Introduction
Hello!
I'm so excited to have you joining us for this adventure! Our upcoming journey through Iraq is going to be something truly special — From the bustling streets of Baghdad to the ancient ruins of Babylon, the spiritual heart of Karbala and Najaf, and the breathtaking landscapes of Kurdistan, each day brings new discoveries, authentic flavors, and unforgettable moments. Experience the warmth of Iraqi hospitality, explore vibrant markets, and immerse yourself in the stories that have shaped this remarkable land for millennia.
This Pre-Departure Pack has everything you need to feel prepared — from flights and visas to packing tips, safety info, and local customs.
If you have any questions, I'm just a message away.
Let the countdown begin!
Tia
Flights
The trip begins in Basra and finishes in Erbil. Please plan to fly into Basra International Airport (BSR) for the trip start and depart from Erbil International Airport (EBL) at the end. If you choose to fly in or out of different airports you'll need to arrange your own transfers. We can help arrange this for you if needed.
We recommend arriving into Basra the day before the trip starts to allow for any delays and to ensure you're well rested. Arriving on the morning of the trip may risk missing the start.
Travel Insurance
You must have comprehensive travel insurance covering medical emergencies, personal belongings and trip cancellations/delays. You will need to provide proof of insurance as part of the Final Details form. Please ensure that your insurer covers you in Iraq, we will need you to verify this.
Visa Info
Most travellers will need a visa to enter Iraq. Visa requirements vary by nationality, so please check the specific entry rules for your passport well in advance of travel.
If a visa is required for you, apply a few weeks before departure to allow time for approval. We will require a copy of your visa (if applicable) ahead of the trip start date.
Please ensure your passport is valid for at least six months beyond your planned departure date.
Visa Process
Check Visa Eligibility
Verify whether your nationality is eligible for an e-Visa or requires an embassy/consulate visa. Most nationalities can apply for an e-Visa via the official portal.
Gather Required Documents
Prepare the following documents (requirements may vary by nationality):
- Passport (valid for at least 6 months with two blank pages)
- A recent passport-style photo (digital format for e-Visa applications)
- Flight itinerary
Apply Online (e-Visa)
For e-Visa applications:
- Visit the official Iraq e-Visa portal.
- Select the "Direct e-Visa" option NOT login
- Enter your nationality (eg. British, American, French) and email address
- Enter the One Time Passcode which is sent to your email
- You will then be taken to the application page
Application Information
Details needed for the application:
- You need to select "Ordinary" visa type
- Fill in your personal details. You do not need to fill in the non required fields, such as father name, grandfather name, mother name, or any of the arabic sections
- Add your passport details, ensuring that your passport is valid for at least 6 months past the trip
- For current address inside Iraq
- Governorate: Basra
- Accommodation Type: Hotel
- Hotel Name: Atlas Hotel
- Under personal attachment, add a photo of your passport, and a passport style photo of yourself. Ensure the photo's are small file size so that they aren't rejected
- Confirm that your details are correct, and click "Submit Application"
- It may take 30 seconds or so to progress to the next page. DO NOT REFRESH
- You will then need to pay the visa fee. It may take a few tries, as some providers restrict payments into Iraq
Wait for Approval
E-Visa processing times typically range from 1-7 working days. Once approved, print your visa.
Embassy/Consulate Visa (if applicable)
If not eligible for e-Visa, visit your nearest Iraq embassy/consulate to apply.
Money
Currencies used:
- Iraqi Dinar (IQD) - the official currency. You won't be able to withdraw IQD in your home country, as it is a closed currency.
- US Dollar (USD) - sometimes accepted in hotels or tourist settings, and can easily be exchanged into IQD.
- British Pounds (GBP), Euros (EUR), or any other currencies are not commonly accepted, so we recommend using Iraqi Dinar where possible.
Cash vs Card:
Cards work well in larger cities (Basra, Erbil) in hotels, supermarkets and larger restaurants. However, smaller shops, local markets and rural cafés often only accept cash, especially during remote or off-road days.
ATMs
ATMs are available in cities and larger towns but can be limited or unreliable in remote areas, however they can be very unreliable with foreign cards. We strongly recommend bringing cash with you, rather than relying on ATMs
Tipping
Tipping is appreciated but not expected in Iraq. In restaurants or with guides and drivers, small tips are welcomed but always discretionary. You should never feel pressured to tip.
Food & Water
Expect rich, flavourful Iraqi cuisine — think grilled meats and seafood, rice-based dishes, lentil soups, fresh salads, flatbreads, and a variety of dips and accompaniments.
Vegetarian options are widely available, especially in cities, and we'll do our best to accommodate dietary requirements throughout the trip.
Tap water quality can vary across Iraq. In many city hotels water is treated, but in rural or remote areas it's safer to drink bottled or filtered water. We will have opportunities to refill bottles with filtered water where available. Bringing a refillable water bottle is strongly recommended, especially for hikes and remote days.
Connectivity
SIM cards are widely available at Basra airport and in major cities. We recommend getting a local SIM on arrival if you need mobile data.
You can also use a regional or Iraq-specific eSIM; services like Nomad usually work in Iraq (use code TEETRAVELS if you like). Wi‑Fi is widely available in hotels and many cafés, though speeds vary. In remote or mountainous areas connection can be limited.
Packing List
Clothing
- Lightweight, breathable tops
- Long-sleeve shirts (sun protection / cooler evenings)
- Light jumper or fleece
- Warm jacket for cooler evenings or early starts
- Loose-fitting trousers or long skirts (modesty & comfort)
- Casual shorts (knee length)
- Comfortable walking shoes or trainers
- Sandals or flip-flops
- Hat or cap (sun protection)
- Sleepwear
- Swimwear
- Comfortable clothing for downtime
- Outfits for evenings out
Gear
- Small daypack for daily outings
- Large bag or suitcase for main luggage
- Water bottle
- Eye mask
- Ear plugs
Electronics
- Phone + charger
- Power adapter (bring a universal adapter — plug types vary; mains voltage is 230V)
- Power bank
- Headphones
Documents
- Passport (6+ months validity)
- Travel insurance policy
- Flight details
- Visa (if needed)
Health
- Painkillers
- Motion sickness tablets (for bus or boat rides)
- Sunscreen
- Plasters + antiseptic wipes
- Any prescription medication
Pre-Trip Checklist
- Fill in the Final Details Form once you have inbound/outbound transport, travel insurance and visas. We will send you a link to the form via email and WhatsApp.
- Ensure you have everything from the packing list.
During the Trip
Each night we'll share the next day's plans — what to bring, meeting times, and any other details.