Visa
To obtain an Iranian Visa you need an authorisation number from the Iranian Government. This number is issued generally 15 days prior to travel It is based on an approved itinerary signed by clients and forwarded to our Iranian operator. To obtain the authorisation letter the booking must be paid in full. Once the Visa authority is provided it is a simple process at the Iranian Embassy in Wellington or upon arrival in Tehran. Please note that if you hold a passport with an Israeli stamp or exit stamp from a border neighbouring Israel you will be refused entry into Iran. This applies to New Zealand passport holders only.
Alcohol
The consumption and purchase of alcohol is prohibited in Iran. The penalty for tourist is deportation as a minimum.
Ramadan
During the Holy Month of Ramadan Muslims fast, abstaining from eating, drinking & smoking during daylight hours (approx. 7am-6.30pm). As a sign of respect, tourists should also try to refrain from these activities in public during the fasting hours. Some restaurants in hotels will be open, however be prepared by purchasing snacks in the evening as in regional areas no shops maybe open until sunset. In 2019, Ramadan should begin around 05 May. After 30 days, or on sighting the full moon, Eid Al Fitr is celebrated & most public and private institutions close for at least three days.
Dress Codes
Modest dress is required for entrance to holy sites – Men: Long pants, Women – skirt or long pants and shoulders covered.
General Information
The markets (souqs) are closed on Fridays, Museums generally closed on Tuesdays. The normal operating hours for archaeological sites are; 01st of April till 30th September (summer time): Open at 09:00 and close at 18:00 01st of October till 31 March (winter time): Open at 09:00 and close at 16:00 During Ramadan month: Open at 09:00 am and close at 15:00 pm
Accommodation in Iran
Iran is developing it’s tourism infrastructure. The standard of accommodation varies according to location and in more remote areas the best available accommodation will be selected. Many properties are located in the historic quarters of cities and offer a very authentic and atmospheric experience, however the water pressure and pipes in some cases struggle with modern requirements. Please follow instructions provided by the hotels to maximise your experience in these cities.
Travel to other countries
Once you have travelled to Iran , if you intend to travel to the USA you will need to apply for an American visa in person as opposed to using the ESTA system.