Dena Mountains and National Park Trek Dena is the name of a mountain chain located in the middle part of the Zagros mountain range in Kohgiluyeh and Boyer-Ahmad Province of Iran which is in the north of Shiraz province. The length is about 90 km with 40 mountains above 4000m and it's one of the best locations for Trekking in Iran. On the foothills of the chains, there is a national park with the same name (DENA) which is a protected area and home to a lot of wild animals with a rich environment as it has a lot of plants and a huge oak forest. It's under the conservation of the Iran Environment Organization. Dena region is a very important destination as it is between the two main touristic cities of Shiraz and Isfahan and it’s a marvelous location for those who are interested in hiking in Iran and would like to combine it with Iran Classic Routes. It's the perfect itinerary for Iran first-timers who want to do Cultural and historical tours along with Iran's main UNESCO Heritage sites. Adventure Iran is the first company to create different trekking routes in this region for different fitness levels from a 2-day moderate trek up to a one-week challenging trek on the ridgeline to ascend a few peaks above 4000 m. We have also made a few trips which are a combination of trekking and cultural explorations. Some tours start from Shiraz and some of them start from Tehran. The clip is a short slideshow from a few of our trips that we performed in different years for hikers from different countries and it just gives you an idea about the scenery and landscape of this amazing destination. For those who are interested in moderate treks, we recommend our trip
Dena Mountains and National Park Trek Dena is the name of a mountain chain located in the middle part of the Zagros mountain range in Kohgiluyeh and Boyer-Ahmad Province of Iran which is in the north of Shiraz province. The length is about 90 km with 40 mountains above 4000m and it’s one of the
Iran Bakhtiari Nomads From ancient times, the human being has always sought different ways to adapt himself to natural and climatic situations and geographical limitations. Iran, as one of the vast oldest cradles of civilization, embraces a wide range of climatic conditions settled by various ethnic groups. The diversity is so amazing that it is no wonder if you can still witness one of the oldest kinds of lifestyle, the nomadic life. Living and migrating in the two main Iran mountain ranges, Alborz and Zagros (the longest), has taught the nomadic tribes how to adjust themselves to the harsh mountainous conditions and consume sustainably the environmental resources. Among different Iran nomadic tribes, Bakhtiari nomads form the largest surviving nomadic tribe in the Zagros Mountains. Lush forests, rough rivers, fertile pastures as well as harsh climatic conditions through different times of the year have pushed Bakhtiari nomads to practice a nomadic lifestyle that is proper to this geographical area. Here, you will find all the information you need to know if you are planning to travel to Iran for an authentic experience of living among the Bakhtiari nomadic tribe. Short History of Iran Bakhtiari Nomads Among numerous groups of ethnicities and nomadic tribes in vast Iran, Bakhtiari (also Bakhtiyari) Lur tribe is the largest group that still migrates seasonally to overcome the harsh conditions in the Zagros ranges. There are different theories about who Bakhtiaris are. According to Zoroastrian mythology and Shahnameh (the epic poem of the kings and heroic tales of ancient Persia), the Lurs (meaning nomadic) are the descendants of the people who could escape from the demon Zahhak. They took refuge in Zardkuh (Zardkooh) and Kuhrang and named themselves Bakhtiar (meaning fortunate bearer) because they could survive. Today, many historians arguably agree Bakhtiari people are originally
Iran Bakhtiari Nomads From ancient times, the human being has always sought different ways to adapt himself to natural and climatic situations and geographical limitations. Iran, as one of the vast oldest cradles of civilization, embraces a wide range of climatic conditions settled by various ethnic groups. The diversity is so amazing that it is
Iran Mountain Ranges Iran with 1.64 million km2 has two major mountain ranges called Alborz and Zagros Mountain Ranges. Alborz Mountain Range The first range is Alborz Mountains, also spelled Elburz, Albourz, Alburz, or Elburs. In the Persian language, it is called Reshte Koohe Alborz or Koohhayeh Alborz. This 900 km (560 miles) long mountain is the major mountain range in northern Iran. It stretches from Azerbaijan in the northwest of Iran (also southwest of the Caspian Sea) towards northeastern Iran in the Khorasan region (southeast of the Caspian Sea). The Alborz Mountains range made a big wall between the Caspian Sea and Iran Plateau. It created two different climate systems on the northern slopes of Alborz against the southern side of the huge mountain range. There are a few famous mountain chains and a lot of high peaks in different parts of the Alborz ranges. Talesh mountain chains, Takht-e Soleyman mountain chains, and Shahkuh mountain chains are subranges of the Alborz range located in the western, central, and eastern parts of the range. Moreover, two of Iran’s highest mountains, Mt Damavand 5610m and MT Alamkuh 4850m, are located in the Alborz range. The Alburz mountain system traverses virtually all of the northernmost portions of Iran from east to west. In addition, there are plenty of high-altitude famous mountains above 4000m extended in the Central Alborz Mountains which is in the north of Tehran province. Mt Kholeno (4375m), MT Azadkuh (4355m), MT Kolonbastak (4150m), MT Sarakchal (4210m), and MT Tochal (3963m) are the most famous high peaks located in central Alborz Mountains. The weather on the northern side of Alborz, called the Caspian slopes, has a distinctly humid climate. The famous Hyrcanian forests, which are Iran's natural UNESCO heritage site, are located in that region too. On
Iran Mountain Ranges Iran with 1.64 million km2 has two major mountain ranges called Alborz and Zagros Mountain Ranges. Alborz Mountain Range The first range is Alborz Mountains, also spelled Elburz, Albourz, Alburz, or Elburs. In the Persian language, it is called Reshte Koohe Alborz or Koohhayeh Alborz. This 900 km (560 miles) long
Iran Ski Touring Iran, with its numerous high peaks in the Alborz and Zagros mountains, is absolutely the loneliest destination for skiing and Ski touring in the Middle East. Having a high snowfall starting from November till June in the towering mountains on the one hand, and having 150 mountains above 4,000 m on the other, makes Iran an ideal destination for Ski Touring. There are many pistes above 2,500 m level and the amount of snow is also perfect for winter activities. Adventure Iran operates many ski touring trips in Alborz and Zagros mountains in Iran. Depending on your ski level and time of travel, we advise different locations and paths for professional and amateur skiers. One of the most popular ski touring adventures which has attracted many ski enthusiasts is Mount Damavand (5,610m), the highest mountain in Iran and the Middle East. The Mount Damavand Ski Touring in Asia’s highest volcano mountain tour is a one-week trip that Adventure Iran conducts in the spring. We also combine Damavand Ski Touring with Dobarar mountain range, which makes the best combination for powder skiing, leisure trips, views of other mountains and Mount Damavand, and acclimatization at the summit. Ski Touring in MT Damavand and Dobarar Mountain chains is a ten-day trip covering both these mountains. Damavand is only 100 km away from the capital and is within easy reach of the base of Damavand where you can start your ski tour. The Alam Kuh Mountain is the second mountain in Iran in terms of altitude at 4,850 m above sea level. It is also one of the most challenging peaks in Iran. Sometimes, you can ski in Alam Kuh Mountain till June, depending on the snowfall during the year. Mount Alam Kuh Ski Touring is a one-week tour
Iran Ski Touring Iran, with its numerous high peaks in the Alborz and Zagros mountains, is absolutely the loneliest destination for skiing and Ski touring in the Middle East. Having a high snowfall starting from November till June in the towering mountains on the one hand, and having 150 mountains above 4,000 m on the
Zardkuh Mountain in Iran Zardkuh Mountain Chain, (Zardkooh) the name of a sub-range of the Zagros Mountain range, stands in the center of Zagros and is one of the most popular mountains in the entire Zagros Range in Iran. It is also spelled Zard Kouh, Zad Koh, Zardkuh, Zarduh Kuh, and Zard Kuh-e Bakhtiari. In Persian, Zard Kuh means "The yellow mountain". The mountain is located in Chaharmahal and Bakhtiari province in western Iran. Zardkuh is near the two famous cities of Shahr-e-Kord and Koohrang and is one of the most beautiful places in Iran. Karoon and Zayandeh-rud rivers are the two major rivers in the country originating from ZardKuh Mountains. There are a number of mountains over 4,000 m in this mountain chain such as Haft Tanan 4,019m, Shah-e-Shahidan 4,180m, Ab-Sefid 4,050m, Koloonchin (Do-Zardeh) 4,221m, and Khersan 4,050m. There is no specific name for Zardkuh peak in the entire Zardkuh mountain chain. However, most people, even local climbers, mistakenly refer to it as Zardkuh’s peak, “Koloonchin”, because it is the main summit in this chain. This mountain chain has several glaciers. The two main highest mountains of Zardkuh (Shah-e Shahidan and Koloonchin) formed the massive glacier which is the source of water for the two rivers of Kuhrang and Bazoft. Both these rivers are Karun river branches. Karun river is the longest river in Iran and is one of the most important sources of water for the country. Zardkuh Mountains are the main center for climbers from all over Iran during summer. The mountains are rich in various species of plants and wild animals making them even more attractive and spectacular. Zardkuh is also a key ski area for travelers. Chelgerd Ski Resort is located in Chelgerd town which is 200 km away from the
Zardkuh Mountain in Iran Zardkuh Mountain Chain, (Zardkooh) the name of a sub-range of the Zagros Mountain range, stands in the center of Zagros and is one of the most popular mountains in the entire Zagros Range in Iran. It is also spelled Zard Kouh, Zad Koh, Zardkuh, Zarduh Kuh, and Zard Kuh-e Bakhtiari. In
Hiking in Iran Hiking in Iran is one of the most attractive activities for many individuals, especially considering Iran is a mountainous country with many of them over 4,000 m. Hiking is a popular sport for Iranians at weekends. Iran is a vast country with two huge deserts, where even from the desert area it is possible to see these staggeringly beautiful 4,000 m mountains in the distance. There are also a lot of hiking routes in the country. As you may know, there are two long mountain ranges in Iran. Alborz mountain range with around 900 km length to the south of the Caspian Sea and Zagros Mountain Range with 1,500 km length starting from the northeast of the country and stretching to the southeast. There are also numerous high mountains over 4,000 m in other parts of the country for hiking. Most travelers from all around the world come here for hiking, with Iran hiking becoming the most popular activity for many adventurers. You cannot find an IRAN HIKING MAP here as the one you may see in your home country. There are a few organizations and companies that print Iran maps, but, unfortunately, they do not provide a special Iran hiking map for our mountains, or a topographic hiking map with contours and nature signs. On the north side of the capital city of Tehran, there are a number of hiking routes that go up to Tochal Mountain, where the long ridge line is nearly 4,000 m. There are plenty of characteristic cafés and shops around here where hikers have the opportunity to stop and have breakfast on the trail and take in the stunning scenery. There are also a bunch of trails for hiking outside of Tehran city in the country parts. Most
Hiking in Iran Hiking in Iran is one of the most attractive activities for many individuals, especially considering Iran is a mountainous country with many of them over 4,000 m. Hiking is a popular sport for Iranians at weekends. Iran is a vast country with two huge deserts, where even from the desert area it
Iran Off the Beaten Track Iran is a vast country with a lot of untravelled routes. Many adventurous travellers would like to visit pristine places with natural wonders. Iran has numerous destinations not mentioned in any guide book or travel blogs. In fact, second and third-time visitors usually prefer to explore the hidden spots of the country to witness the real lifestyle of people and experience something exceptional. Depending on when you travel to Iran, time available, and the type of attractions you are interested in, there are many Off the Beaten places to choose from and explore. In addition, if you like to have an action-packed travel or combine it with your cultural-historical exploration, you have even more choices. One of the quite unexplored regions is Sistan and Baluchestan province located in the southeast, the largest province of Iran containing the only active volcano mountain, (MT Taftan), meaning ‘Burnt city’, (a UNESCO site). Along the coast of the Persian Gulf which accesses the Indian ocean, special Baluchi people live who have a distinctive culture and lifestyle compared to the rest of the country. Unique music, spicy sea food, mangrove forests, fishing villages, a mud volcano, banana farms, and Mars mountains are special attractions. Baluchestan, Chabahar port and the Indian ocean coast is one of the short and famous tours that we offer in Adventure Iran for some parts of this region. The Iranian Kurdistan region is also one of the regions where people don’t often travel. Most tourists visit a couple of villages which are just mentioned in the guidebooks without having much of an idea about the rest of the region. Kurdistan is a large province with numerous villages scattered in rural areas. People are one of the main attractions here and, of course, the most pure and
Iran Off the Beaten Track Iran is a vast country with a lot of untravelled routes. Many adventurous travellers would like to visit pristine places with natural wonders. Iran has numerous destinations not mentioned in any guide book or travel blogs. In fact, second and third-time visitors usually prefer to explore the hidden spots of
Dena National Park Dena National Park, with an approximate area of 250,000 hectares, is located in the middle of the Zagros mountain range covering the whole Dena mountain chain as explained in another article. Dena National Park is located in Dena Protected Area that is conserved by the Iranian Department of the Environment. The central part of Dena National Park was registered in 2010 on the UNESCO list as a Biosphere Reserve site. A biosphere reserve is an ecosystem with unusual plants and animals with scientific and natural interests. It is a label given by UNESCO to help preserve this remarkable region. The core area of the park is around 35,000 hectares, a large expanse indeed. The Dena region possesses an extensive number of plants, various native mammals seriously at risk of extinction, and different types of natural resources. Almond and pistachio trees can be seen mostly in the low-lying areas, whereas oak trees stand on elevated regions. Walnut, hackberry, and pear trees are also spread all over this spectacular area. This district has long been a protected habitat for many animals such as brown bears, wild goats, eagles, wolves, various wild cats including Caracas, lynxes, and leopards. In addition, many vast rivers namely the Dez, Karun, and Karkheh originate from this region where they flow into the Persian Gulf and the Oman Sea. Picturesque falls, lakes, and pools make this mountainous area even more remarkably striking. In this geographical area, a significant number of individuals live a nomadic lifestyle. Smaller groups still maintain their medieval lifestyle. The multiculturalism of local residents, like nomadic communities, is totally evidenced by their languages, local cuisine, dress code, dance folklore, various festivals, herding, weaving, and other traditional production and crafts. Moreover, their understanding and way of living with regard to seasonal
Dena National Park Dena National Park, with an approximate area of 250,000 hectares, is located in the middle of the Zagros mountain range covering the whole Dena mountain chain as explained in another article. Dena National Park is located in Dena Protected Area that is conserved by the Iranian Department of the Environment. The
Dena Mountain Chain Dena mountain chain is the name of sub-range mountains located in the middle of the Zagros mountain range of Iran. It is around 90 km long with an average 15 km width. Most parts of this chain reach nearly 3,000 meters in height with a spectacular view of the whole region. They are home to some of the highest mountains in the entire Zagros range with more than 40 peaks rising to an elevation of 4,000 meters or more above sea level. One of these, the stunning Ghash Mastaan (Bijan 3), is the highest peak of all, with an elevation of 4,450 meters. There are two starting points to ascend the main peaks: The first one is the easiest and the most popular. It starts from Sisakht, the town on the southern west side of Dena. There is a delightful trail that leads you to the shelter and the main peaks above 4000m. The second accessible way to the peaks is called the Northern route. It starts from Khafr village in the lowlands of Dena. If your goal is to just climb the highest peak, (Ghash Mastan), this is the shortest way to do it. Also, on both sides of the mountain there is a shelter above 3000 m which is convenient to stop for refreshments before ascending the peak. Dena National Park and Dena mountain chain, which includes the whole foothill area around the chain, is protected by the Department of the Environment of Iran. For more information, please check Dena Protected Area. With the exception of the mountain range, so amazing for expert hikers, there are plenty of villages in Dena Park, nestled in the mountains with breath taking scenery, wonderful for long distance hiking. In this area, there is a vast
Dena Mountain Chain Dena mountain chain is the name of sub-range mountains located in the middle of the Zagros mountain range of Iran. It is around 90 km long with an average 15 km width. Most parts of this chain reach nearly 3,000 meters in height with a spectacular view of the whole region. They