TEHRAN-- Iran has designated May 21 (Ordibehesht 31) as “National Day of Ecotourism”.

Iran Ecotourism opens a gateway to experiencing the country's stunning natural landscapes and rich cultural heritage with a focus on sustainability, Mehr news agency wrote.

Through Iran Ecotourism, travelers can embark on adventures that range from trekking through lush forests to exploring vast deserts, all while adhering to practices that preserve the environment and support local communities. Iran Ecotourism is dedicated to minimizing tourism's ecological footprint, ensuring that Iran's beauty remains intact for future generations, making every trip not only an adventure but also a contribution to conservation efforts.

Within the realm of Iran's ecotourism, tourists take on a role of guardianship towards nature, actively working to minimize their environmental footprint. This conscious approach extends beyond preservation efforts, also encompassing a commitment to the communities within these natural areas. When visiting regions inhabited by local communities, tourists play a vital role in supporting economic growth.

They achieve this by purchasing local products and handicrafts, and by opting to stay in eco-friendly resorts. This not only enriches their travel experience with authentic cultural immersion but also ensures that their visit contributes positively to the local economy and sustainability efforts, reinforcing the symbiotic relationship between travelers and the natural world.

Ecotourism can serve as one of the effective strategies for economic, social, and environmental development of destinations.

Nowadays, many policies aim to develop ecotourism and utilize its benefits, especially in the developing countries with rich natural resources. Iran is one of the countries with considerable potential for ecotourism development.

However, there is no consistent plan to use the county’s potentialities in this respect. It is thus necessary to take serious measures to develop ecotourism and utilize Iran’s natural resources optimally. 

According to the results, the most important ecotourism development dimensions in Iran can be enumerated in order of importance as follows: management, infrastructure development, marketing and training, and human resource development. Moreover, the key ecotourism development strategies, in order of importance, are as follows:

carrying out marketing activities to increase the market share of ecotourism, diversifying Iran’s ecotourism products, improving the access roads to tourism villages, and increasing the destination’s resilience to natural disasters.

Exploring the underlying conditions in Iran, this study proposed a model of ecotourism development in Iran as a potential destination for ecotourism. The findings can offer practical and scientific guidelines to managers and policymakers who seek to develop ecotourism in Iran

Iran's ecotourism tours are as diverse as its landscapes, offering a variety of experiences tailored to showcase the country's natural beauty and ecological diversity while promoting conservation and sustainable travel. Here are some prominent types of ecotourism tours available in Iran:

Nature Treks and Mountain Climbing: Explore Iran's rugged terrain, from the Alborz and Zagros mountains to the lesser-known ranges, offering trails for all levels of trekkers and climbers.

Desert Safaris: Venture into the vast deserts like the Dasht-e Kavir and Lut Desert for star-gazing, camel trekking, and experiencing traditional desert life.

Wildlife Watching: Iran's rich biodiversity can be observed in its many national parks and reserves, such as Golestan, where travelers can spot rare species like the Persian leopard.

Cultural and Village Tours: Discover the traditional lifestyles and sustainable practices of rural communities in areas like Abyaneh and Masuleh, integrating cultural heritage with natural beauty.

Adventure Sports: For those seeking adrenaline, Iran offers river rafting, skiing, and paragliding in various natural settings, combining thrill with scenic beauty.

Botanical Tours: Iran's unique flora, especially in regions like the Hyrcanian Forests (a UNESCO World Heritage site), draws botany enthusiasts for exploration and study.

Eco-Volunteering Opportunities: Participate in conservation projects, wildlife monitoring, or community-based initiatives, contributing to the preservation of Iran's natural resources. 

Each of these tours provides an immersive experience of Iran's ecotourism, allowing travelers to connect with nature, engage with local cultures, and contribute to environmental conservation efforts.

Iran's ecotourism showcases a stunning array of natural destinations, from the lofty peaks of Mount Damavand to the mysterious Martian Mountains. These top attractions offer breathtaking beauty and a deep connection with nature, highlighting the country's diverse landscapes. As visitors explore Iran's ecological wonders, they not only enjoy the scenery but also gain insights into the significance of preserving such treasures. Iran's natural sites are a call to adventure and conservation, making it an essential destination for eco-conscious travelers seeking to discover the earth's hidden gems.

Ecotourism is a form of nature-oriented tourism intended to contribute to the conservation of the natural environment, generally defined as being minimally impactful, and including providing both contributions to conservation and environmental education.

KD