Protected Areas and National Parks in Iran

Iran with different wet and dry lands with a combination of high mountains, desert lands, forests, and seas has created a special ecosystem in the Middle East and the east of Asia. It is located in the southern part of the Caspian Sea and north of the Persian Gulf and the Gulf of Oman.

There are two long mountain ranges named Alborz (900 km) and Zagros (1400 km) located in the north and west of Iran. In addition, the two main deserts of Dasht-e Kavir (77,600 km²) and Kavir-e Lut (51,800 km²)- the first Natural UNESCO site in Iran- are other natural attractions of the country. Rivers and lakes, wildlife, and the Hyrcanian Forest (UNESCO Natural Site), besides the different types of birds, a wide range of medical and therapeutic plants, Islands, and lagoons create the protected areas and national parks all over Iran. Here, we have listed the ten most beautiful ones below:

 

1. Golestan National Park

Golestan National Park: Iran’s Natural Treasure

Golestan National Park, located in the northeastern part of Iran, is one of the country’s oldest and most diverse protected areas. Established in 1957, this vast park spans over 1,800 square kilometers and is home to a rich variety of ecosystems, ranging from dense forests and rolling hills to rugged mountains and meadows. The park’s unique location, where the Alborz Mountains meet the plains, provides a habitat for an extraordinary range of flora and fauna, including several endangered species.

Golestan is famous for its wildlife, with the Persian leopard, wild boar, and brown bear roaming its expansive landscapes. Birdwatchers will also be delighted by the many migratory species that pass through the park. Visitors to Golestan can explore its diverse habitats through hiking, trekking, and wildlife watching, immersing themselves in one of Iran’s most biodiverse and beautiful natural landscapes. With its rich history and vibrant ecosystems, Golestan National Park is an essential destination for nature lovers and adventurers alike.

2. Kavir National Park

Kavir National Park: Iran’s Majestic Desert Wilderness

Kavir National Park, located in the heart of Iran’s central desert, is one of the largest and most important protected areas in the country. Covering over 400,000 hectares, this vast desert landscape is a unique blend of salt flats, sand dunes, and rocky plateaus, offering an exceptional environment for both wildlife and adventure enthusiasts. The park is part of the larger Dasht-e Kavir desert, one of the driest and most extreme areas in Iran.

Despite the harsh desert conditions, Kavir National Park is home to a surprising variety of wildlife, including the endangered Persian gazelle, wild sheep, and the desert fox. The park’s isolation and tranquil beauty also make it a haven for birdwatchers, particularly for migratory species. Visitors to Kavir can experience the stark beauty of Iran’s central desert through trekking, stargazing, and photography, all while exploring the solitude and serene atmosphere of one of the world’s most remarkable desert landscapes.

3. Lar National Park

Lar National Park: A Hidden Gem of Mountains and Lakes

Lar National Park, located in the Central Alborz Mountains near Tehran, is a stunning natural reserve that offers a perfect blend of rugged mountain landscapes, lush forests, and serene lakes. Spanning over 30,000 hectares, the park is famous for its biodiversity and its proximity to the capital, making it an ideal escape for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. The park features the beautiful Lar Lake, surrounded by lush vegetation and dramatic mountain peaks, offering a peaceful retreat away from the city.

Lar National Park is home to diverse wildlife, including species such as the Persian leopard, wild boar, and a variety of birds. Its varied ecosystems provide an opportunity for a wide range of activities, including hiking, mountain biking, wildlife watching, and fishing in Lar Lake. For those seeking a peaceful natural escape, Lar offers an unparalleled combination of mountain adventure and tranquil beauty, making it a must-visit destination for anyone exploring Iran’s protected areas.

4. Turan National Park

Turan National Park: Iran’s Wildlife Haven in the Heart of the Desert

Turan National Park, located in the northeastern part of Iran, is one of the largest and most ecologically significant protected areas in the country. Spanning over 1.4 million hectares, the park is situated within the vast expanse of the Khorasan desert, offering a unique landscape of rolling sand dunes, rocky outcrops, and sparse vegetation. Known for its exceptional biodiversity, Turan is a key conservation area for some of Iran’s most endangered species.

Turan is home to a rich variety of wildlife, including the Asiatic cheetah, which is critically endangered, as well as wild goats, jackals, and diverse bird species. The park is a haven for wildlife enthusiasts and photographers, offering opportunities to observe these remarkable creatures in their natural desert habitat. Visitors can explore the vast terrain through wildlife safaris, birdwatching, and trekking, making Turan National Park an unforgettable destination for those seeking to experience Iran’s unique desert ecosystem and rare wildlife up close.

5. Tandoureh National Park

Tandoureh National Park: A Desert Oasis of Flora and Fauna

Tandoureh National Park, located in northeastern Iran near the border with Turkmenistan, is a hidden gem known for its rugged terrain, unique desert landscapes, and rich biodiversity. Spanning over 1,400 square kilometers, the park is a blend of dry steppes, rocky mountains, and valleys, providing a habitat for both desert and mountainous wildlife. Its location in the Khorasan Razavi Province makes it a prime destination for those seeking to explore Iran’s more remote and untouched natural areas.

Tandoureh is particularly famous for its diverse wildlife, including species such as the Persian leopard, wild goats, and numerous bird species. The park’s varied ecosystems also support a range of plant life, including medicinal herbs and desert shrubs. Trekking, wildlife watching, and photography are popular activities here, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in the beauty of one of Iran’s most tranquil and diverse natural reserves. With its stunning desert vistas and abundant wildlife, Tandoureh National Park offers an extraordinary experience for nature lovers and adventurers alike.

6. Dena National Park

Dena National Park: A Majestic Alpine Paradise

Dena National Park, located in the heart of the Zagros Mountains in southern Iran, is one of the country’s most breathtaking natural areas. Covering over 2,000 square kilometers, the park is a stunning mix of towering peaks, deep valleys, lush forests, and alpine meadows. The majestic Dena mountain range, with its snow-capped summits, provides a striking backdrop, making this park a haven for nature lovers and adventure enthusiasts.

The park is home to a rich diversity of wildlife, including the endangered Persian leopard, brown bear, wild goats, and numerous bird species. The area’s varied ecosystems offer incredible opportunities for trekking, mountaineering, and wildlife watching. Dena National Park is a true alpine paradise, offering a tranquil escape into nature, and is an ideal destination for those looking to explore Iran’s mountainous beauty and wildlife in a protected, pristine environment.

7. Khar Touran National Park

Khar Touran National Park: A Desert Wilderness of Remarkable Biodiversity

Khar Touran National Park, located in the northeastern part of Iran, is a vast and captivating desert reserve that spans over 1.4 million hectares. This remote park is part of the larger Touran Biosphere Reserve and offers a unique combination of desert landscapes, arid plains, and rugged mountains. The park’s isolation and diverse ecosystems make it an important sanctuary for wildlife in Iran, particularly species adapted to the harsh conditions of the desert.

Khar Touran is home to a wide range of wildlife, including the critically endangered Asiatic cheetah, wild goats, and the desert fox. Its birdlife is equally impressive, with numerous migratory species visiting the park’s wetlands. For those seeking a true off-the-beaten-path experience, Khar Touran offers incredible opportunities for wildlife watching, photography, and exploration of one of Iran’s most pristine desert environments. With its stunning landscapes and diverse wildlife, Khar Touran National Park is a must-visit destination for nature enthusiasts and adventurers.

8. Khojir National Park

Khojir National Park: A Natural Escape Near Tehran

Located just east of Tehran, Khojir National Park offers a tranquil retreat from the hustle and bustle of the capital. Covering an area of over 40,000 hectares, the park is a unique blend of mountainous terrain, dense forests, and scenic valleys. The proximity of Khojir National Park to Tehran makes it easily accessible for both locals and visitors seeking a quick escape into nature, offering hiking, birdwatching, and wildlife observation just a short distance from the city.

Khojir is home to a variety of wildlife, including wild boars, foxes, and numerous bird species, making it an excellent spot for nature enthusiasts. The park also features beautiful lakes, streams, and an array of flora, offering a peaceful environment for hiking and picnicking. For those looking to enjoy the beauty of the central Alborz Mountains and the diversity of Iranian ecosystems, Khojir National Park provides an accessible yet secluded escape, making it one of Tehran’s most treasured natural spots.

9. Jahan Nama Protected Park

Jahan Nama Protected Park: A Sanctuary of Nature in the Alborz Mountains

Jahan Nama Protected Park, located in the Alborz Mountains of northern Iran, is a pristine natural area that offers a unique combination of rugged peaks, alpine meadows, and lush forests. Covering over 25,000 hectares, the park is renowned for its rich biodiversity, making it a valuable conservation area. The park’s diverse landscapes range from dense forests at lower altitudes to rocky terrains and snow-capped peaks, offering spectacular views and a tranquil environment for nature lovers.

Jahan Nama is home to a variety of wildlife, including the Persian leopard, wild goats, and various bird species, making it a popular destination for wildlife enthusiasts and photographers. The park also offers ample opportunities for hiking, trekking, and mountaineering, with trails that lead through stunning natural beauty and high-altitude landscapes. For those seeking to explore the natural wonders of northern Iran, Jahan Nama Protected Park provides an unforgettable experience with its diverse ecosystems and breathtaking views.

10. Alborz Markazi Protected Area

Alborz Markazi Protected Area: A Jewel of the Central Alborz Mountains

Alborz Markazi Protected Area, located in the central part of the Alborz Mountain range in northern Iran, is a significant conservation area known for its diverse ecosystems and stunning natural beauty. Spanning over 100,000 hectares, this protected area is characterized by a mix of rugged mountain peaks, alpine meadows, forests, and rivers, making it a paradise for wildlife and nature enthusiasts. Its remote location offers a peaceful escape into one of Iran’s most unspoiled landscapes.

The protected area is home to various species, including the Persian leopard, wild sheep, and several bird species, making it an important sanctuary for Iran’s wildlife. Hiking, trekking, and wildlife watching are popular activities here, as the park offers some of the most breathtaking views in the Alborz Mountains. Alborz Markazi Protected Area is an ideal destination for those looking to explore the pristine beauty and biodiversity of northern Iran, offering both adventure and tranquility in a truly majestic setting.