Updated Guide: Iraqi Kurdistan Travel (January 2026)
Iraqi Kurdistan, the autonomous northern region of Iraq, surprises with lush mountains, deep canyons, ancient sites, and unmatched hospitality—far from desert stereotypes.
Gomi Felaw – Stunning alpine lake near Choman.
Quick Facts
- Language: Kurmanji Kurdish (English common among youth).
- Currency: Iraqi Dinar (IQD); ~1,310 IQD = $1 USD (Jan 2026).
- Best Time: Spring (Mar–May) for green landscapes; fall (Sep–Nov) for mild weather. Avoid summer heat (40°C+) and winter snow.
- Safety: One of the safest Middle East spots; low crime, stable despite regional tensions. Monitor advisories—most governments rate it lower risk than federal Iraq.
Visas (2026)
All visitors need a visa. Use the official e-Visa portal: visit.gov.krd (~$75–100 USD).
- Eligible Nationalities (e-Visa or VOA at Erbil/Sulaymaniyah airports): Most Western countries (EU, US, Canada, UK, Australia, Japan, etc.)—30 days.
- Others: Apply online (may need sponsor) or check eligibility.
- Kurdistan visa is separate from federal Iraq; not valid south (e.g., Baghdad/Mosul without Iraqi visa).
Getting There
- Fly: Direct to Erbil (ERB) or Sulaymaniyah (ISU) from Istanbul, Dubai, Europe.
- Overland:
- Iran: Tamarchin/Haji Omran (near Erbil) or Bashmaq/Penjwen (to Sulaymaniyah).
- Turkey: Ibrahim Khalil/Habur (to Duhok/Zakho).
Getting Around & Budget
- Transport: Shared taxis ($7–15 between cities); minibuses cheaper/slower. Rent cars (~$40/day) or hitchhike (common/safe).
- Daily Budget: $40–80 (budget); higher with guides.
- Hotels: $25–60/night.
- Meals: Shawarma $2; restaurant kabob $6–10.
- Taxis: $3–7 city rides.
- ATMs widespread in cities; carry USD for exchange.
What to Wear & Eat
- Dress: Conservative but relaxed—jeans/t-shirts fine; cover shoulders/knees at sites. Women: Tunics/leggings comfortable.
- Food: Kabobs, dolma, beans/rice; endless chai. Picnics huge—join locals! Alcohol available.
Top Places
Erbil → Ancient Citadel, bazaars, parks.
Amedi → Hilltop ancient village.
Lalish → Yazidi holy temples (remove shoes).
Rawanduz Canyon → Dramatic hikes/views.
Dukan Lake → Relaxed boating/picnics.
Others: Sulaymaniyah (Amna Suraka museum), Alqosh monastery, Dore Canyon.
Solo Female Travel
Safe and welcoming—many solo women visit without issues. Dress modestly; expect friendly curiosity (rare harassment).
Iraqi Kurdistan offers off-beaten-path adventure with warm people. Check visit.gov.krd for latest visa/safety updates!