Iran Photography Tour – 19 Days of Iconic Shots

Start the day at the National Museum of Iran, where ancient artifacts tell the story of Persia’s rich heritage. Then, visit the Treasury of National Jewels (if open) or the Glass and Ceramics Museum, both offering incredible photographic subjects. In the afternoon, capture the artistic grandeur of Azadi Tower, Tehran’s iconic landmark, before heading to Tajrish Bazaar, where locals shop for fresh produce and traditional goods. Overnight in Tehran.

Depart for Kashan, a city famed for its historical mansions and rosewater traditions. Explore the elegant Tabatabaei and Borujerdi Houses, masterpieces of Persian architecture with intricate plasterwork and stained-glass windows. Visit the Sultan Amir Ahmad Bathhouse, where soft lighting and turquoise tiles create a dreamlike photography setting. Conclude the day at the Fin Garden, a UNESCO-listed Persian paradise. Overnight in Kashan.

En route to Isfahan, stop at the village of Abyaneh, a photographer’s delight with its red-mud houses, narrow alleys, and traditionally dressed locals. Capture the timeless beauty of this ancient village before continuing to Isfahan, Iran’s cultural gem. Upon arrival, visit the majestic Si-o-se-pol and Khaju Bridges, beautifully illuminated at night. Overnight in Isfahan.

Begin your exploration at the breathtaking Naqsh-e Jahan Square, a UNESCO-listed wonder. Frame the intricate details of Shah Mosque and Sheikh Lotfollah Mosque, known for their mesmerizing domes. Step into Ali Qapu Palace, where panoramic terrace views provide the perfect photo opportunity. Wander through the lively Isfahan Bazaar, capturing artisans at work. Overnight in Isfahan.

Venture into the heart of Isfahan’s old quarter to photograph the Jameh Mosque, an architectural encyclopedia of Persian design. Then, explore the Armenian Quarter and visit Vank Cathedral, where vibrant frescoes contrast beautifully against Islamic architecture. Later, enjoy tea in a traditional teahouse, perfect for candid street photography. Overnight in Isfahan.

Drive to Yazd, an ancient desert city famed for its unique architecture. Explore the Jameh Mosque of Yazd, adorned with towering minarets and dazzling blue tiles. Wander through the mud-brick Old Town, capturing the play of light and shadow in its labyrinthine alleys. Sunset photography at the Amir Chakhmaq Complex provides a stunning finale to the day. Overnight in Yazd.

Visit the Zoroastrian Fire Temple, where an eternal flame has burned for over 1,500 years. Explore the eerie Towers of Silence, ancient burial sites on the city’s outskirts. In the afternoon, head into the Dasht-e Kavir Desert for surreal sunset photography among the sand dunes. Overnight in Yazd.

Drive to Kerman, stopping at the fascinating Meymand Cave Village, where people have lived in rock-cut dwellings for thousands of years. Upon arrival, visit the Ganjali Khan Complex, an architectural gem featuring a historic bathhouse, bazaar, and caravanserai. Overnight in Kerman.

Journey to the UNESCO-listed Bam Citadel, a colossal mud-brick fortress with breathtaking panoramic views. Then, enter the Lut Desert, known for its mesmerizing dunes and starry night skies. Overnight in a desert camp.

Capture the surreal landscapes of the Kaluts, wind-carved rock formations in the Lut Desert. Visit Shahzadeh Garden in Mahan, an oasis of greenery amidst the arid land. Overnight in Kerman.

Drive to Shiraz and explore the enchanting Eram Garden, a UNESCO-listed Persian garden. Visit the Vakil Bazaar and Mosque, capturing the city’s lively atmosphere. Overnight in Shiraz.

Explore the majestic ruins of Persepolis, the ceremonial capital of the Achaemenid Empire. Visit Naqsh-e Rostam, the royal necropolis of Persian kings. Overnight in Shiraz.

Depart from Shiraz and begin a scenic journey south toward Bandar Abbas, the gateway to Iran’s southern islands. Along the way, stop at Sirjan, a historical town known for its unique wind towers and ancient caravansaries. Capture the changing landscapes as the road leads toward the Persian Gulf. Arriving in Bandar Abbas, explore the Hindu Temple, an architectural gem reflecting the city’s historical trade connections. Enjoy an evening stroll along the Bandar Abbas waterfront, where local fishermen bring in their fresh catch, providing fantastic photo opportunities. Overnight in Bandar Abbas.

In the morning, take a ferry across the glistening waters of the Persian Gulf to Qeshm Island, the largest island in the region. Begin exploring Stars Valley, an otherworldly landscape of eroded rock formations shaped by centuries of wind and rain. Capture the dramatic contrasts of light and shadow in this geological wonder. Then, head to Chahkooh Canyon, a narrow sandstone canyon with surreal rock patterns perfect for photography. End the day at a traditional eco-lodge, where you’ll experience local island life. Overnight in Qeshm.

Spend another full day exploring Qeshm’s hidden gems. Visit the Hara Mangrove Forest, a unique ecosystem where you can photograph flocks of migratory birds and fishermen navigating the tranquil waters. Then, drive to Laft Village, where centuries-old windcatchers rise above the rooftops, creating a timeless scene of Persian Gulf architecture. Later, capture the sunset at Naz Islands, a dramatic tidal landscape that disappears beneath the sea at high tide. Overnight in Qeshm.

Take a ferry to Hormuz Island, a surreal paradise of vibrant landscapes and unearthly rock formations. Begin your exploration at the Rainbow Valley, where multi-colored mineral deposits create a striking natural palette. Continue to Red Beach, where the sand glows crimson due to iron-rich deposits. Photograph the unique Salt Cave, an underground wonder with crystalline formations. Enjoy a golden-hour shoot at Silence Valley, where the barren, Mars-like terrain offers endless creative possibilities. Overnight in a guesthouse on Hormuz.

Capture the morning light on Hormuz before taking the ferry back to Qeshm Island. Enjoy a final round of island photography before transferring to Qeshm International Airport for a flight back to Tehran. Upon arrival, check into your hotel and enjoy a relaxing evening in the capital. Overnight in Tehran.

After breakfast, transfer to Imam Khomeini International Airport for your departure flight. As you leave Iran, take with you unforgettable memories and a collection of breathtaking photographs capturing the essence of this extraordinary country.