Three Peaks challenges in Iraq

The landscapes of Iraq

Iraq's broad river plains contrast strongly with the mountains along its northern and eastern margins. The highlands near Türkiye and Iran form a distinct part of the country's geography, separate from the lowland landscapes around the Tigris and Euphrates.

The mountains of Iraqi Kurdistan form part of the wider highland zone along the Iranian and Turkish borders. South and west of that country, relief gives way to foothills, plains and much drier open landscapes. The upper river valleys therefore provide a different setting from the extensive alluvial lowlands farther downstream.