Day 1
Arrival at Imam Khomeini Airport. Drive to Kashan, visit the archeologic site of Tape Sialk (early settlement going back 7000 years) near Kashan. Here, in the 1930’s, French archeologist Roman Ghirshman headed the excavation activities. Continue to traditional hotel in the old town of Kashan. Evening to wander thru the old city.
Day 2
In the morning, we discover Kashan on foot (mosque, bazar). After lunch, visit of the Fin garden (UNESCO world heritage site).
Drive to Abouzeidabad. Stay in an ancient caravansarai. Watch the sunset (weather permitting) surrounded by sand dunes.
Day 3
Opportunity to discover the village for the early risers. Then drive to Izad Khast. In the afternoon, discover the very rural and beautiful village of Izad Khast with its mud citadel/castle. The citadel built with several floor levels, is one of the biggest adobe (mud) constructions in the world. It has been nominated to become an UNESCO world Heritage site. Lodging in a beautifully renovated traditional (mud) house.
Day 4
Breakfast at leisure in the courtyard. Then drive towards Shiraz. We stop at Pasargade to see the tomb of King Cyrus the Great’s (UNESCO World heritage site). There is sufficient time to wander around and visit the ruins of the former Achaemenid palaces.
Continue drive to Shiraz. Stay in renovated traditional hotel.
Day 5
Full day to discover Shiraz.
Day 6
Early breakfast then drive to Persopolis, Iran’s most famous cultural site (also UNESCO World Heritage site). We spend the full morning to discover. After lunch, we drive to nearby Naqsh-e Rostam where several Achaeminid kings were buried in tombs carved out in the cliffs. Drive to Abadeh where we arrive in the evening. We enjoy the hospitality and beauty of yet another carefully renovated traditional hotel.
Day 7
Early risers can discover Abadeh village. In the morning, we drive to Isfahan. After arrival at a traditional hotel and lunch, we have the afternoon and evening to discover Isfahan’s historical sites, its bazars etc. The lighting at night provides an additional charm.
Day 8
Full day to discover Isfahan.
Day 9
Late morning departure from Isfahan to Golpayegan. We stay in a traditional house in a very rural village very close to the Teimareh valley with its ancient rock art. There is ample time in the afternoon to discover the village and its surroundings.
Day 10
Morning excursion to discover the Teimareh valley with its rock art. After lunch (for sure, homemade!), we drive to yet another very rural and beautiful village, Naragh. Stay in eco-lodge.
Day 11
Small morning hike to the rim of the valley to appreciate the natural surroundings of the village. Discover cave (well prepared to welcome visitors) and village. End of the day transfer to (Tehran) Imam Khomeini International Airport.
General Notes
- Services included: Full time tour leader, all transport, all accommodation, majority of meals.
- In some of the traditional accommodation, there is no private toilet and/or bathroom.
- Pride of Iran is happy to adapt this itinerary to your request and flight arrangements.
- Please contact us for further information.