Description
Kavir National Park is one of the largest and oldest protected areas in Iran, with most of it located in Garmsar County of Semnan Province, and parts extending into the provinces of Tehran, Qom, and Isfahan. In the past, the wildlife in this region was so rich and diverse that it was known as the “Little Africa” and the “Serengeti of Iran.” Today, despite a decline in the number of some species, Kavir National Park still hosts many of Iran’s desert-dwelling wildlife and plants, making it recognized as one of the nine biosphere reserves in Iran.
The history of protecting this area dates back many years. It was placed under the protection of the Iran Hunting Club in 1964 and then came under the supervision of the Environmental Protection Organization. In 1976, it was upgraded to the status of a national park. Later, in 1978, with changes in borders and the addition of new areas, the park’s area reached 670,000 square kilometers. Kavir National Park is one of the most unique protected areas, meaning it does not have any human settlements, mining operations, or livestock grazing permits. It is known for its unique and diverse ecosystems.
In this park, more than 34 species of mammals, 155 species of birds, and 34 species of reptiles have been identified. Species such as the Asiatic cheetah, Persian leopard, wolf, striped hyena, sand cat, red fox, and jackal are among the well-known wildlife of this area.
Best Time to Visit
The spring and autumn seasons are the best times to visit this area.
Activity
What you will do
- Visit the cobbled Silk Road
- Visit the Safavid caravanserai, Qasr-e Bahram
- Visit the Ain al-Rashid caravanserai
- Visit the Qiluqeh water reservoir
- Wildlife watching (including onager and Asiatic wild ass; with luck, other species may also be observed)
- Explore the remnants of Safavid bridges
- Enjoy the sunrise and sunset, as well as the night sky in the desert
- Get acquainted with the Kavir National Park
- Evening chats around the campfire
- Photography
- Experience drinking fiery tea in the heart of the desert
What is included / not included
Includes
- Breakfast
- Snacks (seasonal fruit, mineral water, and…) Lunch and Dinner
- Private driver and Off-road vehicle
- Speaking English guide
- Airport Pickup from IKA
- Stay overnight at the Safavid caravanserai, Qasr-e Bahram.
- Visa authorization letter
- Travel insurance for up to 30 days with the coverage of 10K EUR
- Organization of the whole trip, 24/7 Support
Not Includes
- International flights
- Personal expenses (like shopping)
- Entrance fees
What to bring
- Comfortable Footwear
- Personal medicines
- Small bag
- Sunglasses
- Sunscreen
What can’t bring
- Bringing any kind of pets, even in a carrier, is prohibited.
- Bringing any kind of weapons into the park is prohibited.