Iran Cycling Holiday Iran Tours to Iran are temporarily suspended until such time the Australian Government reduces the travel advice from Do Not Travel AND our local team believe the local situation is safe for our riders. In the meantime, we will continue to watch the situation closely. Our thoughts are with the people of Iran and we hope their safety and welfare is secure again soon. Rating 5/5 Read reviews Distance 250km + View stats Next tour TBC Other dates Duration 12 days More details Download Brochure Begin Iran Itinerary View Price from AU$4350 Book Now Iran Tours to Iran are temporarily suspended until such time the Australian Government reduces the travel advice from Do Not Travel AND our local team believe the local situation is safe for our riders. In the meantime, we will continue to watch the situation closely. Our thoughts are with the people of Iran and we hope their safety and welfare is secure again soon. Download free brochure See Availability Book Now Iran Cycling Holiday Adventure through Venture into the unknown and challenge everything you think you know about Iran. Completely misrepresented by world media, Iran is home to one of the friendliest, warmest and most welcome locals anywhere on the planet. Social Cycles will take you on a journey to interact and connect with local grassroot Non Government Organizations (NGOs) and the beneficiaries of a funded project of your choosing. Research what really happens on the ground and out in the villages with Social Cycles in a tour that carefully balances ethical research and local impact with cycling and site seeing.Our journey traces the magnificent legacies of the Persian Empires which will not fail to inspire, yet it is the snow clad mountains, vast deserts, oasis towns and spontaneous engagement with the locals that provide surprise at every turn. This adventure starts in the capital Tehran, slowly heading south towards Shiraz. Reserve My Bike Confirm your place with a AU$100 deposit.You can choose your dates and duration following the above button Cycle Iran 12 Days AU$ 4,350 6 of 12 days cycling Approx 250km Terrain: Challenging mountains, mostly paved Start: Tehran Finish: Shiraz/Tehran Reserve My Bike Confirm your place with a AU$100 deposit.You can choose your dates and duration following the above button Send me the Iran itinerary Name Email Please send me the itinerary! Your privacy is safe. We do not use emails for spam. Cycle Iran 12 days; AU$4,350 Approximately 250km, 6 of 12 days cycling, challenging mountain riding, mostly paved Features & Inclusions Tour Inclusions Tour Exclusions Social Impact Hotels Hosts Food Bikes Distance Culture NGOs Tour Inclusions 11 x nights accommodation (2 in local homes)Full Bicycle hire, not including helmetsMinimum 3 x support staff, including cycle guide, driver and cultural tour manager2 x support vehicles for the ride with water and fruitMinimum two NGO presentations with local staff across IranAU$200 donation to the NGO of your choiceMultiple field trips to villages and communitiesEntry and guided tour of Persepolis UNESCO world heritage siteEntry and guided tour to Fin Gardens in KashanFood & Beverage as per the itinerary (see daily for details)(11 x breakfasts, 6 x lunch and 8 x dinners)Visa grant notice for passport holders eligible for Visa on ArrivalAirport transfers for arrival Tour Exclusions International flightsTips and Gratuities (from US$0 to US$100 pp)Departure airport transfer (US$20-US$25)Travel insuranceVisa’sVisa grant notice for UK, USA and CAN passport holders (US$120)Other items of a personal nature Social Impact For every Social Cycles tour, all riders have contributed AU$200 to go to the NGO of your choice. During the course of the tour, you are given the chance to engage with, and learn from, local NGOs. We visit no less than two NGOs (usually three) during the Mongolia tour and spend some time learning about their projects, strategies and challenges. At the end of the tour, the riders are then empowered with new found knowledge and have the opportunity to combine the allotted donation money and make an impact towards a project of their choosing. In addition to building a profile for our impact partners, Social Cycles also pays each NGO for their time and resources. We spend 1-2 hours with each NGO.You can read more here The donation part is included in your ticket price. We want people to be open to the idea of supporting one or more of the NGOs we visit and learn about. If, after meeting some of the local teams and learning about their programs, the riders did not want to donate, then they are not required to and a refund will be arranged. Sometimes in Iran, there may be last minute changes to the itinerary and we may not be able to visit all NGOs. At times, international visitors at NGOs can attract unwanted government attention. Hotels We understand how important it is to take rest in a place that’s clean and comfortable – especially after a hard slog on the bikes. That’s why we include a healthy mixture of hotels and local homes. You’ll find yourself in a hotel in the bigger cities, Tehran, Kashan, Esfahan and Shiraz (7 nights) and in local homes in the smaller towns (4 nights). The hotel rooms are all clean and comfortable, but not very modern. Where possible, we’ll stay in more traditional style hotels.Prices are based on sharing rooms, but a single room supplement can be arranged for an additional $490, however, it only applies to hotel nights. Hosts It’s a great local team joining us for the Iran tour with no less than three local Iranian guides/driver/mechanic. The team is led by local adventurer, Hamed.Hamed has a heart of gold and a bend over backwards attitude towards tourists enjoying his home country. In addition, local Tehrani, Ali, will assist with all things cycling and Mr Qambadi is behind the wheel of the van. Food Think brilliant barbecued meats, a huge array of spices, rice that can only be described as ‘buttery and tender’, stews, vegetables, fresh fruits and so much more! We generally dine in a ‘family style’ fashion, giving everybody the chance to try everything. Our advice… let Hamed order for the group and enjoy a culinary degustation of local delights as you travel across the country!If you’re a vegetarian, that’s no problem. There’s a huge variety of vegetarian local specialties available and there will always be vegetarian dishes on the table at every meal. Speak to Hamed if you have any concerns about any of the dishes. Bikes In Iran, we use a selection of Merida and Specialized mountain bikes. All bikes have comfortable saddles, disc brakes and 24-speed gears to help you up those hills! You’re welcome to bring your own saddle if you’re slightly nervous about getting a bit sore, or haven’t had the chance to get a lot of saddle time before the ride. Another good option is to bring along a gel seat (cushion). The bikes are fitted with standard pedals. Again, you’re welcome to bring clip ins should you want them. All bikes are fitted with a water cage. Bikes re fully serviced before and after every ride and we’ll have Ali, our trusty mechanic, with us at all times!You will however, be required to bring your own helmet and water bottle(s). Feel free to bring your own saddle, gel seat, pedals or anything else from home that you would prefer to make your ride more comfortable. Distance Let’s be clear… this is an adventure, not a race. Nor is it essential to complete every cycling day from home to hotel. The average pace could be anything from 5km/ph to 20-22km/ph, depending on the gradient of the mountain. The style of riding is relaxed and casual. There’s no room for ego’s here.The shortest day (#5) is only 25km, but it’s all uphill and not without it’s challenges, while the longest day (#8) is about anything up to 70km, but it’s all downhill (mostly). We can’t stress enough, it’s not about the distance, but the terrain and experience. We’ll stop for coffee and tea, local treats, lunch and of course, to take plenty of pictures. It is about the adventure that the slow road brings that makes travelling by bike so authentic.We do not cycle along any highways. All routes are away from the main roads and traffic. Culture Needless to say, this is an adventure reserved for the open minded. Iran is an incredibly friendly country but it is imperative that local laws and customs are adhered to. Just a few things you will need to be aware of:Alcohol is illegal. This doesn’t just apply to locals, it applies to everybody. There will be no alcohol on the Social Cycles tour.You must dress conservatively. Women must wear a hijab (head scarf) at all times when in public. Long sleeve shirts and trousers should also be worn. For men, full length shirts and trousers should also be worn in public. Cycling clothing is permitted but should be covered with loose fitted clothing over the top.Money. There is no Visa or Mastercard access from ATM’s as sanctions still limit financial access. As a result, you will need to bring in cash and exchange at the airport. The money that you bring into the country is the only money you will have access to whilst you are in Iran, so make sure you have enough for all your souvenirs! NGOs When you think of Iran, NGOs aren’t usually the first thing that comes to mind. However, through much research and exploration, we have found a few organisations that we can learn from that will enrich and deepen your understanding of this incredible complex and beautiful country.In Tehran, we will visit Omid Foundation, who work towards empowering vulnerable young women through education and training. Hemayataz Koodak work with distressed families with young children, offering support and guidance. We are still working to increase our network of NGOs in Iran. Expectations Money Packing Visas Shopping Safety Cycling What to wear Insurance Internet Bathrooms Arriving Photography Flights Donations Emergencies Food Sleeping Electricity Weather Vaccinations Our Next Iran Adventures Tehran - Shiraz - Tehran - 12 days Confirm your place with a AU$100 deposit.Tours are charged in AU$. The below prices are indicative only and the current exchange rate will be applied at checkout. Tours start at AU$4350 (12 days) Book Now If this is your second, third or even fourth Social Cycles adventure, then we’d like to welcome you back with a special SC Ambassadors rate. Just book as normal and we’ll apply the discount on your invoice. We’ll remember you! Departure Date Status SC Ambassador Price Pending Available AU$4100 AU$4350 Upcoming adventures Pending GovernmentAdvice Reviews from our Iran riders It is with very fond memories that I recall my trip through Iran with Brett and Social Cycles. The trip was well organised well supported (the support crew were fantastic and couldn't do enough for you) and a great experience. The bikes were very good quality and the places we stayed at were excellent. As an experience I would give it 10 out of 10 John Van Der Ende I travelled to Iran last year to do the Social Cycles tour and had an absolute blast! It was such a brilliant introduction to a truly incredible country. Brett and the team put in a huge effort to ensure that the group got the most out of the experience. This is not your typical tour. The SC team make it a much more intimate trip where you are guaranteed to understand the country at a much deeper level as well as physically challenging yourself. Andrew Banks An unexpected delight - cycling, cities, countryside but most of all the incredibly hospitable people. Brett ‘s social philosophy adds another dimension to this trip, giving us insights into life for those less fortunate, but how they cope and flourish with love and kindness. Highly recommended! Libby Haynes We had a fantastic trip with Social Cycles! The riding through Iranian mountains and local villages was a special highlight of the tour! The cycling was challenging but definitely well worth it! The local experiences was unlike anything we have ever encountered. Iranians really are the most friendly and hospitable people we have ever met! Brett and his local team were professional and lots of fun! I would highly recommend you come along for the ride with Social Cycles! Tien Nguyen Previous Next Reviews It is with very fond memories that I recall my trip through Iran with Brett and Social Cycles. The trip was well organised well supported, the support crew were fantastic and couldn't do enough for you. I would give it 10 out of 10 John Van Der Ende I travelled to Iran last year to do the Social Cycles tour and had an absolute blast! This is not a typical tour! If you are thinking about doing a tour with Social Cycles then take the leap and go for it, you certainly won’t regret it! Andrew Banks Brett ‘s social philosophy adds another dimension to this trip, giving us insights into life for those less fortunate, but how they cope and flourish with love and kindness. Highly recommended! Libby Haynes We had a fantastic trip with Social Cycles! The local experiences were unlike anything we have ever encountered. Iranians really are the most friendly and hospitable people we have ever met! Brett and his local team were professional and lots of fun! Tien Nguyen Previous Next 12 day Itinerary Day 1: Tehran Arrival dayThe concrete jungle of Tehran can seem a little daunting at first, but it doesn’t take long to get your bearings and feel right at home. We don’t have a lot of time scheduled in Iran, so we’d recommend you arrive a few days early to have a good look around. You can check out one of the many museums, mosques or markets. Our first official activity for the evening is a welcome dinner at a ‘local’s favourite’ restaurant. This is arguably the best ‘dizi’ in Iran!Inc. Meals: DinnerCycling: NATransit: Airport transfer Day 2: Qom Our first NGO, ex-US embassy and QomWe start the day with the wonderful people from Omid-e-Mehr foundation. Learn how this incredible NGO empowers local disadvantaged young women through three key areas: self empowerment, education and training. Starting in 2004, Omid-e-Mehr was set up to help victims of sexual, physical and mental abuse. Today, it has over 200 young women enrolled in it’s program. In the afternoon, we will start to make our way to Qom, the second holiest city in Iran.Inc. Meals: Breakfast, DinnerCycling: NANGO: Omid FoundationHighlights: Ex-US Embassy, Tajrish BazaarTransit: 144km (2 hrs) Day 3: Kashan Our first cycle dayWe’ll take the van in the morning to get out of town into the foot of the mountains. This is where we start our first cycle day as we begin a gradual climb from 2000m to 2800m asl over the first 17km. After a bit of undulation, we finish the day at 1950m asl around the 31km mark, before getting into the van and driving to Kashan. The terrain is a mixture of sealed road (13km) and gravel (18km). We plan to arrive into Kashan in the comfort of a hotel to give you a chance to rest, relax and explore the incredible town of Kashan at your leisure.Inc. Meals: Breakfast, LunchCycling: 45km (12km up: 33km down | 18km gravel: 27km bitumen) Transit: Pre ride- 50km/1hr | Post ride- 100km/1.5 hrs Day 4: Kashan Hammams, historical houses, ancient gardensWe’ll arrange the van to take us to Fin Gardens (about 10km out of town) for the morning, but the rest of the day is yours to explore. Kashan is a really interesting city that is rarely spoken of outside of the country, but is a common tourist destination for locals. And for good reason. The Agha Bozorg Mosque is an excellent example of 19th century architecture, the bazaar, Sultan Amir Ahmad Bathhouse and Bagh-e-Fin Garden are all easy to get camera crazy over. Of course, this is an opportunity to soak up the cultural surrounding by just taking rest.Inc. Meals: Breakfast, DinnerCycling: NAIncluded highlights: Fin GardensOptional highlights: Historical homes, hammams, Agha Bozorg MosqueTransit: 10km (Hotel to Fin Gardens return) Day 5: Abyaneh Local villages and a 20km climbWe drive out of the traffic of Kashan and onto a quiet road, some 1400m asl. The 20km climb is broken up by exploring some of the local villages on the way. Don’t be surprised if the locals invite us in for tea, and if so, expect a feast of fruit, dates, home made sweets and of course, black tea. The day finishes at 2200m asl in the small historical village of Abyaneh. Make sure you take some time to go for a stroll and marvel at the wonderful red colours of the mud brick town.Inc. Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, DinnerCycling: 20km (all bitumen, from 1400m to 2200m) Transit: Pre ride- 65km/1hr Day 6: Esfahan Cycling to great heights through incredible mountainsFrom Abyaneh we tackle the mountain range to the West. A slow 13km climb will take us to new heights of 2800m above sea level into a land of complete remoteness and rural fascination. These are the roads less travelled, let alone cycled, and these are the roads that lead to great adventures and authentic experiences. We will arrive at a tiny village near some ancient ruins, before being picked up by the van to transit into Esfahan. It’s important to note that the majority of this ride is not supported by either vehicle as the terrain is not suitable. There is an alternate (sealed) route that riders can take that is supported.Inc. Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, DinnerCycling: 28km (mostly gravel | 13km up : 15km down) Transit: Post ride- 121km/ 1:45 hrs Day 7: Esfahan Mosques, markets, city squares and an NGOEsfahan is the number one tourist destination in Iran, and for good reason. Being one of the oldest cities in Iran, some 2500 years, Esfahan is famous for it’s tree lined boulevards, Life-Giving River, The Zayandeh-Rood, abundant and beautiful mosques, bazaars, bridges and city squares. Esfahan is an incredible city to explore and discover through the diverse food, cafes and teahouse’s. We will also dig a little deeper and meet another NGO, to learn a little more about the what happens beneath the surface of this friendly and welcoming community.Inc. Meals: Breakfast, DinnerCycling: NANGO: Hemayataz KoodakOptional highlights: Naqshe-e-Jahan SquareTransit: Local to and from NGO, dinner and Siose Pol Bridge Day 8: Zagros Mountains A 44km cycle day, with more down than upAs standard, we will drive out of the city of Esfahan to quieter roads. At a starting elevation of 2300m asl, we’ll make our way through remote outback Iran, via small villages to a small town, right in the middle of the Dena Protected Area. We’ll reach our highest elevation of 3200m asl. There are not a lot of kilometers to cycles, but don’t underestimate the challenge ahead. It’s all on sealed road, barely any traffic except for our trusty support van. We finish up in the tiny village of Sisakt, where we’ll stay in a local home, as there are no hotels.Inc. Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, DinnerCycling: 45km (all bitumen | 15km down: 15km up : 14km down) Transit: Pre ride- 253km/ 3:15 hrs Day 9: Zagros Mountains More mountains, villages and cyclingWe continue our journey on bike directly from the acommodation through the mountains for a further 30kmk to 45km, depending on how you’re feeling. The beauty of cycling out in these back end roads is that it is an opportunity to witness true Iranian hospitality. Tourists are covered with kindness and are considered by some to be ‘guests from God’. These off the beaten track roads will give us the opportunity to take our time and stroll through local villages on the way, whilst enjoying local foods and capturing that amazing photograph.Inc. Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, DinnerCycling: 30-45km (all bitumen | 30km down & undulating: 15km up) Transit: Post ride- 100km/ 1:30 hrs Day 10: Shiraz Cycling into a Persepolis sunsetStarting some 45km out in a tiny village, a relaxed cycle will take us all the way into Persepolis for a final leg on the bikes! On the way, we’ll stop off at Naqshe-e Rustam, colossal royal tombs carved in a stone cliff face. The biggest tourist attraction in all the land, Persepolis, is just a further 5km ride. This ancient empire was built in 518 BC by Darius the Great as the capital of the mighty Achaemenid Empire. Alexander the Great burnt the city to the ground in 330 BC, but many remnants of its former glory remain and Persepolis lives on as one of the greatest wonders of the ancient world. A short drive into Shiraz will take us to the hotel.Inc. Meals: Breakfast, LunchCycling: 45km (all bitumen | flat, comparatively) Included highlights: Persepolis guided tourOptional highlights: Naqshe-e RustamTransit: Post ride- 60km/ 1 hr Day 11: Shiraz The city, the people, the monumentsWe take a full day here to explore, relax and reflect on the experience over the previous couple of weeks. Shiraz is a photographers dream with highlights such as Eram Gardens, Nasir al-Mulk mosque, Vakil mosque and bazaar, Karim Khan citadel just to name a few. Spend the day at leisure or follow Hamed and co to some of his favourite places. In the evening, the group will meet for our last local feast!Inc. Meals: Breakfast, DinnerCycling: NA Optional highlights: Nasir-al-Molk mosque, Eram Gardens, Karim Khan Citadel, Shahecheragh Holy Shrine, Shiraz Bazaar, Hafez TombTransit: NA Day 12: Shiraz to Tehran Goodbyes, a long drive via Izad KhastStraight after breakfast, we’ll make our way towards Tehran with the van. Options are available for those who wish to spend more time in Shiraz, or make their way to Yazd. We’re happy to assist in getting you where you need to go for the remainder of your Iran experience. For those choosing to come back to Tehran, we’ll arrive around 10pm. On the way, we’ll stop for one of the greatest lunches in the tiny village of Izad Khast, home to an incredible attraction of ancient ruins and a caravanseri.Inc. Meals: BreakfastCycling: NA Included highlights: Izad Khast ancient ruinsTransit: 932km (10-12 hrs) 12 Day Itinerary Tehran - Kashan - Esfahan - Zagros - Shiraz - Tehran Day 1 Day 2 Day 3 Day 4 Day 5 Day 6 Day 7 Day 8 Day 9 Day 10 Day 11 Day 12 Day 1 Tehran:Arrival dayThe concrete jungle of Tehran can seem a little daunting at first, but it doesn’t take long to get your bearings and feel right at home. We don’t have a lot of time scheduled in Iran, so we’d recommend you arrive a few days early to have a good look around. You can check out one of the many museums, mosques or markets. Our first official activity for the evening is a welcome dinner at a ‘local’s favourite’ restaurant. This is arguably the best ‘dizi’ in Iran!Inc. Meals: DinnerCycling: NATransit: Airport transfer Day 2 Tehran to Qom:Our first NGO, ex-US embassy and QomWe start the day with the wonderful people from Omid-e-Mehr foundation. Learn how this incredible NGO empowers local disadvantaged young women through three key areas: self empowerment, education and training. Starting in 2004, Omid-e-Mehr was set up to help victims of sexual, physical and mental abuse. Today, it has over 200 young women enrolled in it’s program. In the afternoon, we will start to make our way to Qom, the second holiest city in Iran.Inc. Meals: Breakfast, DinnerCycling: NANGO: Omid FoundationHighlights: Ex-US Embassy, Tajrish BazaarTransit: 144km (2 hrs) Day 3 Kashan:Our first cycle dayWe’ll take the van in the morning to get out of town into the foot of the mountains. This is where we start our first cycle day as we begin a gradual climb from 2000m to 2800m asl over the first 17km. After a bit of undulation, we finish the day at 1950m asl around the 31km mark, before getting into the van and driving to Kashan. The terrain is a mixture of sealed road (13km) and gravel (18km). We plan to arrive into Kashan in the comfort of a hotel to give you a chance to rest, relax and explore the incredible town of Kashan at your leisure.Inc. Meals: Breakfast, LunchCycling: 45km (12km up: 33km down | 18km gravel: 27km bitumen) Transit: Pre ride- 50km/1hr | Post ride- 100km/1.5 hrs Day 4 Kashan:Hammams, historical houses, ancient gardensWe’ll arrange the van to take us to Fin Gardens (about 10km out of town) for the morning, but the rest of the day is yours to explore. Kashan is a really interesting city that is rarely spoken of outside of the country, but is a common tourist destination for locals. And for good reason. The Agha Bozorg Mosque is an excellent example of 19th century architecture, the bazaar, Sultan Amir Ahmad Bathhouse and Bagh-e-Fin Garden are all easy to get camera crazy over. Of course, this is an opportunity to soak up the cultural surrounding by just taking rest.Inc. Meals: Breakfast, DinnerCycling: NAIncluded highlights: Fin GardensOptional highlights: Historical homes, hammams, Agha Bozorg MosqueTransit: 10km (Hotel to Fin Gardens return) Day 5 Kashan to Abyaneh:Local villages and a 20km climbWe drive out of the traffic of Kashan and onto a quiet road, some 1400m asl. The 20km climb is broken up by exploring some of the local villages on the way. Don’t be surprised if the locals invite us in for tea, and if so, expect a feast of fruit, dates, home made sweets and of course, black tea. The day finishes at 2200m asl in the small historical village of Abyaneh. Make sure you take some time to go for a stroll and marvel at the wonderful red colours of the mud brick town.Inc. Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, DinnerCycling: 20km (all bitumen, from 1400m to 2200m) Transit: Pre ride- 65km/1hr Day 6 Abyaneh to Esfahan:Cycling to great heights through incredible mountainsFrom Abyaneh we tackle the mountain range to the West. A slow 13km climb will take us to new heights of 2800m above sea level into a land of complete remoteness and rural fascination. These are the roads less travelled, let alone cycled, and these are the roads that lead to great adventures and authentic experiences. We will arrive at a tiny village near some ancient ruins, before being picked up by the van to transit into Esfahan. It’s important to note that the majority of this ride is not supported by either vehicle as the terrain is not suitable. There is an alternate (sealed) route that riders can take that is supported.Inc. Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, DinnerCycling: 28km (mostly gravel | 13km up : 15km down) Transit: Post ride- 121km/ 1:45 hrs Day 7 Esfahan:Mosques, markets, city squares and an NGOEsfahan is the number one tourist destination in Iran, and for good reason. Being one of the oldest cities in Iran, some 2500 years, Esfahan is famous for it’s tree lined boulevards, Life-Giving River, The Zayandeh-Rood, abundant and beautiful mosques, bazaars, bridges and city squares. Esfahan is an incredible city to explore and discover through the diverse food, cafes and teahouse’s. We will also dig a little deeper and meet another NGO, to learn a little more about the what happens beneath the surface of this friendly and welcoming community.Inc. Meals: Breakfast, DinnerCycling: NANGO: Hemayataz KoodakOptional highlights: Naqshe-e-Jahan SquareTransit: Local to and from NGO, dinner and Siose Pol Bridge Day 8 Esfahan to Zagros Mountains:A 44km cycle day, with more down than upAs standard, we will drive out of the city of Esfahan to quieter roads. At a starting elevation of 2300m asl, we’ll make our way through remote outback Iran, via small villages to a small town, right in the middle of the Dena Protected Area. We’ll reach our highest elevation of 3200m asl. There are not a lot of kilometers to cycles, but don’t underestimate the challenge ahead. It’s all on sealed road, barely any traffic except for our trusty support van. We finish up in the tiny village of Sisakt, where we’ll stay in a local home, as there are no hotels.Inc. Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, DinnerCycling: 45km (all bitumen | 15km down: 15km up : 14km down) Transit: Pre ride- 253km/ 3:15 hrs Day 9 Zagros Mountains:More mountains, villages and cyclingWe continue our journey on bike directly from the acommodation through the mountains for a further 30kmk to 45km, depending on how you’re feeling. The beauty of cycling out in these back end roads is that it is an opportunity to witness true Iranian hospitality. Tourists are covered with kindness and are considered by some to be ‘guests from God’. These off the beaten track roads will give us the opportunity to take our time and stroll through local villages on the way, whilst enjoying local foods and capturing that amazing photograph.Inc. Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, DinnerCycling: 30-45km (all bitumen | 30km down & undulating: 15km up) Transit: Post ride- 100km/ 1:30 hrs Day 10 Shiraz:Cycling into a Persepolis sunsetStarting some 45km out in a tiny village, a relaxed cycle will take us all the way into Persepolis for a final leg on the bikes! On the way, we’ll stop off at Naqshe-e Rustam, colossal royal tombs carved in a stone cliff face. The biggest tourist attraction in all the land, Persepolis, is just a further 5km ride. This ancient empire was built in 518 BC by Darius the Great as the capital of the mighty Achaemenid Empire. Alexander the Great burnt the city to the ground in 330 BC, but many remnants of its former glory remain and Persepolis lives on as one of the greatest wonders of the ancient world. A short drive into Shiraz will take us to the hotel.Inc. Meals: Breakfast, LunchCycling: 45km (all bitumen | flat, comparatively) Included highlights: Persepolis guided tourOptional highlights: Naqshe-e RustamTransit: Post ride- 60km/ 1 hr Day 11 Shiraz:The city, the people, the monumentsWe take a full day here to explore, relax and reflect on the experience over the previous couple of weeks. Shiraz is a photographers dream with highlights such as Eram Gardens, Nasir al-Mulk mosque, Vakil mosque and bazaar, Karim Khan citadel just to name a few. Spend the day at leisure or follow Hamed and co to some of his favourite places. In the evening, the group will meet for our last local feast!Inc. Meals: Breakfast, DinnerCycling: NA Optional highlights: Nasir-al-Molk mosque, Eram Gardens, Karim Khan Citadel, Shahecheragh Holy Shrine, Shiraz Bazaar, Hafez TombTransit: NA Day 12 Shiraz to Tehran:Goodbyes, a long drive via Izad KhastStraight after breakfast, we’ll make our way towards Tehran with the van. Options are available for those who wish to spend more time in Shiraz, or make their way to Yazd. We’re happy to assist in getting you where you need to go for the remainder of your Iran experience. For those choosing to come back to Tehran, we’ll arrive around 10pm. On the way, we’ll stop for one of the greatest lunches in the tiny village of Izad Khast, home to an incredible attraction of ancient ruins and a caravanseri.Inc. Meals: BreakfastCycling: NA Included highlights: Izad Khast ancient ruinsTransit: 932km (10-12 hrs) Iran Cycling stats Cycling stats To see greater details of each cycling day (maps, terrain, advice etc), please refer to the detailed notes page. Day 3 - Country side 45km, mixed gravel, paved, up and down Day 5- Abyaneh 20km - all climb, all paved Day 6 - Mountains 28km - gravel roads, half up, half down 6 out of 12 days cycling Easy to moderate Up to 695km All flat, except day 8 mostly off road, compact Average pace 15-18km/h Day 8 - Zagros Mountains 45km - all paved, all mountain Day 9 - Zagros Mountains 45km - all paved, all mountain Day 10 - Zagros Mountains 60km -flat, paved Features & Inclusions Inclusions 11 x nights accommodation (2 in local homes)Full Bicycle hire, not including helmetsMinimum 3 x support staff, including cycle guide, driver and cultural tour manager2 x support vehicles for the ride with water and fruitMinimum two NGO presentations with local staff across IranAU$200 donation to the NGO of your choiceMultiple field trips to villages and communitiesEntry and guided tour of Persepolis UNESCO world heritage siteEntry and guided tour to Fin Gardens in KashanFood & Beverage as per the itinerary (see daily for details)(11 x breakfasts, 6 x lunch and 8 x dinners)Visa grant notice for passport holders eligible for Visa on ArrivalAirport transfers for arrival Exclusions International flightsTips and Gratuities (from US$0 to US$100 pp)Departure airport transfer (US$20-US$25)Travel insuranceVisa’sVisa grant notice for UK, USA and CAN passport holders (US$120)Other items of a personal nature Social Impact For every Social Cycles tour, all riders have contributed AU$200 to go to the NGO of your choice. During the course of the tour, you are given the chance to engage with, and learn from, local NGOs. We visit no less than two NGOs (usually three) during the Mongolia tour and spend some time learning about their projects, strategies and challenges. At the end of the tour, the riders are then empowered with new found knowledge and have the opportunity to combine the allotted donation money and make an impact towards a project of their choosing. In addition to building a profile for our impact partners, Social Cycles also pays each NGO for their time and resources. We spend 1-2 hours with each NGO.You can read more here The donation part is included in your ticket price. We want people to be open to the idea of supporting one or more of the NGOs we visit and learn about. If, after meeting some of the local teams and learning about their programs, the riders did not want to donate, then they are not required to and a refund will be arranged. Sometimes in Iran, there may be last minute changes to the itinerary and we may not be able to visit all NGOs. At times, international visitors at NGOs can attract unwanted government attention. Hotels We understand how important it is to take rest in a place that’s clean and comfortable – especially after a hard slog on the bikes. That’s why we include a healthy mixture of hotels and local homes. You’ll find yourself in a hotel in the bigger cities, Tehran, Kashan, Esfahan and Shiraz (7 nights) and in local homes in the smaller towns (4 nights). The hotel rooms are all clean and comfortable, but not very modern. Where possible, we’ll stay in more traditional style hotels.Prices are based on sharing rooms, but a single room supplement can be arranged for an additional $490, however, it only applies to hotel nights. Hosts It’s a great local team joining us for the Iran tour with no less than three local Iranian guides/driver/mechanic. The team is led by local adventurer, Hamed.Hamed has a heart of gold and a bend over backwards attitude towards tourists enjoying his home country. In addition, local Tehrani, Ali, will assist with all things cycling and Mr Qambadi is behind the wheel of the van. Food Think brilliant barbecued meats, a huge array of spices, rice that can only be described as ‘buttery and tender’, stews, vegetables, fresh fruits and so much more! We generally dine in a ‘family style’ fashion, giving everybody the chance to try everything. Our advice… let Hamed order for the group and enjoy a culinary degustation of local delights as you travel across the country!If you’re a vegetarian, that’s no problem. There’s a huge variety of vegetarian local specialties available and there will always be vegetarian dishes on the table at every meal. Speak to Hamed if you have any concerns about any of the dishes. Bikes In Iran, we use a selection of Merida and Specialized mountain bikes. All bikes have comfortable saddles, disc brakes and 24-speed gears to help you up those hills! You’re welcome to bring your own saddle if you’re slightly nervous about getting a bit sore, or haven’t had the chance to get a lot of saddle time before the ride. Another good option is to bring along a gel seat (cushion). The bikes are fitted with standard pedals. Again, you’re welcome to bring clip ins should you want them. All bikes are fitted with a water cage. Bikes re fully serviced before and after every ride and we’ll have Ali, our trusty mechanic, with us at all times!You will however, be required to bring your own helmet and water bottle(s). Feel free to bring your own saddle, gel seat, pedals or anything else from home that you would prefer to make your ride more comfortable. Distances Let’s be clear… this is an adventure, not a race. Nor is it essential to complete every cycling day from home to hotel. The average pace could be anything from 5km/ph to 20-22km/ph, depending on the gradient of the mountain. The style of riding is relaxed and casual. There’s no room for ego’s here.The shortest day (#5) is only 25km, but it’s all uphill and not without it’s challenges, while the longest day (#8) is about anything up to 70km, but it’s all downhill (mostly). We can’t stress enough, it’s not about the distance, but the terrain and experience. We’ll stop for coffee and tea, local treats, lunch and of course, to take plenty of pictures. It is about the adventure that the slow road brings that makes travelling by bike so authentic.We do not cycle along any highways. All routes are away from the main roads and traffic. Culture Needless to say, this is an adventure reserved for the open minded. Iran is an incredibly friendly country but it is imperative that local laws and customs are adhered to. Just a few things you will need to be aware of:Alcohol is illegal. This doesn’t just apply to locals, it applies to everybody. There will be no alcohol on the Social Cycles tour.You must dress conservatively. Women must wear a hijab (head scarf) at all times when in public. Long sleeve shirts and trousers should also be worn. For men, full length shirts and trousers should also be worn in public. Cycling clothing is permitted but should be covered with loose fitted clothing over the top.Money. There is no Visa or Mastercard access from ATM’s as sanctions still limit financial access. As a result, you will need to bring in cash and exchange at the airport. The money that you bring into the country is the only money you will have access to whilst you are in Iran, so make sure you have enough for all your souvenirs! NGOs When you think of Iran, NGOs aren’t usually the first thing that comes to mind. However, through much research and exploration, we have found a few organisations that we can learn from that will enrich and deepen your understanding of this incredible complex and beautiful country.In Tehran, we will visit Omid Foundation, who work towards empowering vulnerable young women through education and training. Hemayataz Koodak work with distressed families with young children, offering support and guidance. We are still working to increase our network of NGOs in Iran. Expectations Money Packing Visas Shopping Safety Cycling What to wear Insurance Internet Bathrooms Arriving Photography Flights Donations Emergencies Food Sleeping Electricity Weather Vaccinations Previous Next Reserve My Bike Share this adventure Share on facebook Facebook Share on whatsapp WhatsApp Share on twitter Twitter Share on linkedin LinkedIn Share on email Email Share on telegram Telegram Adventures beyond Iran... Brett Seychell +61 479 108 222 [email protected] 696 Bourke St, Melbourne 3000 about us How we started Our purpose Your donations Responsible travel Meet the team NGO partners Private adventures Corporate teams Self guided destinations Cambodia Laos Iran Samoa Vietnam Mongolia Colombia connect Name Email Let's stay in touch Facebook Twitter Instagram Linkedin Youtube responsibletravel recommends Social Cycles Brett Seychell +61 479 108 222 [email protected] 696 Bourke St, Melbourne 3000 connect Facebook Twitter Instagram Linkedin Youtube Name Email Let's stay in touch