How To Travel Around In Iraq
Iraq is still recovering from decades of violence and insurgency, and tourism is worst hit. While travel to Iraq is still restricted due to the unstable political and social conditions, major cities within the country are accessible.
The capital city of Baghdad boasts of the only international airport. Travel to major cities like Arbil, Basra and Suleimaniya is possible. The national airlines - Iraqi Airways is planning to resume service to some major cities. The war has left major roads and railways crippled and mode of travel is limited.
Railroads are also functional in parts and particular stretches only. It is best to keep Baghdad at the center of your travel in Iraq. Some air conditioned or regular sleeper coaches might be available and some trains may also have a restaurant or catering service. It is prudent to check availability before planning to travel by the rail.
Roads remain the most used mode of travel within the country. Taxis and other cars can be hired for travel from the airport. Some vehicles are authorized to travel within the city of Baghdad while others have permit to travel to the other cities you might wish to visit. It is best to check for the documents regarding the travel permit. Some points should be kept in mind while hiring any vehicle. Fares should be negotiated before the journey. If a shared vehicle is being hired, the individual amount to be paid at the need of the journey should be made clear to all parties.
It is best not to drive around the country, but with a suitable co-driver or guide, this can be possible. A valid international driver's license is a must as is third party insurance. Iraq follows the right hand drive but the roads are famous for erratic driving and few rules are followed. Make sure an expert hand is at the wheel. Most roads are in bad condition due to the bombings or simply, lack of maintenance. A lot of personal vehicles driven are also in bad shape and often drive without the basics like proper lights.
It is best to travel through the day. Traveling in convoys is best for safety. Three or four cars can travel together making sure that each vehicle has a minimum of four occupants. Even traveling through the day, expect a lot of checkpoints throughout. It is essential to have your travel documents like passport and visa with you at all times, as you maybe asked to furnish these at any one of the checkpoints.
Buses and other mode of public travel are sparse to say the least. The few buses that run are in rundown conditions and often overload. They are known to cause the most accidents. The condition of the roads only adds to the pain of travel in these buses. Known to be erratic, buses operate on unpredictable schedules, this as a mode of transport is best avoided. But if travel to the smaller cities and towns is necessary, this might be a cheap option. Tickets should be pre-bought at various ticket kiosks around the cities.
Iraq is a beautiful country, with its amazing rivers, the vast desert and awe-inspiring terrain. Travel within the country might not be without peril but it will be a trip to remember.