We are honored to have been a pioneer in operating cultural tours in Iran. Our exclusive tour itineraries and experienced team have provided memorable experiences for many travelers so far. However, just like many other businesses, we expanded our services to cover more diverse Iran travel packages later. Today, the IDT team is providing a diversity of Iran travel packages and there are also tailor-made tours available, in case our clients’ requests, which could be discussed according to their preferences. The most prominent types of tours we are offering right now include:

Cultural tours
Iran is the land of ancient culture and tradition, so the first thing the word Iran tour would bring to your mind is cultural tours. Cultural tours to Iran offer its own diversity. Some types of tours we are now providing include Persian silk road tour, Iran west to north tour, crossing Iran through Turkmenistan, Authentic Persian civilization, tours to Iran World heritage sites, Iran culinary tour, and Iran astronomy and stargazing tour.

Adventure tours
Believe it or not, Iran is a land of adventures! There are plenty of pristine landscapes and pure-adrenaline activities calling you here. ID adventure tours include Damavand ski tours, Dizin ski tours in Iran, mountain biking in Iran, Birdwatching in 10 days, trekking in Alborz and Zagros, and also caving tours in Iran.

Safari tours
You would have the opportunity of exploring a desert in which people historically believed that it could not be crossed when traveling to Iran. Although we have exact plans to deal with all difficulties, the nature of these trips is to expect the unexpected. Special dune riding techniques with optional activities like sandboarding and skiing on dunes will pump adrenaline into your veins. Campsites with panoramic views of sunrises and sunsets over spectacular oceans of dunes will make an unforgettable memory of a special expedition in one of the most pristine deserts in the world.

MICE tours
MICE Department at Iran Doostan is specialized in planning and organizing MICE events as well as arranging for post-meeting tours. Our team of qualified MICE staff members is dynamic, well-experienced, highly devoted, and cooperative who have held many events successfully so far. They are equipped with up-to-date know-how MICE expertise who are capable of coping with emergencies.

Medical tours
Iran is considered one of the main hubs of medical tourism in the Middle East. World-class medical services by professional surgeons and also the low costs of such reliable medical services have made this country a popular medical destination in the Middle East and around the world. The most common cosmetic surgery in Iran is rhinoplasty.
As an experienced travel agency, Iran Doostan Tours Co. is ready to connect you to the best medical centers with high-quality services in Iran.

Religious tours
Persia once was a land with great unity over the world’s most multi‐national, multi‐lingual, multi‐cultural, multi‐religious, and multi‐ethnic region. Iran is the pilgrimage destination for those who practice Islam, Christianity, Zoroastrianism, and Judaism.
Religious tours to Iran include the pilgrimage to the holiest shite shrines, visiting ancient mosques, and other holy sites such as important churches, fire temples, and Towers.

If you already have a call for sending package tours to Iran or book Iran travel packages, do not hesitate to get in touch right now via info@idt.ir.

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Pink mosque- Shiraz

Iran Doostan: Iran Tour Operator and Travel Agency

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Looking for a business partner in the travel sector to send tours to Iran? Then, you are in the right place. Iran Doostan tours Co. is a B2B travel agency with about 30 years of experience in operating all types of incoming tours to Iran. The company has been operating Iran tours from Germany, Spain, and Greece and has had remarkable cooperation with these markets, particularly Germany from the very beginning. Having been selected as the best Iran tour operator 8th times during the last 30 years has made Iran Doostan a trustworthy travel agency for partners and also tourists.

Our experience and service ranges

We are honored to have been a pioneer in operating cultural tours to Iran. Our exclusive tour itineraries and experienced team have provided memorable experiences for many travelers so far. Later, we expanded our services to cover more diverse packages including adventure, safari, and medical tours to Iran.

Iran deserts

Iran deserts offer an authentic experience for adventure lovers.

We also provide all travel services including itineraries, Iran visa, tour guides, transportation, accommodation, and whatever our tourists may need while traveling to Iran. Iran visa process is easy and fast and tourists can apply for a visa online. Iran e-visa has been launched by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs to make it easier to apply for an Iran tourist visa online.

Iran Doostan exclusive package tours to Iran

IDT team provides a diversity of package tours to Iran and there are also tailor-made tours available, in case our clients’ requests, which could be discussed according to their preferences. The most prominent types of tours we are offering right now include Iran Cultural tours, Iran adventure tours, Iran Safari tours, Iran MICE tours, Iran Medical tours, and religious tours to Iran. It is interesting to know that each category offers its own diversity, too. For instance, our cultural tours consist of Iran food tours, Iran UNESCO world heritage sites tour, etc.

Iran tour operator - Iran Doostan

Cultural tours to Iran: Narenjestan Qavam-Shiraz

Why Iran Doostan?

You will have the privilege of working with the most experienced Iran tour operator and also one of the leaders of the tourism market in Iran. So, you would probably make sure that our itineraries are quite reliable. Added to this, are the professional staff that will arrange everything in advance and assures that everything goes well from the early stages of being in contact with you for consultation until the presence of your tour in Iran. The positive feedback we receive after operating a tour is concrete evidence of our dear tourists’ satisfaction.

If you are looking for more information on details of our package tours to Iran, the Iran visa process, or starting a partnership, please do not hesitate to get in touch through info@idt.ir right now. We will be back with you soon.

15 Dos and Don'ts for tourists in Iran: Iran Local Laws

15 Dos and Don’ts for tourists in Iran: Iran Local Laws

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If your travel plans hold Iran on the horizon, planning and making reservations aside, getting informed about special rules comes first! Respecting these rules requires modesty of course, but as they are derived from Iran’s cultural norms, it means a lot to your host society. Here are the laws all tourists in Iran are supposed to follow.

If you plan to travel to Iran, here is the link to Iran online visa form.

Iran Dress codes

Your concern as a tourist, about Islamic clothing, is understandable. You might have pictured women in Iran in black Chadors, and men in white Dishdasha, but the reality is totally different:

For men

Although there is no strict law about men’s clothing, wearing shorts and sleeveless vests would be somehow improper in Iran. Do you want my opinion? Pants and T-shirts would be the best choice!

For women

There is no confusing rule about women’s clothing. Women are supposed to hide body shapes and hair, that’s all! The way Iranian women dress can give you a clue. Of course, manteaux and jeans are the most popular style in Iran. Manteau is a long-sleeved blouse that covers the bottom and pants or skirts must cover the legs up to the ankle. By the way, don’t forget to pick a scarf while packing, it’s necessary to put it on in public. In brief, it doesn’t really matter what you wear as long as your clothes are not too short or too tight!

Iran dress code

There is no strict rule about Hijab in Iran, that will be okay as long as your dress is not too short or too tight.

Click for more information about Iran dress code.

The ban on alcoholic drinks

According to the Islamic rules, drinking or even carrying alcoholic drinks is illegal all over the country, which means there is no nightclub or bar in Iran.

Tricky Visa Process

Receiving an Iran visa is not that complex for citizens of many countries. Most tourists can receive an Iran visa on arrival with ease. All 10 nationalities are the exceptions and require it in advance including Colombia, Somali, England, Canada, USA, Bangladesh, Jordon, Iraq, Afghanistan, Pakistan, and India.
Canada, England and USA citizens do not have the possibility of receiving a visa in person and must apply through valid travel agencies.
Keep in mind that a visa on arrival is only available at the airports for tourists in Iran.

Iran Visa

Receiving an Iran visa is not that complex for citizens of many countries.

Israel issue

Unfortunately, Citizens of Israel are totally barred from entry to Iran but if 365 days have left from your last travel to Israel you can get an Iran visa.

Import and export rules

As all the luggage will be checked with X-ray, you should be careful about carrying the following objects:
– Alcoholic Drinks, Weapons, and drugs are illegal to both import and export
– there are no limits for entering currency into the country, up to 10000 dollars.
– Animals and pets are isolated on arrival.
– only personal health care medicine is allowed, with the prescription which determines the dose.

Export limitations

– Pistachio and other nuts: up to 10 kg
– Saffron up to 100g
– Carpets: up to 20 meters per person.
– The ancient and valued object is counted as cultural heritage.

Hotel rules for tourists in Iran

– Sharing a hotel room for unmarried Non-Muslims couples will be Ok. the marriage certificate would be required for Muslim couples.
– Hotels are usually keeping your passport until you check out.

Traveling to Iran during Ramadan

30 days in a year Muslims do fast, which includes abstaining from eating and drinking from dawn to sunset. And then they break the fast with a particular evening meal, named “Iftar“. During these 30 days, even non-Muslims prevent eating and drinking or even smoking in public before sunset. As a sign of respect, most restaurants are closed during Ramadan but buying food and eating in privacy is totally ok.

Tourists in Iran can eat and drink in privacy during Ramadan.

The authorization code

The law enforcement force of the Islamic Republic of Iran is the organization that is in charge of protecting tourists in Iran. In order to this protection, this organization gives out a personal serial number to every single person entering the country. The tourists should have their travel itinerary at the entrance to receive that serial number and maintain it until departure.

Gender segregation

Pay attention to where and beside whom you sit in Iran! There is a sex-separation in some entertainment centers such as swimming pools and seashores, mosques and religious sites, and public transportation. Look for “men only” and “women only” signs which determine specific sections in the mentioned places. It is ok for women to enter men’s sections sometimes but seems too weird if a man enters the women’s section.

Social media limitation

During your stay in Iran, you might need to use VPNs to access Facebook, Couchsurfing, YouTube, and maybe a few other applications. In order to have faster and easier access to social media, choose applications with no bans on instead; like Instagram, WhatsApp, and Skype.

Credit and debit cards

Unfortunately, there is no network in Iran for using international cards, but there is a new travel card name “Mah Card”. You can instantly fund your card in any preferred currency and that will be converted to Iranian Rials.

It-Not legally forced, but would be wise to follow

Rules are over, but bearing in mind some tiny tips, shows your cultural respect, and will stop you from getting into trouble.

Social Taboos

– Showing Displays of affection to the public: Kissing and hugging people of the opposite sex is not accepted in Iran, especially for unmarried couples.
– Blowing nose in public: you can do that in WC if necessary, but not in front of people!
– Wearing shoes indoors: No need to ask! You should take off your shoes in almost every house in Iran!
– Taking photos of people without their permission.
– Handshaking with people of the opposite sex in public.

Visiting religious sites

– Women should be wearing their Islamic hijab (wearing a Chador is obligatory in mosques) and men with shorts are not allowed to enter religious places (Iran religious tour)
– Dancing, singing, shouting, and similar behaviors are consumed as disrespect.

Talking politic

You might be curious about different things taking place in Iran and how people feel about it. Even if you start to talk about political issues people are not going to stop you or they might start the conversation themselves, but keep in mind that any kind of criticism can easily offend their strong nationalism inside! I recommend keeping the trip cool and avoiding talking politics.

Do not trust crosswalks and traffic lights!

Not as a proud, but Iranian drivers are not really into following international traffic regulations. The crosswalk here is not really your safe zone as a pedestrian. And sometimes the red light is not able to stop hasty drivers. The only way to rescue from crossing the street is to watch carefully the cars and guess the speed.

Are you planning to travel to Iran? Check out our Iran tours.

Shiraz tourist attractions: tomb of Saadi

Things to do in Shiraz: Photos, opening hours, info

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Have you ever thought how would heaven look like? You would probably think of someplace full of flowers and blossoms, with enormous fountains and green gigantic trees. Then you are probably thinking of a place like Shiraz.

This amazing city has embraced many historical and natural attractions that no visitor thinking of a dreamy trip in one of the gorgeous and ancient paradises of Iran, would tend to miss. This article introduces Things to do in Shiraz; some of which have a global reputation.

Persepolis

Persepolis was the capital of the Persian Achaemenid Empire. This monument has so many historical stories to offer; as some locals may say it is “History in front of your eyes”. In 518 BC Darius the Great built Persepolis as a modern city which was impressive due to its luxury and opulence. The architecture of Persepolis shows us how grand and fascinating the place was in 500 BC. Persepolis is one of the historical monuments that is inscribed in UNESCO. So, as a representative of Iran’s history and glory, you wouldn’t want to miss it. To reach Persepolis, taking a taxi seems the best way. There are also mini-buses departing from Karandish terminus in Shiraz every morning.

 Opening hours: 8 am – 5:30

Things to do in Shiraz – The legendary city of Persepolis: the capital of ancient Persia.

Nasir al-Mulk Mosque

At first glance, visitors may not realize the colorful secret hidden inside this mosque. Nasir al-mulk mosque, also as some tourist might like to call it, Pink Mosque turns into a magnificent masterpiece by the reflection of the colorful windows on the Iranian carpets. Due to this incredible artwork of Iran’s culture, a heaven has been created for photographers to take stunning pictures. Today, this mosque which was built by Qajar dynasty is one of the must-see attractions of Shiraz that no visitor would like to miss.

To arrive here, you can take Valiasr-Namazi buses and get off the bus at Chahar Rah Moshir (Moshir Crossroad) Station.

Opening hours: 7 am – 5 pm

Shiraz tourist attractions

Things to do in Shiraz: Nasir-ol Molk or pink mosque

Shah Cheragh shrine

Near pink mosque, you can also visit Shah Cheragh shrine. Shah Cheragh is a tomb of two brothers named Ahmad and Muhammad who are sons of Musa-al-kazim, seventh Shia Imam. This shrine is covered with mirror shards and tilework and welcomes you with an enormous fountain.

If you are going on foot, from Shohada Square, enter Piroozi Street. Then get on Dastgheibi Blvd. and after that get to 9th of Dey Street. And in case of using a car, in Sibooye Blvd. at Shahzade Ghasem Square, turn to the right to Hazrati Street. Then turn to the left to 9th of Dey Street.

Opening hours: 24/7

Vakil Complex

Named after the founder of the Zandiyeh dynasty, Vakil complex was constructed in this period when Shiraz was the capital of Iran. The complex consists of Vakil Bath, Vakil Bazaar, and Vakil mosque, all of which have been built for the public interest.

Vakil Bazaar

Looking to buy a souvenir in Shiraz? Vakil bazaar offers everything you’re looking for. Inside the bazaar you will find yourself surrounded by all Iranians’ handicrafts and spice stalls. You can find all sort of handcrafts; such as rugs and carpets, copper handicrafts and antiques. There is also some type of sweet called Masqati including pistachio, rose and saffron which are mostly known as a famous souvenir from Shiraz. To reach vakil bazaar you can use bus; get off at Shahrdari Station and take a walk southward on Piroozi Street, turn left on Farhang Avenue, go past by Taleqani Street and find Vakil Bazaar on the left side. On the way to Vakil bazaar you can also visit other parts of Vakil complex including the bath and the mosque.

Opening hours: 8 am – 9 pm

Shiraz tourist attractions

Things to do in Shiraz – Vakil Bazaar: An old bazaar in Shiraz where you will find valuable souvenirs.

Vakil bath

Vakil bath was originally a public bath dating back to Zandiyeh dynasty. The arches and the tilework of the bath show the history of Iranian architecture and culture.

Getting to Shohada Square, you can walk an 8-minute distance eastward on Zand underpass and then turn right on Taleqani Street to get to Vakil Bath.

Opening hours: 9 am – 9 pm

Vakil mosque

Vakil mosque is a fascinating mosque near Vakil bath with 48 columns which is an interesting place for photographers to take special photos. A large courtyard and stunning facade, blue tileworks of the arches and porches, the ceiling with its spectacular designs surrounded by well-designed walls are quite impressive and eye-catching. Vakil mosque is named after the founder of the Zandiyeh dynasty just like the bath and bazaar.

Using bus seems to be quite easy to access the mosque, you can get to Shohada Square and walk an 8-minute distance eastward on Zand underpass and then turn right on the first alley to get to Vakil Mosque.

Opening hours: 8:30 am – 8:30 pm

Shiraz tourist attractions

Things to do in Shiraz: Vakil mosque is a peaceful place with stunning tile works.

Karim khan Citadel

Karim khan Citadel known also as Arg of Karim khan, is also a part of Vakil complex but used to be a royal palace for Karim khan, himself who was the founder and the first king of Zandiyeh dynasty. However, during Qajar dynasty the castle turned into a prison and each room turned into a cell. Despite all of the damages occurred to the castle, it is still considered as an intricate and detailed brickwork. Inside of the citadel, is a courtyard with hundreds of citrus trees with great smell of oranges’ blossom in spring. To keep a memory of your trip to Shiraz, you can take a selfie right next to the sign of Shiraz behind the castle.

You may either take a bus or taxi. Use the buses to Shohada Square and get off the bus in the square, you will see the great Karim Khan Citadel.

Opening hours: 9 am – 10 pm

Shiraz tourist attractions

Things to do in Shiraz: Karim khan Citadel

Near the citadel, you can also pay a visit to Pars or Nazar museum which is the oldest museum of Fars providence. It is an old house near the citidel, full of amazing and dazzling paintings on its roof. Although It is a small museum but the fact that Karim Khan, one of the of Iran’s most moralistic kings has been buried there, makes it special. You can find precious and valuable objects such as boxes, mirror frames and an ancient hand written Quran with a spectacular font. You will be amazed by the fascinating atmosphere and the vast variety of items which is definitely worth visiting.

To use the bus, Shahrdari Bus Stop in Shohada Square is the closest station, after 5 minutes of walking you will reach the museum.

Opening hours: 8 am – 6 pm

Shapouri Pavilion and Garden

Shapouri House was owned by one of the greatest merchants of Shiraz. The idea of its architecture originated from two periods in Iran’s history, Qajar and Achaemenid architecture. Entering the house, you will see a garden full of Mediterranean cypress, plane and maple trees and a huge fountain surrounded by roses and pelargoniums. The first floor is used as a café and the second floor is a restaurant; so, after visiting the garden around the mansion you can sit in the yard or at balcony, order drink or food and enjoy your stay. Photographers will specially be impressed by this elegant house and its beautiful garden.

Accessing the Garden is possible either through walking from Kari Khan Zand Street and also taking a taxi which is quite affordable in shiraz.

Opening hours: Every day at 9 am – 12 am

Shapouri Pavilion

Things to do in Shiraz – Shapouri Pavilion: an old house in Shiraz shining like a piece of gold at night.

Eram Garden

The beautiful and colorful blossoms at Eram Garden especially during the spring has made this UNESCO-listed World Heritage Site an attractive place for visitors. Being a botanical garden, different kinds of plants and trees, such as palm and cypress trees are planted and raised here. By just looking at the garden and the beautiful mansion inside designed with traditional tiles and unique architectural patterns, you will truly believe you’re in heaven. Women will appear in traditional colorful costumes, and walk around the pool while people go and visit the building.

To use subway, Find Namazi metro station, after 10 minutes of walking, pass Daneshjoo Square and you will find Eram Garden. Having decided to go by bus, try to find Kolbeh Sq to Eram Sq. or Narenjestan Blvd. to Namadi Sq. buses.

Opening hours: 8 am – 8:30 pm

Tomb of Hafez

Hafez is one of the most prominent poets of Iran, his poems are engraved on Iranians’ heart. Tomb of Hafez is one of the most significant Shiraz tourist attractions that anyone with a sense of love for poetry would like to visit. The garden offers a peaceful atmosphere, with loads of flowers in various colors, there is usually a pleasant music in the background and it’s a wonderful place to relax and read some of Hafez poems.

For centuries, Iranians have widely believed in consulting Hafez when confronting a difficult situation or making challenging decisions. Opening the Hafez Book randomly, the poetry will reveal the answer to your intention and guide you to the right path.

To arrive here, you can either of these buses line: Dastgheib to Narenjestan or Golestan Sq. to Namazi.

Opening hours: 8:30 am – 10 pm

Hafezie-Shiraz

Things to do in Shiraz: Tomb of Hafez, the great Iranian poet.

Tomb of Saadi

Saadi is one of the greatest poets of all time, not only in Iran but to all over the world. Saadi was both a traveler and a poet; having travelled to a lot of countries, he came back to Shiraz and started to write his poems. Tomb of Saadi offers a spiritual atmosphere with a beautiful garden; his poems are written all over the walls around his tomb. In front of the tomb there is a pond that people stop to make a wish and throw coins into it. Don’t forget to drop coins into the pond and make wishes!

To reach the site, take a taxi or a bus by Haft Tanan Boulevard, enter Boostan Boulevard and after walking for 10 minutes you will get to Tomb of Saadi.

Opening hours: 8 am – 10 pm

Shiraz tourist attractions: Saadie

Things to do in Shiraz – Tomb of Saadi: A great poet of all time.

If you are looking forward to pay a visit to Shiraz, spring is the best season to visit this breathtaking paradise because of the blooms and blossoms and also during fall due to the good atmosphere of the city.

Hotel Abbasi: Best Hotel in Isfahan

Hotel Abbasi: Best Hotel in Isfahan (History, Rooms)

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Can you imagine yourself opening your eyes in bed, looking toward a big colorful sash window overlooking the fabulous Persian garden and a great turquoise dome? well, good news! It’s absolutely possible in Hotel Abbasi in Isfahan, which is the oldest hotel in the world! It needs only a quick reservation on the Hotel Abbasi website. Reserve your favorite hotels in Iran here.

Old as five dynasties

Shall I start the story of this historical hotel with ‘’once upon a time”? well, maybe. 400 years ago, at the time of King Sultan Hussein Safavid, the king’s mother endowed some of her properties, including the land of a mentioned hotel, to the public and ordered to build a Caravanserai there, to provide lodging for travelers. Years after that, Ashraf Afghan invaded Iran, overthrew The Safavids, and destroyed their sites, including the Caravanserai. But the story hasn’t ended yet! In 1965 a creative engineer found a way to renovate the whole complex. In 1700 the former Caravanserai reopened as Hotel Abbasi or Shah Abbas Hotel while preserving all the ancient elements, like the runnel of Persian garden or roof squinches.

Safavid Suits

The mixture of stunning illumination and hypnotizing ceiling decoration creates a unique atmosphere for the rooms and suits.

Rooms and suits

You might have pictured yourself having a rough time in a 400-year-old hotel, but no worries!  Hotel Abbasi is a good example of the right cooperation between modernity and traditionality. 5 different types of rooms are available for the guests: standard single and double rooms, landscape rooms with minimalist style decoration and garden view, luxurious paradise room with full facilities and garden view, Qajar suits prepared for 2 people with fantastic Qajar miniatures on its walls and roof and of course the garden view, and last but not least: Safavid suit which is the oldest and the most expensive option in Hotel Abbasi, with two bedrooms decorated with Safavid elements such as squinches, illuminated manuscripts and plaster work.

Ghajar suit_Hotel Abbasi

Gorgeous Qajar suite with Qajar architectural design

Facilities and Services

There is a great sports complex consisting of a pool, sauna, gym, and Jacuzzi, which provides some enjoyable services such as massage for its guests.

If you are a “food talks” person, be their guest! There are 4 high-quality restaurants in the complex. And “Chehel Sotoun” is the most enchanting of them. It’s open 12-15 and 19-23, serving both Iranian and international foods. It’s not only the joy of eating delicious food that tempts you to go there, Chehel Sotoun is a real piece of art itself. The mural paintings in both Safavid and Qajar styles, the Darius-design seats inspired by Darius’s throne from the stone configurations at Persepolis city, the artistic works on the walls, ceilings, columns, banisters, pavement, doors, glass panes, and even lanterns and ceiling suspensions multiply the beauty of the hall.

Advice

Keep in mind that the airport is about 25 far from the hotel, maybe you’ll have to pack earlier.
By the way, besides all those advantages, there are a few limitations in Hotel Abbasi:

  1. Pets are not allowed.
  2. Only married couples can share a room.

location

Isfahan St. Amadegah, international hotel Abbasi (Location on map)

Are you planning to travel to Iran? Check out our Iran tours.

Travel Risk Map 2020

Travel Risk Map 2020: Iran is a safe destination to travel

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Have a call for traveling to Iran in 2020 and feel uncertain? Well, if you are looking for some clue, 2020 Travel Risk Map seems a reliable source. According to International SOS, Iran is a safe destination, just as safe as Turkey with a record of more than 39.5 million foreign visitors in 2018!

Launched by global risk experts International SOS in collaboration with Control Risks, the Travel Risk Map 2020 indicates the danger level of different territories and countries based on factors threatening travelers such as violent and petty crime, political violence (politically motivated war and unrest, insurgency, terrorism) and social unrest (sectarian, communal and ethnic violence). More factors such as the effectiveness of the security and emergency services, the country’s susceptibility to natural disasters, and the robustness of the transport infrastructure are also taken into consideration to represent more detailed information.

The map categorizes countries based on five levels of risk: insignificant, low, medium, high and extreme. Denmark, Switzerland, Norway, Finland, Iceland, and Greenland are the few countries in Europe to fall in the category of insignificant risk ones. The majority of European countries as well as the US, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand are considered low risk. While there are courtiers such as Iraq, Syria, Afghanistan, and Yemen rated as “Extreme” risk in the Middle East, Iran has been recognized as a medium risk destination along with Russia, Turkey, and India.

Travel risk map 2020 indicates that in spite of the imposed sanctions on Iran, and also what is covered in media about this country, the world admits Iran as a safe country to travel. Our experience of FITUR 2020, held on 22-26 January has also been amazing so far and we are waiting for more tourist arrivals and stronger partnerships in the future.

Iran is a fascinating destination to explore; its long history and geographically diverse land have provided remarkable cultural and natural attractions such as outstanding architecture, elegant gardens, remarkable wildlife, scenic scenery, delicious cuisine, awesome waterfalls, deep canyons, vast deserts, high mountains, and more importantly friendly people.

You are warmly welcomed here to experience a life-long memorable trip.

Are you planning to travel to Iran? Check out our Iran tours.

FITUR 2020 exhibition

Iran Doostan CEO message from FITUR 2020 exhibition

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Greetings from Madrid, FITUR 2020 exhibition, to everyone fascinated by Iran’s history and culture and those who are interested in traveling to this ancient land. A land that has the reputation of having developed one of the oldest civilizations in the world.
Yesterday was the third day of the FITUR 2020 exhibition, the international event holding from 22 to 26 January. The first three days of this exhibition is dedicated to tourism professionals and the last two days to public visitors and travel lovers.
This is our 26th presence in FITUR but in a tough circumstance; just after the heartbroken incident of the Ukrainian plane crash in Iran. We, therefore, expected a completely different experience this year. However, none of our appointments, set before the plane crash, were missed and much to our surprise, not only those who had set an appointment, but also our partners and other tour operators paid a visit to our booth, expressed their interest to continue and strengthen their partnership with Iran Doostan toward operating package tours to Iran.

I am proud to be an Iranian and would like to express my gratitude to all our partners and those who visited us in the past three days. We are pleased to have been successful in earning the trust of our partners all around the world during 30 years of experience and we are committed to making every effort to offer good quality services in operating a memorable trip for all travelers to Iran.

M.Ali Ashraf Vaghefi
CEO

Iran Doostan Tours Co.

FITUR 2020 exhibitionUR

 

Takht e suleyman

The most mysterious places in Iran + Photos

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Where you should go to visit while traveling to Iran? Shiraz and Isfahan are just some parts of this country. stay with us to find the most mysterious places in Iran you should go to.

Takht-e Soleyman Lake

Takht-e Soleyman is a spectacular area with lots of secrets, the most impressive area is Takht-e Soleyman Lake located in the center of the temple which is one of the most mysterious places to in Iran.
There are many myths and beliefs about the origin of this sacred lake, one of which dates back to Soleyman the prophet. According to this story, Prophet Soleyman is said to have kicked his cane in the water and made it boil and after that, he ordered the construction of the buildings around the lake. For this reason, due to the many names given by various groups of people to this site, today it is known only as the name of Takht-e Soleyman or (the throne of Soleyman).

Many believe that a treasure trove of coins and golden plates belonging to Soleyman the prophet has been buried deep at the bottom of the lake which has attracted the attention of many people not only in Iran but around the world; While some Zoroastrians are of the opinion that these golds are the gifts that people used to offer to the goddess of water. The question is why no one has dared to access this valuable treasure so far.

Takht-e-Soleyman-Lake - places to visit in Iran

Takht-e Soleyman Lake in Azerbaijan Province, Iran

Well, there are extraordinary features about the lake; it is said that the lake formation started when the springhead began to boil in the current location of the lake of Soleyman’s tomb, and over a very long time it gradually became the present lake with its calcareous sediments; with a length of 100 meters, a width of 80 meters and depth of approximately 60 meters.
Another astonishing fact about this lake is that despite being located in the cold region of Azerbaijan, the temperature of the lake is stable and does not exceed or lower 21 centigrade during summer and winter!

No living creature lives from a depth of 1 meter down the lake due to the presence of hard water elements. The water is not potable you should not drink water or even touch it! According to Zoroastrianism, whoever touches this water, must hold special fasting for forty days.

Rig-e Jenn

This desert in the central part of Iran, is one of the most mysterious Iran deserts. Many people believe that it could not be crossed since many travelers never returned from this wide emptiness. According to the locals, the region is governed by evil spirits and so, it is cursed.

For many years, no one dared to travel to the region and find out about its mystery! However, the scientific explanation for these strange disappearances is that the desert is full of salt marshes, especially the southern parts, and identifying these marshes is not easy. Tourists should travel with a guide to follow the right direction, otherwise, they will put their life in danger.

A strong whirlwind here causes the sandy hills to move in a way that in some areas driving would almost be impossible on these steep slopes. Special dune riding techniques with optional activities like sandboarding and skiing on dunes will pump adrenalin into the veins which is one of the main reasons why adventurers love to experience this scary zone.

Rige-Jen

Rige-Jen, the Bermuda Triangle of Iran.

 

 

If you are still interested in experiencing some adventure here, do not go alone, you must travel in a group and pack food, water, petrol, and the highest level of equipment for at least 15 days! Do not forget your map. Wish you an awesome adventure (Rig-e Jenn safari tour)

Screaming Forest of Torqabeh

In the northeast of Iran, there is a mysterious forest that produces scary voices like screaming at night. As the locals were frightened, an expert team was deployed to the region to find out the mystery. They reported that the sounds were attributed to a kind of grasshopper that attacks the villages in large numbers, especially during rainy seasons, their lifespan lasts for forty days. However, the locals still relate these strange screams to jinn and supernatural creatures, and their stories have attracted many tourists to the region every year; this streaming forest is among the mysterious places to visit in Iran.

Screaming-forest-Torghabe

Screaming Forest Torghabe

Shahdad Kalout

Kalouts are unique geological formations that have been made by extreme soil and water erosion through centuries. These natural attractions look like a mysterious city in the Lut desert, a captivating beauty that fascinates every visitor and one of the must-see places to visit in Iran.

Here is simply the hottest place on the Earth’s surface that NASA has ever registered; 71ºC! It is absolutely an abiotic zone; no living creature can endure here. So, if creatures like snakes and scorpions deter you from visiting desert areas, Shahdad is the best place to visit.

This legendary city has been caused by the strong winds of Semnan, which blow 120 days of the year, between June to October, and has extended over 11 thousand kilometers. These strong winds are the principal reason for Kalout’s creation, the greatest geological phenomenon.

Given that this desert is one of the hottest places to visit in Iran, the best time to travel to Shahdad is winter. You need legal permission to travel to this natural site and it would be best to travel in a group so as not to get lost.

Shahdad-Kalout

Shahdad Desert, the Hottest Place on Earth

Tallaght Wells

Thousands of years ago people of Qeshm island, one of the thirstiest parts of Iran close to the equator, dug 366 wells in the stone, representing the number of days in a leap year, in order to gather clean water from rainfall.

Each well has a name and people used one for each day. Water has always been the most valuable thing for people of the area, Laft, is more valuable than gold. These wells are located out of the island and next to the historic Naderi Castle in a village called “Laft”. There are some old and huge trees rooted in the stones next to the Tallaght wells, which locals believe are guardians of the Tallaght wells.

The liveliness of these trees shows that water is available in the wells. Since the wells are situated in a deeper area next to a coral hill, the rainwater goes downhill and would be saved in the wells. The bottom of the wells is covered with plaster that helps water to stay clean and cool for a long time.

Tallaght Wells are just 25 kilometers from the airport, so It would be the last attraction on Qeshm island that travelers might visit. The southern region of Iran has numerous historical and natural attractions and the best time of the year to book a tour in Iran to visit these parts is from late September to April (things to do in Qeshm)

Tallaght-Wells

Tallaght-Wells 

Fairy Chimneys (Hoodoo)

These strange geological wonders have been formed over many centuries by various physical and chemical natural forces; erosion through wind and acid rain has caused the formation of these badlands. However, the most powerful process that helps to form these sculptures is frost wedging. They are called fairy chimneys by the locals.

How these amazing geological forms are created? The melting snow, in the form of water, seeps into the cracks and freezes at night during winter. When water freezes it expands by almost 10 percent, little by little prying open cracks, making them ever wider, in the same way a pothole forms in a paved road.

One of the most well-known hoodoo-covered landscapes is Bryce Canyon in the USA, but these formations made of either sedimentary or volcanic rock can be found all around the world such as Cappadocia, Taiwan, New Mexico, New Zealand, Italy, France, and Canada.

Unfortunately, hoodoos don’t last a long time. The same processes that create hoodoos are equally aggressive and intent on their destruction.

Hoodoos: places to visit in Iran

Hoodoos, Fairy Chimneys in Iran

Ghost Canyon (Kul Khersan)

Dezful, an astonishingly beautiful city with a rich history on the hillside of Zagros mountains is considered a heaven for photographers due to the amazing landscapes of Shouy waterfall, Shayoon Lake, Dez River, downside flowers, Dez National Park, and other rivers and sceneries that surprise every visitor.

One of these fascinating places to visit in Iran is Ghost Canyon or Kul Khersan Canyon which is among the unique natural attractions in the world.
Imagine a road that continues for several kilometers between walls with a height of more than 100 meters on either side, in some places the two walls meet each other in a way that allows the sunlight in, only through small holes. At the beginning of the road, you will see beautiful grasslands, there is also a small palm garden and some cedar trees on the way.

Welcome to Kul Khersan, a truly amazing place to visit in Iran; water drops along the tall walls, and in some places, small waterfalls can be seen. The walls have various forms in different parts of the canyon, sometimes straight and sometimes so curved to narrow the way and let only one person pass!

Why do local people have named here the ghost canyon? As you go further along the road, the walls get closer and taller so it gets dark inside, and rarely little sunlight is allowed in.
One of the strange features of this canyon is its temperature; cool during summer and warm in winter.

Kul-Khersan-valley: places to visit in Iran

Kul Khersan Valley

The canyon will end in Dez River, there is about 4 kilometers of walking from the beginning of the road to reach the canyon and the canyon path continues for approximately 10 kilometers. Victors would better not to get close to the end of the road, since the water level rises and Dez River is dangerous to swim unless you are a professional swimmer!

The best time to visit Kul Khersan is in June when the weather is turning warm and it hardly rains.

Last Words

Iran has many unique and mysterious places to visit. Visiting these magical places will be one of the most memorable trips of your life.  If you’re interested let us know, so we can plan the perfect plan for your exciting trip to Iran. Hope you enjoy your tour visiting mysterious places in Iran!

Are you planning to travel to Iran? Check out our Iran tours.

Ukraine plane crash in Iran

Seriously, what is happening in Iran?

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The crash of the Ukrainian Boeing 737 in Iran, took-off from Tehran on 8 January, has raised a lot of concerns over safety issues of traveling to Iran. Unfortunately, the Ukrainian plane crash caused the death of 176 passengers and crew aboard, which has raised intranational tensions on media against Iran. Are you among those who have been frightened by the incident? Then, let’s see what is really happening in Iran these days?
No doubt the disaster has touched us and has aroused our deepest sympathy; many Iranian authorities have called for the trial of all those accused of shutting down the passenger plane in error. Still, public anger erupted and there have been commemoration ceremonies all around the world for these victims.
Aviation incidents like the Ukrainian plane crash hardly happen in the world, but when they happen, they would deeply affect the public’s emotions for some time. A heartbroken one occurred many years ago when the Iranian Airbus was shot down by US warship mistakenly above the Persian Gulf and caused all 300 passengers to die in 1988. Another one was a plane of Indian airline on the way from Toronto to Delhi which was exploded by a bomb and caused the death of 329 passengers, the police could never find the guilty person in charge of the bombing. However, the fact is that over the last two decades, aviation deaths around the world have been falling and its safety has improved. According to ICAO, The number of aviation accidents has been declined from 139 accidents in 2008 to 98 accidents in 2019, and fatalities have also dramatically dropped off over the last decade.
Talking about traveling and tourism, the industry is quite sensitive and could be influenced by any breaking news ranging from aviation incidents, political changes, social unrests, and epidemic natural disasters. These circumstances can intimidate potential visitors and significantly impact the flow of tourists to any destination.
As a potential tourist who needs to know exactly what is going on here and then decide about traveling to Iran, you should know that after a week, everything has gone back to normal. In spite of our struggling with the profound grief for all those passengers, life is going on, we go to work or university every day and there is nothing to threaten Iranians and also tourists here. If you have a call for traveling to Iran in 2020, you should know that we are still welcoming our dear guests from all over the world and hope the tourism industry to be flourished again in the region. Do not panic, Iran is safe!

everything about Iran

Everything you need to know about Iran

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“The use of traveling is to regulate imagination by reality, and instead of thinking how things may be, to see them as they are” – Samuel Johnson
We all know expectations and reality are two different things, especially when we travel. And there’s pleasure in seeing how the two differ, to satisfy that need of discovery, to touch the world with your own hands. But as we build our hopes and expectations, sometimes, we feel some tricky instincts. What is reasonably safe to expect about Iran?
I almost missed seeing Iran because of this. And oh, what a loss it would have been! To be honest, while I am writing this, I just can’t wipe a funny smirk off my face because things are so different from what I imagined that I actually forgot what I expected! Funny that no?
I don’t want anyone to miss any good travel opportunity, so I set out calling my friends back home, back in Europe and asked them what they would expect Iran to be like. And in this article, for you, I am going to disprove or confirm the most common assumptions Westerners have of Iran.

Unfriendly people

Some of my friends mentioned the idea that due to the recent diplomatic tensions that Iran has been involved in, they would expect Iranians to be bitter and angry at Westerners.
Nonsense!

everything about Iran

You will never experience hospitality until you travel to Iran!

Iranians have a huge heart and an impressive hospitality culture! As one of my French friends cycling through Iran puts it: “If I didn’t refuse some of the invitations, I would have to stay in every small village for a month”.
I myself have been cuddled and taken care of by these kind-hearted hosts at every step. In many cases just casually explaining that I had a problem prompted huge chain reactions: somebody would call a friend that would call his friends that would call others still until a solution to my problem would finally be found. Nuclear generosity! Lame pun intended…

Verdict: False expectation

No English

Most of my friends back in Italy tell me they would not expect the locals to speak any English.
This is entirely wrong! While of course, not everybody here speaks English, I could always find people that speak enough of it, or even some French, in a matter of less than a minute when I need it. Even street signs are in English, so I never got lost. As a matter of fact, this had troubled me a lot in Turkey, where meeting anyone speaking some English was like finding a needle in a haystack. Phew!
Oh, and expect some great conversations!
Verdict: False expectation

travel to Iran

You will hardly have any problem with language when you travel to Iran.

Not enough tourist services

Since Iran is not often mentioned in the tourist forums and is not generally talked of as a travel destination in the Western world, many assume that the country is not prepared to offer basic services that travelers might need.
I remember reading that the international banking circuits do not work here, and my Mastercard would be useless. The idea of entering the country with hard cash on me was worrying, and not just a little. I relaxed as soon as I entered the country, though. I got myself a prepaid card that can be used in just about every shop, and I’m virtually safe from any theft. This is the only true annoyance for a traveler in Iran.
I had also heard that you cannot do online reservations because of the banking circuits, but the solutions to this are also being offered.
As for the rest, both the Iranian government and private investors have been consistently looking in these past years to attract more tourists. The benefits of this effort are already being reaped: Internet services can take care of your visa application; new hostels, traditional houses, and eco-lodges are being constantly opened, apps are now being used for transportation, you can find tours and activities for just about anything, and you can find tourist police in some cities. In just a few words, tourist services are aplenty and solutions are offered for any hard-cored inconveniences.
Verdict: False expectation

about Iran: tourists' services

Iranian restaurants are the best!

Dirty and polluted

I have never seen any dirt on the streets, and cities are very (!!!) clean. Walking the streets at any hour of day or night, you will find someone sweeping the roads. To be fair, though, I have been informed that in some remote and sparsely inhabited areas there are not efficient methods of waste disposal. This is, unfortunately, a problem I have encountered in many developing countries.
As for pollution, while other cities are within the norms, Tehran suffers from bad air quality. The reasons are to be found in the number of old cars and the sub-standard gasoline that is now being used in the country because of the international sanctions. This combines with the constant urbanization and influx of people migrating into the city, as is usually the case with capitals of big countries. The battle is not lost though, as the government is constantly devising new methods of fighting pollution as the city grows.
All in all, I have seen dirty cities and comparable pollution in south-eastern Europe, and have nothing to be surprised of.
Verdict: Partially true expectation

Iran's attractions: Tabatabae'i house

Iran is truly one of the cleanest countries you can travel to!

Religious law

The hint is in the name. “Islamic Republic of Iran”. It is the first country I visited with “Islamic” in its name, and before I arrived I was scared witless!
What if I was arrested for something I did not know? Is this Sharia? As with all other fears I had, I relaxed as soon as I entered the country. First of all, the Iranian legal system incorporates some elements of religious law. Granted, some rules might sound uncomfortable for Europeans, used to the most liberal legal systems in the world, but the truth is every country has its laws and adapting to these is the compromise every good citizen of the world makes when traveling. Among these rules, there is a Iran dress code, no blasphemy, no alcohol, no drugs and no intimate touching in public. It is also useful to know that it is not a good idea to criticize the Iranian government or to take pictures of military premises and personnel. These are easy enough rules to follow, and after the first few days, you will be doing that unconsciously.
Also, remember that I said that the government is trying to expand the tourism sector? Well, unofficially speaking, local police is encouraged to offer some leniency to tourists, so you are more likely to get a warning than real trouble. Just be responsible about it.
After you get these rules straight, you are free to enjoy the marvels of this land and its friendly people.
Verdict: True expectation
-Religious intolerance
The religiously inspired legal system does not mean there is any worrying level of religious intolerance. Iran is home to the very old Zoroastrian religion, which still lives here, and Shia Islam is simply the last of the many waves of religions that this land has experienced in its rich history. I found various active temples of fire and churches and mosques. More importantly, I found out quite happily that the contacts between these religions have resulted in some Iranians being self-educated about different faiths’ doctrines.
That being said, in some poor areas of the country, there are religious tensions between Sunnis and Shias.
There is a law prohibiting the conversion of Muslims to non-muslim faiths, so don’t go around spreading the Gospel.
Verdict: False expectation

Vank cathedral

All religions are respected in Iran.

Desert, ruins, and AK47

It is the literal answer of one of my European friends to the question “What does Iran make you think of?”.
I left this as the last point in my article as it is the most ludicrous and funny answer I had been given, although I must say many expressed similar opinions when I called from this cozy office in Tehran.
I and my Iranian colleagues laughed for a few good minutes when I told them.
Iran’s last war ended more than 30 years ago, the military’s rifle of choice is not the Kalashnikov, and the deserts in Iran is like nothing you might expect. It is important not to mix up countries just because of proximity. Iran is not Afghanistan, Iranians are not Arabs, and for God’s sake, Iran is not Iraq!
Iran is Persia, an ancient cradle of civilization, a multicultural country with a rich, diverse history, stunning landscapes, friendly people, good food and hidden treasures!
Expect the unexpected.

Iran deserts
Verdict: Go see the Iran deserts!

Are you planning to travel to Iran? Check out our Iran tours.