South-West Iran

The Elamite ziggurat of Chogha Zanbil, 14th century BC. Photograph: ©Patrick Ringgenberg.

Human mosaics and archeology

Like the northwest of Iran, the Iranian southwest, barred by the Zagros mountain range, is a mosaic of stories: a multitude of ethnic groups, cultures and languages (Kurds, Bakhtyaris, Lors, Arabs, etc.) and a lesser diversity of landscapes and climates can be found in this part of the country. The historical heritage is also varied, spanning millennia: from Elamite bas-reliefs cut into the rocks (2nd millennium), to traditional houses from the 19th century, including sites dating back to the Parthians and Sassanids. The proposed itinerary combines famous sites (Hamadan, Kermanshah) with less frequented regions (Kurdistan, Khorramabad, Izeh), while allowing a more in-depth visit to cities with hidden treasures (Shushtar, Dezful).

Tehran – Saveh – Arak – Hamadan – Sanandaj – Marivan – Kermanshah – Khorramabad – Dezful – Susa – Chogha Zanbil – Shushtar – Izeh – Isfahan
17 DAYS

Best seasons: April-May, September-October
Hotel categories: good to very good
Special difficulties: none

Price
------ Euros2 people in a double room
------ Euros4 people in a double room
------ Euros6 people in a double room
IncludedNot included
Double room accommodation in the best hotel categories availableSingle room supplement
Transfer and transportationInternational flight (price on request)
English-speaking local guide for the entire duration of the tripVisa fees
Full boardCancellation and accident insurance
Entrances to the sites mentioned in the programTips
Mineral water bottlesPersonal purchases
A SIM card from an Iranian operator
Documentation

To prepare your trip: