In a proud moment for Iran’s diverse and ever-evolving tourism landscape, three remarkable villages Shafiabad in Kerman Province, Kandelus in Mazandaran, and Soheili on Qeshm Island in Hormozgan have been honored among the Best Tourism Villages of 2025 by the UNESCO World Tourism Organization. This international recognition celebrates not only the beauty of these destinations but also Iran’s ongoing commitment to sustainable tourism, cultural preservation, and community-based travel. From golden deserts to emerald forests and turquoise coasts, Iran continues to tell stories of people who transform resilience, tradition, and creativity into unforgettable experiences. Shafiabad, Kerman – The Desert Bloom At the edge of the mesmerizing Lut Desert lies Shafiabad, a living example of renewal and empowerment led by local women. Once facing the harsh challenges of desert life, the community came together to build women’s cooperatives that revived traditional crafts, restored ancient underground water channels known as Qanats, and brought life back to the village’s long-forgotten orchards. Travelers can stay in eco-lodges built with traditional desert design, join craft-making workshops, and experience the growing excitement of desert sports such as the Lut World Desert Marathon. Kandelus, Mazandaran – Cultural Heritage in the Heart of the Forest Nestled in the Alborz Mountains and surrounded by the lush Hyrcanian Forests, Kandelus is a sanctuary of Iranian culture and history. With a heritage that stretches back over 4,000 years, its people have preserved their knowledge, crafts, and customs through generations. They have created a sustainable economy rooted in traditional art, herbal medicine, and respect for nature. Visitors to Kandelus can explore its museum, walk through cobbled alleys lined with historic homes, and enjoy breathtaking views of the ancient forests that surround the village. Soheili, Hormozgan (Qeshm Island) – Green Tourism by the Persian Gulf On the sunlit shores of the Persian Gulf,
In a proud moment for Iran’s diverse and ever-evolving tourism landscape, three remarkable villages Shafiabad in Kerman Province, Kandelus in Mazandaran, and Soheili on Qeshm Island in Hormozgan have been honored among the Best Tourism Villages of 2025 by the UNESCO World Tourism Organization. This international recognition celebrates not only the beauty of these destinations
