Snow and freezing conditions affect mountain roads in Iraqi Kurdistan primarily from December through March. High passes above 1,500 meters face subzero temperatures, snowfall, and ice. Main corridors like the highway from Erbil through Shaqlawa to Soran are cleared with snowplows, but secondary roads leading to higher villages, mountain cabins, and archaeological sites like Shanidar Cave often remain snowpacked or difficult to pass for days.
Driving in the highlands during winter requires deliberate planning. Avoid mountain passes after dark, because daytime snowmelt quickly freezes into black ice. If you travel during storms, carry tire chains and choose a vehicle with all-wheel drive and good ground clearance. Mountain weather changes rapidly. Check local forecasts, ask local authorities or your driver about road conditions before leaving, and confirm that the return route is open. Allow extra travel time, plan for rest breaks, and be ready to postpone. Government advisories urge caution: the UK FCDO advises against all but essential travel to the Kurdistan Region of Iraq, and Canada advises avoiding all travel to Iraq.
Sources: Visit Iraq: Winter in Iraqi Kurdistan, Visit Iraq: Zagros Mountains, UK travel advice for Iraq, Canada travel advice for Iraq.
Checked on 2026-10-27.