Iran Unveiled

Iran Unveiled

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15 Days From

$6068

Iran Unveiled

15 Days Starting and ending in Tehran, Iran

Visiting: Tehran, Kashan, Yazd, Shiraz, Yasuj, Isfahan, Abyaneh, Qom

Tour operator:

Wild Frontiers

Tour code:

LPT1

Guide Type:

Fully Guided

Group size:

4 - 12

Physical rating:

Low, Low / Moderate

Age range:

1-99

Special diets catered:

Vegetarians, Please contact Wild Frontiers with any specific dietary requirements

Tour operated in:

English

Trip Styles:

Small Group

Activities:

Walking

Private Available:

Request A Private Tour

From: $6068

NB: Prices correct on 21-Nov-2024 but subject to change.

This tour is no longer available, please see similar tours below or send an enquiry

Tour Overview

Embark on an unforgettable journey through Iran with the "Iran Unveiled" tour, a cultural odyssey that takes you deep into the heart of Persian history and tradition. Explore the ancient ruins of Persepolis, once the capital of the Achaemenid Empire, and wander through the poetic city of Shiraz, known for its lush gardens and vibrant bazaars. Experience the unique desert city of Yazd, renowned for its exquisite silk and Zoroastrian heritage. Delight in the hospitality of a remote village stay, and marvel at the architectural splendor of Isfahan's mosques and palaces. This tour offers a rich tapestry of experiences, from the bustling streets of Tehran to the serene landscapes of Abyaneh, all while enjoying the guidance of expert local leaders and the comfort of carefully selected accommodations. With a focus on responsible travel, this journey promises not only to enrich your understanding of Iran but also to support its communities and environment.

Highlights

  • Visit the ancient capital of Persepolis, one of the world's most significant archaeological sites.

  • Discover Persian culture in Shiraz, with its beautiful tea gardens and mesmerizing mirror mosaics.

  • Explore the desert city of Yazd, known for its stunning silk and Zoroastrian heritage.

  • Experience local hospitality in a remote village and immerse yourself in rural traditions.

  • Explore Tehran's highlights, including the UNESCO-listed Golestan Palace.

  • Wander through the picturesque backstreets and bazaars of Isfahan.

  • Visit the tomb of Cyrus the Great and the Achaemenid tombs at Nagsh-e Rostam.

Itinerary

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Day 1: Tour Begins In Tehran

Location: Tehran

Accommodation: Hotel

Accommodation Name: Tehran Grand Hotel 1 or similar

Meals Included: Lunch, Dinner

The tour begins at our hotel today around lunchtime. This afternoon we will visit the Archaeological Museum, giving us an introduction to this ancient country, and possibly visit some more of Tehran’s sights, time permitting.

Day 2: In Tehran

Location: Tehran

Accommodation: Hotel

Accommodation Name: Tehran Grand Hotel 1 or similar

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

A full day’s sightseeing in the Iranian capital today includes a visit to the bazaar and a chance to explore the sumptuous Golestan Palace, the oldest of Tehran’s historic monuments. A World Heritage Site, this stunning complex of palaces and manicured gardens encompasses more than two centuries of Qajar rule. Heading further north, we will visit Niavaran Historical Garden. Set within 11 hectares of land, it was said to be commissioned by a Qajar King named Fathali Shah who wanted a retreat within the city.

Day 3: Tehran - Kashan - Matin Abad

Location: Kashan

Accommodation: Resort

Accommodation Name: Matin Abad Desert Eco-Resort or similar

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

This morning we drive south into Iran’s mountainous and desert interior. We stop in Kashan for lunch where we visit the Royal Gardens of Fin, and the Agha Bozorg Mosque, which was built in the 18th century. The mosque is famous for its imposing dome and large sunken Madrassah, and the large wooden door that guards the entrance is said to have as many studs as there are verses of the Quran. We will also have a chance to visit one of the restored merchant houses for which Kashan is famed, before continuing on to Matin Abad, our desert stop for the night.

Day 4: Matin Abad - Yazd

Location: Yazd

Accommodation: Hotel

Accommodation Name: Moshir Garden Hotel or similar

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

After exploring our desert surrounds, we drive on towards Yazd. We plan to stop for lunch in the small town of Na’in, where we can also visit one of the oldest mosques in Iran. In the afternoon we continue our drive through the desert, hopefully arriving in Yazd in time to watch an eerie sunset from the Towers of Silence, the unique Zoroastrian burial towers.

Day 5: Yazd

Location: Yazd

Accommodation: Hotel

Accommodation Name: Moshir Garden Hotel or similar

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Our first port of call is the Bagh-e-Doulat Abad Gardens, which were once a residence of the former ruler Karim Khan Zand. They consist of small pavilions set in peaceful gardens and the tallest Badgir - wind-tower - in town. We'll also visit the magnificent Jameh - Friday - Mosque. There'll then be time to wander the winding old city streets and bazaar, before trying to visit a Zurkhaneh - House of Strength - a mix of Sufism, nationalism, music and sport into this ancient spectacle.

Day 6: Yazd - Abarkuh - Pasargadae

Location: Yazd

Accommodation: Family-run Guesthouse

Accommodation Name: Kalan's House

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

After a visit to the informative Water Museum, we will drive through picturesque valleys and rural villages until Abarkuh. This delightful desert town is home to one of the oldest living trees in the world, Sarv-e Abarqu, which is over 4,000 years of age. Our final destination is Pasargadae where we will spend the night ahead of a big day tomorrow.

Day 7: Pasargadae - Persepolis - Shiraz

Location: Shiraz

Accommodation: Hotel

Accommodation Name: Karimkhan Hotel or similar

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

This morning, we will visit the six-tiered tomb of Cyrus the Great - founder of the great Persian Empire. We then visit the magnificent Achaemenid tombs at Nagsh e Rostam, cut high in cliffs above the ground, facing respectfully towards Persepolis. After lunch we continue on to the highlight of any visit to Iran: Darius the Great’s fabulous Persepolis. After a few hours exploring the site we finally make our way to our hotel in Shiraz.

Day 8: Shiraz

Location: Shiraz

Accommodation: Hotel

Accommodation Name: Karimkhan Hotel or similar

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

A morning walking tour includes a visit to the imposing Arg-e Karim Khan fortress, with its 14-metre high circular towers which dominate the city centre. There will also be time to explore the bazaar and some of Shiraz’s famous gardens and teahouses before soaking up the atmosphere at the tomb of the great Persian poet Hafez.

Day 9: Shiraz - Yasuj

Location: Yasuj

Accommodation: Hotel

Accommodation Name: Azadi Hotel or similar

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Today we drive north out of Shiraz, heading to the town of Yasuj. Arriving around lunchtime, we will continue on to Margun Waterfall. This is one of the country’s largest and most visually stunning waterfalls, situated in the mountains at an altitude of 2200m. This is the perfect place to stretch our legs and take in the beautiful scenery, before returning to Yasuj to spend the night.

Day 10: Yasuj - Isfahan

Location: Isfahan

Accommodation: Hotel

Accommodation Name: Safir Hotel or similar

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

We depart Yasuj today and drive on to Isfahan. Upon arrival we will check into our hotel, relax and take a leisurely walk to orientate ourselves in this fascinating city.

Day 11: Isfahan

Location: Isfahan

Accommodation: Hotel

Accommodation Name: Safir Hotel or similar

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

During our sightseeing today we will visit the Chehel Sotun Palace and Museum, and the magnificent Naqsh-e Jahan Square. Here we will explore some of the world’s most beautiful mosques, the Imam - Shah - Mosque and the Sheikh Lotfollah Mosque. We will also visit the magnificent six-storey Ali Qapu Palace, built in the 16th century to serve as a gateway to the royal palaces that are situated in the parklands beyond.

Day 12: Isfahan

Location: Isfahan

Accommodation Name: Safir Hotel or similar

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Another day to explore this fascinating city. Visit the Jameh Mosque, the Armenian Quarter and the many bridges that cross the Zayandeh River. There will be plenty of time to explore and shop in the famous bazaar, or just to chill out and people watch.

Day 13: Isfahan - Abyaneh

Location: Abyaneh

Accommodation Name: Abyaneh Hotel or similar

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

We depart Isfahan this morning and drive on to one of the most fascinating villages in the country, Abyaneh. Abyaneh is one of the last surviving Zoroastrian villages, located in a valley in the Karkas Mountains, and has some magnificent views of the surrounding red mountains. The ancient village is a muddle of narrow and sloped lanes, and crumbling mud-brick houses with lattice windows and fragile wooden balconies that cling to the slope.

Day 14: Abyaneh - Qom - Tehran

Location: Qom

Accommodation Name: Remis Hotel or similar

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

After exploring the sleepy village of Abyaneh we will make our way slowly back to Tehran, stopping en route in Qom. Iran’s second-holiest city, it is the golden dome and twin minarets of Fatima's shrine that dominate the city skyline and although part of the shrine is closed off to tourists, we will be able to visit. Continuing to Tehran, our final night will be spent at an airport hotel, conveniently located for onward flights tomorrow.

Day 15: Tour Ends In Tehran

Location: Tehran

Meals Included: Breakfast

The tour ends this morning after breakfast.

What's Included

  • MEALS

    14 breakfasts, 14 lunches, and 14 dinners are included.

  • TRANSPORT

    Transportation will be provided by bus and on foot during the tour.

  • GROUP SIZE

    The maximum group size for this tour is 12 participants.

  • CARBON CONTRIBUTIONS

    Contributions to climate and community projects are included for all bookings.

  • EXPERT TEAM

    The tour includes the full services of a Wild Frontiers Tour Leader with local guides where appropriate.

  • ACCOMMODATION

    All accommodation as outlined in the itinerary is included.

  • ENTRANCE FEES

    All entrance fees for sights mentioned in the itinerary are included.

  • FITNESS RATING

    The tour has a low to moderate fitness rating.

What's Not Included

  • Visas & Travel Insurance

    Visas are nationality dependent and travel insurance is mandatory but not included.

  • Tips

    Tips are optional and not included, but guidance will be provided in the pre-departure information documents.

  • International Flights

    International flights are not included.

    Please ask for an obligation-free quote for flights originating in the UK.

  • Airport Transfers

    Complimentary transfers are included only if arriving/departing on the suggested group flights.

  • Beverages & Personal Costs

    Beverages and any costs of a personal nature, such as laundry and souvenirs, are not included.

  • ExcludedItem

    We believe in a completely transparent approach to pricing with no hidden extras.

    As such, please note that the following are not included in the cost of the tour.



    Visas & Travel Insurance: Visas will always be tour
    ationality dependent but travel insurance is mandatory
    Tips: Always optional but some guidance will be given in the pre-departure information documents
    International Flights: Please ask us for an obligation-free quote for flights which originate in the UK
    Airport Transfers: We include complimentary transfers if arriving/departing on the suggested group flights
    Beverages & any costs of a personal nature: This will include items such as laundry and souvenirs

Visas

Visas are necessary for many of the destinations we travel to and while we aim to provide you with the most up-to-date information, requirements frequently change and as such for the latest advice we advise that you check with the relevant embassies or contact our recommended visa agency, Travcour www.travcour.com 

For this tour UK passport holders currently require a visa for Iran.

Non-UK passport holders or non-UK residents should contact the relevant embassies for individual requirements.

It should also be noted that anyone with a passport showing evidence of having visited Israel within the last year (including having entered or left Jordan/ Egypt from posts which are known to border Israel) are likely to be denied a visa for Iran.

Moreover, as of January 2016 US policy (subject to change) has stated that anyone wishing to travel to or via the USA is required to apply for a US visa (rather than an ESTA) if they have travelled to Iran since March 2011. The process is fairly straightforward and you can read more about it here – www.wildfrontierstravel.com/us-visa - but this is just something you will need to be aware of if you have future plans to travel to or via the US.

Further details will be sent out to you on booking, however ensuring that correct and valid visas are obtained remains the sole responsibility of the client.

Key Aspects to Consider

Anyone in a reasonable state of health, with an open mind and a sense of adventure should be perfectly able to cope with this tour, as many of the activities are optional. However, please bear in mind that there is a reasonable amount of walking involved with the sightseeing. Iran is a large country so please be aware that some of the distances we drive between cities on this tour can take a considerable portion of the day.

Please note that if you are a British, USA or Canadian passport holder in order to comply with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MFA) visa regulations it is a mandatory requirement for us to book an airport transfer and a guide to accompany you for any additional time spent in Iran separately to the group.

You should be aware that securing adequate insurance for travel to Iran can be challenging, especially for clients of certain nationalities and/or age groups. As such before booking a trip to Iran we would strongly suggest that you fully investigate your insurance options to ensure you are both able to secure suitable insurance and are happy with the level of cover available to you. For more information, please refer to the Insurance section below.

Some clients feel that the variety of food available in Iranian restaurants can get a bit monotonous, but our tour leaders will do their best to vary the menu as much as is possible. Please be advised that on this trip vegetarians and those with special dietary requirements can be catered for, but the selection and variety is likely to be limited. It should also be noted that Iran is a 'dry' country and it is forbidden to take alcohol into the country.

Women should be aware that it will be necessary to follow Iranian dress code whenever they are out in public, which means being fully covered and wearing a headscarf.

Responsible Travel

With local people, culture and eco-systems in mind, responsible travel and sustainable tourism are at the core of Wild Frontiers. We believe that a successful trip not only delivers a unique and unsurpassable journey for our travellers but also benefits the people and places we visit.

When designing our tours, we actively seek out experiences that have a positive impact on the communities and precious environments we visit - from supporting social enterprises; resting our heads in rural homestays; and eating at locally owned restaurants; to helping fund conservation projects that protect wildlife and their habitats. 

Visit the Responsible Travel area of our website to read more, including the work of the Wild Frontiers Foundation through which we fundraise to aid community empowerment and education projects.

Travelling Solo

As a company approximately 70% of our clients are solo travellers, so it’s very unlikely you’ll be alone!

Our prices are typically based on twin-share accommodation, but single supplements are not compulsory for any Wild Frontiers tour. If you prefer not to pay a single supplement we’ll pair you with someone else of the same sex for you to share with throughout the trip.

On this trip, if you do opt to pay for a single supplement then please note that it will cover you for all nights of the tour except for in Pasargadae, where it is likely you will have to share with others due to limited room availability.

Please note that paying a single supplement entitles you to lone occupancy of a single room. In many cases these rooms will be of the same size as a double/twin room, but in some cases they may be smaller.
 

Insurance

Insurance that provides cover for emergency repatriation in case of a medical emergency is compulsory for all tours. You should be aware that due to some of the geographical areas visited and some of the activities included on certain of our trips some standard insurance policies may not always provide adequate cover. As such we strongly recommend that you purchase a policy that adequately covers your trip. In addition, you should be aware that securing adequate insurance for travel to Iran can be challenging, especially for clients of certain nationalities and/or age groups. As such before booking a trip to Iran we would strongly suggest that you fully investigate your insurance options to ensure you are both able to secure suitable insurance and are happy with the level of cover available to you. Please see the Insurance section for more details or
feel free to contact us for more information.

Mode of Transport

Travel through Iran using a combination of bus transportation and walking, allowing you to explore the country's diverse landscapes and cultural sites at a comfortable pace.

Accommodation

Stay in a variety of accommodations including the Tehran Grand Hotel, Matin Abad Desert Eco-Resort, Moshir Garden Hotel, Karimkhan Hotel, Azadi Hotel, Safir Hotel, and family-run guesthouses, offering a blend of comfort and local charm throughout your journey in Iran.

Check out our Q&As

  • What kind of transportation is used during the Iran Unveiled tour?

    The tour uses a combination of bus transportation and walking to explore the various sites.

  • What is the maximum group size for the Iran Unveiled tour?

    The maximum group size for the tour is 12 people.

  • Are meals included in the Iran Unveiled tour package?

    Yes, the tour package includes 14 breakfasts, 14 lunches, and 14 dinners.

  • What kind of accommodation can be expected on the Iran Unveiled tour?

    The tour includes a variety of accommodations, such as hotels and a family-run guesthouse, as outlined in the itinerary.

  • Are entrance fees to attractions included in the tour cost?

    Yes, all entrance fees for sights mentioned in the itinerary are included in the tour cost.

  • What is the fitness level required for the Iran Unveiled tour?

    The tour has a low to moderate fitness rating, with a reasonable amount of walking involved.

  • Is travel insurance mandatory for the Iran Unveiled tour?

    Yes, travel insurance is mandatory for all participants on the tour.

  • What is the policy on single supplements for solo travelers on the Iran Unveiled tour?

    Single supplements are not compulsory, and solo travelers can be paired with someone of the same sex. However, if a single supplement is paid, it covers all nights except in Pasargadae due to limited room availability.

  • What policies are in place for Covid-19?

    We have a complete Covid-19 hub here: https://www.wildfrontierstravel.com/en_GB/covid-hub

  • Do you operate a “single share” option and how does it work?

    Over 70% of passengers on our group tours are solo adventurers. Unlike many tour operators, we don’t believe in charging solo travellers a premium, so if you are happy to share a room with a fellow traveller of the same sex, you will pay exactly the same as a couple..Occasionally you may even end up with your own room. You can travel as a single traveller on any of our holidays, from our escorte

  • Will the accommodation included meet local health and safety regulations?

    Yes

  • How long has the tour company been trading?

    Since 2002

  • Do I need to be double-vaccinated against Covid-19 to travel with you?

    In most cases, yes. Not only are many destinations making double-vaccination a requirement of entry to the country and/or access to restaurants, museums etc., but additionally on all our group tours for the foreseeable future, for everyone’s peace of mind, we are asking that all clients be double vaccinated.

Reviews from travellers on this tour

Catherine Wilkinson  

Catherine Wilkinson

My first Wild Frontiers trip blew my expectations away - I'm not sure I'll be able to cope travelling with other companies now!

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Apr 20, 2025 - May 04, 2025
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