Iran tours for seniors

From being the feared enemy of the ancient Greek city-states to the Iranian Revolution and after, Iran has long had a bad reputation in the West. But perhaps you shouldn’t believe all you read. Look behind the news and you’ll find an incredible nation with a rich history and diverse culture. Delve into ancient Persian history at Persepolis (built in the 6th century BC by Darius the Great), the remarkably intact ruins of which are a testament to the grandeur of one of the great ancient civilisations. Explore the Islamic history of Iran in Esfahan, home to the beautiful blue-tiled Masjed-e Jameh mosques, and Shiraz, synonymous with culture, poetry, and wine. For a taste of modern Iran, visit bustling Tehran, home to young Iranians who wear fashionable clothes, create cutting-edge art and cinema, and even make time to party. And make sure to pick up some traditional handicrafts, particularly the magnificent Persian carpets familiar around the world.

Iran tours

Tours for Mature Aged and Senior World Travellers

Iran Culture and History Escorted Small Group Tour for seniors

17 days

Sep, Nov, Apr

Iran Culture and History Escorted Small Group Tour for seniors

Visiting Iran

Unlike its neighbours to the west and northwest, Iran had not adopted Christianity and it was the explosive spread of Islam and its ready adoption, without the Arabic language or customs, which helped unite the culture and greatly enrich Persian heritage. This small group tour program includes the great cities of Iran, historic sites, mosques, gardens, bazaars and teahouses for couples and solo travellers.

From A$11,825 AUD

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Articles about Iran

16 Total Articles
Empires in World History

Empires in World History

Empires shape history and influence the format of many of our small group tours. The Mongol, Persian, Roman, British and Ottoman empires are just a few An Antipodean travel company serving World Travellers since 1983 with small group educational tours for senior couples and mature solo travellers.

29 Jul 23 · 13 mins read
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Inside the Vank Cathedral, Isfahan, Iran

Questions about Iran for senior travellers.

Explore and learn about on a small group tour of Iran its ancient history in Persopolis. Study its Mosques and the garden design. Explore Tehran, Isfahan and Shiraz with like minded travellers.

5 Aug 19 · 2 mins read
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Golestan Palace,Tehran, Iran

10 books about Iran

Ten books to read about Iran Throughout history, Iran’s position in the centre of the famous Silk Road has seen it crisscrossed by travellers, traders and armies. In more recent times, its rich oil resources…

10 Oct 19 · 2 mins read
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Tour of Iran

Beauty and Artistry in Iran: The Persian Garden and Persian Mosaic Tiles

Guide to Persian Mosaics and Gardens | Small group tours Iran Beauty and artistry can be seen everywhere in Iran, and its philosophy and religious beliefs are reflected in the country’s public and private spaces.…

10 Oct 19 · 8 mins read
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A Map of the Ancient Silk Road

Books to read about the Silk Road | Guide for Senior Travellers

Best books to read about the Silk Road – a list for senior travellers The linking of Asia to Europe via Eurasia for conquest and trade since at least 120BC is a unique part of…

30 May 18 · 2 mins read
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pont de Bir-Hakeim pont de passy

Eight Amazing Rail Journeys: The Definitive Guide

Eight Amazing Rail Journeys This article details eight amazing rail journeys that you may wish to consider when planning your journeys. Humans have been travelling by sea since ancient times, but on land, humans were…

5 Feb 19 · 3 mins read
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Touring Iran

The need to know

Getting around

Odyssey travels by coach and occasionally uses local transport, including trains and ferries. Specifics are always outlined in your tour itinerary. In Iran, most cities offer bus services, but these tend to be overcrowded. The best option is generally the growing Metro rail system, although it is very slow to develop its reach across cities. Taxis are available, and come in private or shared options – the latter is quite common and referred to as savari.

Accommodation

In major cities, Odyssey stays in centrally located 4-5 star hotels, with easy access to public transport. In smaller towns or rural areas, we usually stay in family-run hotels or guesthouses. On our long stay tours, during which you spend the length of the tour in a single location, we use serviced apartments.

In Iran in a couple of locations bathroom facilities may be shared n the regional areas.

Tour Guides

Odyssey always engages local guides with regional knowledge to ensure an authentic experience during which you can learn as much as possible about the history and culture of places you visit.

Geography, environment & weather

Iran is one of the world’s most mountainous landscape, with ranges separated by basins and plateaux. The highest peak is Mount Damavand at 5,610m. Northern Iran is covered by lush forest by the shores of the Caspian Sea. The east is mostly desertous, with a sprinkling of salt lakes, too. The western part of Iran is the most densely populated, as well as the most mountainous. The climate is very diverse. In fact, Iran features 11 out of the world’s 13 different climate types.

World Heritage sites

Iran is home to 23 UNESCO World Heritage Sites. You can view the official list of the sites here https://whc.unesco.org/en/statesparties/ir. It is well worth visiting every site, if you are able.

But here’s a few highlights from the bunch:

  • Gonbad-e Qabus, a 53m high tomb built in 1006 A.D., which is the last remaining evidence of the ancient city of Jorjan.
  • Sheikh Safi al-din Khegah is a centre for Sufi religious pilgrimage. This small city’s well preserved buildings include public baths and bazaars. UNESCO calls it “the material realization of a spiritual path through architectural design”
  • Lavish Golestan Palace, masterpiece of the Qajar era of the 18th century, when Tehran was capital.

Festivals & evnets

Navroz (Nowruz) means “new day”. It is the day of the Persian New Year, and usually falls on March 21 – the moment the sun crosses the celestial equator. This event lasts two weeks, with the day itself preceded by “spring cleaning”, and the purchase of new clothing and flowers for the home. People decorate with symbols including stars, butterflies, birds and fish, and adorn their doors and windows with flowers.

Chaharshanbeh Souri, the Persian equivalent of Easter, is observed on the eve of Navroz. People burn bonfires overnight to symbolise the pain and unhappiness that will be relieved in the New Year. On the day of Navroz, they leap over the flames to wish for good health and cleanse their bodies of sickness. They also enjoy a traditional dinner such as herbed fish with rice, or Ash Reshte stew.
There are many diverse events in Iran based on region, religion and ethnicity, including Tirgan in the Mazandran Province, and Mehrgan for the Zoroastrian people of Kerman. Both are celebrated with feasts of traditional food. Yalda (Chellah) marks the longest day of the year (September 21st or 22nd). The following morning, harvest begins. Families come together to share food, summer fruit, and often to recite traditional poetry.

Reading list

The Silk Road in World History by Xinry Liu
The Persians: Ancient, Medieval and Modern Iran by Homa Katouzian
Iran Awakening: A Memoir of Revolution and Hope by Shirin Ebadi

Eating & Drinking

Iranian cuisine ranges from the familiar to the obscure, and everything in between. Food is very regional, but certain staples – like flatbread, noodles and rose-water, can be found across the country. Iran’s geographical location, and history on the Silk Road, have provided a plethora of culinary influences throughout the ages. Certain native ingredients feature heavily, including pistachios, saffron, pomegranates and almonds. While you are travelling Iran, see if you can scope out the following dishes:
Zereshk polo, or barberry rice is studded with these sour, rehydrated berries, and is a great example of Iran’s love for tart flavours.
Ash e Reshteh, a hearty soup of noodles and beans with fresh herbs and greens. It is served with a sour yoghurt-like food called kashk. The noodles, which arrived in Iran from China, are said to represent the paths of life, so this soup is often served when someone is about to embark on a journey.
Kebab,which come in far more varities than your typical Western take away shop. Filling options include ground, seasoned meat (koobideh), thinly sliced, lemon and saffron scented lamb or beef (kebab-e barg) or even lamb liver (jigar). If you have a sweet tooth, keep an eye out for bamieh (doughnuts with saffron and rosewater), sholezard (saffron flavoured rice pudding) and faloodeh, a sorbet-like dessert of vermicelli-sized noodles in a rose-water flavoured syrup.

Health & safety

For Iran please check smarttraveller.gov when planning your trip OR speak with Odyssey Traveller. It’s always best to check the latest details before setting out on a trip.

Certain parts of Iran should be avoided for the time being, particularly near the borders with Afghanistan, Pakistan and Iraq. There are serious risks associated with specific areas, and it is important to take these into consideration when planning your trip. But countries like Iran rely heavily on tourism, and refusing travel can be detrimental to a struggling economy.

Stay appraised of government recommendations for Iran in order to be best prepared for your trip.

Electrical supply

Whenever you travel overseas, it’s always wise to take an appropriate travel adaptor. Iran uses plugs in types C and F which have two pins, and electricity runs at 220V/50Hz.

FAQs

What time zone is Iran in?

Iran’s time zone, is UTC + 3.5 hours. Iran has a single time zone. Daylight Savings start on the fourth Wednesday of March and ends on the fourth Friday in September.

Is tipping customary?

If you’re on an Odyssey tour, we take care of tipping. So when you’re with the group you don’t need to give it a second thought. However, in your free time, or if travelling independently, it’s essential that you make sure you tip an appropriate amount for services. There is no general rule for tipping in Morocco, so to some extent, it is discretionary. While tips are not usually expected in Iran, many of the locals are on very low wages, so your generosity can go a long way. It’s especially appreciated if you tip porters, drivers, and cleaning staff. Practice generosity, but at the same time, play it by ear. Iranian people are proud, and some may prefer not to accept a tip. In such cases, defer to their wishes and express your gratitude in another way.

Is a Visa necessary to travel to Iran?

Yes, a visa is required for most nationalities visiting Iran. Australians and New Zealand passport holders may also apply for a visa on arrival. More information and assistance with the process is provided once you book your tour.

What is the internet like in Iran?

Internet access is available, and most hotels and many cafes will be able to offer it.

However, as you move away from the major metros, access maybe limited.

Common sense should be applied when posting material on the internet or viewing material via the web.

Can I use my mobile phone in Iran?

Check with your cell phone provider to see whether you’re able to make calls and use data while in Iran. Many providers will allow you to pay a daily fee that allows you to make calls and check the internet while only being charged your regular rates. However, be certain to inform your provider that you’re heading overseas, because just like a bank they can turn off your service as a result of unusual activity. The mobile network in Iran is improving. You can buy a SIM card in Iran too.

What do you offer in small group tours to Iran?

Odyssey Traveller specialises in crafting unforgettable experiences for senior and mature-aged travellers interested in learning as a couple or solo traveller. Providing adventure and educational programs to escorted small group tours since 1983.

This small group tour program includes the great cities of Iran, historic sites, mosques, gardens, bazaars and teahouses for couples and solo travellers.

Discover Iran’s splendid ancient and modern mosques, minarets, mausoleums, and markets

2.Fall in love with Esfahan, home to Naqsh-e Jahan Square, surrounded by covered bazaars and home to the architectural jewels of the Safavid Empire

3.Visit Yazd, an historic Silk Road oasis town, home to the oldest Zoroastrian fire temple and the haunting Towers of Silence

4.Be inspired by Shiraz, known as the city of poets, literature, wine, and flowers, visiting two famous Persian Gardens, the Bagh-e Eram and the Narenjestan-e Ghavam

Why a group tour in Iran?

Unlike its neighbours to the west and northwest, Iran had not adopted Christianity and it was the explosive spread of Islam and its ready adoption, without the Arabic language or customs, which helped unite the culture and greatly enrich Persian heritage.

Why should I book small group tours in Iran?

Odyssey offers easy, convenient, and relaxed escorted small group tours across Iran and beyond in the Middle East. We explore Iran’s natural beauty, its ancient and Imperial heritage, its World Heritage Sites, and world-famous cities, all with some truly spectacular scenery along the way. This and more are all waiting to be explored on one of Odyssey’s small group tours of Iran, designed for the senior traveller, and led by experienced, and enthusiastic likeminded people.

Discover the fascinating history and culture this country has to offer on our Iran small group tour for seniors. This escorted educational tour is perfect for mature and senior travellers with an active mind, seeking to learn about one of the world’s oldest civilisations, a fascinating country with many an ancient city to explore as you learn about central Iran. We regard this as one of the best travel tours in Iran for the senior traveller.

Travel on escorted Iran tour with us on a seventeen-day trip. Odyssey’s Iran tour is a tour package that introduces the traveller to a guided tour of Iranian culture, focusing on the west of Iran, taking in ten key destinations and must see places . This Iran small group tour for seniors introduces several key UNESCO World heritage site of ancient Persia to the traveller with a knowledgeable tour guide available at each location for Odyssey’s Travellers to gain an appreciation of the history of Iran and Iranian culture.

Iran is located in southwestern Asia or the middle east, once home to one of the world’s oldest civilisations. Iran in ancient Persia was the centre of a great empire for many centuries. At its height, Ancient Persia’s imperial territory stretched from the modern-day Balkan Peninsula in Europe, to the Indus River Valley in northwest India, and south to Egypt .

A country with a dramatic and colourful centuries-old history is bound to have incredible places to visit, ranging from the beautiful landscapes of the desert to Persian architecture of merit . Iran is definitely no exception. Odyssey’s Iran tour package has been refined over a number of years to provide the traveller with an insightful itinerary for an Iran tour. Odyssey offers multiple Iran tours each year for senior traveller interested in a small group Iran tour.

What is the capacity of Iran group tours?

Odyssey specialises in educational small group tours, for seniors, typically groups between 6 to 12 people, and no more than 16 travellers. Odyssey has been offering this style of adventure and educational programs, since 1983.

We offer a wide range of educational, cultural and heritage journeys that expand horizons and broaden the mind. Our tours are designed for active, inquisitive travellers in a small group environment.

What do you wear in Iran?

Islamic dress codes (modest clothing and head covering for women) are strictly enforced on Iranian citizens, but rules are not as tight for foreigners, who are given some degree of flexibility. However, it is still advisable to observe and respect local customs.

For women, this means wearing a head covering (usually a scarf) and wearing clothes that cover your arms and legs in public places. Tops should extend to cover your behind, especially if wearing tight jeans. Wearing outerwear such as a manteau (a long coat or coat dress, usually made of cotton) is a good option.

For men, there are less restrictions, but shorts and sleeveless shirts should still be avoided.

Important shrines may require women to wear a chador, which is available on-site and can be borrowed. A chador is a large piece of cloth that leaves only the face visible.

What do you need to travel to Iran?

You will need a tourist if you are planning to visit Iran. Citizens of the United States, United Kingdom, Canada, Bangladesh, Jordan, Iraq, Afghanistan, and Pakistan need to get a consular visa before they travel to Iran. If you’re from one of these countries, you need to get an authorization number before applying for the visa. People from other countries have to apply online first via Iran’s e-visa portal. Visas on arrival are only available at airports. A visa on arrival is valid for 30 days.

If there is proof of entry to Israel in your passport, you cannot travel to Iran.

UK, US, and Canadian citizens cannot travel to Iran without a guide.

How to get Iran tourist visa?

Before you can apply for an Iran visa, you must have a sponsor in Iran who can issue a Letter of Invitation. Once you receive the Letter of Invitation, you can submit it along with the required documents at an Embassy or Consulate of Iran in your country.

If you are travelling for tourism purposes, you have to contact a travel agent in Iran or a friend or relative who will host you. If you are travelling for business, then the company you are visiting can issue your invitation letter.

The travel agency, host, or company in Iran will submit an application with the Iranian Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MFA). If the application is successful, they will send you a visa code, which you have to take to the Iran Embassy/Consulate along with all the other required documents.

See more information here: https://evisa.mfa.ir/en/

When to travel to Iran?

Iran offers seasonal extremes; spring (March-May) and autumn (Sep-Oct) offer the best conditions for travellers– you’ll dodge searing heat and bitter winter cold (with snow-blocked mountain roads).

How much does Iran travel cost?

You should plan to spend around $46 per day on your vacation in Iran, which is the average daily price based on the expenses of other visitors.

But is it better to travel to Iran in group tours or as individuals?

When you travel in a group tour, you have the chance to meet various people and experience visiting a new country with new people. You can share your impression with others and even make new friends. So, travelling in groups is a very good way of experiencing the unknown world.

Travelling in Iran small group tours can also increase your willingness to visit the country and experience the image you have had in your mind about the country. It is true that for some solo travellers it gives a better feeling of safety to travel in group tours.

What are the best tours in Iran?

Visit Odyssey’s culture and history tour to Iran, with departures in April and October.

For whom are the small group tours suitable?

Odyssey is based in Sydney, Australia, however, we have many travellers from USA, Canada, UK and Europe who travel with us every year.

We specialise in educational small group tours for seniors, typically groups sizes are between 6 to 12 people, and no more than 16 travellers. Odyssey has been offering this style of adventure and educational programs to since 1983. We offer a wide range of fully escorted, cultural and heritage journeys that expand horizons and broaden the mind. Our tours are designed for active, inquisitive travellers in a small group environment.

How is the food in these tours?

Odyssey includes many meals as part of our itineraries.

Breakfast at the hotel is usually included as well as a welcome and farewell dinners.

We believe sharing a meal with your fellow travellers is a great way to end the day and talk about your experiences, so we have a few dinners included along the way too.

In more remote destinations, most meals are catered for.

How have you chosen the hotels?

In major cities Odyssey stays in centrally located 3–4-star hotels, with easy access to public transport. In smaller towns or rural areas, we usually stay in family-run hotels or guesthouses. On our long-stay tours, during which you spend the length of the tour in a single location, we use serviced apartments where available.

Responsible travel tips for Iran.

  1. Learn at least the local greetings to break the ice. Although many locals speak English, The more you know of the native language, the greater your experience of the country will be.
  2. Be aware of who and what you are taking photos of. Consider the cutural sensitivities of who, what and why is in the background of the image you are thinking of taking as a memory.
  3. Ask consent of an adult if wanting to take a photo of children at play for example.
  4. Before departing, make sure you have a number of Iranian rial in a range of denominations. You don’t want to be carrying around enormous amounts of cash, but take enough to make it easy to pay in locations that might not accept credit card. It will also help you avoid card transaction fees, and it makes tipping a breeze (it is better to tip in rial because it may be difficult for people to convert small denominations).
  5. Carry a card in your wallet or purse from your local hotel, to assist you with the return journey if you do become lost.
  6. Always ensure that you are covered by travel insurance. If you need advice on this feel free to contact Odyssey and we’ll be able to help.
  7. When travelling independently, make sure you check the opening hours of shops and museums so that you don’t miss out! Also be certain to check whether your trip coincides with any public holidays, so you can plan accordingly.
  8. Before departing on your trip, contact your bank to inform them that you may be making purchases overseas. Otherwise, they may flag any activity on your account as suspicious. Also, check which ATMs and banks are compatible with your cards, to ensure you can withdraw cash with minimal fees.

About Odyssey Traveller

We specialise in educational small group tours for seniors, typically groups between six to 12 people from Australia, New Zealand, USA, Canada and Britain. Our maximum number of people on a tour is 18 mature aged travellers. We have some 150 tours and offer 300 scheduled departures on offer each year. Odyssey has been offering this style of adventure and educational programs since 1983.

Odyssey Traveller is committed to charitable activities that support the environment and cultural development of Australian and New Zealand communities.

Odyssey Traveller scholarship for Australia & New Zealand University students.

We are also pleased to announce that since 2012, Odyssey has been awarding $10,000 Equity & Merit Cash Scholarships each year. We award scholarships on the basis of academic performance and demonstrated financial need. We award at least one scholarship per year. We’re supported through our educational travel programs, and your participation helps Odyssey achieve its goals. Students can apply for the scholarship by clicking on this link to find out more details.

Join our loyalty program when you join an international small group tour.

Every International small group tour taken typically contributes to your membership level in our Loyalty Program for regular travellers. Membership of the alumni starts when you choose to take your first international small group tour with Odyssey Traveller, discounts in tour pricing for direct bookings accrue from your third tour with Odyssey Traveller. To see the discounts and benefits of being a Bronze, Silver, Gold, and Diamond alumni member with us, please see this page.

For more information on Odyssey Traveller and our educational small group tours, visit and explore our website., remember to visit these pages in particular

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