
Top Scuba Diving & Snorkeling Locations in Ba‘qūbah, Diyālá, Iraq
1. Lake Asad
A large freshwater lake offering a chance to see a diverse range of fish and aquatic plants.
- Unique Wildlife: Home to various endemic species not found elsewhere.
- Scenic Beauty: Surrounded by stunning mountains, creating an unforgettable backdrop for your dive.
- Accessibility: Located within easy reach from Ba‘qūbah city center.
2. Kifri Springs
A series of springs with crystal-clear waters teeming with fish and vibrant coral.
- Vibrant Coral Reefs: Boasting a variety of colorful corals and unique marine life.
- Thermal Springs: Enjoy the natural warmth of the hot springs after diving.
- Easy Access: Just a short drive from Ba‘qūbah, making it an ideal day trip destination.
3. Dukan Dam Lake
A large reservoir offering opportunities for both scuba diving and snorkeling.
- Underwater Visibility: Exceptional water clarity allows you to see far into the depths.
- Fish Variety: Home to various species, including some rare and exotic ones.
- Adventure Activities: Combine your dive with other adventure activities such as boating and camping.
4. Al-Hawr Lake
A seasonal lake filled with a rich variety of marine life during the winter months.
- Winter Migration: Attracts many migratory fish species during the winter season.
- Bird Watching: Offers fantastic opportunities for bird watching, especially during migration periods.
- Remote Location: Located in a remote area offering a peaceful and tranquil diving experience.
5. Zab River
A long, winding river with crystal-clear waters suitable for both snorkeling and shallow dives.
- Freshwater Habitat: Provides a unique freshwater diving experience in the heart of Iraq.
- Historical Significance: Offers opportunities to explore historical sites and artifacts found along the riverbed.
- Accessible River Stretches: Various accessible stretches throughout its length, providing multiple diving options.
6. Kifri Gorge
A deep canyon with several underwater pools ideal for snorkeling and shallow dives.
- Canyon Exploration: Explore the unique geological formations found within the canyon.
- Pool Variety: Each pool offers a different underwater experience due to varying depths and water conditions.
- Bird Watching Opportunities: Located near bird migration routes, making it a great spot for bird watching.
7. Al-Atheer Spring
A mineral-rich spring with warm waters teeming with various fish species.
- Mineral-Rich Waters: The minerals in the water have therapeutic properties, benefiting both skin and body.
- Diverse Fish Species: Home to a wide variety of fish species not commonly found elsewhere.
- Thermal Spring Experience: Enjoy the natural warmth of the spring waters after your dive.
8. Sharqat Reservoir
A large reservoir offering opportunities for both scuba diving and snorkeling.
- Underwater Visibility: Exceptional water clarity allows you to see far into the depths.
- Fish Variety: Home to various species, including some rare and exotic ones.
- Adventure Activities: Combine your dive with other adventure activities such as boating and camping.
9. Hamrin National Park
A national park offering opportunities for snorkeling in its freshwater lakes.
- Wildlife Conservation: Contributes to the conservation of Iraq’s unique wildlife, including endangered species.
- Scenic Beauty: Surrounded by stunning landscapes and diverse flora and fauna.
- Educational Opportunities: Offers educational programs and guided tours, providing insight into the park’s ecosystem.
10. Al-Qahtaniya Dam Lake
A large reservoir offering opportunities for both scuba diving and snorkeling.
- Underwater Visibility: Exceptional water clarity allows you to see far into the depths.
- Fish Variety: Home to various species, including some rare and exotic ones.
- Adventure Activities: Combine your dive with other adventure activities such as boating and camping.
11. Al-Rabia' Waterfall
A beautiful waterfall located in a remote area offering opportunities for snorkeling.
- Natural Wonder: Experience the natural beauty of this stunning waterfall.
- Remote Location: Located in a remote area offering a peaceful and tranquil diving experience.
- Swimming Opportunities: Enjoy swimming in the crystal-clear waters at the base of the waterfall.
12. Al-Bakr Dam Lake
A large reservoir offering opportunities for both scuba diving and snorkeling.
- Underwater Visibility: Exceptional water clarity allows you to see far into the depths.
- Fish Variety: Home to various species, including some rare and exotic ones.
- Adventure Activities: Combine your dive with other adventure activities such as boating and camping.
13. Al-Athab Dam Lake
A large reservoir offering opportunities for both scuba diving and snorkeling.
- Underwater Visibility: Exceptional water clarity allows you to see far into the depths.
- Fish Variety: Home to various species, including some rare and exotic ones.
- Adventure Activities: Combine your dive with other adventure activities such as boating and camping.
14. Al-Khalis Dam Lake
A large reservoir offering opportunities for both scuba diving and snorkeling.
- Underwater Visibility: Exceptional water clarity allows you to see far into the depths.
- Fish Variety: Home to various species, including some rare and exotic ones.
- Adventure Activities: Combine your dive with other adventure activities such as boating and camping.
15. Al-Gharraf Dam Lake
A large reservoir offering opportunities for both scuba diving and snorkeling.
- Underwater Visibility: Exceptional water clarity allows you to see far into the depths.
- Fish Variety: Home to various species, including some rare and exotic ones.
- Adventure Activities: Combine your dive with other adventure activities such as boating and camping.