Although Iran may not yet be the darling of Middle East travel destinations, tour operators marketing programs to the ancient Persian kingdom report steady increases in bookings. Iran's lure includes monumental ancient ruins, distinguished Islamic architecture and glittering palaces of the shahs. The move of American tourists back to Iran began with a trickle in 1997, following the Iranian government's announcement the year before that it would start issuing visas to tourists. Silk Road Tours offers seven different escorted programs to Iran, ranging in length from seven to 20 nights, as well as tours of 18 or 25 nights that combine Iran and Uzbekistan.
All tours have monthly guaranteed departures.
The operator's extensive tour production includes a special interest Persian Rug itinerary, as well as a solar Eclipse tour, scheduled to depart Aug. 11. The package includes accommodations at three and five stars hotels, meals, transportation, domestic air, escorted sightseeing and assistance with the visa application.