Explore this fascinating, ancient nation with insights from the former ambassador and expert guides throughout One of the world’s most enigmatic and beguiling countries, Iran long seemed tantalisingly beyond reach of outsiders. That has changed in recent years. Since 2015, it has opened its doors in a way unseen since the 1970s, allowing more Britons to see its spectacular cultural and historical sights. Before you take your flight to Tehran, the scene will be set at a special pre-departure talk given by Sir Richard Dalton, a former British Ambassador to Iran and one of the biggest authorities on the region. Our partner for this trip is Wild Frontiers, a company which has years of experience operating in Iran, has outstanding guides and is ideally placed to give you the most privileged insights into the country. The relaxing of Foreign Office advice heralded a new chance to draw back the curtain on a nation rich in cultural sights. You will take in beautiful Persepolis, one of the most evocative of ancient sites in the Middle East; explore Isfahan, the former capital of Persia; gain exclusive access to the national art collection in Tehran; and visit the majestic mosques of Yazd. Tour highlights Exclusive access Wild Frontiers, the Telegraph’s partner for this special trip, is brilliantly placed to give guests the most exclusive experiences in the country, having organised trips to Iran for many years. You will take some special tours that only their experts know how to set up, from private access to the National Museum of Art to poetry readings in Shiraz. Isfahan One of Iran’s oldest cities, Isfahan served as Persia’s capital from 1598 to 1722. Once known as “half the world,” it was a crossroads of international trade and diplomacy. The journey will include a private tour of the city’s most striking buildings – which include some of the region’s finest Islamic architecture – and tea houses, and a demonstration of the art of miniature painting. Poetry in Shiraz Spend time in sophisticated Shiraz, exploring its mirrored mosques, fortresses, gardens and tea-houses. Celebrated as the heartland of Persian culture, Shiraz was the Iranian capital during the Zand dynasty in the 18th century. Today, it is a relaxed, cultivated city, with tree-lined avenues, historic monuments, and mosques. The tour includes a poetry reading taken from the works of Hafez, Iran’s most famous poet. Persepolis This ancient Unesco World Heritage Site is a highlight of Iran – if not the entire Middle East region. It embodies the architectural legacy of the ancient First Persian Empire, with its monumental staircases, immense columns and imposing gateways. You’ll have a whole day to explore the site as well as the magnificent Achaemenid tombs, carved in a rock face at Nagsh e Rostam. Introductory talk from Sir Richard Dalton The former ambassador to Iran will give a fascinating pre-departure lecture on the nation you are about to visit, helping you to understand the country’s complexities. Great guides All tours to Iran are escorted by highly experienced and knowledgeable leaders. These may include the award-winning Mark Steadman and Jude Holliday. What's included Services of a Wild Frontiers tour leader with local guides and drivers All meals throughout the escorted tour: 12 breakfasts, 12 lunches and 12 dinners All transport on the tour using a small coach Accommodation in comfortable hotels all with en suite facilities All entrance fees for sightseeing, museums and attractions as listed in the itinerary Exclusive experiences as mentioned throughout the itinerary on this page Introductory talk from the former ambassador to Iran Sir Richard Dalton, held at Heathrow prior to departure Please note: Flights are not included with this price, but can be arranged by Wild Frontiers on request when you book Note that single supplement is £695.
The wonders of Iran with our experts
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