Iran Adventure For New Zealanders: Kia Ora! Many travelers who visit Iran are surprised by the variety and the number of tourist attractions. Usually, they can’t cover many important highlights during their trip. The people who are more familiar with Persian history know that Iran is not only Persepolis and Royal Square.  This is why we have created a wide range of tours to Iran from New Zealand after witnessing the passion of our travelers to explore more in Iran.

Here are frequent questions that New Zealand tourists ask us:

1. How’s the process for New Zealand tourists to get a visa?

Getting visa for New Zealand is quite easy. If you book your tour through a travel agency, they will apply for your visa authorization code. Otherwise you can go directly to the Iran embassy or consulate and get your visa. Another way is getting your visa on arrival at the Iran’s international airports. But you have to consider the risk of being rejected. You simply can get your visa authorization code within 5 working days. You’re welcome to apply your online tourist visa with toursofiran.com.

Note: Being traveled to Israel can increase the risk of being denied for getting visa on arrival.

2. Are there any restrictions for tours to Iran from New Zealand?

Not at all! The only nationalities that would face restrictions are Americans, British and Canadians. As a New Zealander you can have Iran travel freely without having any organized tour or tour guide. Also Travel to Iran as a solo tourist or female is very easy and safe.

3. What’s the replacement for the group tours to Iran from New Zealand?

Iran Group tours are cheaper but they are not usually very flexible. Many people would like to travel with their family or friends. As you may have more interests in common with your family and friends, you can form a small group. The small groups consist of 3-6 persons. If you would like to travel to Iran as a couple, you can count on our private tours. Tours of Iran can design your customized tours.

4. Is it possible to travel to Iran without visa as a New Zealander?

No, it’s not possible. All New Zealand citizens must apply for the visa through the embassy or a travel agency. The tourist visa will be issued for 30 days. If you like to stay longer, you have to extend your visa in Iran.

5. Are there any tours to Iran from New Zealand?

Yes. If you would like to have a tour to Iran from New Zealand, “Tours of Iran” would be really happy to help and assist you. If you travel solo, as a couple or within a group Tours of Iran can provide you a proper itinerary based on your budget and interests.

6. What should you know as a New Zealander for traveling to Iran?

There are a few notes that maybe you need to know before your trip to Iran. We try to list it for you:

Best months to visit Iran: Iran has cold winters and hot summers. The best months to visit Iran are March, April, May, September, October and November. But it doesn’t mean that you can’t travel in other months. Iran is a four season country and each season has its own charm. You should note that from March 21^st till April 2^nd is the busiest time in Iran because of New Year celebration.

Dress code: As a woman who is traveling to Iran, you should cover your hair with scarf but not very tight. Also you should wear long sleeve tonics and shirts with long trousers or skirts. Wearing Sandals would be fine. Men should notice not to wear shorts as it doesn’t match our norms but wearing T-shirts are OK.

Souvenirs: The variety of souvenirs in Iran is massive. Even as a strict person in buying souvenirs, you will find something that you’d like. But you should know where to buy which souvenir. Tours of Iran’s guides are the best advisors if you’d like to buy any souvenirs. Probably the most famous souvenir of Iran is Persian rug. You can find the best quality, variety and prices of Persian rug in Iran. But before spending money, make sure that you are buying an original product.

Taking photo: Mostly you can take photos in touristic sites. Just there are a few museums and mosques that you can’t take photos from inside. The most important point is not to take any photos from military buildings and power plants. Notice about the signs of “No photography”.  If you would like to take photos from people, it’s better to ask for their permission.

Forbidden foods and drinks: Drinking Alcohol is forbidden as well as selling it. If you, as a tourist, were caught having alcohol you’ll face deportation. Iranians usually drink Dough (salty drink made of yoghurt), Sherbat (sweet drink), non-alcoholic beer, tea and coffee. According to Islamic rules pork is not available in Iran. Persian dishes are very meat based which that meat can be chicken, lamb and beef.

Unmarried couple: According to Iranian law, unmarried couples cannot live together. But for foreigner unmarried couples there are no problem to stay together in hotels.

Payment system:  Unfortunately Visa Card and Master Card does not working in Iran. But there are some exceptions like few souvenir shops that you can use your debit cards. It’s recommended to bring enough cash with you. The amount of cash you need is based on your length of stay and cities that you visit. You can ask your host or travel agency to let you know about the minimum amount you need.

But if you’re concerned about carrying lots of cash with you, we can provide you the Iranian debit card. It’s an easy and safe way. The representative of the debit card company will meet you in the airport or at the hotel and change your money to Rial.

Politics and religion: You shouldn’t be worried about your religious and political thoughts and opinions. Just you should take it into consideration to avoid any political activities against the Iranian government.