IRAN

Iran is a huge country, around five times the size of the UK, situated at the edge of the Western Palearctic region, and inside its boundaries exists a very large diversity of habitats, from high mountains to sea coasts , from immense wetlands

to forests and semi-deserts.

We have concentrated on areas which are able to offer the best set of Iran's birdlife, which is of course highly varied and particularly appealing for the Western European birdwatcher. During our time in Iran we can look for some of the regions sought-after birds including See-see Partridge, Black Francolin, Indian Pond Heron, Steppe Eagle, Shikra, Great Stone Curlew, Crab Plover, Egyptian Nightjar, Indian Roller, Grey Hypocolius and Hume's Wheatear, to name but a few.

Iran is a perfectly safe country to visit, in spite of the perception we might have in Western Europe: people are extremely friendly and always willing to help out and have a chat.

Infrastructure and logistics are almost invariably very good: paved roads are virtually everywhere, and hundreds of kilometres can be driven in a few hours.

The domestic flight network is also very well developed.

Accommodation quality is very good and all rooms have western-style en-suite facilities; food is also excellent, with the typical meal being kebab with rice and vegetables.

Iran is likely to become the next new great birding destination in the Middle East: be one of the very first western birdwatchers to visit this fascinating country, where there is still a lot to be discovered in terms of wildlife and where you can still experience a feeling of real exploration!

3 March to 12 March 2019 (land)

Leader: Marco Valentini & local guide

2018 Cost 3.950 euro - single room suppl. €670

(GBP around £3.585)

Spring in the Persian Gulf

MORE INFO