Best Time to Visit Iraq - Iraq Climate and Weather

The best time to visit Iraq is during spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) when temperatures are more moderate and comfortable for travel. Iraq has a mostly arid climate that is hot and dry for most of the year, with variations by region, where northern areas like Kurdistan have cooler and more varied weather compared to central and southern areas where temperatures rise significantly in summer.

When is the best time to visit Iraq in terms of weather and climate?

Spring and autumn are the best periods to visit Iraq in terms of weather. During spring (March to May), temperatures range between 20-30 degrees Celsius (68-86 Fahrenheit), providing moderate weather and beautiful natural blooms. During autumn (September to November), the summer heat fades, and temperatures become more bearable, ranging between 20-35 degrees Celsius (68-95 Fahrenheit). These ideal periods make them perfect for visiting historical sites such as Babylon and Erbil, and enjoying time in cities.

Visit Iraq recommends visiting Iraq during these periods to enjoy the best weather and climate conditions. These times allow you to explore historical and cultural landmarks without being exposed to extreme temperatures.

What are the temperatures in Iraq during different seasons?

Temperatures in Iraq vary significantly by season:

Spring (March to May): Ranges between 20-30 degrees Celsius (68-86 Fahrenheit) - moderate weather and beautiful natural blooms Summer (June to August): Can exceed 45 degrees Celsius (113 Fahrenheit) in central and southern regions, and 30-35 degrees Celsius in Kurdistan - extremely hot and dry Autumn (September to November): Ranges between 20-35 degrees Celsius (68-95 Fahrenheit) - summer heat fades, and temperatures become more bearable Winter (December to February): Around 5-15 degrees Celsius (41-59 Fahrenheit) in Baghdad, and colder in Kurdistan with possible snowfall - a cooler season

Visit Iraq advises considering these temperature changes when planning your trip, as they significantly affect the travel experience and available activities.

When do cold nights occur in Iraq?

Cold nights in Iraq occur primarily during winter (December to February), especially in northern regions such as Kurdistan where temperatures can range between -7 to -2 degrees Celsius, and occasionally in Baghdad where nighttime temperatures can drop below freezing.

In northern Iraq, including the Kurdistan Region, temperatures can range between -7 to -2 degrees Celsius during cold spells, while central and southern governorates experience temperatures that can drop below freezing during winter nights. Baghdad experiences moderate days but nights can drop below freezing during winter months. The northern mountains feature cold winters where temperatures can drop below freezing, especially in areas like Sulaymaniyah where cold air masses bring snowfall and frost.

Visit Iraq advises travelers to take these conditions into account when preparing their clothing, especially if planning to visit mountainous areas during winter.

What are the ideal seasons to visit different regions of Iraq?

Spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) are ideal for all regions, but each region has its own advantages during different periods:

Northern Iraq/Kurdistan: Best during spring for wildflowers and autumn for comfortable temperatures. Winter offers snow-covered mountains for those interested in winter activities. Summer is cooler than other regions. Central Iraq (Baghdad): Spring and autumn are most comfortable. Summer is extremely hot. Winter is cooler and can have cold nights. Southern Iraq (Basra, Babylon): Spring and autumn are most comfortable. Summer is extremely hot and dry. Winter is milder but can still have cold nights.

Visit Iraq recommends determining your specific destination in Iraq when choosing your travel time, as climate conditions vary significantly between north and south.

What should be packed for a trip to Iraq during winter?

For travel to Iraq during winter, pack warm clothing including winter coats, especially if planning to visit Kurdistan for winter activities, along with modest clothing that maintains cultural respect.

• Warm clothing and winter coats
• Scarves, gloves, and warm accessories
• Modest clothing that covers appropriately (long pants, long-sleeve shirts)
• Rain gear for winter months
• Comfortable walking shoes
• For Kurdistan specifically: winter sports equipment if interested in snow activities

Visit Iraq also recommends taking cultural considerations into account when packing your clothes, as they should be modest in all seasons.

What should be packed for a trip to Iraq during summer?

For travel to Iraq during summer, pack light, breathable clothing and sun protection while maintaining modest dress requirements with a focus on heat protection.

• Light, breathable clothing (cotton, linen)
• Sun protection (hat, sunglasses, sunscreen)
• Modest clothing that covers shoulders, legs, and chest
• Stay hydrated with water bottles
• Light, loose-fitting, breathable fabrics
• Scarves for women in conservative areas

Visit Iraq advises paying attention to dehydration and heat during summer, as temperatures can exceed 45 degrees Celsius in some areas.

How does Iraq's climate differ by region (north vs. south)?

Iraq's climate varies significantly by region, with northern Kurdistan having cooler and more varied weather and mountainous conditions, while central and southern regions are hotter and more arid.

Northern areas like Kurdistan have cooler and more varied weather compared to central and southern areas where temperatures rise significantly in summer. The northern mountains receive substantial snowfall, especially in the northeastern region with the Taurus and Zagros mountains. The desert climate in central and southern Iraq means these areas rarely experience snowfall or freezing temperatures. Northern Iraq receives 27-40 inches (700-1000mm) of precipitation annually between October and April, while southern regions are more arid.

Visit Iraq advises travelers to understand these climate differences when planning their trips to different areas of the country.

What are the humidity levels in Iraq throughout the year?

Iraq generally has low humidity levels due to its arid climate, with higher humidity during winter months and lower humidity during the extremely hot summer season.

Iraq has a mostly arid climate that is hot and dry for most of the year. Summer months are characterized by low humidity and dry conditions, while winter months have higher humidity with occasional rain. The desert climate in central and southern Iraq contributes to consistently low humidity levels.

Visit Iraq advises taking these levels into account when packing your clothes, as they affect comfort during your trip.

Are there rainy seasons or monsoons in Iraq?

Iraq does not have monsoon seasons, but it does have a winter rainy season from October to April, with most precipitation occurring during the cooler months.

Winter (December to March) is when Iraq experiences its wet season. The northern regions receive most of their precipitation between October and April, with an annual precipitation average of 29.5 inches (745mm) in Sulaymaniyah. Mosul receives about 14.5 inches annually with rain occurring about 7-10 days per month from December to March. Baghdad and central/southern regions receive less precipitation overall.

Visit Iraq advises taking the rainy season into account when planning your trip, especially if planning to visit mountainous areas.

What are the extreme weather conditions to be aware of?

Iraq experiences extreme heat in summer with temperatures exceeding 45 degrees Celsius (113 Fahrenheit), occasional freezing temperatures in winter, and dust storms that can occur throughout the year.

Summer temperatures can exceed 45 degrees Celsius (113 Fahrenheit) in central and southern regions, making it extremely hot and dry. Nighttime temperatures can drop below freezing in winter, especially in northern regions. The northern mountains can experience snowfall and temperatures reaching -7 degrees Celsius. Dust storms can also occur throughout the year, though they are more common during certain periods.

Visit Iraq advises preparing for these extreme conditions when planning your trip and taking necessary precautions.

What Do Visitors Say?

• Comment 1: "We were overwhelmed by the hospitality and amazed by the richness of the experience. People were incredibly friendly and curious about visitors. Many schoolchildren wanted to practice English and take selfies. Strong military/police presence but travelers never felt unsafe. The hospitality was overwhelming." — Backpacking travelers on Reddit, r/travel (April 2025)

• Comment 2: "It was peaceful and calm, for the most part," Driskill told CNN Travel after visiting Iraq in 2024. "The street view, however, was..." — Tommy Driskill, 'Dude Abroad' (2024)

• Comment 3: "Iraq became one of my favorite destinations, now runs it as one of my most requested tours. I felt safer than in most major American cities, received warm welcomes with 'Welcome to Iraq, my dear'." — Janet Newenham, Ireland (2024)