Located in the heart of the Middle East, Iran is a country that can delight and surprise visitors. With a vibrant, modern capital, fascinating small towns, and a friendly people who respect traditional values, the country of Iran and Iranian culture is rich and ripe for exploration. Despite conflict between Iran and many western governments, the Iranian people are exceedingly friendly and interested in Western culture.

The people of Iran are Persian by heritage and speak Farsi. However, most signs are written in Farsi and English. Most young people speak good English, too, especially in cities. Travelers should also familiarize themselves with Muslim culture, as Iran is an Islamic theocracy. Many facets of public life are subject to gender segregation and women must follow strict dress codes. Even foreign women must wear headscarves in public and dress conservatively.

Although much of Iran is safe for western travelers and the Iranian people tend to like Americans and other westerners, parts of the country are unsafe for foreign visitors. The U.S. State Department recommends that Americans travel carefully, if at all, in Iran. It is a destination for the adventurous, but those who visit will likely be rewarded with an incredible experience.

The city of Esfahan is an excellent place to explore the history of Iran. The former capital of Persia is picturesque and historic. Imam Square is a vast expanse flanked by two mosques. The smaller one was originally built for the women of the shah’s harem. The larger one is the Imam Mosque; it is decorated with elaborate tile work in shades of blue to calm visitors and prepare them for religious practice.

Another former Persian capital, Persepolis, is a magnificent ruin. The city is filled with columns both standing and fallen, painted reliefs, and grand archways. It is the best-preserved ancient city in the Near East. It was covered by sand for centuries until excavation began in the 1930s. Visitors can now walk among the remains of its powerful architecture and imagine what the city looked like at the height of its glory.

Much of Iran is a mountainous patchwork of peaks and valleys. The eastern part of the country is arid and sandy while the northern part of the country is covered in dense forest. Consider taking a desert trek in eastern Iran. Several companies lead hikes or multi day tours via camel to explore the gorges, sand dunes, and vast expanses of desert. Far from Iran’s cities, you can sleep or hike under skies bright with stars.

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