #01
MT Sobek has been trailblazing edgy and unknown destinations for more than 50 years, creating exploratory adventures that few other companies run.
Reason #02You will be in the company of expert guides who have decades of experience leading groups in Iraq.
Reason #03We operate trips throughout the Middle East and North Africa, including Iraq, Jordan, Oman, Egypt, and Morocco.
ActivitiesCultural touring by private vehicles and on foot, with well-paced walks to explore historical wonders.
LodgingRelax at the 5-star Babylon Rotana in Baghdad and the best available hotels in each city-all with Western-style rooms and most modern amenities.
ClimateIraq is generally dry year-round with spring temperatures in the 60-80°Fs and fall temperatures in the 70-100°Fs.
Who will meet me on arrival?Our MT Sobek representative at the Baghdad International Airport.
Do I need a visa for Iraq?Yes, visas are required to enter Iraq, and must be arranged in advance.
What airlines fly into Baghdad and out of Basra?Turkish, Qatar, Emirates and other European airlines fly this route.
What is the minimum age for this trip?The minimum age for this trip is 18.
Inclusions
Expertise and services of our experienced adventure guides
All accommodations as noted in the itinerary
All breakfasts, almost all lunches and dinners as noted in the itinerary
Snacks and water between meals
Additional regional guides and experts on many trips
Comprehensive Trip Planner with detailed pre-trip information
Private guided tours at historic sites, museums, wineries and other select attractions as noted in the itinerary
Special events and other select attractions as mentioned in the itinerary
All gratuities at hotels and restaurants
Equipment and experienced guides for activities as described in the itinerary
Park and other entry fees (unless otherwise noted)
Fares for trains, ferries and other modes of travel as listed in the itinerary
Select transfers as mentioned in the itinerary
Baggage transfers and porterage
Exclusions
International airfare, airport taxes, and excess baggage fees
Alcoholic beverages (MT Sobek provides wine at select events)
Gratuities for MT Sobek guides and guide-drivers
Travel Protection Program
Personal expenses
Shayan Barzani
Shayan was born in Iran in 1995. In 1998, he moved to Iraqi Kurdistan to live with relatives. He has a degree in computer science from Cihan University. He is currently writing a book about “Shanidar Cave”, the Neanderthals, and their brief history in Kurdistan. He is passionate about revealing the secrets of his nation to the people of the world, a gracious host and knowledgeable guide.
Day: 1, duration: 3
Babylon Rotana
This 5-star urban retreat is located in one of Baghdad's most desirable districts and a vast range of modern touches, designed with comfort in mind, awaits. Spacious accommodations feature contemporary furnishings and in room technology to keep you connected. Also includes air conditioning, flat screen TV, mini-fridge and tea and coffee making facilities, bathtub/shower, large work desk and in-room safe. This property is an alcohol free environment.
Day: 4, duration: 1Baron Hotel
Dedicated to providing you convenient services and amenities, this 5-star hotel offers guests spacious and comfortable beds, private bathroom with vanity and modern western touches. Each room is equipped with centralized air conditioning, flat screen 42' LED TV with satellite channels, coffee table and chairs, writing desk, mini fridge, electric coffee and tea maker and in-room safe.
Day: 5, duration: 1Granada Hotel
The Granada Hotel is a comfortable hotel located in the Al-Amir neighborhood in Najaf. Relax in the hotel's spacious rooms and enjoy free complementary Wi-Fi, flatscreen TV, coffee/tea service, fridge, and air-con. While you're there, enjoy the breakfast buffet service in their on-site restaurant and re-energize with their Turkish hammam and sauna. Then step outside to explore popular landmarks like the Ali Ibn Abi Talib Shrine!
Day: 6, duration: 2Sumerian Hotel
Located only a short drive from the impressive ancient monument, the Ziggurat of Ur, the Sumerian Hotel offers guests simple accommodations with traditional touches and modern amenities. Guests will enjoy the elegant gilded lobby and comfortable guest rooms that feature cool tiled floors, air conditioner and fan, and modern touches such as a mini fridge, coffee and tea maker and hairdryer.
Day: 8, duration: 2Millennium Hotel Al Seef Basra
The Millennium Hotel is one of the best and safest hotels in Basra. Rest up in one of their 311 comfortable rooms and enjoy free complementary Wi-Fi, flatscreen TV, and a 24-hour room service. After a day of exploring, the Millennium Hotel offers relaxing amenities such as massage services, a pool, sauna and gym, and several on-site restaurants serving delectable local and international dishes.
At MT Sobek, sustainability isn’t just a principle; it’s woven into the very fabric of how we operate. We don’t simply observe the world’s unique cultures and fragile ecosystems—we take an active role in their preservation. Supporting organizations dedicated to environmental conservation and community well-being is part of our DNA. Over the years, we have contributed over half a million dollars to conservation efforts and volunteered hundreds of hours to initiatives like Yosemite Facelift. Our programs work to ensure that the wild and beautiful places we visit will continue to thrive, with a special emphasis on sustainable practices and positive social impact. From funding reforestation projects to supporting local artisans, our commitment to sustainability goes hand-in-hand with unforgettable adventure.
About MT Sobek
This is where adventure travel began! Since our first Everest Base Camp trek in 1969, we’ve been connecting adventurers to the world through genuine, active and immersive experiences. We can’t think of anything more fulfilling than being outside and going deep into nature, exploring hidden places and getting to know local people. It’s what we love to do, so let us share it with you.
To feed your spirit of adventure, Mountain Travel Sobek offers a wide range of unique and perfectly paced itineraries led by incredible local guides. We keep groups small, usually fewer than 10 people, and seek out great food and characterful accommodations everywhere we go. Beyond the seamless logistics and careful attention to detail, our aim is to create a space for truly special moments in unforgettable places.
We are the Adventure Company—come explore with us.
About MT Sobek
This is where adventure travel began! Since our first Everest Base Camp trek in 1969, we’ve been connecting adventurers to the world through genuine, active and immersive experiences. We can’t think of anything more fulfilling than being outside and going deep into nature, exploring hidden places and getting to know local people. It’s what we love to do, so let us share it with you.
To feed your spirit of adventure, Mountain Travel Sobek offers a wide range of unique and perfectly paced itineraries led by incredible local guides. We keep groups small, usually fewer than 10 people, and seek out great food and characterful accommodations everywhere we go. Beyond the seamless logistics and careful attention to detail, our aim is to create a space for truly special moments in unforgettable places.
We are the Adventure Company—come explore with us.
