Day 1: Arrival in Tehran

Welcome to Iran! Upon arrival at Imam Khomeini International Airport in Tehran, you will be met by your guide and transferred to your hotel. Depending on your arrival time, you can relax or take an optional stroll to explore the nearby areas.

Highlights

• Optional (if time permits):
  • Golestan Palace (UNESCO): A lavish Qajar-era palace complex adorned with dazzling mirrorwork.
  • Tehran Grand Bazaar: A vibrant market where tradition and modernity meet.
  • Milad Tower: An iconic symbol of Tehran’s skyline.

Transfer Distance/Time

• Airport to Hotel: 40 km (30-45 minutes).

Accommodation

• Espinas Palace Hotel or Azadi Grand Hotel, Tehran.

Day 2: Tehran to Hamedan

After breakfast, leave Tehran for Hamedan, one of the oldest cities in Iran. Upon arrival, visit iconic landmarks that showcase Hamedan’s rich history and culture.

Highlights

• Tomb of Avicenna: Discover the life and legacy of Avicenna, the great Persian polymath, at his mausoleum, set in a peaceful garden.
• Alavian Dome: Admire this Seljuk-era masterpiece with its intricate stucco decorations.
• Ganjnameh Inscriptions and Waterfall: Explore ancient Achaemenid inscriptions carved into rock faces and enjoy the natural beauty of the nearby waterfall.
• Hamedan Bazaar: Wander through the historic bazaar and shop for local handicrafts, Persian rugs, and regional sweets.

Transfer Distance/Time

• Tehran to Hamedan: 320 km (4-5 hours).

Accommodation

• Baba Taher Hotel or Parsian Azadi Hotel, Hamedan.

Day 3: Hamedan to Kermanshah

Depart from Hamedan to Kermanshah. Along the way, visit the UNESCO-listed Bisotun Inscription and other fascinating landmarks. Upon arrival in Kermanshah, explore its unique historical and cultural attractions.

Highlights

• Bisotun Inscription (UNESCO): Marvel at the ancient trilingual inscription of Darius the Great, a testament to Achaemenid power.
• Statue of Hercules: A rare Greek-inspired artifact, reflecting the cultural blend during the Seleucid period.
• Taq-e Bostan: Visit these Sassanid-era rock reliefs depicting royal ceremonies, hunting scenes, and grand celebrations.
• Kermanshah Bazaar: Immerse yourself in the local Kurdish culture and sample delicious regional treats like Kermanshah Nan-e Roghani.

Transfer Distance/Time

• Hamedan to Kermanshah: 190 km (2.5-3 hours).

Accommodation

• Parsian Kermanshah Hotel or Jamshid Hotel, Kermanshah.

Day 4: Kermanshah – Khorramabad – Dezful – Pamenar Village

Travel from Kermanshah to Pamenar Village, stopping at key attractions in Khorramabad and Dezful. Enjoy the serene surroundings of Pamenar in the evening.

Highlights

• Falak-ol-Aflak Castle (Khorramabad): A majestic Sassanid fortress atop a hill overlooking the city.
• Dezful’s Sassanid Bridge: Explore the history of this ancient bridge, still in use today.
• Pamenar Village: Relax in this tranquil village by Dez Lake, surrounded by mountains and lush landscapes.

Transfer Distance/Time

• Kermanshah to Pamenar Village: 380 km (6-7 hours with stops).

Accommodation

• Local guesthouse in Pamenar Village.

Day 5: Trekking in Pamenar – Shadab Castle and Valley

Begin the day with an adventurous trek to the Shadab Castle and explore the surrounding valley. Return to Pamenar Village in the afternoon.

Highlights

• Shadab Castle: An ancient fortress perched on rugged cliffs, offering panoramic views of Dez Lake and the valley.
• Valley Exploration: Enjoy trekking through stunning rock formations, hidden trails, and unspoiled nature.

Trekking Distance/Time

• Approximately 6-10 km (4-5 hours, moderate difficulty).

Accommodation

• Local guesthouse in Pamenar Village.

Day 6: Pamenar Village to Shushtar

Drive to Shushtar, a city renowned for its ancient hydraulic engineering and Elamite history. Spend the afternoon exploring this UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Highlights

• Shushtar Historical Hydraulic System (UNESCO): Discover an ancient network of canals, bridges, and watermills.
• Salasel Castle: Visit the ancient castle that once controlled the water supply to Shushtar.
• Karun River Views: Admire the scenic beauty of Iran’s largest river.

Transfer Distance/Time

• Pamenar Village to Shushtar: 120 km (2-2.5 hours).

Accommodation

• Sarabi Traditional Hotel or Azadi Hotel, Shushtar.

Day 7: Shushtar to Isfahan

Travel to Isfahan, Iran’s cultural jewel, through scenic landscapes. Enjoy an evening walk along its iconic bridges.

Highlights

• Evening visit to the historic Si-o-se Pol and Khaju Bridges, beautifully lit at night.

Transfer Distance/Time

• Shushtar to Isfahan: 500 km (6-7 hours).

Accommodation

• Abbasi Hotel or Setareh Hotel, Isfahan.

Day 8: Isfahan Sightseeing

Spend the day exploring Isfahan’s UNESCO-listed landmarks and its rich cultural heritage.

Highlights

• Naqsh-e Jahan Square (UNESCO): Admire the grandeur of this monumental square.
• Imam Mosque and Sheikh Lotfollah Mosque: Renowned for their stunning tilework.
• Ali Qapu Palace: A historic royal residence with panoramic views of the square.

Day 9: Isfahan to Shiraz (via Pasargadae and Persepolis)

In the morning, depart from Isfahan to Shiraz, stopping along the way to visit two of Iran’s most iconic historical sites: Pasargadae and Persepolis.

Highlights

• Pasargadae (UNESCO): Explore the ruins of the ancient capital founded by Cyrus the Great. The tomb of Cyrus is located here, a key historical site.
• Persepolis (UNESCO): Walk through the ceremonial capital of the Achaemenid Empire. Admire the grand ruins, including the Gate of All Nations, and the tombs of the kings at Naqsh-e Rostam.

Transfer Distance/Time

• Isfahan to Shiraz: 480 km (7-8 hours with stops).

Accommodation

• Zandiyeh Hotel or Homa Hotel Shiraz.

Day 10: Shiraz Sightseeing

Enjoy a full day exploring the historical and cultural highlights of Shiraz, a city known for its poetry, gardens, and historical monuments.

Highlights

• Nasir al-Mulk Mosque (Pink Mosque): Famous for its vibrant stained glass windows and intricate tilework.
• Eram Garden (UNESCO): A Persian garden with a stunning mansion and beautifully landscaped gardens.
• Vakil Bazaar: Wander through this traditional bazaar and discover spices, textiles, and local handicrafts.
• Tombs of Hafez and Saadi: Visit the resting places of two of Iran’s most famous poets, Hafez and Saadi, and enjoy the tranquil gardens.

Day 11: Shiraz – Kazerun – Borazjan – Bushehr

Travel from Shiraz to Bushehr, stopping in Kazerun and Borazjan to visit important historical sites.

Highlights

• Bishapur (Kazerun): Explore the ruins of a Sassanid city, including its ancient palace and rock reliefs.
• Borazjan: Visit the old fortresses and discover the local architecture.
• Bushehr: A coastal city with a long history and beautiful views of the Persian Gulf.

Transfer Distance/Time

• Shiraz to Bushehr: 370 km (5-6 hours).

Accommodation

• Delvar Hotel or boutique hotel in Bushehr.

Day 12: Bushehr to Siraf

Drive to the ancient port city of Siraf, which dates back to the Sassanid era.

Highlights

• Siraf: Explore the ruins of this once-thriving trading port, famous for its ancient cemeteries, rock-carved homes, and merchant tombs.

Transfer Distance/Time

• Bushehr to Siraf: 150 km (2-3 hours).

Accommodation

• Local guesthouse in Siraf.

Day 13: Siraf to Qeshm Island

Travel from Siraf to Qeshm Island, a popular destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers.

Highlights

• Valley of Stars: A natural wonder of rock formations and deep canyons.
• Hara Mangroves: Explore the unique mangrove forests that provide habitat for diverse wildlife.

Transfer Distance/Time

• Siraf to Qeshm: 250 km (3-4 hours, including ferry).

Accommodation

• Aram Hotel or boutique guesthouses in Qeshm.

Day 14: Qeshm Island Sightseeing

Enjoy a full day exploring the natural wonders and cultural highlights of Qeshm Island.

Highlights

• Hara Mangroves: Explore the UNESCO-listed mangrove forests, which are vital for the island’s biodiversity.
• Stars Valley (Vadi-e Setareh): Discover the surreal rock formations that resemble a valley shaped by the forces of nature.
• Qeshm Portuguese Castle: Visit this historic castle, which was built by the Portuguese in the 16th century.
• Chahkooh Canyon: Explore this unique canyon with its fascinating rock formations and quiet serenity.

Transfer Distance/Time

• All activities on the island (within 30-50 km range).

Accommodation

• Aram Hotel or boutique guesthouses in Qeshm.

Day 15: Qeshm to Hormoz Island to Bandar Abbas

In the morning, take a ferry to Hormoz Island and explore its unique geological wonders. In the afternoon, head to Bandar Abbas.

Highlights

• Hormoz Island: Known for its red soil and unique natural landscapes, explore the Rainbow Valley and the Hormoz Salt Cave.
• Bandar Abbas: Explore the bustling port city with a mix of modern and traditional culture. Visit the Bandar Abbas Bazaar for local handicrafts and souvenirs.

Transfer Distance/Time

• Qeshm to Hormoz: 30-minute ferry ride.
• Hormoz to Bandar Abbas: 60 km (1-1.5 hours).

Accommodation

• Parsian Azadi Hotel or Grand Hotel, Bandar Abbas.

Day 16: Bandar Abbas to Bam

Travel inland to the ancient city of Bam, renowned for its UNESCO-listed Arg-e Bam citadel.

Highlights

• Arg-e Bam (UNESCO): Visit the ruins of this vast mudbrick fortress, once one of the largest in the world.
• Bam Archaeological Museum: Learn about the rich history of the region and the ancient Silk Road.

Transfer Distance/Time

• Bandar Abbas to Bam: 370 km (5-6 hours).

Accommodation

• Arg-e Bam Hotel or local guesthouses.

Day 17: Bam to Shahdad and Lut Desert

Head to the Lut Desert, one of the hottest places on Earth. Visit the famous Shahdad Kalouts, natural formations created by wind and sand over millennia.

Highlights

• Shahdad Kalouts: Explore these stunning desert formations, which resemble a moon-like landscape.
• Lut Desert (Dasht-e Lut): Discover the extreme beauty of the desert, famous for its towering sand dunes and salt plains.

Transfer Distance/Time

• Bam to Shahdad and Lut Desert: 200 km (3-4 hours).

Accommodation

• Local desert camp or traditional guesthouses near Shahdad.

Day 18: Shahdad to Kerman

Travel from the desert landscapes back to the city of Kerman.

Highlights

• Ganj Ali Khan Complex: Explore this stunning Safavid-era caravanserai, bathhouse, and bazaar.
• Kerman Bazaar: Wander through the traditional bazaar to shop for local crafts, including carpets and spices.
• Shazdeh Garden (UNESCO): A stunning example of a Persian garden located outside the city, designed with fountains and lush greenery in the heart of the desert.

Transfer Distance/Time

• Shahdad to Kerman: 100 km (1.5-2 hours).

Accommodation

• Parsian Kerman Hotel or traditional guesthouses.

Day 19: Kerman to Rafsanjan – Visit Ragah Valley then Drive to Meymand

Travel to Rafsanjan, known for its pistachios, and explore the beautiful Ragah Valley. Continue the journey to Meymand, a unique village built into the rocks.

Highlights

• Ragah Valley: Visit this scenic valley, which offers a peaceful escape and picturesque landscapes.
• Meymand Village: Explore this ancient village where the dwellings are carved into the rock, a testament to ancient human ingenuity.

Transfer Distance/Time

• Kerman to Rafsanjan: 90 km (1.5 hours).
• Rafsanjan to Meymand: 170 km (3 hours).

Accommodation

• Traditional cave dwellings or guesthouses in Meymand.

Day 20: Meymand to Yazd

Travel from the rock village of Meymand to Yazd, one of the most historic cities in Iran, famous for its unique Persian architecture and Zoroastrian heritage.

Highlights

• Jameh Mosque of Yazd: Visit this stunning mosque known for its twin minarets and tilework.
• Amir Chakhmaq Complex: A striking structure with a grand façade and multiple levels of archways.
• Zoroastrian Fire Temple: Visit the sacred fire temple, which has been continuously burning for over 1,500 years.
• Yazd’s Wind Towers (Badgirs): Explore the ancient wind catchers that were used to cool homes and public buildings.

Transfer Distance/Time

• Meymand to Yazd: 320 km (5-6 hours).

Accommodation

• Dad Hotel or Moshir al-Mamalek Garden Hotel, Yazd.

Day 21: Yazd Sightseeing

Enjoy another full day to explore the cultural, historical, and architectural marvels of Yazd.

Highlights

• The Towers of Silence: Visit the ancient Zoroastrian burial sites where the dead were exposed to vultures.
• Yazd Old Town (UNESCO): Wander through narrow lanes, ancient houses, and traditional bazaar streets.
• Zoroastrian Fire Temple: A continuation of your visit to the sacred fire temple from the previous day.

Accommodation

• Dad Hotel or Moshir al-Mamalek Garden Hotel, Yazd.

Day 22: Yazd to Tehran

Travel back to Tehran for your final night in Iran.

Highlights

• Tehran Museum of Contemporary Art: Explore a collection of modern Iranian and international art.
• Tehran Grand Bazaar: Last-minute shopping for souvenirs or gifts.
• Laleh Park: Relax in this beautiful city park before your departure.

Transfer Distance/Time

• Yazd to Tehran: 600 km (7-8 hours).

Accommodation

• Espinas Palace Hotel or Azadi Grand Hotel, Tehran.

Day 23: Departure from Tehran

After breakfast, transfer to Imam Khomeini International Airport for your flight back home, bringing with you unforgettable memories of your Iranian adventure.

Transfer Distance/Time

• Hotel to Airport: 40 km (30-45 minutes).