Cultural Tours of Iran

Exploring Ancient Qanat

In our tours, one of the standout experiences is the opportunity to visit a Qanat. As you walk through these time-honored waterways, you step into a world where ancient engineering marvels meet the needs of present-day societies.

The Qanat, an ancient feat of engineering, is more than just an irrigation system. It represents the ingenuity and adaptability of Iranian civilization. These underground aqueducts, masterpieces of sustainable water management, have been quenching the arid lands of Iran for centuries. As you delve into the history of the Qanat, you uncover a narrative of resilience and innovation.

Witnessing the Qanat system offers a glimpse into the ingenious methods ancient Iranians developed to harness and distribute water in a challenging landscape. These subterranean channels, skillfully designed, reveal the harmony between human endeavor and the natural environment. The Qanat is not just a historical relic; it’s a living testament to the sustainable practices and environmental wisdom of past generations.

Exploring Zurkhaneh Ritual

In our tours, one of the standout experiences is observing the Zurkhaneh.

Zurkhaneh, or “House of Power“, is much more than a traditional gymnasium. It’s a revered space where the ancient sporting rituals converge with the spiritual essence of Iranian philosophy. In this unique setting, the rhythmic pulses of drums and the harmonious flow of Persian poetry transport you to the heroic narratives and noble values of ancient Iran.

As you enter Zurkhaneh, prepare to be captivated by displays of remarkable physical strength and rhythmic grace. The athletes, known as Pahlavans, showcase a distinctive blend of martial arts, calisthenics, and dance.

Each movement they perform is an embodiment of humility, strength, and respect. This isn’t merely a sport; it’s a spiritual odyssey and a reflection of Iran’s rich cultural legacy.

Staying alongside an Iranian nomad family is likely to be one of the most memorable parts of your journey. Since we began designing and arranging journeys to Iran, we’ve been setting up small homestays in partnership with nomadic families, thus providing additional income for them and an intimate authentic experience to our clients.

Spend a night or more at a homestay and get stuck in to family life! Learn first-hand of the infamous Iranian nomadic hospitality, sharing fresh milk, traditional bread, help out with chores such as milking and try your hand at making dairy products. Learn about the daily challenges of nomadic life whilst playing local games.

Generally, the families will have a spare Siah-Chador (black tent) which will be available for you sleep in, on other occasions, you might be camping in a Siah-Chador next to a nomadic family, sharing the family Siah-Chador, or in a Siah-Chador set up by SURFIRAN – all of which will offer an unforgettable family-stay experience.

Facilities are very basic, with no running water and definitely no en-suite! Get back to basics as you live like nomads do.

We’re proud that the nomadic families we work with have all gone on to create their own independent businesses, helping them to stay in the countryside and maintain a satisfactory income whilst doing so.

If you’re yearning for the authentic taste of home-cooked flavors in a local setting, our Iranian lunch or dinner experience is exactly what you need! This half-day culinary adventure takes you into the warm and welcoming home of an Iranian family, where you’ll partake in the delightful process of cooking and eating an authentic Iranian meal.

During this immersive experience, you’ll be more than just a guest; you’ll become a part of the family, sharing stories and laughter as you learn the secrets of traditional Iranian cuisine. From selecting fresh ingredients to mastering the delicate balance of spices, every step is an opportunity to understand the culture and culinary traditions that make Iranian food so unique.

As you chop, stir, and simmer alongside your gracious hosts, you’ll gain insights into the everyday life and customs of Iran. The kitchen will come alive with the aromas of rich stews, fragrant rice, and freshly baked bread, tantalizing your senses and building anticipation for the meal to come.

Finally, when it’s time to eat, you’ll gather around the table to enjoy the fruits of your labor. This is more than just a meal; it’s a celebration of togetherness and hospitality, a hallmark of Iranian culture. Enjoying each dish, you’ll savor not just the exquisite flavors but also the warmth and generosity that embody the spirit of Iran.

Join us for this unique and heartwarming experience, where the joys of Iranian cooking and the pleasure of familial company combine to create memories that will last a lifetime.