Kurdistan

Spending two years in Erbil was an experience that completely reshaped my view of the Middle East.

When I first arrived, I didn’t know what to expect but what I found was a city full of life, history, and some of the warmest people I’ve ever met! From the bazaars and ancient citadel to the breathtaking mountains just a short drive away, Erbil quickly became more than just a place I lived it truly became a place I feel connected with.

Living in Erbil wasn’t just about seeing a new place, it was about understanding a different way of life, and that’s something I’ll always carry with me.

Explore Iraqi Kurdistan with me, yalla! (Let’s go!)

Insights & Travel Guides

Where to Stay in Erbil, Iraq: 7 Best Hotels & Areas

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An Unforgettable Encounter with Nomads in Iraq: Life On The Move

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Visiting Erbil & Iraq For The First Time: Expert Guide + Tips

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The Best Time to Visit Iraqi Kurdistan: A Month-by-Month Guide

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Why Visit Iraqi Kurdistan? 9 Genuine Reasons You Need to Know

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Lalish Temple Secrets: The Hidden Culture of the Yazidis

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Iraq’s Zagros Mountain: 5 Wonders That Will Fuel Your Wanderlust

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Hiking in Iraq: Off the Beaten Path to Iraq’s Best Trekking Spots

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The Beautiful Kurdish Culture: 12 Hidden Customs & Traditions

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Renting a Car in Erbil? Complete Guide to Make the Best Choice

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Rawanduz Revealed: Iraq’s Best-Kept Secret (Travel Guide)

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Newroz Festival in Iraq: The Most Epic Kurdish Event There Is

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Erbil Citadel and Grand Qaysari Bazaar · Complete Guide 2025

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22 Pros and Cons of Iraq: What You Need to Know Before Visiting

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A Kurdish Wedding: Dance, Eat and Party like at a Festival

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Best 21 Things to Do In Erbil: Find Out What Erbil is Famous For

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Kurdistan’s Majestic Mountains and Nature – Hiking Adventure (Iraq)

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Living as Expat in Erbil · Kurdistan: A Complete Overview

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Lion at the Local Pet Store in Erbil

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Is Iraqi Kurdistan and Erbil Safe? Safety Guide (2025)

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Temperatures

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F.A.Q. Weather

When Is the Best Time to Visit Iraqi Kurdistan?

The best season to visit is spring and autumn. In spring (March–May), flowers and green fields of grass turn the country into a wonderland. Summers are hot but dry, landscapes are dried out. Autumn (September–November) has nice temperatures but the landscape is still completely dry from the summer.

What’s the weather like in Iraqi Kurdistan

The winter can actually be quite cold! and there are lots of thunderstorms in the winter until February. Spring is definitely the best time to visit.

Is summer really that hot?

Yes! ☀️🔥 Summers are hot, with temperatures up to 50°C (122°F) or more. Luckily the air is very dry which makes it more manageable.

How cold does it get in winter in Iraqi Kurdistan?

Pretty chilly! 🥶 In Erbil, temperatures often drop to 0°C (32°F) or lower. You could see some snow!

Visa & Entry Requirements

Visa regulations have recently changed. An e-visa will have to be obtained before departure. Check official rules here.

Transportation

There is no public transport except for taxi's and a few busses. Renting a car or taking a taxi are the best ways to get around.

Best Apps to Use

Talabat + Lezzoo (Ordering Food)
Waze (GPS)

In Iraqi Kurdistan you can find many mountains covered with snow!

Snow-capped mountains at sunset with contrasting shadows and light.

What time is it in Kurdistan?

The current local time in Erbil, Kurdistan (Iraq) is:

Where is Kurdistan?

Kurdistan is a geographic and cultural region that spans across four countries: Iraq, Turkey, Iran, and Syria. Iraqi Kurdistan is the only area that has official autonomous status.

Iraqi Kurdistan

Located in northern Iraq, Iraqi Kurdistan is a self-governing region with its own government. The capital of Iraqi Kurdistan is Erbil (Hawler), one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world! Other major cities include Sulaymaniyah and Duhok. The region is known for its breathtaking mountain landscapes, rich history, and cultural heritage.

Kurdistan Beyond Iraq

Beyond Iraqi Kurdistan, Kurdish communities are spread across:

Turkey: The largest Kurdish population lives in southeastern Turkey, where Kurds have long sought greater political and cultural rights.
Iran: Kurdish regions in western Iran, known as Rojhelat, have historical and cultural significance but lack autonomy.
Syria: The Kurdish-controlled areas in northeastern Syria, known as Rojava, have gained de facto autonomy in recent years.

Despite being divided across borders, Kurdish people share a common language, culture, and identity.

Do I Need to Speak Kurdish or Arabic? 🗣️

Not really, many people can speak English, but knowing a few basic phrases helps. Most people speak Kurdish which is actually very different than Arabic!

What is Kurdistan Famous For? ✨

The Citadel – One of the most authentic and vibrant places I've ever been.
Food 🍜 – Dolma, Kurdish flatbread, kebab, muhamara, humus.
Mountains Landscapes 🏞️ – Rawanduz, Korek Mountain, Choman.
Historical Sites 🏯 – Lalish Temple, Alqosh, Shanidar Cave.

Final Thoughts

Kurdistan is a one-of-a-kind destination. In my opinion it is a destination for the more seasoned traveler due to the political instabilities close to the region, the hectic traffic and the climate. But, it is definitely worth it!

Got any questions? Drop them below, and I’ll be happy to help! 😊