Iranian Express
As this is an Exploratory Trip, we may not visit all the places below, but in the same respect we may find other interesting areas that are not mentioned.
You head north towards the Caspian Sea, exploring Babol and Sari along the way. Much land is now privately owned along the shoreline, but we try to find a quiet spot to Bush Camp for the night before continuing west to Gorgan. You’ll stay the night in this area and time allowing, try to find some horse trekking in the close by mountains and thick forests where Ghengis Khan’s hordes once rampaged.
Once famous for its vineyards, Shiraz portrays a certain sophistication. Whether you visit the exquisite mosques and mausoleums or just soak up the atmosphere in the tranquil gardens, you are sure to enjoy your time here. It’s also a great place to try typical Iranian food. Journeying north you follow in Alexander the Great’s footsteps, with the opportunity to visit Persepolis. Some compare this magnificent site to other ancient constructions such as Angkor Wat or the Great Pyramids. Further north you arrive in the beautiful and historical city of Esfahan; the jewel in Iran's crown. Esfahan was once one of the largest cities in the world and served as the capital of Persia in the 16th Century. You have the option of a guided city tour to take in the majestic Imam Square; a UNESCO World Heritage Site that is home to the famous blue mosaic tiled Imam Mosque, the Mosque of Sheikh Lotfollah and the Ali Qapu Palace. Other highlights are the historic bridges on the Zayandeh River and the old Shah Carvanserai that used to be the port of call for caravans on the ancient Silk Road. Esfahan is a great city to wander around, while away the day in local tea houses, converse with the incredibly hospitable and friendly Iranians, watch artists at work in bazaars and marvel at the silk Persian rugs in the carpet emporiums.
You have a free day in Kashan, famous for its textiles, pottery and tiles and a great place to pick up those last minute souvenirs in perhaps Iran’s most enjoyable Bazaars. Ancient Caravanserais and ramshackle alleys await the visitor who is prepared to step off the main thoroughfares. Meet the locals in the tea houses and explore the once grand traditional houses. A half day’s drive from Kashan, you overnight in Qom – Iran’s second holiest city after Mashhad. No trip here would be complete without a visit to the magnificent Hazrat-e Masumeh shrine.
Your last drive takes us back in to Iran’s Capital, Tehran and for some this is the end of an amazing journey.