Traveling with three small children can sound overwhelming to many, but our recent trip to Kurdistan (Iraq) proved that with a little planning, it can turn into an unforgettable family adventure.
We based ourselves in Erbil, one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world, and made it our hub for three nights. After some research, we decided to stay at the Karlovy Vary Hotel, mainly because they offered apartment-style accommodations — a lifesaver when traveling with young kids. The extra space made it easy to set up cribs and create a comfortable “home base” for our little ones after we arrived on Day 1.
Day 2 was about getting our bearings. We rented a car (highly recommended if you want to explore beyond the city) and spent the day exploring Erbil itself. Walking through the local markets was an experience in itself — vibrant, colorful, and full of the kind of authentic charm you hope to find when traveling somewhere new. The kids were fascinated by the stalls selling spices, toys, and textiles, and locals were incredibly welcoming.
Day 3 was our big day trip outside the city. We drove out to the Bekhal Waterfall and Geli Ali Beg Waterfall — two beautiful natural sights just a couple of hours from Erbil. The drive itself was scenic, with dramatic mountain landscapes that felt like something out of a movie. Bekhal is particularly family-friendly, with plenty of spaces to relax and even little shops and snack stalls nearby. Geli Ali Beg, with its impressive cascading waters framed by rugged cliffs, was a highlight — a great spot for photos and letting the kids splash a bit (under close supervision, of course!).
On our final day, we returned the rental car and grabbed a taxi to the airport. A heads-up to any travelers: Erbil International Airport has very intense security procedures. You need to pass multiple checkpoints even before reaching the terminal, so I recommend budgeting at least two extra hours just for security. We were glad we did — it saved a lot of unnecessary stress, especially when traveling with little ones.
Final Thoughts
Kurdistan felt incredibly welcoming and safe throughout our stay. The people were kind, the landscapes stunning, and Erbil offered a perfect mix of history and modern comfort. Traveling there with young children might seem ambitious, but it turned out to be one of our most rewarding trips yet.
If you’re considering a family adventure that’s a little off the typical tourist path, I can’t recommend Kurdistan enough!
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