Qeshm is the largest island in the Persian Gulf and it is famous for its natural beauty, and more recently for its designation as the first and only UNESCO Geo Park in the Middle East. Qeshm Island is located a few kilometres off the southern coast of Iran (Persian Gulf), opposite the port city of Bandar Abbas. Qeshm Island like Kish is a free zone which means you do not need a visa. The island with an abundance of wildlife, including birds, reptiles, dolphins and turtles attracts tourists yearly. The island hospitalizes you with its friendly inhabitant and old tradition. It is a magical place to spend some days relaxing near the beach, taste local food, experience wearing local customs and listening great folk music. You have an excursion to nearby islands like Hengam and Hormuz to witness the great GeoPark and scenic views. Join us on this spectacular tour.
Arrive at Qeshm airport. Meet and greet by the local guide. Check-in the hotel. (For those who will arrive at other International airport cities in Iran, a domestic flight to Qeshm Island and airport transfer will be arranged.)
After breakfast first, visit Chahkouh Canyon. The amazing rock formations were created by water running through the valley at various speeds. The series of valleys has an outstanding view or sound echo. Then visit Namakdan salt cave and dome. The gatekeeper will give you head torches to enter the caves. You experience eating lunch in local homes that serve seafood for travelers.
After lunch take a boat in Hara Marine Forests (Mangrove Jungle). On the way back to Qeshm visit Laft Village with beautiful Badgir (wind-catching towers like in Yazd) and old houses. There are ship-making workshops that are very traditional and unique (UNESCO Intangible heritage).
In the morning drive for 1h to Kandaloo port to get a local boat to Hengam Island. There you can see dolphins and you can get souvenirs from the local shops on the island. Snorkeling and watching Gazella are amazing things to do here. Visit Shib Deraz Village to see turtles lay an egg. (This is only possible during March). Then visit stars Valley, beautifully weird shapes caused by thousands of years of erosion.
**Please note that Stars valley is closed on Saturdays.
In the morning have a 50-minute boat ride to a rainbow Island of Iran -Hormuz- located just a bit east of Qeshm.Hormuz Island is famous as a colorful geological wonder island with colourful sands. You explore the island via Took Took (a small local bike), you will drive around the island to visit the Portuguese castle and statue valley. There are local homes serving seafood for travellers. In the afternoon come back to Qeshm.
In the morning go to Larak Island to visit the intact shiny beach and diving on the Persian Gulf Island with a professional international instructor. At noon come back to Qeshm and take the return flight.