Iran, with its diverse landscapes ranging from deserts and mountains to wetlands and coastlines, offers a remarkable array of bird species. This birdwatching tour will take you across the country, visiting the most renowned bird habitats to experience the richness of Iran’s birdlife.

Day 1: Arrival in Tehran

Arrival at Tehran International Airport.
Transfer to your hotel and enjoy a restful night.
Evening: Optional visit to a local park for a quick birdwatching session, with possible sightings of Eurasian magpies and other common urban species.

Day 2: Alborz Mountains – Tehran’s Northern Edge

Morning: Departure to the Alborz Mountains, just north of Tehran.
- Explore high-altitude forests and rocky terrains.
- Target species include Eurasian eagle-owl, wallcreeper, and red-fronted serin.
Afternoon: Birdwatching in the Caspian Hyrcanian mixed forests.
- Spot species such as the Persian wheatear, woodpeckers, and various passerines.
Evening: Return to Tehran for overnight stay.

Day 3: Varzaneh Desert – Eastern Iran

Morning: Early departure to Varzaneh Desert, located south of Isfahan.
- Observe desert species including sandgrouse, kestrels, and hoopoe larks.
- Look for migratory species passing through the region.
Afternoon: Visit nearby salt flats and wetlands, where you can find the common crane, flamingos, and other waterfowl.
Evening: Overnight stay in Isfahan.

Day 4: Isfahan – Wetlands and Rivers

Morning: Visit the Zayanderud River and its surrounding wetlands, an excellent habitat for a variety of waterfowl, including swans, ducks, and herons.
- Spot species like the common pochard, white storks, and various shorebirds.
Afternoon: Explore the outskirts of Isfahan, looking for the rare white-tailed eagle and other raptors.
Evening: Free time to explore Isfahan's historical sites and culture. Overnight in Isfahan.

Day 5: Khuzestan Wetlands – Southwest Iran

Morning: Travel to Khuzestan province, an important stop for migratory birds, particularly in the winter months.
- Visit Hoor al-Azim Wetland and Shadegan Marsh, known for pelicans, flamingos, and herons.
Afternoon: Explore other wetland areas where you can observe a wide variety of species, including the endangered Dalmatian pelican.
Evening: Overnight in Ahvaz or a nearby town.

Day 6: Caspian Sea Coast – Northern Iran

Morning: Head to the Caspian Sea Coast for a day of birdwatching along the wetlands.
- Spot species like the Eurasian spoonbill, red-necked grebe, and various waders.
Afternoon: Explore the Golestan National Park, which hosts a wide range of birds, including golden eagles, northern goshawks, and Persian partridges.
Evening: Overnight in Gorgan or a nearby city.

Day 7: Hormoz Island – Persian Gulf

Morning: Fly from Gorgan to Hormoz Island in the Persian Gulf, a coastal haven for birdwatchers.
- Look for osprey, seabirds, and shorebirds in the coastal habitats.
- You may also spot migrant species stopping in this coastal area.
Afternoon: Visit Hara Forests for birdwatching, where you might find species such as the Indian roller and various kingfishers.
Evening: Stay overnight on Hormoz Island.

Day 8: Lut Desert – Southeastern Iran

Morning: Travel to the Lut Desert, one of the driest places on earth, to witness the stark desert landscape.
- This area offers sightings of desert-adapted birds like the desert sparrow, larks, and falcons.
Afternoon: Explore more remote desert regions, where migrating species often stop near rare water sources.
Evening: Return to Tehran for the night.

Day 9: Departure from Tehran

Morning: Free time for last-minute birdwatching in Tehran or shopping for souvenirs.
Afternoon: Transfer to Tehran International Airport for departure.

Key Species to Expect

Raptors: Golden eagle, Persian eagle, goshawks
Waterfowl: Flamingos, Dalmatian pelican, common crane
Passerines: Eurasian magpie, Persian wheatear, wallcreeper
Shorebirds: Common sandpiper, Eurasian spoonbill, red-necked grebe
Desert species: Hoopoe larks, desert sparrow, sandgrouse

Best Time to Visit

Spring (April to June) and Autumn (September to November) are ideal for birdwatching in Iran, with migration routes bringing a variety of species.

This tour offers an extensive journey through Iran’s diverse ecosystems, showcasing the country’s impressive birdlife in some of the most unique and remote regions.