Iraq, one of the easternmost countries of the Arab world, is often referred to as the “Cradle of Civilization”. Home to the ancient Mesopotamian peoples who are believed to have developed the first systems of writing, agriculture and justice, and ruled by both the Sumerian and the Babylonian civilizations, Iraq harbors a wealth of history and culture. On this experience, travelers will delve into the heartland of Iraq, traveling back through history to the centers of some of humanity’s first civilizations and exploring the streets of modern Iraq. After an initial day spent in Baghdad, the capital of Iraq, travelers will take a day trip to visit the archaeological remains of Samarra, a UNESCO world heritage site and the only Islamic capital that retains its original plan, architecture and arts. From there, travelers will return to Baghdad to visit the Iraq Museum and various other sites before heading to Karbala, a city located in central Iraq, the next day. En route, the group will stop by the ruins of Babylon and admire all that the ancient city once had to offer. Other highlights on this trip include witnessing some of the holiest places in Shia Islam such as the Shrine of Ali in Najaf, visiting the remains of the ancient cities of Uruk and Ur and experiencing life in the lush marshlands of Nasiriyah.
This 9-day experience costs $3,750. The trip is led by Untamed Borders, an adventure travel company specialized in some of the world’s most interesting and inaccessible places. They run cultural tours as well as adventure sports including skiing, trekking, marathons and more. Whenever possible, proceeds from the trip are directed back to the communities visited and the trips are always led by local guides.