Travel to Iran would probably be like none of your previous trips, it is certainly a unique destination you never expect. There are loads of unique experiences waiting for you here, including cultural attractions, natural beauty, warm-hearted hospitable people, and tasty local foods.
Well, the next issue might be your safety. While you are searching is it safe to travel to Iran, it is never easy to distinguish between propaganda and genuine information. The two risk assessment institutions “International SOS” and “Risk control” evaluate Iran’s risk to travelers to be comparable to that of most European countries’.
Iran Doostan Tours Co. is a reliable Iran travel agency for incoming tours to Iran. No difference whether you are aiming to travel to Iran from Canada or travel to Iran from India, or any other country, we are honored to offer high-quality services in terms of diverse package tours. As a tour operator and travel agency in Iran, we provide all travel services including itineraries, visa, tour guides, transportation, accommodation, and whatever our tourists may need while traveling to Iran. If you are looking for some self-drive tours like travel to Iran by car, we are also ready to provide you with all you may need.
It is good to know that the Iran visa process is quite fast and convenient and the tourists can also apply for a visa online. However, if you intend to travel to Iran from the UK or US, your visa may take a bit longer to be issued.
If you have a call for an independent traveling to Iran, we wholeheartedly respect your decision; then all you may need to have except an Iran travel guide book and a map would be reading some tips for traveling to Iran in our Iran travel blog. For any travel to Iran experience, you are recommended to visit our guest blog and also our trip advisor page, it may be helpful. You may also like to spare some time watching interesting Iran tourism videos to whet your appetite for traveling to Iran.
Our professional colleagues are ready to help you if you have planned to travel to our country. Contact us via info@idt.ir. We will be back to you soon.

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Uraman Takht - Iran UNESCO-Listed Heritage

UNESCO inscribed Uraman on the list of world heritage sites

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Uraman Takht, the undercover gem in the heart of Iranian Kurdistan embraces a unique history, architecture, culture, and people. UNESCO has added this outstanding village to the list of world cultural heritage sites. The number of Iranian cultural word-heritage sites has now reached 26 and we hope to have much more sites of such a culturally rich country on the UNESCO list.
This gorgeous village is a historical one which was formed over forty thousand years ago. In addition to the long history of the village, stone tools of the primitive cavemen and the bones of the hunted animals, that are thousands of years old, have been found around in this region. There are loads of stories and myths among the local people representing that the area was once one of the significant regions of the country during history.
As a stepped village, Uraman’s construction is inspired by nature, the houses have been built on a steep mountain in a way that come to amaze many visitors. The roof of one house is the upper house yard! The architectural design of Uraman represents one of the best practices of ecologically-friendly, nature-connected design.
And finally, surrounded by high mountains and never-ending greenery landscapes the region offers a fascinating scenery. However, as you walk into the village what you will be impressed by Kurdish people kindness and hospitality. Kurdish people with their colorful special costume will invite you to a super tasty local food, a tea, and a friendly gap. This is most probably what you are going to remember from your trip. we would welcome any inquiry you may have about traveling to Iran, please do not hesitate to contact us at info@idt.ir.

Congratulations on this achievement to the local people of Uraman who are the guardians of this legacy. We believe this cultural heritage would never exist without you.

Are you planning to travel to Iran? Check out our Iran Heritage Tour.

Trans-Iranian-Railway

Trans-Iranian Railway Inscribed as UNESCO World Heritage

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The Trans-Iranian railway was inscribed as UNESCO world heritage in July, 2021. This is the longest railway on the list of UNESCO, and Iran’s first industrial heritage that has been recognized for its “outstanding universal value”. The number of Iran’s UNESCO-listed tangible cultural heritage has now reached 25.

The construction of the railway dates back to 1927, connecting Tehran to Bandar Torkaman Port on the Caspian Sea in the north of Iran and Imam-Khomeini Port on the Persian Gulf in the south of Iran. The length of this north-south railway is 1394 kilometers. However, the prominence of this railway in Iran is more than connecting north of this vast land to the south! It is considered a turning point in Iran’s history, since its construction is regarded as the start of modernism and development in Iran during the past century. Outstanding technical features and quality of this railway, and the fascinating landscapes it passes through has made it a unique cultural heritage. we would welcome any inquiry you may have about traveling to Iran, check out Iran heritage tour and please do not hesitate to contact us at info@idt.ir.

 

chogha zanbil

Chogha Zanbil Ziggurat, the pyramids of Iran

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What do you know about the first Iranian historical monument registered in UNESCO? Iran is one of the oldest civilizations in the world, governed by many rulers and kingdoms. Today we can see historic constructions and religious temples from different periods in Iran. Religious buildings have always been a great attraction to tourists. Here, we are going to introduce a Ziggurat named Chogha Zanbil which is a glorious monument of the past.

Location and History

Chogha Znabil Ziggurat is located in Susa city, Khuzestan province, which is 115 km away from Ahvaz. Historically, the construction of this building dates back to 1250 BC. After entering the city, you can follow the signs along the way to reach the Ziggurat of ChoghaZanbil and visit it. But, what are the Ziggurats? Ziggurats were respected and sacred buildings to people of that time, and they prepared the best materials, including bricks and clay, to build such structures.
How old is Chogha Zanbil? A glance into its history indicates that it was built during the Ontash Napirash, the king of the Elamites. The discovery of the construction is also an interesting story. At that time, a geologist named Jacques Demorgan began drilling for oil around Susa, but after a while, he found the ancient bricks and sent them to archaeologists. Years later, archaeological excavations led to the discovery of Choghaznabil.

Architecture

As we mentioned, Chogha Zanbil was once buried under the ground. That is why we observe it in the form of a hill. In the structure of the Chogha Zanbil, a pyramidal and stepped architecture is evident; It is made of several floors and has dozens of nested corridors and rooms. The area around the building is paved to give an excellent view. You can see circular platforms in the northeastern, northwestern, and southwestern parts of this building. There are sundials built to detect time and seasons. The interior of the building is made of clay, and the exterior wall is made of brick. Bricks are used to protect the clay from erosion. They are all baked, and inscriptions are written on them. This place has three zones marked by fences, and visitors can enter the first one.

Chogha-Zanbil-architeture

Chogha Zanbil, a pyramidal and stepped architecture in Susa, Iran.

One of the wonders of Chogha Znabil is the water supply system in this ancient temple. The waterways have been developed along the entire building to protect it from the torrential rains of Khuzestan. Also, the four corners of the Ziggurat are in the direction of the four geographical directions, and this shows that the builders knew the north, south, east, and west well.

Mysteries

There are stories and secrets behind every historical and religious place. It would be a good idea to read the mysteries about the Chogha Zanbil. The people of ancient Elam believed that Ziggurats were a bridge that took men to heaven and brought them closer to the gods step by step. On the other hand, some supposed that gods came to the Earth from heaven with the help of the Ziggurats. That is why the building has stepped architecture.
In ancient times, people believed in several gods. The people of ancient Elam accepted that many gods controlled and ruled the world and that every city had a god who was in charge of protecting it. People built temples for the gods in the city center. But inside the Ziggurat of Choghazanbil, statues of the Inshushinak and Napirisha gods were kept. During the festivities, many gifts were given to the gods by the people.
There are more interesting facts about this ziggurat. As we said, the ground around the ziggurat has been paved. Archaeologists have found traces of a child’s foot on some parts of the paving, the cause of which is still unknown. It is scary and exciting at the same time! Evidence suggests that the Choghaznabil ziggurat was seized and destroyed by Assyrian Banipal before it was completed. He stated in an inscription:” I broke the ziggurat of Susa, which was glazed with azure bricks. I razed the temples of Elam to dust. I turned Susa into a ruin. The human voice and joy were destroyed by me.”
Have you ever noticed the shape of the building? The ziggurat is square. Because the number four is considered sacred in numerical architecture. It is inspired by four main directions, four seasons, and four elements of nature.

The best time to visit Chogha Zanbil

You can visit Susa from late March to the end of April. You can travel to Chogha Zanbil Ziggurat by car or tour; since no trains, buses, taxis pass through it. October to April is the best time to visit the ziggurat. If you want to tour on a sunny day, it may be best to bring an umbrella with you. Wearing light-colored sleeves will help you withstand the heat better. Consider the early hours of the day to visit so that the heat does not bother you. we would welcome any inquiry you may have about traveling to Iran, please check out Iran tours & do not hesitate to contact us at info@idt.ir. You are also recommended to visit other places in Susa like the historical castle of Susa, the Apadana Palace, and the Shrine of Daniel the Prophet (PBUH). If you have planned o visit Iran, here is the link to Iran online visa.

Travel to Iran in 2021 and 2022?

Travel to Iran in 2021 and 2022?

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By the end of May 2021, about 2 billion people have been vaccinated, it is the best time to start planning your trips for fall 2021 or later in 2022. International traveling may be riskier than domestic traveling. If you are fully vaccinated then it would be the best time to travel internationally taking travel advice during COVID-19 into consideration. Some tourists are contacting to book travel to Iran in 2021 and 2022 while many others prefer overland tours. In either case, you may be looking for some information, you can get right here on this page.

Travel to Iran in 2021 and 2022

Iran has started vaccination since a few months ago, about 116 million doze of vaccination has been given so far and 61% of the population have been fully vaccinated while it is progressing every day. If you have been fully vaccinated, then there seem to be no concerns to plan your trip to Iran. As the situation seems to get improved, we have received a large number of requests for traveling to Iran in 2021 and 2022 Over the last few weeks.

In September 2021, National Headquarters for Covid-19 pandemic approved that group tours and independent travelers may now enter and exit the country provided that they have a vaccine card, a negative PCR test and following the protocols and instructions imposed by the Ministry of Health in Iran. President Raeisi gave a speech on the occasion of World Tourism Day highlighting the importance of supporting the tourism industry and he emphasized on to the resumption of visas.

Iran Doostan Tours has developed safety protocols to ensure that travelers are safe regarding using masks, alcohol-based stuff, and keeping social distances. Iran Doostan operates tours to Iran in smaller groups to make sure that tourists will have a safe journey to Iran in 2021 and 2022.

Tips for canceling and rescheduling

Hotels in Iran have been quite flexible regarding cancellation and rescheduling due to the COVID pandemic situation. The cancellation regulation is largely dependent on the number of tours (group or individual), but they are all included in recent regulations.
As a tour operator or individual looking for planning a tour to Iran in 2021 or 2022, you are recommended to contact us via info@idt.ir . Our professional staff would be more than happy to provide you with detailed information and help you plan your trip to Iran.

Overland Traveling

Overlanding, or traveling by road has become a trend since it is quite safe. Travelers prefer to be as self-sufficient as possible. Overland trips provide a great opportunity to enjoy outdoor scenery and adventure. If you are targeting Iran as a destination with amazing natural attractions, Overlanding would completely satisfy your taste!

we would welcome any inquiry you may have about traveling to Iran, please do not hesitate to contact us at info@idt.ir. We will come back to you soon. Iran Doosan tour offers experienced tour guides and provides travelers with accommodation to enjoy a memorable overland trip to Iran. We have been planning and operating this type of tour for many years, watch this video of the Overlanding tour to Iran by Iran Doosan.

world wildlife day - Iranian Cheetah

World Wildlife Day 2021: Forests and livelihoods

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World Wildlife Day is celebrated annually on March 3rd; the United Nation has announced “Forest and livelihoods: sustaining people and planet” as 2021 theme to celebrate the day by focusing on the livelihoods of the communities which are highly dependent on the forests and also the significance of these precious ecosystems for the endurance of animals and human beings on Earth.
Covering an area of one-third of the land surface on the Earth, forests play a remarkable role in human livelihoods and well-being. It has been proved that where there is forest, there is also a concentration of tribal people or rural populations relying on these forests. Besides that, it is not only local peoples’ livelihood that relies on forests, these rich ecosystems are home to a variety of flora and fauna species, they are considered a pre-requirement to the survival of biodiversity on the Earth.
As it appears, forests have been prone to many threats during past decades due to the drastic change of climatic conditions, global warming, bush fire as a result of the rise in the temperature, and changing rainfall patterns. Our planet Earth has also been suffered from deforestation accompanying economic development in many countries. Given that forests are vital to animals’ and humans’ life and well-being, particular attention should be paid to the preservation of these natural sources and the first step toward mitigating forests is turning to green growth strategies. As the 2021 theme suggests, making use of the local knowledge would be a possible remedy toward sustaining forests and saving all lives on the Planet.
On world wildlife day, we believe the travel and tourism industry could best contribute through developing sustainable tourism in the rural areas making use of the local communities, making tourists learn rural living standards, and apply them as far as possible. On this special day, you may be surprised to know that Iran owns forests as old as dinosaurs! and we do our best to keep these amazing ecosystems of the Mother Nature. we would welcome any inquiry you may have about traveling to Iran, please check out our Iran tours & do not hesitate to contact us at info@idt.ir. We will come back to you soon.

vaccination against COVID-19

Iran started vaccination against COVID-19

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We are happy to announce that, just like many other countries, Iran started vaccination against COVID-19 last week. Medical staffs are the first groups to receive the Covid-19 vaccine, and the vaccination process will continue for senior citizens over 65 and then vulnerable patients in the next stages.
According to the Iran Ministry of Health and Medical Education, the vaccination program would be executed in four stages to cover 70% of the target population.
We all hope the vaccination development would be the ultimate healing solution for the tourism industry and tourism companies around the world to witness the growth and flourishing once again.

You may now put Iran on your travel bucket list for 2021! If you have a call for traveling to Iran in 2021, get in touch with us through info@idt.ir, we would be more than happy to help you.

travel to Iran as an American

Can you travel to Iran as an American?

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Wondering whether U.S. citizens can travel to Iran or not? Here’s the answer! There might be many political issues that are unpleasant to hear about, but Iran is a welcoming country that is open to visitors from all around the world! Even if you travel to Iran from America, Canada, or Britain, there is nothing to worry about. Rest assured that Iran is a safe and hospitable destination for all travelers. As an Iranian tour operator with 30 years of experience operating incoming tours to Iran, we have had the honor of welcoming many Americans, Canadians, and British citizens to Iran in the past years, and we would like to shed light on the issue in this article so that you can make your call to travel to Iran fearlessly.

Iran Visa for U.S., U.K., and Canadian Citizens

The Iran visa issuance procedure is quite fast and convenient. We are pleased to offer our services for obtaining an Iran visa of approximately one-month duration, which is extendable in Iran. Iran visa fee is different for each nationality. Iran tourist visas are usually arranged through Iran Doostan Tour Company for many applicants from various countries except Israel.

However, the Iran visa application process for US citizens and UK and Canadian passport holders will take a minimum of 60 working days, and Iran visas on arrival will not be issued for citizens of the United States, Great Britain, or Canada.
There has been an update for issuing visas for certain citizens, and you can check the list of countries that are now eligible to travel to Iran without a visa for 15 days, which is non-extendable. Get in touch with us for more information.
The visa application process for Iran generally involves the submission of a passport, photographs, and payment of visa fees. For some countries, additional documents may be required, and our team can assist you.
So please allow 60-90 days to obtain a visa before departure.

You will need to provide additional supporting documentation when applying for your visa.
For US, UK, or Canadian tourists, any time spent in Iran outside of the duration of the tour could be facilitated by the local host (Iran Doostan tour operator), and our dear tourists must be accompanied by the tour guide assigned to the trip.
If you wish to spend additional days in Iran, please contact your booking agent for recommendations on extra accommodation requests.
If you have already decided to travel to Iran as an American, there is only one form to be filled out with your passport details.
Please note that the visa fee is different for each nationality. You can find out the amount you must pay, by contacting us at info@idt.ir.

Is it safe to travel to Iran as an American?

Now that you learned US citizens are allowed to travel to Iran, safety issues might be your next concern. It is no secret that there have been many political issues in the past decades, however, this fact has not deterred enthusiastic tourists from traveling to Iran. Here’s the latest news about Iran’s safety.

If you are looking for the truth, do not go for it through the mass media, instead, search for tourists’ experiences in Iran, which gives you a clear and true image of this glorious country. In order to gain a better understanding of Iran, we have a number of guest blogs on our website that you can read.

An amazing experience awaits you here!

Fortunately, we have a lot to talk about on this topic! Added to the rich culture and fascinating natural landscapes, Iranians are so warm-hearted and friendly that you will experience a positive culture shock as an American! They would welcome every opportunity to chat with you in tourist attractions while you are enjoying your trip in this country. You should not be surprised to be invited to locals’ houses for lunch and dinner as many tourists in Iran have been! Iran is famous for having the most hospitable people in the world. And there are loads of other intricate details that make Iranian culture unique.

If you still have questions on whether the US, UK, and Canadians can travel to Iran, or you have queries about an Iran visa or even how much it costs to travel to Iran, please do not hesitate to email us at info@idt.ir.

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

Isfahan - Iran

Isfahan among the 52 popular travel spots in 2021

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New York Times has recently published a post on 52 popular spots chosen by people in 2020. Since 2020 was a dark year for many people around the world, NYTimes has surveyed which destinations were most delightful, comforting, and inspiring most to travelers and honorably Isfahan is among the 52 suggestions out of 2000 choices to remind us that Iran is a worthy destination to visit. This is the second year in a row that the city has been selected as a popular travel spot by travelers.
Neeknaz Abari, who is raised in Washington explains her vivid memories of visiting Iran:

“… the smiling, chattering taxi drivers with their endless questions about America and their playful jabs at my accent; the winding alleyways that reveal hidden nooks and crannies in the Grand Bazaar. “

She tries to give us a true image of a destination that is constantly attacked by the mass media as a dark one! However, many travelers who have visited this country believe that Iran is a safe country for travelers, Iranians are known for their warm-heartedness and hospitality that is why guests often enjoy their trip and as many would say, they will pay a second visit if they get the chance.
The lovely city of Isfahan which is also known as the Turquoise Jewel of Iran, due to the nice blue tile works applied in its historical attractions, has once been the capital of Iran in history; today, it is home to numerous architectural wonders including the UNESCO-listed Naghshe Jahan Square where tourists take the time to stroll around, chatting the local people and enjoying the atmosphere.
However, this is not all about Isfahan! There is a lot you would not want to miss, this gorgeous city awaits you in 2021.

Enjoy watching a short video of Isfahan, Iran.

Coronavirus in Iran

Coronavirus in Iran: How kids are dealing with the situation?

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Coronavirus in Iran has drastically changed our lifestyle for the past year just like many people around the world, we have experienced less hanging around, less traveling and adventure, and fewer fun times. And we should not ignore the fact that all these, have been much more boring for kids rather than the adults. We may think they rarely grasp the circumstance, however, UNICEF has recently published some interesting photos taken by Erfan Kouchari, a young Iranian photographer, representing how Iranian kids are spending their “Stay at Home” time these days!
Surprisingly, Iranian kids have escaped onto the rooftops of their houses providing themselves a piece of freedom to play, plant gardens, fly kites, do gymnastics, and even set up a tent to enjoy fake camping with their siblings!
Coronavirus in Iran has caused the death of 50,000 Iranians so far, but these amazing photos give us sparks of hope on how children understand the tough situation and contribute to the social isolation rules. They also show a real image of Iran, where the media constantly try to spread panic about and convince people with negative impressions. We are proud to have these educated children to enlighten the future of our country. To consult us, please do not hesitate to send an email to info@idt.ir.
Enjoy seeing these amazing photos by Erfan Kouchari!

saffron harvesting

Saffron harvest season in Iran + Harvesting video

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By early November, many farmworkers including women and men are getting involved in the intricate process of saffron harvest, a product also known as the “Red Gold”. Planting this purple flower and harvesting its precious product has a long history in Iran and the country is considered the first producer of saffron with 350 tones a year.

saffron harvest

Saffron harvest season – Planting this purple flower and harvesting its precious product has a long history in Iran.

There are loads of tips and tricks in cultivating saffron from selecting the crocus for cultivation, proper soil, water, and weather to picking the lovely flowers and drying the stigmas to keep the high quality.

Saffron harvest is the most difficult and at the same time the most sensitive stage of saffron cultivation. The harvesting stage includes picking flowers and separating the stigma from the flower. The life of the flowers is usually between 3 to 4 days and if they are not picked in time, they will be rotted. If you have a plan for traveling to Iran at this time of the year or any other time, we would welcome any inquiry you may have, please do not hesitate to contact us at info@idt.ir.
Saffron grows in arid and subtropical regions. However, it grows better in areas with moderate climates, dry summers, and mild winters. If the flowers are exposed to hot weather, wind, and sunlight for a long time, the color quality and aroma will be reduced, the time of harvesting and drying condition will also strongly affect the quality of saffron, the flowered are usually picked early in the morning when flowers are still buds or semi-opened so that the stigmas are less damaged. Today, saffron is among the most luxurious souvenirs of Iran.

Enjoy watching this amazing video.

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