The Persian Gulf Discovery

On the second day, we begin our tour in the historic area of Tehran. Enjoy walking in the green garden of Golestan complex, UNESCO registered site, the best place to learn more about the history of Tehran during the last 300 years. Next we have a walk in Tehran Grand Bazaar, a historical commercial place that gives you a good view of historic methods of trade in old Persia. The national museum of Iran is one of the richest collections in the world, with different halls that display the different periods of Iran history and prehistory.  Let’s have a Persian lunch followed by some free time to continue your tour or take a rest. In the afternoon we go to see Carpet Museum, a specialized collection of Persian carpets, weaving techniques, designs and motifs inspired by the beauties of Persian garden, wildlife and customs.

Overnight: Tehran

This is the time to really start the Persian Gulf journey. Take a flight to Ahvaz, the capital of Khuzestan, the south-western province of Iran next to the Persian Gulf. After checking out, we go straight to Shushtar, the historical city widely known for the UNESCO registered site of Shushtar Historical Hydraulic System – get your camera ready as you stroll the bridges and mills. Tchogha Zanbil, the Elamite holy city and the first civilization in south western Iran going to be our next spot. The atmosphere of the only remaining ziggurat out of Mesopotamia is very pleasant. Then we go Shush, the paradise of Iran archaeology. Let’s wander through the historic area of Shush archaeological mound, pass the Achaemenids royal heritage of Apadana and visit the Shush castle, an archaeological center on top of the hill. Then we head to holy shrine of Daniel, the Jewish prophet to see the incredible designs of this monument.

Overnight: Shushtar

Drive back to Ahvaz, the city of joy and happiness. Due to its hot weather during day, it has vibrant nights to enjoy walking in the streets. Don’t forget to try Ahvazi Felafel, a tasty, original and a little bit chilli sandwich made with pea, onion and parsley. We are going to visit some special places in Ahvaz, including Mapar House, local bazaar and White Bridge. This evening we’ll enjoy dinner at a restaurant in the Ahvazi Quarter.

Overnight: Ahvaz

Departing Ahvaz to Bushehr by car, along the way pass fascinating scenes along the Persian Gulf coastline. Bandar-e Bushehr (Bushehr port) is one of the important commercial, cultural and historical ports of Iran. There we are going to see Malek Mansion, the tallest Qajarian mansion in south of Iran. Then we visit Dehdashti Edifice, a four-storey building beautifully decorated with frescoes and coloured glass and plaster works. Enjoy walking in the historic quarter of Bushehr, wander through the local bazaar, listen to the sound of classic music of Bushehr and meet the Bushehri people who are famous for their hospitality and kindness.

Overnight: Bushehr

Early in the morning we drive alongside the Persian Gulf to Asaluyeh City. En route we make a stop in Delvar and Siraf villages. In Delvar, we meet the heritage belonging to Raeis Ali delvari, an Iranian fighter and symbol of courage against British colonialism in Iran. Then we continue to Siraf, the historical port of Persina Gulf. There we visit the Palace o Sheikh Nasouri, ancient Graveyard od Siraf and rocky beach.

Overnight: Asaluyeh

This morning we head to Bandar-e Charak where we make a stop to see the Buchir Canyon. Then we take a ferry to Kish, the luxurious island of Iran. Kish is one of the most visited islands of the Persian Gulf, serving up centuries of incredible history together with modern, well equipped and fantastic tourism attractions including beaches, hotels, malls and water activity centres. As we make our way to Siena we’ll stop in Modena, where you’ll enjoy a tasting of balsamic vinegar. Arriving in Siena this afternoon, your tour leader will take you on a short orientation tour of the historic city centre, and you’ll then have some free time to take photos and explore. Time is yours to explore the lush national parks of Kish, swim, relax and soak up all that natural beauty.

Overnight: Kish Island

After breakfast we’ll make our way towards the beautiful attractions of Kish, exploring Kariz land and then Kish Dolphin Park. After that, we head to see the dramatic view of the Greek Ship, a cargo steamship, which was beached on the Kish Island coast in 1966. Kish is a fantastic tourist city with something for everyone.

Overnight: Kish Island

Head back to Bandar-e Charak to continue on to Bandar-e Khamir. En route visit Bandar-e Lengeh. There are some places you won’t want to miss in these two ports such as Fekri Traditional House, Local Shop and Bazaar, Malek Ben Abbas Mosque and Laft Historical Village. All of these attractions will give you a better idea of the history, people, culture and nature of this part of Iran. Finally we take a ferry to Qeshm Island.

Overnight: Qeshm Island

Qehsm is the largest island in the Persian Gulf, featuring biologically diverse mangrove forests, rocky and sandy beaches, original villages, canyons, hills, caves and valleys. Most of this natural attraction is protected as part of the UNESCO-recognised Qeshm Island Geo Park. Here in Qeshm we make a stops at Valley of Stars, Chahkooh Canyon, Naz and Hengam Islands, Salt Cave and Geopark Museum. Above all, Qeshm represents one of the unique cultures of Iran by its kindest local people.

Overnight: Qeshm

Taking a ferry to Hormoz Island, this must see destination is one of the newest attractions of the Persian Gulf, worthy of a visit. Your experienced tour leader will introduce you to all the key sites on an exciting tour of the island. Keep an eye out for such iconic landmarks as the Rainbow Valley, Valley of the Statues, Ahmad Nadalian Museum and Turtles Beach. All of these attractions display an eclectic, bohemian and historic view of the Hormoz Island.

Overnight: Qeshm Island