WHY IRAQ? WHY NOW?

Long overlooked and often misunderstood, Iraq is re-emerging as a destination of profound cultural and historical significance. Known as the heart of ancient Mesopotamia - where writing, law, and urban life first took shape - Iraq has thousands of years of human history. Today, as the country gains interest in the tourism industry, travellers have a chance to witness a place where ancient legacies and modern resilience coexist.

Travelling to Iraq is not only an exploration of archaeological treasures, but a meaningful act of cultural connection, providing a way to understand a region that has shaped global civilisation yet remains lesser visited. For Steppes Travel, this journey reflects a growing appetite among curious travellers to engage more deeply with places that challenge perceptions and reward with authenticity.

“Our mission has always been to go beyond the ordinary, to connect people more deeply with the world and its stories,” says Justin Wateridge, Managing Director of Steppes Travel. “Iraq sits at the crossroads of civilisation, and through carefully designed travel, we can help guests discover its beauty, rich culture, and history. We are proud to offer journeys that encourage understanding and respect.”

THE ITINERARY

Hosted by artist and cultural guide Sylvie Franquet, this 12-day itinerary journeys through Iraq's storied south, from the marshlands of Mesopotamia to the ancient city of Ur and onward to the lively souks and riverbanks of Basra. Blending ancient history with contemporary perspectives, Sylvie provides personal insight through stories of a country that has long captured the imagination of historians, artists, and travellers alike.

With a maximum group size of just 12, travellers will visit renowned archaeological sites including Babylon, Uruk, and the Ziggurat of Ur, as well as encounter Iraq's thriving artistic community through local meetings and guided visits curated by Franquet. The journey balances cultural depth with comfort, using locally managed accommodations and expert guides throughout.

WHO IS SYLVIE FRANQUET?

Sylvie Franquet studied Arabic and Islamic history at the University of Ghent in Belgium before moving to Egypt to continue her studies at Cairo University. Captivated by the city, she stayed for many years, working as a teacher, model, guide, and tour company manager. Deeply passionate about the Middle East, Sylvie has travelled extensively across the region and led numerous tours throughout her career. Her deep cultural understanding and ability to bring history vividly to life have earned her wide acclaim.

£££: Steppes Travel's 12-day tour, Southern Iraq with Sylvie Franquet, is priced from £5,495 per person, including accommodation, meals, transport, guiding, and listed activities. Excludes international flights. Departure date: 21 September 2026.

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ABOUT STEPPES TRAVEL

Founded in 1989 by Nick Laing, Steppes Travel has over three decades of experience designing and delivering luxury tailor-made holidays and inspiring group tours to more than 100 countries across the globe.

Every itinerary is individually crafted by a dedicated travel specialist, drawing on first-hand knowledge, trusted local partners, and access to leading experts and guides. The result is a portfolio of journeys that go far beyond the ordinary.

Whether it's wildlife safaris in Africa, family adventures in the Galápagos, cultural journeys along the Silk Road or ocean voyages in remote archipelagos, Steppes offers an extraordinary breadth of experiences where every journey is curated with expert guides and a commitment to positive environmental and social impact.

A certified B Corporation since August 2022, Steppes believes in travel that supports our collective responsibility to positive change and integrates purpose throughout its operations. Its initiatives include the Steppes Fund for Change (with projects like the Steppes Fund for Female Guides), conservation partnerships, blue carbon efforts, and community regeneration such as their Scunthorpe community forest project in partnership with the Woodland Trust.

Every itinerary aims to go beyond the ordinary, offering remoteness, expert-led storytelling, and meaningful experiences. Discover more at www.steppestravel.com

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