Iran National Parks Tour of Alborz Mountains and Zagros to the central desert

This itinerary includes a mix of national parks from the Alborz Mountains and Zagros ranges to the central desert regions. It provides opportunities to explore diverse ecosystems, encounter a wide range of wildlife, and enjoy scenic hikes through Iran’s most remarkable landscapes.

Day 1: Arrival in Tehran

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

• Explore the vibrant streets of Tehran in the evening, or take a leisurely walk through the Darband area in the northern part of the city.

Day 2: Tehran to Lar National Park

• Head northeast from Tehran to Lar National Park, located near the Alborz Mountains.

• Lar is known for its beautiful landscapes, from rivers and lush valleys to alpine meadows and rugged mountains. This park is home to many species of wildlife, including Persian wild sheep, wild boar, and brown bears.

• Enjoy a day of trekking, river walks, and birdwatching. Visit Lar Dam and its surrounding natural beauty.

Day 3: Lar National Park to Khar Turan National Park

• Travel southeast to Khar Turan National Park, one of the largest national parks in Iran, located in the Semnan Province.

• Known as a haven for endangered species, Khar Turan is home to the Persian cheetah, goitered gazelle, and sand cats. It’s also rich in flora, including rare desert plants.

• Explore the diverse desert ecosystem, take a safari through the park, and visit the ancient Meyghan Wetlands, which attract migratory birds during the cooler months.

Day 4: Khar Turan to Zagros Mountains (Biosphere Reserve of Dena)

• Head west towards the Zagros Mountains, where Dena National Park awaits.

• Dena is a rugged mountain range offering challenging hikes, wild landscapes, and an array of wildlife. The park is home to Persian wild goats, brown bears, and mountain leopards.

• Enjoy a full-day trek through the Dena Peaks, with the opportunity to visit alpine lakes and experience the region’s diverse flora and fauna.

Day 5: Dena to Bazoft Wildlife Refuge

• Travel to Bazoft Wildlife Refuge, a beautiful and peaceful park located in the Chaharmahal and Bakhtiari Province in southwestern Iran.

• Bazoft offers both mountainous terrain and deep valleys, with a chance to see wild boars, Persian leopards, and a variety of bird species.

• Explore the Bazoft River and its surrounding forests, taking in the beauty of the natural landscape and the serenity of the region.

Day 6: Bazoft to Dasht-e Kavir (Kavir National Park)

• Leave the mountainous regions behind and head towards the Dasht-e Kavir, or Kavir National Park, a vast desert located in central Iran.

• This desert region is famous for its salt plains, sand dunes, and unique geological formations. The park is home to desert foxes, wild cats, and camels.

• Visit the Maranjab Caravanserai and enjoy a desert sunset while observing the quiet beauty of the area.

Day 7: Return to Tehran

• Drive back to Tehran for your final day. If you have time, visit Sa'dabad Complex, Niavaran Palace, or the Tehran Museum of Contemporary Art.

• Enjoy a relaxing evening at Tajrish Bazaar for shopping or a farewell dinner at one of Tehran’s fine restaurants.

• Departure in the evening or plan for an extended stay in Tehran.