1. Is Iran safe for travelers?
Tourists’ perception and subjective concerns on one hand and the realities on the other hand about a destination are sometimes on opposing sides. Do you feel insecure when making a decision to travel to Iran? Are your perceptions influenced more by the facts and actual risks or the effects of media propaganda? Apart from the effects of media, we understand that tourists tend to have less fear of traveling to destinations with which they have a cultural affinity in terms of religion, language, customs, and the like. The higher the level of true knowledge and experience of Iran and its people’s hospitality, the higher the likelihood of perceived security about the country. For more information about different aspects of security in Iran, please read Lonely Planet. It argues that in Iran, “violent crime against foreigners is extremely rare and, indeed, they are unlikely to be treated with anything but courtesy and friendliness”; this applies to all international tourists.
2. When is the best time to travel to Iran?
It depends on what you want to do. In most places, it is hot in summer and cold in winter with snow in some places. During the month of Ramadan, it can be difficult for tourists as many food stores are closed during the day. Also, around the Iranian New Year which is on March 21st, many Iranians go on holiday, so it can be tricky to book hotels.
3. Is there internet access in Iran?
The hotels in our programs have Internet access; however, it may not be reliable or up to the standards you are accustomed to. Please be aware that some websites are not accessible in Iran. Some of the social sites and Messenger Apps like Facebook and Twitter are blocked in Iran. WhatsApp and Instagram are not blocked in Iran. Also, keep in mind that the list of blocked sites is subject to change without notice.
4. Isn’t it cheaper to arrange the trip myself?
This won’t be the case for Iran, here most hotels don’t have websites and won’t help you properly. Also, transferring money to Iran is a real hassle due to sanctions. With our years of experience and connections, we can assure you of our services and the prices we offer. You’re in good hands with us 🙂
5. Do I need a Visa for Iran? And how hard is it to get an Iranian Visa?
It depends on where you are from and where you are traveling to. Airport Visa for citizens of 60 countries can be issued in IKA airport and is valid for 30 days. It only allows tourists to stay 15 days in Iran during that time. This law only includes Tourist visas and does not include Political, Service, Business, Press, and Journalist visas.
Keep in mind that citizens of the following countries can not apply for an airport visa and must proceed to apply for a visa from a representative of Iran in their countries: Afghanistan, Bangladesh, Canada, Iraq, Jordan, Pakistan, Somalia, United States of America, United Kingdom.
That being said, we suggest applying for your visa beforehand. We can help you to obtain your visa, just click here.
6. Can you travel to Iran as an unmarried couple?
Yes! There is no requirement for tourists to provide a marriage certificate for staying in a hotel. Most hotels won’t ask or care about your relationship status. If they do, it is really up to you to decide how to respond. It is particularly unheard of, but in the worst-case scenario, if the hotels take an issue with your relationship status, you may need to take separate rooms.
But remember, unmarried Iranian couples are not allowed to get a hotel room together. If you are married to an Iranian, keep in mind to have your marriage certificate with you.
7. Will my cellphone, smartphone, or PDA device work in Iran?
Contact your cellular telephone provider to determine if your phone operates on the Global System for Mobile Communications (GSM) and what, if any, activation may be required.
8. Can you backpack in Iran?
Backpacking, as a concept, is not as well known in Iran as in Europe or Australia. That is why specific backpacker hostels do not exist, but this does not make backpacking impossible. As a matter of fact, some of the conditions make backpacking ideal.
For 20 to 40 US dollars per night, you can get rooms at budget hotels, which also include breakfast. Transportations between cities are not that expensive, just like food. As a guest, you can even expect to be offered food.
Overall, a traveler on a budget can expect to have a bit more comfort in Iran. Hitchhiking is not common in Iran, however, so don’t expect people to know what you are looking for. Also, remember that the thumbs-up sign in Iran is like giving someone the middle finger in other countries. This is slowly changing with the advent of social media, but it is better to be safe than sorry.