Cycling Along the Persian Gulf: A Journey Through Southern Iran

This tour will take you through the beautiful and lesser-known regions of southern Iran, from the Persian Gulf islands to the vast desert plains, offering a mix of natural wonders, cultural insights, and thrilling cycling routes. 

Duration: 9 Days / 8 Nights

Tour Type: Adventure / Cycling Tour

Day 1: Arrival in Bandar Abbas

• Arrival and Welcome: Arrive at Bandar Abbas, the heart of southern Iran. After arrival, your local guide will meet you and transfer you to your hotel.

• Evening Activity: A light ride around the port city, exploring Bandar Abbas’s bustling market and enjoying the views of the Persian Gulf.

• Overnight: Stay in Bandar Abbas.

Day 2: Bandar Abbas to Qeshm Island (Cycling Distance: 90 km)

• Cycling Route: Start your cycling adventure with a ride from Bandar Abbas to Qeshm Island, the largest island in Iran, situated in the Persian Gulf.

• Stop: Visit the Hara Mangrove Forests, where you can observe the rich biodiversity of the region. Explore the Qeshm Island Geopark.

• Overnight: Stay in a local guesthouse or eco-lodge on Qeshm Island.

Day 3: Exploring Qeshm Island

• Cycling Tour of Qeshm: Cycle through the island’s unique geological formations, including Stars Valley, where the rocks have been shaped into strange, towering formations over centuries.

• Stop: Visit Chahkooh Canyon, a narrow gorge with stunning rock formations and a chance to explore hidden caves.

• Overnight: Stay on Qeshm Island.

Day 4: Qeshm Island to Hormoz Island (Cycling Distance: 40 km)

• Cycling Route: Take a short boat ride from Qeshm to Hormoz Island, known for its mineral-rich soil and vibrant landscape.

• Stop: Visit Hormoz Island’s Red Beach, where the sands take on a bright red hue due to the high mineral content in the soil.

• Overnight: Stay in a guesthouse on Hormoz Island.

Day 5: Hormoz Island to Minab (Cycling Distance: 100 km)

• Cycling Route: Ride from Hormoz Island back to the mainland, heading towards Minab, a small city in the southern part of the country.

• Stop: Along the way, explore the local villages and desert landscapes, getting a sense of the traditional way of life in this part of Iran.

• Overnight: Stay in Minab.

Day 6: Minab to Jiroft (Cycling Distance: 160 km)

• Cycling Route: Cycle from Minab to Jiroft, passing through the Rudbar Desert and the Hormozgan Mountains.

• Stop: Visit the Jiroft Archaeological Site, known for its ancient civilizations dating back thousands of years, including the Jiroft Civilization.

• Overnight: Stay in Jiroft.

Day 7: Jiroft to Kerman (Cycling Distance: 200 km)

• Cycling Route: Ride through the vast desert landscapes from Jiroft to Kerman, cycling across open plains and picturesque mountain ranges.

• Stop: Take a break to visit the historical Mahan Garden and the Shahzadeh Garden, known for their traditional Persian architecture and landscaping.

• Overnight: Stay in Kerman.

Day 8: Explore Kerman

• Cycling in the City: Spend the day cycling around Kerman, exploring the Ganjali Khan Complex, the Jameh Mosque of Kerman, and the Kerman Bazaar.

• Leisure Time: Visit the Shahdad Desert, home to the Kaluts (giant sand formations), one of the most spectacular desert landscapes in Iran.

• Overnight: Stay in Kerman.

Day 9: Departure from Kerman

• Morning: After breakfast, you’ll have some free time to explore Kerman’s attractions or relax before your flight.

• Transfer to Airport: You will be transferred to Kerman International Airport for your departure flight.

Additional Information:

• Level of Difficulty: Moderate to challenging, with a mix of coastal, desert, and mountain terrain.

• Group Size: Small groups (5-12 people).

• Accommodation: A mix of traditional guesthouses, boutique hotels, and seaside resorts.

• Meals: Enjoy local Persian cuisine with an emphasis on fresh seafood, regional stews, and deserts.

• Included in the Tour:

  • Local cycling guide

  • Bike rental and necessary equipment

  • All meals (breakfast, lunch, dinner)

  • Entrance fees to historical sites

  • Support vehicle for luggage and assistance

  • Airport transfers