Iran National Parks Tour from forests of Golestan to Kavir Desert

This tour is designed to provide a well-rounded experience of Iran’s diverse national parks. From the lush forests of Golestan to the stark beauty of the Kavir Desert, it covers a variety of terrains and wildlife, making it an ideal adventure for nature lovers.

Day 1: Arrival in Tehran

• Arrive in Tehran and transfer to your hotel for a relaxing evening.

• Take a short trip to Darband, a popular hiking spot in the foothills of the Alborz Mountains, or visit one of Tehran’s lively bazaars for a taste of the local culture.

Day 2: Tehran to Alborz Mountains (Alamut Valley and National Park)

• Depart for Alamut Valley, a region nestled in the Alborz Mountains. The area is famous for its historical Alamut Castle, as well as its unique natural beauty.

• Explore Alamut National Park, known for its diverse flora and fauna, including Persian wild goats, wolves, and eagles.

• Hike through the park’s rugged terrain, enjoy breathtaking views of the valley, and visit the castle to learn about its rich history.

Day 3: Alamut to Golestan National Park

• Drive northeast to Golestan National Park, one of the most biodiverse national parks in Iran, located on the edge of the Hyrcanian Forests.

• The park is home to a variety of wildlife, including Persian leopards, brown bears, and wild boars. Spend the day trekking through lush forests and enjoying the park's waterfalls, rivers, and diverse plant species.

• Visit the Gorgan River for a peaceful walk along its banks, surrounded by dense forest and mountain views.

Day 4: Golestan to Khorasan (Binaloud Mountain Range National Park)

• Head east towards the Binaloud Mountain Range in Khorasan Province. This mountainous region is known for its rugged terrain, alpine meadows, and clear lakes.

• Explore Binaloud National Park, which offers a unique experience of Iran’s mountainous ecosystems, where you can spot wild goats, bearded vultures, and various species of wild plants.

• Hike to one of the high-altitude lakes for stunning views of the surrounding peaks and valleys.

Day 5: Khorasan to Dasht-e Kavir (Kavir National Park)

• Continue your journey south to Kavir National Park, located in central Iran’s Dasht-e Kavir desert. This expansive desert park offers a stark contrast to the lush greenery of northern Iran.

• The desert is home to unique wildlife, including desert foxes, sand cats, and wild camels. Enjoy a desert safari and explore the salt flats, sand dunes, and ancient caravanserais.

• Visit Maranjab Caravanserai, a historical site where traders once passed through, and enjoy the serenity of the desert at sunset.

Day 6: Kavir Desert to Lorestan National Park

• Travel west to Lorestan National Park, located in the Zagros Mountains. Known for its rugged mountain landscapes and dense forests, the park offers an excellent opportunity for wildlife observation and hiking.

• Discover the Shahdasht Waterfall, one of the largest waterfalls in Iran, and trek through the beautiful Koohrang region, home to Persian wild sheep and a variety of bird species.

• Visit Koohrang Wetlands, an important bird-watching spot for migratory birds.

Day 7: Return to Tehran

• Drive back to Tehran for the final day of your tour.

• Explore Tehran’s top attractions, such as the Golestan Palace or Tehran’s Museum of Contemporary Art, or visit Tajrish Bazaar for shopping and souvenirs.

• Departure in the evening or plan for an extended stay to explore more of the city.