Kirkuk - Discovering Iraq

Travelling to Kirkuk

In this page you can find every information for a holiday in Kirkuk, a pretty good destination in Iraq (all info about the whole country here).
We will answer the most important questions: what to visit, when to go, how to get to Kirkuk and what means of transport to use to get around. We will describe typical foods, the costs for tourists and where to find accomodation. We will list also the places to see around Kirkuk, and we will also talk about safety and how each type of traveler can enjoy a trip here.
So, if you are travelling through Iraq, here's everything to know about Kirkuk for a perfect holiday.

General info for a trip to Kirkuk

Kirkuk is a city located in northern Iraq, and it is the capital of Kirkuk Governorate. It has a rich history and is considered one of Iraq's oldest continuously-inhabited cities. Kirkuk is situated in a region with significant oil reserves, and it has long been an important center for the petroleum industry. The city is known for its diverse population, which includes significant numbers of Kurds, Arabs, and Turkmen. Kirkuk is also home to numerous historical and cultural sites, such as the citadel of Kirkuk, the Kirkuk Museum, and the Atta Sabagh Park. Despite ongoing conflicts in the region, Kirkuk remains a popular destination for tourists seeking to experience Iraq's history and culture.

What to visit in Kirkuk

There are several tourist attractions to visit in Kirkuk, Iraq. Some of them are: 1. Qala'a Citadel: A historic fortress located in the center of Kirkuk, Qala'a Citadel is an ancient castle that dates back to the 12th century. It is one of the oldest landmarks in Iraq and has been designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
2. The Kirkuk Museum: A fascinating museum that contains artifacts from ancient civilizations, including the Assyrians, Babylonians, and Sumerians. The museum showcases a diverse collection of statues, reliefs, and documents that help visitors to better understand Iraq's rich cultural history.
3. Al-Hasan Mosque: One of the oldest mosques in Kirkuk, Al-Hasan Mosque dates back to the 11th century and is renowned for its beautiful Islamic architecture. The mosque features an iconic blue dome, intricate tilework, and an impressive prayer hall.
4. Atta Cave: Located near the city of Kirkuk, Atta Cave is an enormous natural cave that spans over 300 meters. The cave is filled with stunning stalactites and stalagmites, and it is home to a large colony of bats.
5. Qishla Gardens: A beautiful park located in the heart of Kirkuk, Qishla Gardens is a popular spot for locals and tourists alike. The park contains a variety of trees, fountains, and walking paths, as well as a large playground for children.
6. Kakayi Hike: The Kakayi Hike is a scenic trail that winds through the hills surrounding Kirkuk. The hike offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape, as well as opportunities to explore the local flora and fauna.
7. Kirkuk Bazaar: A vibrant marketplace that is filled with traditional shops and vendors, the Kirkuk Bazaar is a great place to experience the local culture. Visitors can browse through handmade crafts, sample delicious local foods, and haggle for souvenirs to take home.
In this website, you can find many other destinations to visit in Iraq, so you can have a look in the "USEFUL LINKS" sections in this page for other places that could inspire your trip.


You can find more information in this page dedicated to the top 10 attractions to visit in Kirkuk.

When to go on holiday to Kirkuk

The best time to visit Kirkuk, Iraq, is during the spring and fall seasons, which run from March to May and from late September to early November. During these periods, the weather is generally mild and pleasant, with temperatures ranging from around 15°C to 25°C. Summers in Kirkuk can be quite hot, with temperatures averaging around 40°C during the day. Winter months can be colder with temperatures that sometimes drop below 0°C and there may also be periods of rainfall. Therefore, it's best to avoid visiting Kirkuk during the summer and winter months if you can, and consider planning your trip for the spring or fall instead.

You can book here visit and activities to do during your holiday!

How to get to Kirkuk

To get to Kirkuk in Iraq, you can take a flight to Erbil International Airport, which is the closest airport to Kirkuk. From Erbil, you can take a taxi or a bus to Kirkuk, which is approximately 85 kilometers away. Alternatively, you can also take a taxi from Baghdad to Kirkuk, which is around 250 kilometers away. It's important to note that due to security concerns, it's recommended to obtain the latest travel advice from your embassy or consulate before planning your trip to Iraq.
To find the most convenient flights, compare (and book if you like!) the best offers here on Skyscanner.
To hire a car to visit Kirkuk, I recommend to check this: COMPARE HERE ALL OFFERS FOR CAR RENTAL

Typical foods in Kirkuk

Kirkuk is a city located in Northern Iraq and is famous for its diverse ethnic culture and traditional cuisine. Below are some of the typical foods of Kirkuk with a short description of each: 1. Kubba: This is a popular dish in Northern Iraq made of minced meat, bulgur, and spices. It is cooked in various ways, such as fried, boiled, or baked.
2. Dolma: This is a stuffed vegetable dish. Grape leaves, peppers, onions, and eggplants are stuffed with a mixture of rice, minced meat, and spices.
3. Tepsi Baytinijan: This is a layered dish made of eggplants, onions, tomatoes, and minced meat. The ingredients are cooked separately, and then placed in layers in a baking dish with tomato sauce.
4. Pacha: This is a traditional soup made of sheep or cow parts such as the head, hooves, and stomach. It is usually served with fresh bread and lemon.
5. Biryani: A rice-based dish made with meat, chicken or fish that is cooked with a mix of Indian spices.
6. Qeema: A Middle Eastern dish made with ground beef or lamb that is seasoned and spiced up with onions, tomatoes, garlic and various herbs. 7. Shawarma: This is a popular street food in Kirkuk and often contains marinated meat cooked on a spit, shaved off and served inside pita bread with vegetables.
Overall, Kirkuk's traditional cuisine reflects the region's cultural diversity, and the above-listed foods are just a few of the dishes that make Kirkuk a heaven for food lovers.
You can find general info about typical foods in Iraq here.

Is Kirkuk an expensive destination for tourists?

Kirkuk in Iraq is not a popular tourist destination, so prices for visitors may vary depending on the type of accommodation, transportation, and activities. However, in general, Iraq is a country with a moderate cost of living, so it's likely that visiting Kirkuk won't be as expensive as other popular tourist destinations. That being said, it's important to conduct thorough research before planning a trip to Iraq, as safety concerns and travel restrictions may affect trip planning and expenses.

Where to find accomodation in Kirkuk

Due to security concerns, the availability of decent accommodation in Kirkuk may be limited. However, some of the areas where you can find accommodation include the city center, Al-Tahrir neighborhood, Al-Wasiti neighborhood, and the areas near the Kirkuk Citadel. It's always advisable to consult with a local travel agency or hotel to get updated information on accommodation options and to plan your trip accordingly.
You can check hotel prices at Kirkuk here:
Booking.com

Is Kirkuk a safe destination for tourists?

Unfortunately, Kirkuk is not considered a safe place for tourism as it has been affected by ongoing conflict and political instability. The U.S. Department of State has listed Kirkuk as a Level 4 "Do Not Travel" destination due to the high threat of terrorism, kidnapping, and other violent crime. It is recommended that travelers avoid the area and consider visiting other cities in Iraq that are safer for tourists.
You can find general info about safety for tourists in Iraq here. Always check updated government info about travelers's safety on the ufficial Foreign Affairs website of your government, before visiting Kirkuk.

What type of travelers will enjoy Kirkuk the most?

Kirkuk is a historically and culturally rich city located in northern Iraq and has many attractions to offer. However, it may not be the most suitable place for all types of travelers.
Kirkuk can be a fantastic destination for history and culture lovers, as the city has an excellent museum and many ancient landmarks, such as the citadel of Kirkuk and the Kirkuk Castle. Therefore, couples and families who enjoy exploring the historical and cultural aspects of a destination can have a great time in Kirkuk.
Kirkuk may not be the best place for young people who are looking for fun and adventure. The city does not have many nightlife options and entertainment venues for young people. The city is also located in a politically sensitive region in Iraq, which may pose some safety concerns for young travelers.
Overall, Kirkuk can be an excellent destination for travelers who are interested in history and culture. Couples and families can enjoy exploring the city's ancient landmarks and learning about the region's rich history and traditions. However, young travelers looking for a fun and active nightlife scene or adventure activities may prefer to explore other destinations in Iraq.

How to get around Kirkuk

In Kirkuk, you can move around using different types of transportation. Taxis are a popular and convenient way to get around the city; you can hail a taxi from the street or book one through a ride-hailing app. Public buses are also available, although they may not be as reliable and comfortable as taxis. Additionally, some areas in Kirkuk can be explored on foot, especially in the city center. However, it's important to exercise caution and be aware of your surroundings when walking around the city.

What to see around Kirkuk

Sure, here are some nice places to visit on a day trip from Kirkuk, Iraq: 1. Erbil Citadel: This is a UNESCO World Heritage site located in the city of Erbil, which is about 70 km from Kirkuk. It is one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world and is home to a 7,000-year-old citadel.
2. Shahrazad Castle: This is a castle located in the Garmian region, which is about 100 km from Kirkuk. The castle dates back to the 16th century and is known for its stunning architecture and historical significance.
3. Dokan Lake: This is a beautiful lake located in the Sulaimaniyah region, which is about 100 km from Kirkuk. The lake is surrounded by mountains and is a great place for a day trip, with options for boating and picnicking.
4. Qalat Salah ad-Din: This is a historic castle located in the town of Salah ad-Din, which is about 100 km from Kirkuk. The castle dates back to the 12th century and has stunning views of the surrounding area.
5. Korek Mountain Resort: This is a popular mountain resort located in the Kurdish region, which is about 120 km from Kirkuk. The resort offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains and has options for skiing, snowboarding, and other outdoor activities.
For every travel information about Iraq you can click here.

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