Iran Classic tour for explorers (15 days itinerary includes a day with Nomads)

Iran, where the ancient power of the Persian Empire once resided, is bordered by the Caspian Sea to the north and by the Persian Gulf to the south. This Islamic republic is one of the oldest civilisations on earth, offering travellers a variety of historical wonders, exquisite landscapes and famously friendly locals. While outdoor enthusiasts enjoy the exceptional snow-skiing conditions in Dizin and exhilarating camel rides through the deserts, those seeking more sedate activities will find an array of world-class museums to explore, as well as a variety of archaeological sites dotted throughout the countryside. Not-to-be-missed attractions include the Masjed-e Shah mosque, a blue-tiled mosaic masterpiece; the National Museum of Iran in the capital city of Tehran; and the magnificent ruins of Persepolis, dating back over 2500 years.

Currency

The currency of Iran is the Iranian Rial (IRR; symbol Rs) = 100 dinars. Notes are in denominations of Rs 100,000, 50,000, 20,000, 10,000, 5,000, 2,000, 1,000, 500, 200 and 100. Coins are in denominations of Rs 5,000, 2,000, 1,000, 500, 250, 100 and 50. 

The import and export of local currency is limited to Rs500,000. Any amount larger requires authorisation from the Central Bank. The import of foreign currency is unlimited, provided declared on arrival. The export of foreign currency is limited to the amount declared on arrival.

Banking

Banking hours: Saturday - Wednesday 08h00-16h00 and Thursday 08h00-12h30

MasterCard is accepted in some places, but credit cards should emphatically not be relied on as the sole means of payment. Be aware too that if the card was issued in the USA, it may not be usable due to the US trade embargo.

It is not possible to exchange travellers’ cheques. 

ATMs can be used only by holders of local bank accounts. 

Iran Air runs services to Abdan, Ahwaz, Esfahan, Kish, Mashhad, Shiraz, Tabriz, Tehran and Zahedan and other major cities. Aseman Air also runs services to the major cities. The vast size of Iran often makes internal flights the most practical method of transport. The road network is extensive, but the quality is unreliable. The two main roads, the AH1 and AH2, link the Iraqi and Pakistani borders and the Afghan and Turkish borders. Car hire is available in most cities and from the airport. Taxis are available in all cities. The urban taxis (orange or blue) carry several passengers at a time and are much cheaper than the private taxis which only carry one person. Unofficial taxis should be avoided; use only legitimate taxis or those ordered through legitimate agencies. Group taxis for up to 10 people are available for intercity travel. Prices are negotiated beforehand and tipping is not necessary. 

RAJA Trains runs a comprehensive internal rail network. Major intercity trains operate on five main regional routes: Azarbaijan route (Tehran - Jolfa); Golestan route (Tehran - Gorgan); Hormozgan route (Tehran - Bandar-e-Abbas); Khorasan route (Tehran - Mashhad); and Khozetan route (Tehran - Khorramshahr). There are many areas in the mountains and the desert which can only be reached by rail. There are some air-conditioned trains, and sleeping and dining cars on many trains.

Rice is the staple food and the Iranians cook it in style, eating it with wheat bread, yoghurt, lamb and aubergines. Typical Persian flavours are subtle, with cinnamon, cloves, turmeric, cardamom and saffron all delicately blended. Garlic and lime also feature heavily. Many Iranians make their own yoghurt, which can be used as an ingredient in many dishes or as a cool and refreshing drink. Kebabs, served either in oven-fresh bread or with rice, tend to dominate menus, but there's plenty more besides. Vegetarianism is uncommon, but visitors will often find meat-free options.

Mains water is normally chlorinated, and whilst relatively safe, may cause mild abdominal upsets. Bottled water is available and is advised for the first few weeks of the stay. Pasteurised milk is available; unpasteurised milk should be boiled. Powdered or tinned milk is available and is advised. Avoid dairy products which are likely to have been made from unboiled milk. Only eat well-cooked meat and fish. Vegetables should be cooked and fruit peeled.

In large hotels, a 10% to 15% service charge is added to the bill. In restaurants, it is usual to leave small change.

The size of Iran means that can temperatures can vary hugely, depending on which corner of the country you find yourself in. Days can be incredibly hot between May and October, particularly in the desert regions and along the Gulf Coast, while the mountain ranges of the north become freezing over winter. Nights can be especially cold. In general terms, major cities like Tehran, Esfahan and Tabriz have seasons broadly equivalent to those in Mediterranean Europe. Iran has relatively low rainfall but is prone to earthquakes. Those travellers hoping to ski will find most action between November and March, while it’s advisable for all visitors to look into timings of festivals like Ramadan before booking a trip.

In Tehran, lightweight clothing is worn from April to October while medium-weights are advised from November to March. Be reminded, however, that dress should always err on the side of conservatism, particularly for women – the wearing of headscarves is obligatory in public.

Wall outlets in the Islamic Republic of Iran are one of two electrical socket types: The ‘Type C’  (CEE 7/16 Europlug) and Type F (CEE 7/4 Schuko). If your appliance's plug doesn't match the shape of these sockets, you will need a travel plug adapter in order to plug in. Travel plug adapters simply change the shape of your appliance's plug to match whatever type of socket you need to plug into. If it's crucial to be able to plug in no matter what, bring an adapter for all types.

Electrical sockets in Iran usually supply electricity at 230 volts AC / 50 Hz frequency. If you're plugging in an appliance that was built for 230-volt electrical input, or an appliance that is compatible with multiple voltages, then an adapter is all you need. If your appliance isn’t compatible with 230 volts, a voltage converter will be necessary.