Erbil, Iraq (Kurdistan): Safe Discovery in a Complex Region 31 March 2025
Erbil in the Kurdistan Region of Iraq was never originally on my travel list. I was in Beirut, Lebanon, when I met a local from Iraq. When I asked him about safety, he immediately recommended Erbil as the safest and most accessible part of the country. That conversation was enough — I booked my trip.
Hotel & Base
I stayed at the Radisson Hotel & Residences Erbil, a solid, modern choice that provided a comfortable and secure base.
Day Tour & City Exploration
I booked a full-day private tour with a driver and guide, which I highly recommend in this region.
Highlights included:
- The traditional local market (bazaar) — very authentic with almost no tourists, feeling similar to markets in Turkey.
- Several historic monasteries.
- A scenic drive through the countryside.
I also visited Gulan Mall, one of the main shopping centers. It was surprisingly empty, which gave the impression that locals don’t have much disposable income for shopping. I didn’t see any other foreigners there either.
For lunch, I went twice to the excellent Turkish restaurant MADO Gulanpark. The food was really good and felt like a nice, familiar taste of Turkey.
One unusual sight was the huge number of empty fuel trucks parked everywhere — a striking reminder of the region’s oil-based economy.
Safety & People
The people were generally very friendly. I received some curious looks (as expected with almost no tourists), but I never felt unsafe. With a good guide and driver, the visit felt relaxed and well-managed.
Final Thoughts
Erbil and the Kurdistan Region of Iraq surprised me positively. It’s far more stable and welcoming than many assume. While it’s not a classic tourist destination, it offers an authentic, off-the-beaten-path experience with friendly locals, good Turkish food, and a fascinating atmosphere.
Would I recommend Erbil? Yes — for adventurous travelers and country collectors looking to visit Iraq safely. Stay at a good hotel like the Radisson, use a private guide/driver, and keep realistic expectations. A rewarding and eye-opening short visit.
