8 January 2026
In the far south of Iraq, you will find a very unique and special place. This is where desert sand changes to water and stray dogs make place for water Buffalo and tons of unique bird species. The marshes are an absolute unique eco system. Water and sky mirror each other, broken only by reeds that whisper stories older than history itself. Here, houses rise gently from the wetlands, traditionally made of reed and looking like a piece of art. Life moves with the rhythm of water: boats glide silently, buffalo wade through the shallows next to the houses and sunsets paint the marshes in beautiful gold and fire.
Not so long ago Iraq almost lost this gem. Saddam Hoessein drained 90% of this beautiful wetlands because his opponents could hide in them. The costs for the humans and animals living here where high. Today, about 50% is restored but the scars are still there. Still, life returned together with the water.
The Mesopotamian Marshes are not just a place — they are a testament to resilience, where culture survives by flowing, bending, and enduring, just like the reeds that hold it all together.
We parked at the home of a lovely family that hosts travelers and welcomed us as old friends. In turn we ended up hosting a small village of children which our own children absolutely loved.
There were always more children joining in — playing outside, climbing in and out of the camper, and multiplying so fast we honestly lost count.
Between the sunshine, stunning nature, freshly baked bread and children laughing, we absolutely loved staying here.
