Discover Iraq
with a Local Friend
Experience authentic Mesopotamia through the eyes of someone who grew up here — not a tour company, but a friend who happens to be the best guide in Iraq.
MEET YOUR GUIDE
I’m Ali — Your Friend
in Iraq
I didn’t start a tour company. I started inviting people to see my home.
Born and raised near the ancient ruins of Babylon, I’ve spent my life between two worlds — the rich history beneath my feet and the travelers who arrive curious but cautious. Every guest becomes a friend, every tour becomes a story. I don’t run a big operation. It’s just me, my knowledge of this land, and a genuine desire to show you the Iraq the news never covers.
EXPLORE IRAQ
Tours & Experiences
Each journey is crafted around your interests. These are starting points — not rigid itineraries. Compare all tours.
Explorer
Baghdad Explorer
The National Museum, Al-Mutanabbi Street, Shahbandar café, the copper bazaar, Ctesiphon Arch, and the best street food in the Middle East. Stay at Ali’s riverside guesthouse.
View Tour →& Babylon
Baghdad & Babylon
Baghdad, the ancient ruins of Babylon, Saddam’s palace, Borsippa ziggurat, and the holy cities of Karbala and Najaf. The trip most first-timers choose.
View Tour →Iraq
Southern Iraq Discovery
Everything in Baghdad & Babylon, plus the Mesopotamian Marshes by boat, Marsh Arab reed houses, the Ziggurat of Ur, and fresh masgouf in the marshes.
View Tour →Iraq
The Complete Iraq
The entire country — Baghdad, Babylon, the south, the Marshes, Samarra, Mosul, Hatra, Erbil, and the Kurdistan mountains. For those who want the whole picture.
View Tour →Mountains
Kurdistan
Erbil Citadel, Lalish Yazidi temple, Dohuk, Rawanduz canyon, Sulaymaniyah, mountain villages, and the warmest hospitality you’ve ever experienced. Standalone or add-on.
View Tour →Journey
Your Own Adventure
Not sure what you want? Tell me your interests, timeframe, and budget. I’ll design something personal — whether it’s archaeology, food, photography, or all three.
View Tour →Not sure which tour is right for you?
Answer 5 quick questions and get a personalised recommendation based on your interests, dates, and group size.
Try the Free Trip PlannerWHY CHOOSE ALI
Not a Tour Company.
A Local Friend.
Personal, Not Corporate
No middlemen, no call centers. You deal directly with me from first message to farewell. Every trip is shaped around you.
Born Here, Not Stationed
I didn’t study Iraq in books — I grew up in it. Every story I tell comes from a lifetime in Babylon, not a training manual.
Fair & Transparent
No hidden fees, no tourist markups. You’ll know exactly what you’re paying for — and you’ll feel good about where that money goes.
GUEST REVIEWS
What Guests Say
Based on 32 reviews
YOUR CONCERNS MATTER
Let’s Talk About Safety
I know this is the first question on your mind — and I respect that.
The areas we visit are safe for tourists, and I’ve been guiding Western visitors for years without incident. Iraq is not what you see on the news. That said, I’ll never dismiss your concerns. Here’s how I keep you safe:
Vetted Routes Only
Every tour follows routes I’ve traveled hundreds of times. I only take guests where I’d take my own family.
Always Connected
Local contacts, backup plans for every leg, and my WhatsApp 24/7 during your entire stay.
Local Network
You’re not a random tourist — you’re Ali’s guest. That matters here.
Full Transparency
Before you book, I walk you through everything — checkpoints, logistics, accommodations. No surprises.
Ready to See the Real Iraq?
Tell me about your trip. I’ll send you a personalised itinerary and quote within 24 hours.
COMMON QUESTIONS
Before You Book
Is Iraq actually safe to visit?
Short answer: yes. Most of Iraq — including Baghdad, Babylon, Karbala, Najaf, and the southern marshlands — as well as Kurdistan are safe and welcoming to tourists. I’ve guided over 200 visitors without a single incident. That said, I stay on top of conditions daily and would never take you somewhere I wouldn’t take my own family.
Do I need a visa?
Visa requirements vary by nationality and change often. Don’t worry about it — once you reach out, I’ll check the latest requirements for your passport and help you with the e-visa application if needed.
Can you guide in both federal Iraq and Kurdistan?
Yes, I operate across the entire country — Baghdad, Babylon, the southern marshlands, Basra, Karbala, Najaf, and all of Kurdistan including Erbil, Sulaymaniyah, and Duhok. One guide, one trip, no handoffs. See all tours.
What vehicle do you use?
For solo travelers and couples, a comfortable Hyundai Elantra sedan. For larger groups, I arrange a spacious minivan. Both are air-conditioned — essential for Iraqi summers — and well-maintained.
Why are your prices lower than other operators?
Because most operators in Iraq massively overcharge tourists — sometimes 3-4x what a trip actually costs. I don’t work with middlemen, booking platforms, or overseas agencies. You pay me directly, you get an honest price, and the money stays local. Simple as that.
How do I pay?
A deposit via bank transfer to secure your dates, with the balance in cash (USD) when you arrive. Simple, no credit card fees, no hidden charges. I’ll send you all the details once we’ve planned your trip.
Is arak included in the tour?
Let’s just say no tour of mine has ever suffered from a shortage of arak. If you’re curious about Iraq’s favorite anise spirit, I know exactly where to find the best bottles — and the best rooftop to drink them on. Consider it a cultural experience.
GET IN TOUCH
Contact
Tell me about your trip and I’ll send you a personalised itinerary and quote within 24 hours. WhatsApp is the fastest way to reach me.
Get a Free Quote
Tell me about your trip. I’ll send a personalised itinerary within 24 hours.