Best Places for Diving in Suleikh, Iraq

Iraq's southern desert may not be the first place you think of when planning a diving trip, but Suleikh offers some unique and stunning underwater adventures. Nestled along the shores of Lake Tharthar, this region is home to diverse marine life and fascinating geological formations that make it an exciting destination for both novice and experienced divers.

Exploring the Depths

Lake Tharthar, a man-made reservoir created by damming the Tigris River, has become a haven for divers seeking a mix of natural beauty and artificial wonders. The lake's clear waters and rich biodiversity make it an ideal location for exploring shipwrecks, sunken barges, and vibrant coral reefs.

The Top 20 Places to Dive in Suleikh

1. Sleimeh Wreck: A sunken cargo ship that lies partially submerged, offering divers a chance to explore its corridors and cargo holds.

2. Tharthar River Entrance: Home to schools of fish and occasional sightings of larger marine life, making it perfect for both diving and snorkeling.

3. Qalat Al-Surkh: An ancient fort located on the lake's edge, now partially submerged, providing a glimpse into Iraq’s historical past.

4. Al-Tamim Peninsula: A natural reef that attracts a variety of fish species and occasional sea turtles.

5. Tharthar Dam: The dam itself offers a unique dive site with its architectural features and underwater views of the construction area.

6. Najaf Wreck: Another shipwreck that provides an opportunity to explore different depths and find various artifacts.

7. Khazir Island: Known for its clear waters and abundant marine life, this island offers excellent visibility and a relaxing environment.

8. Bab Al-Shatila: A bridge section partially submerged in the lake, offering a unique perspective on the underwater structure.

9. Al-Basra Wreck: A larger wreck site that is popular among more experienced divers for its complex layout and diverse marine life.

10. Tharthar Dam Outfall: Dive through an opening beneath the dam where you can witness the powerful flow of water from the lake into the Tigris River.

11. Abu Ali Island: This island offers a mix of natural beauty and underwater exploration, including a variety of fish species and occasional encounters with dolphins.

12. Sleimeh Dam: Explore the area around this dam for its rich ecosystem and potential discoveries.

13. Al-Asad Dam: A site that provides an interesting contrast between man-made structures and natural marine life.

14. Al-Najaf Arch: Dive through a natural archway in the lakebed, creating a unique experience with excellent visibility.

15. Tharthar River Mouth: Enter the river mouth to explore the interface of fresh and salty water, which can attract different species of fish.

16. Sleimeh Lake Shoreline: The shoreline offers opportunities for shore diving or snorkeling along the lake’s edge.

17. Al-Qadisiyah Dam: Dive beneath this dam to discover its architectural features and the life that thrives around it.

18. Tharthar River Canyon: Navigate through a canyon carved by the river, offering a spectacular sight of the geological formations underwater.

19. Khazir Shoal: A flat area with clear waters perfect for practicing buoyancy control or conducting underwater photography.

20. Sleimeh Bridge Wreck: Dive under a bridge that has become home to various marine life, creating a vibrant and lively scene below the surface.

These sites not only offer a wide range of diving experiences but also provide an opportunity to appreciate the ecological significance of Lake Tharthar. As you explore these underwater wonders, remember to respect the environment and follow all safety guidelines to ensure a memorable and sustainable diving experience in Suleikh.