Ancient Persia - Modern lran

Persia, the exotic land of flying carpets and Arabian Nights, has been known as Iran since 1935, and is now a modern country of almost 69 million people.  Explore Iran's fabulous bazaars, admire its splendid architecture and complex ornamentation, discover its formidable archaeological sites and converse with the people who call it home.

Days 1-4: Tehran, Bandar-e-Anzali, Masuleh

Begin in Tehran, sampling a few museums before a foray into the Caspian Sea region. Wind along the coast from Bandar-e Anzali to the beautiful mountain village of Masuleh.

Days 5-8: Yazd, Kerman, Rayen, Mahan, Jupar

Fly to the desert town of Yazd, famous for its wind towers and silk textiles.  Drive to Kerman and the ancient citadel of Rayen. In Jupar and Mahan, visit textile-weaving centers, carpet workshops and local bazaars.

Days 9-11: Shiraz, Persepolis, Firuzabad

Journey on to Shiraz, an important medieval city, spending a day at one of Iran's most extensive archaeological sites, the ruins of Persepolis. Visit Firuzabad, winter quarters of the Qashqai tribe, and tour the weaving workshops of this nomadic settlement.

Days 12: Kazerun, Yasuj

Continue along a mountainous road to Kazerun to see the remains of the old city of Shapour.

Days 13-15: Isfahan

Arriving in Isfahan, admire the magnificent Islamic buildings decorated in pale blue tiles and the famous bridges over the Zayande River.

Day 16-18: Kashan, Abyaneh, Tehran

Visit the oasis town of Kashan and its classic Fin Garden, adorned with natural springs and orchards. Explore the village of Abyaneh, whose red adobe houses cling to the desert hills, before returning to Tehran.

Trip Details

Length of Trip: 18 days Departures in 2008: 2 Dates: April 6-23   September 21 - October 8 Land Tour Cost   6-16 travelers $4,595 Single Supplement $750

MIR Signature Features

• Traverse this magnificent country overland from the cool Caspian Sea coast to the
  desert oasis of Yazd
• Walk the ancient mud-brick citadel of Rayen
• Spend time in Shiraz and view the country’s most imposing ruins, Persepolis
• Visit Firuzabad and learn about the various clans of the Qashquii tribe

Map

Day Activity   Days 1-2: Tehran   Day 3: drive to Bandar-e Anzali via Rasht, Masuleh   Day 4: drive to Tehran   Day 5: fly to Yazd   Day 6: Yazd   Day 7: drive to Kerman   Day 8: Kerman, day trip to Rayen, Mahan, Jupar   Day 9: drive to Shiraz	Day Activity   Days 10-11: Shiraz, with day trips to Persepolis, Firuzabad   Day 12: drive to Yasuj via Kazerun   Day 13: drive to Isfahan   Days 14-15: Isfahan   Day 16: drive to Kashan   Day 17: drive to Tehran   Day 18: Tehran

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