Iran FAQs

Our aim in Iran is to enable the first time visitor to soak up the fascinating cultural heritage of Persia by visiting a variety of sites and classic buildings. We try to do this in a relaxed manner so that you have time to really enjoy them and not be constantly rushing from one to the other. Iran has a good tourism infrastructure although trade embargos have had an impact on certain aspects of the industry, and both hotels and sites often shut or close down at short notice. It is important to come prepared with a sense of adventure and humour! If you are not sure, talk to one of our staff to get a better idea of what to expect from the tour and the country.

Yes. Our ATOL number is 6694

Anyone with reasonable mobility will be absolutely fine. There are a few small hills to climb at some sites but otherwise the activity will be wandering through bazaars and around cities. Of course, if you feel you’d like to climb one of Iran’s many mountains, we can tailor make a trip for you.

Currently yes. Iranians are wonderfully hospitable and keen to dispel any ideas of them being unwelcoming or hostile to tourists! Politically, Iran and Britain haven't had an easy relationship over the years, and we follow Foreign Office advice closely. However, this has not had a direct impact on how tourists are treated upon entering the country and the ease with which they can travel around and visit the sites. If there was any indication that tourists could be at risk we would not take tours there.

Iran is a four season country, with everything from sandy desert to snowy mountains. Our group departures are usually in the more comfortable spring and autumn when average daytime temperatures would be between 25 and 30 degrees centigrade. Due to the altitude, evening temperatures can drop to 15 and a lot less in the winter. It is certainly warmer in the height of summer, with average daytime temperatures of around 35 degrees centigrade or more.

Credit and debit cards are not accepted and traveller’s cheques are not readily changeable. You will need to bring enough cash for your evening dinners, tipping, incidentals and shopping, with the latter being the most variable! If one took this out of the equation, then £200 per person would be ample but you may be seduced by a Persian carpet or perhaps some of the wonderful ceramics on offer. Including shopping, £500 would be closer to the mark.

Iran is a conservative Islamic society and one must dress accordingly: women travellers must wear a scarf to cover their hair and neck as well as loose fitting trousers and a long sleeve long shirt that covers the bottom. Clothes should not be tight fitting. Pretty much all women wear socks and shoes. Some visitors prefer to purchase a chador (an all enveloping cloak) on arrival but this is not strictly necessary these days. Men should wear trousers and a long sleeve shirt. Shorts should not be worn.

Although there are no specific requirements, Simoon Travel would recommend being up to date with your diphtheria, typhoid, hepatitis A, polio and tetanus.

We will send information regarding tipping along with your pre-departure information. As a basic rule though, a group of four would normally tip the guide $20 per day and the driver $15.

We would not expect more than 15 guests on a group departure.

We closely consult with our team in Iran, so that we use the most knowledgeable guides possible. Training to become a qualified guide takes two years, so the quality is generally very high. With good English, they are there to inform but they will also answer your questions, give advice on where to go during any free time and help in translating the many conversations that you will inevitably strike up!

Depending on the size of the group, we use mini-buses and mini-coaches, both of which are modern and air-conditioned.

Yes we can.

In terms of style, our Iranian accommodation varies quite a lot. We prefer to use everything from beautifully refurbished caravanserais to larger city hotels in order to strike an overall balance between one which is an experience in itself and something that is practical and well located.

As with any journey abroad, insurance is a must. We can provide a full comprehensive insurance policy through Citybond Suretravel.

Passports must be valid for at least six months beyond the period of intended stay and must not have any Israeli stamps in it. A visa is required and in order to apply for this on your behalf, Simoon Travel will require your passport four weeks before departure for up to two weeks (though the process will not usually take this long).

Yes. Iran is a fascinating country for a family holiday and children will be warmly welcomed.

Yes flights are included in the price. However please note that flights may be subject to seasonal fare or tax increases.